CN Nar ene eee intote Helen ee hieey Dile een hi Vir Santas fanart SN a ipemra acide rah Mn NESS rapes mate ne eae peak dental Sharm > | - et OA eee eat te oh Sean | Ps 2 BUILDING USE ONLY ~ turn ->Qaiesi Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2022 with funding from University of Illinois Uroana-Champaign httos://archive.org/details/americanarchives511/7unse American Archives: CONSISTING OF A COLLECTION OF AUTHENTICK RECORDS, STATE PAPERS, DEBATES, AND LETTERS AND ~ OTHER NOTICES OF PUBLICK AFFAIRS, THE WHOLE FORMING A DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF THE NORTH AMERICAN COLONIES; OF THE CAUSES AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION; AND OF THE CONSTITUTION OF GOVERNMENT FOR THE UNITED STATES, TO THE FINAL RATIFICATION THEREOF. IN SIX SERIES. FIRST SERIES. FOURTH SERIES. From the Discovery and Settlement of the North American || From the King’s Message of March 7th, 1774, to the Decla- Colonies, to the Revolution in England, in 1688. ration of Independence, by the United States, in 1776. SECOND SERIES. FIFTH SERIES. From the Revolution in England, in 1688, to the Cession of || From the Declaration of Independence, in 1776, to the De- Canada to Great Britain, by the Treaty at Paris, in 1763. finitive Treaty of Peace with Great Britain, in 1783. THIRD SERIES. : SIXTH SERIES. From the Cession of Canada, in 1763, to the King’s Message || From the Treaty of Peace, in 1783, to the final ratification to Parliament, of March 7th, 1774, on the Proceedings in of the Constitution of Government for the United States, North America. _ proposed by the Convention, held at Philadelphia, 1787. BY PETER FORCE. PREPARED AND PUBLISHED UNDER AUTHORITY OF AN ACT OF CONGRESS. ENTERED ACCORDING TO ACT OF CONGRESS, IN THE YEAR 1843, BY PETER FORCE, iN THE CLERK’S OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. AMERICAN ARCHIVES: Fitth Sertes, CONTAINING A DOCUMENTARY HISTORY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, FROM THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, JULY 4, 1776, TO THE DEFINITIVE TREATY OF PEACE WITH GREAT BRITAIN, SEPTEMBER 3, 1783. BY PETER FORCE. VOLUME I. PUBLISHED BY M. ST. CLAIR CLARKE AND PETER FORCE, UNDER AUTHORITY OF ACTS OF CONGRESS, PASSED ON THE SECOND DAY OF MARCH, 1833, AND ON THE THIRD DAY OF MARCH, 1843. WASHINGTON, APRIL, 1848. ENTERED ACCORDING TO ACT OF CONGRESS, IN THE YEAR 1848, BY PETER FORCE, IN THE CLERK’S OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. nr & ia 7 qr y. | ed 2. CONTENTS OF THE FIRST VOLUME OF THE FIFTH SERIES. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC. 1776. ca May 3, Letter from Dennis De Berdt to Joseph Reed, 6, Letter from the Bridgetown Committee to the New-Jersey Delegates in Congress, - - — 7, Letter from General Lee to Patrick Henry, on his objections to an immediate declaration of independence, - - 14, Letter of agency to Asa Perley aot Asai Kim- ball, - - 14, Proceedings of the Shlahitents of Sintitey No- va-Scotia, - - - - - - 17, Letter from Lord George Germaine to Gover- nour Tryon: The first division of Hessians have sailed for America, the remainder will soon follow; this reinforcement will enable General Howe to open the campaign with advantage; the Province of New-York will be the main object of the General’s attention, - 19, Letter from Captain George Forster to Major Butterfield: Terms of capitulation at the Ce- dars, - 21, Petition of the Inhabitants of St. Founitss i ea Scotia, to the Massachusetts Assembly, — - 22, Letter from S. Kirkland to General Schuyler, - 26, Articles of Capitulation between Major Sher- burne and Captain Forster, - . - 27, Articles of Capitulation between General Ar- nold and Captain Forster, - - 30, Proceedings of a Council of War held in ee bly, Canada, - - June2, Letter from General ‘Avialdl to the Commis sioners of Congress, - - - 7, Extract of a Letter from Colonel Pellenger a the Albany Committee, - 8, Letter from the onan Gonitides to Gonerdl Schuyler, - 10, Letter from Gavel Shiylor to General Wash- ington, - . - - - - - 11, Letter from Lord George Germaine to Gover- nour Tryon: He trusts that General Howe has fixed his Head-Quarters in New-York, and will soon drive the Rebels out of the Province: Officers appointed to command Corps raised in America are not to expect rank in the Army after their iba or to be entitled to half-pay, —- é. 11, Letter from Thomas Burke to Geteral Ties - — 17, Letter from George Johnson to General Lee: It is a greater “honour to contribute in the smallest degree to a reconciliation of Ameri- ca and Great Britain, than to have the greatest share in bringing about a victory, - 3 17, Report of the Committee of Congress on the Capitulation between eg Arnold sy Captain Forster, - 18, Letter from John Adams to I Gates) Gated: Congress has ordered him to the post of honour, and made him dictator in Canada for six months, or at least until the first of October, - - - . 21, Letter from General Lee to chai Mhcmpdens Has learned with concern that the men have been suffered to fire at a preposterous dis- tance; orders that not a man is to fire without almost a moral certainty of hittang their ob- ject, - . - - - » - Firtu Series.—Vot. I. 372 469 95 704 705 122 162 703 867 162 163 164 165 817 817 816 123 98 99 159 21 1776. June 21, Letter from Colonel Fleming to the New-York Provincial Congress, - - 21, Letter from the ‘Committee for Gaibertand County to the New-York Convention, - 22, Letter from Stephen Smith to the Massachu- setts Council, - - 25, Letter from Elbridge Gery e Gener Giver: The affairs of Canada having been evidently suffering from want of an experienced offi- cer, his appointment to that command is considered a happy circumstance, notwith- standing the Eastern Colonies needed his assistance, - - - - 26, Protest of sundry Tahabitant of the Town of Barnstable, Massachusetts, against: the Pro- ceedings of that Town, at their ep held on the 25th instant, - : - - 28, Memorial of Lieutenant-Colonel Brown - July 1, Proceedings of the Committee of Leonard- Town, Maryland, : - - - 1, Letter from the President of Coltetebe to Gene- ral Washington: Major Rodgers has been put under guard at the Barracks, - - 1, Letter from Joseph Trumbull, Commissary-Ge- neral, to the President of Congress, - - 1, Letter from John Whittier to James Warren: Declines, at present, to accept his appoint- ment to the command of a ees Hci for the Canada expedition, - - 2, Letter from General Lee to the President 6f Congress: Account of the defeat of the Bri- tish at Sullivan’s Island, - - ~ - 2, Letter from John Covenhoven to the President of Congress: The enemy’s fleet has passed the Hook, for New-York, where the Militia of Monmouth County, New-Jersey, cannot be prevailed upon to march, as they would leave their wives and children to be murdered by the Tories, - - - 3, Letter from Samuel Tucker te the Piesident Bf Congress: Recommending Major Anderson, 2, Letter from the Massachusetts Assembly to the several Town Committees: Urges them to raise Troops with all possible expedition, - 3, Letter from Massachusetts Assembly to the President of Congress: Request Congress will direct General Washington to order two of the Regiments stationed at Boston to march to Canada, . - - - 3, Letter from General Sullivan to Colonel Mo: sington: The Army on Lake Champlain is fully sufficient to oppose any force that may be sent against them at present, - - 3, Letter from the Officers on Governour’s Island to General Heath: Request a reinforcement ; they are not strong enough to defend the post, 3, Letter from the President of Congress to the Committee for Lancaster, Pennsylvania: The Troops they are to raise for the Flying-Camp should be sent to Philadelphia with the A est expedition, - - - = - 8, Letter from Colonel Burd to the Committee for Lancaster County, Pennsylvania: Has ar- rested Daniel Shelly, who is charged with attempting to raise soldiers for the Ministe- rial Army, - : - - - - 204 1535 703 21 435 Ill 1776. CONTENTS. July 2, Orders of Colonel Burd to Captain Crutch, for the arrest of Captain Shelly, —- - Statements of William Wall and Ann Wall, - 4, Letter from Matthew Tilghman to the President of Congress; enclosing Resolutions for rais- ing the number required of Maryland for the Flying-Camp, - - - a ‘ 4, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General Washington, - - - = 5, Edict of the King of Portugal prohibiting all 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, “a: 5, 5, —_ 5, 5; 5, 5; 5, 5, intercourse between his dominions and the American Colonies, - - - sid ale Letter from Barbue Dubourg to Dr, Franklin: Is privately informed that France is raising funds for a great armament, - 5 - Georgia Council of Safety: Representation to General Lee of the state of the Province, - Reformation of the Book of Common Prayer, by the Virginia Convention, —- - - Court-Martial on Captain Ball, = - - -! Letter from David Hall to the President of Con- gress: General disaffection among the peo- ple of Sussex, in Delaware, - - - Letter from a Committee of Sussex County to the Council of Safety of Delaware: Request assistance—a large majority of the people in the lower part of the County disaffected, - Testimony. of Enoch Scudder, - - - Letter from the President of Congress to Colo- nel Haslett, commander of the Continental Troops in Delaware, - - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to the Convention of New-Jersey: The Prisoners are to be removed from New-Jersey to York, in Pennsylvania, - - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to the Pennsylvania Committee of Safety: The American States are now forever divided from those who wished to destroy them, - - Letter from General Wooster to a Committee of Congress: Complains of the treatment he received from the Commissioners to Canada, Letter from General Wooster to a Committee of Congress: Justifies. his seizure of the goods of one Bernard, an Indian trader, - Letter from Elbridge Gerry to James Warren: All the Colonies except New-York voted for the Declaration of Independency, = - - Extract of a Letter from Philadelphia: Loss o the Brig Nancy in Delaware Bay, - - Measures proposed for the defence of New- Jersey and Pennsylvania, - - - - Letter from a French officer in America to a French nobleman in Paris: The Americans are able to resist all their enemies, = - - Letter from Samuel Tucker to the President o Congress: An officer who may be confided in has been sent to take charge of Governour Franklin, - - 4 * . x Letter from the Committee for Brunswick (July 4) to the New-Jersey Provincial Congress: The prisoners of war should be removed to some other place, - - - . 3 Letter from General Washington to General Livingston, - - - - 2 : 5, Letter from General Livingston to General Washington: Colonel Drake, with the Second Morris Battalion of two hundred and fifty men, will be down this evening, - - 5, Letter from General. Livingston to General 5; 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, Washington, enclosing intelligence from Staten-Island, - - - - - - Letter from Major Duyckinck to General Liv- ingston: Has arrived at Amboy with four hundred and fifty men, leaving about one hundred at the Old and New Blazing-Star, - Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to the New- York Convention, on removing the prisoners from the City of New-York, - - - Letter from Joseph Trumbull to General Gates, Letter from Ebenezer Hazard to General Gates: The British have taken possession of Staten- Island, cattle and Tories, - - - - Letter from Major Goforth to the New-York Provincial Congress, - - < 4 2 Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to the New- York Convention, respecting prisoners, 11 12 | 12 | 13 14 14 14 15 16 16 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 205 - 1389 oO &d oo 1776. July 5, Letter from Maltby Gelston, Chairman of the Committees of South and East Hampton, to the New-York Provincial Congress: They fear the stock on the east side of Long- Island will fall in the hands of the enemy, - 5, Letter from General Scott to the New-York Congress; with a number of prisoners of war. General Washington is very uneasy at the detention of prisoners of war in the city, at this critical juncture, —- - . ~ 5, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- 5, 5; 5, 5, 5; 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, — 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, ington, with an examination of four persons taken last night, - - - - - Letter from General Mifflin to General Wash- ington: From the Colonels’ reports, the men’s arms are in a most alarming situation, - Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Presi- dent of Congress, - - - - - Letter from Governour Trumbull to General Schuyler, - - - - - - - Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to Walter Spooner, - - - mit gs Proceedings at a meeting of the towns of Lyme, Hanover, Lebanon, Thredford, Norwich, and Hartford, at Hanover, New-Hampshire, -. Letter from Arthur Lee to Charles W. F. Dumas, Extract of a Letter from Paris: The Court of Great Britain has presented a memorial to the Courts of France and: Spain, strongly complaining of the trade which is so indus- triously carried on. by the French and Span- ish merchants with- the rebellious Colonies of America, - - - - - . Letter from Benjamin Harrison, Jun., to the President of Congress, > - - - Letter from Matthew Tilghman to the Presi- dent of Congress, - - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- ral Washington: The Congress have judged it necessary to dissolve the connection be- tween Great-Britain and the American Colo- nies, and to declare them free-and indepen- dent States, - - - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- ral Washington, - - - . - Letter from the Board of War to General Wash- ington, - - 8 = - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to the States of New-York, Massachusetts, Con- necticut, Rhode-Island, and New-Hampshire, with the Declaration of Independence, - Letter from the President of Congress to the Assembly of New-Hampshire; The Congress have ordered Major Rogers to be sent to New-Hampshire, - - - at |< Letter from the President of Congress to James Mease, - - - - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- ral Ward, - - - - - - - Letter from the President of Congress to John Bradford, - - - - - - - Advertisement by the Board of War, for infor- mation respecting flint stone, and persons skilled in the manufacture of flints, — - - Letter from Jacob Rush to General Washington, Letter from a gentleman in Philadelphia to his friend in Annapolis: General Howe has landed ten thousand Troops; the whole Militia of Pennsylvania are ordered to the Jerseys, - Letter from the Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Com- mittee to the President of Congress, - - Letter from George Ross to Colonel Galbraith, Letter from the Northampton, Pennsylvania, Committee to the President of Congress, Letter from the Reading, Pennsylvania, Com- mittee to the President of Congress, - - Conference with Indians at Fort Pitt, © - - Letter from the Convention of New-Jersey to the President of Congress: The Militia are wholly destitute of ammunition, the Mon- mouth Tories had confederated under oath; about thirty are flying on board the enemy’s fleet, - - - eZ ‘ F : Letter from General Livingston to General Washington: He cannot send out the neces- sary detachments for want of powder and ball, - - - - - - - - IV 1394 30! 31 31 31 32 33 33 33 33 33 34 34 34 34 34 35 35 35 35 36 37 38 1776. July 6, Letter from Major Duyckinek to General Liv- To prevent the forging and altering Bills of ingston, with the Tory oe taken by Publick Credit, and for preventing the de- Genvral Heard, - ~ - 88 preciation thereof; and for making Bills of 6, Letter from Gena Biashington to desierel Credit of the United Colonies, and of this Livingston: The disaffection of the people Colony, a tender in all payments, - 88 of Amboy and the treachery of those of To abolish the Court of Appeals in this Golbny, Staten-Island, induced him to give orders to and to empower the Superior Court of Judi- General Heard for their arrest, - - - 38 cature to sustain and determine all matters 6, Letter from General Washington to Colonel pending in said Court of Appeals, and to Silliman: There is occasion for all the men prevent the absurd practice of granting ap- that can be possibly got; no force that can be peals to the King of Great Britain in Council, collected will be too great to ward off the from judgments of any Courts in this Colony, blow our enemies mean to strike in a little in future, - “ * ™ 7 -3 «ie G0 time, - - 89 For encouraging the fixing out of armed ves- 6, Letter from Goltiel Hensliwwis to Gerieral Wash- sels to defend the sea-coast of America, and ington, - - 950 to cruize on the enemies of the United 6, Letter from John Fay to ise Brandent ws Con- Colonies; as also for erecting a court to try gress, enclosing a memorial from Mr. Bill, and condemn all ships and other vessels, of New-York, - - 40 their tackle, apparel, and futniture, and all 6, Letter from John Jay to heaved Rutledge, - 40 goods, wares, and merchandises, belonging 6, Letter from Colonel i mE to Lord Stir- to any inhabitant or inhabitants of Great Bri- ling, 41 tain, taken on the high seas, - ~ - 90 6, Letter from ‘Major Goforth to shi New! York Convention: He views the appointment of juniors over him, as no more than taking the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC. most genteel way of Gi eeme him from 1776. — the publick service, - - 1390 | July, Letter from General Lee to Edmund Pendleton, 95 6, Letter from the President afi Gongress 0 the 7, Letter from Jesse Hollingsworth to the ary New-York Convention: Rongrens has de- land Council of Safety, = - - 100 clared Independence, - - - 1397 7, Letter from E. Johnson to the Maryland ( aaa 6, Petition from Cadwalader Colden to the New- cil of Safety, - - - 100 York Convention, - - - 1404 7, Letter from the Baltimore Goniinitna to the 6, Examination and Parole of John Simpeon, Maryland Council of Safety: Colonel Ware Samuel Cox, William Elder, William Mc- has drawn a plan of a Fortification for avetet- Dermot, James Auchmuty Joseph Wool- stone Point, - - 101 comb, and Richard Brueré, - - «© 23 7, Letter from the Maryland Council of Sata to 6, Letter from H. Glenn to Colonel Dayton, - 42 the Baltimore Committee: The Convention 6, Letter from H. Glenn to Major Fonda, - - 42 has ordered no further money for Fortifica- 6, Letter from General Sullivan to General Schuy- tions at or near Baltimore-Town, = - 101 ler, requesting leave of absence from the 7, Letter from Colonel Smallwood to the mUSE: Army, as he cannot, consistently with his land Council of Safety, - — - - 101 honour, serve under the command of General 7, Letter from Richard Tootell to Maryland itn Gates, - - - - - - - 235 cil of Safety: Petitions for the office of Sur- 6, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Presi- geon Major, - ? - 101 dent of Congress, = - - - 42 G Letter from the Maryland Council of Salety to 6, Letter from Governour Trumbull t to the Presi- General Buchanan, - 101 dent of Congress: Eighteen hundred pounds 7, Letter from the Maryland named ‘of Safety - in hard money has been sent to the Paymas- Colonel Weems, = 101 ter-General for the Northern Department, - 43 7, Letter from the Maryland anbeil of Safety 6, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Presi- to Captain Veazey and Lieutenant Harri- dent of Congress, = - - =f 45 son, “ : - - - - 102 6, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Presi- 7, Letter from the Maryland Council of Hota to dent of Congress: Governour Franklin has Captain Veazey, - 102 given his parole in bien he is to reside 7, Letter from the Maryland Goneti of Safety to in Wallingford, - = 7 45 Richard Buchanan, - - 102 6, Letter from Govehdour Trumbull stow General 7, Extract of a Letter from John Adams: Hopes, Washington: The Connecticut Battalions are for the honour of New-England, the people raising with all possible Sheen and will will not be backward in marching to New- soon march, - “ r - winery 455 York; that important post must be maintain- 6, Resolutions of the Shrmeittes on Prisoners, in ed and defended at all events, - - - 102 Connecticut, - - 46 7, Letter from the Committee for Bucks County, 6, Letter from Nehemiah Ratubrodk ga the aed Pennsylvania, to the President of Congress, 103 bly of New-Hampshire: The people about 7, Letter from the Committee for Lancaster, Penn- New-Hampshire have agreed to raise three sylvania, to the President of Congress : Some hundred men for the defence of the frontiers, measures should be adopted to secure the but they are destitute of arms, ammunition, prisoners at Lancaster; they are at large, and money, - - - - - «4546 and it is believed aa sw inemhigeees to the enemy, emeto3 7, Letter from Dr. Gochnasi to Thomas McKean, 104 Lee Ey Ca Oe NE HAMPSHIRE. 7, Letter from General Livingston ‘to General oO - - - - - - Fes, Proceedings of the Sears from June 5 to ce a po ie ae Howe to Lord George Ger- a July 6, - u y 7 5 : 47-59 maine: Met with Governour Tryon “at the Hook, and many fast friends to the Govern- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE. ment attending him; who gave the fullest information of the state of the Rebels. There July 6, Proobedings from Triad 5 to July 6, - 59-87 is great reason to expect a numerous body os to join the Army from New-York, the Jer- Acts passed by the Legislature of New-Hamp- seys, and Connecticut ; sixty men came over shire:— — a few days ago from Shrewsbury, - - 105 For establishing the style of Commissions, which 7, Letter from General Washington to Governour shall hereafter be issued, and for altering the Trumbull: The situation of our affairs calls style of Writs, Processes, and all Law Pro- aloud for the most vigorous exertions, and ceedings, within the Colony; and for direct- nothing else will be sufficient to avert the ing how Recognizances, to the use of this impending blow ; the situation of the North- Colony, shall in future be taken and prose- ern Army is certainly distressing, but we can cuted, .-. -- - 7 \SReaeeenigemh.-. .87 afford norelief,- - >= - = = 106 CONTENTS. 1776. July 8, Letter from the President of Pengress to Gen- 1776. July, Letter from General Washington to General Ward, - - - 7, Letter Gem Genta Washitigton to William Watson, - - s js . 7, Letter from General Wastdington to G@olbnel James Clinton: Hopes he will be able to get arms for his men; if not, all not equipped must be dismissed, - - - - 7, Letter from General Wadkingtbeiut to the Mas- sachusetts Assembly: Thanks them for their compliance with the Sie say of Con- giess, : - - - ~ Regulations agreed upon Babess the Director General of the American Hospitals and the Regimental shar eter and Mates at New- York, - - - “ it Commitment of John Lewis by Gener Spen- cer, - - ‘ - 7, Letter from H. Glenn ” Bolonil Bonds; - 7, Letter from H. Glenn to Colonel Dayton, . 7, Letter from H. Glenn to John Petrie, - - 7, Letter from Colonel Hurd to the New-Hamp- shire Committee of Safety: The inhabitants on and near Connecticut river are much alarmed, several families have moved off, and more are moving; it is of the utmost con- sequence that reinforcements should be sent into that quarter, - - - - - 7, Memorial from the inhabitants of Conway, Fry- burgh, and Brownfield, to the Assembly of New- Hampshire : They are exposed to the incursions of the Savages, and request to be supplied with arms and ammunition, - - 7, Minutes of a Council of War held at Crown- Point, = - - - - - 7, Letter from General Schuyler to General Sul- livan, granting him permission to report him- self to the Commander-in-Chief, - - 8, Deposition of Jarret Williams, of Fincastle County, Virginia: The Overhill Cherokees are preparing to go to war against the fron- tiers of Virginia; a number from the Lower Towns were gone to fall on the frontiers of South-Carolina and Georgia, - 8, Letter from Dr. Wiesenthall to the Maryland Council of Safety: When he entered the ser- vice he expected the appointment of Sur- geon-General, or Director-in-Chief, 8, Letter from Colonel Hollingsworth to the sete land Council of Safety, = - 8, Letter from Colonel Tyler to the Maryland Council of Safety: There are but three hun- dred and fifty-one guns in his Battalion, = - 8, Letter from Jesse Hollingsworth to the Mary- land Council of Safety: Has sent three ves- sels to take the three Companies from An- napolis to the Head of Elk, - - 8, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Matthias Hammond, Quartermaster : Re- quires him to make provision for the Troops ordered to Annapolis for its defence, - - 8, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Stephen Stewart, ee nOany armed vessels for the Province, - 8, Letter from the Maryland Gouriell i Safety 5 Colonel Dorsey, 8, Letter from the Maryland Gouneil ae Safety i Thomas Smith, - 8, Letter from the Maryland Gant as Safoty 6 Charles Ridgely: The Province hasimmediate occasion for some swivels and small cannon, 8, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Mary- land Delegates in Congress: pounds have been appropriated to fortify the city of Annapolis, but there is no engineer to carry on the works; the Delegates are re- quested to inquire for and recommend a proper person, - - 8, Letter from the Maryland Gina of Safety a Robert Alexander, - - “ 8, Baltimore Committee : fet tatin tite raeeieeil of landing of the British Army on Staten-Island, 8, Letter from the President of Con gress to Gene- ral Washington: By order of Congress he has written to Generals Schuyler and Gates; and.recommended mutual confidence hd harmony in their military operations, - _ Ten thousand 107 107 108 108 108 109 110 110 110 110 111 233 235 111 112 113 113 113 113 113 114 114 114 114 114 115 115 eral Schuyler, - - 8, Letter from the President of Congress es fn eral Gates, - . 8, Letter from the Rensident of Commas to Gen- eral Roberdeau: Captain Peters, Secretary to the War Office, must not be ordered out of Philadelphia, - F 8, Letter from the President “ Congress 1 the Rev. Jacob Duché: Informing him that Con- gress has, from a consideration of his piety and zealous attachment to the rights of America, appointed him their Chaplain, - - 8, Letter from Joseph Hewes to Samuel Johnston, of North-Carolina, - - - a * ~ 8, Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Richard Henry -~ Lee, enclosing original report of the Decla- ration of Independence, - 8, Letter from William Wiipmle to John Lang- don, - 8, Declaration of Tailenctilariavy emda at ice State House in Philadelphia, — - - 8, Declaration of Independency ‘gen in Easton, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, 8, Declaration of Independence, with the new Constitution of Newelpmers pioglaimed in Trenton, 8, Letter from General Mercer ona Wash- ington, - - 8, Examination of William Ash, carl Satie: and, - 8, Letter from Gone! Galbraith. to the Lancaster) Pennsylvania, Committee, - - 8, Letter from Lewis Ogden to John Jay and Gouverneur Morris, - — - 8, Letter from General Howe to Lond roms Germaine: Two ships of war are to proceed up the North River to distress the Rebels, by obstructing supplies coming down the river, 8, Letter from Governour Tryon to Lord George Germaine: Four hundred of the Militia on Staten-Island have taken the oath of allegi- ance to his Majesty; this testimony of loyalty will probably be general throughout the Province, when the King’s Army gets the main body of the Rebels between them and the sea, - + - 8, Letter from rev apt i hives * the Presi- dent of Congress, recommending Lieutenant Wilpert to the command of a ‘Company in the German Battalion, - - - - 8, Letter from General Washington to the Penn- sylvania Committee of Safety, - - 8, Letter from General Washington to atone Seymour, - - - - - 8, Conference of General Officers and att at Head-Quarters, New-York, - - 8, Letter from General Greene to the President of Congress, recommending Dr. Sentor, who went last year from Boston to Canada, as Surgeon in General Arnold’s Detachment, - 8, Letter from the Ulster County, New- York, Committee, to the New-York Provincial Con- gress, complaining that Kingston is left des- titute of Powder, although the town is, and has for a long time been, crowded with a set of Ministerial cut-throats, regular officers, and soldiers, - - - 8, Letter from Johannes Toes to the New- York Provincial Congress, with complaint against the Committee for Ulster County, - 8, Address to General Sullivan by the Field Offi- cers lately under his command, - 8, General Sullivan’s Answer to the dress of the Field Officers, - - - . ‘ 8, Committee of Skenesborough, Neer York, de- clare Lieutenant Daniel Brundage an incor- rigible ones to the Boot of American lib- erty, 8, Minutes of a Wipancil of aaa Cicer held at Crown-Point, = 8, Remonstrance of Field Officers at lee aisBoint against the determination of the General Officers to remove the Army to Ticonderoga, 8, Letter from Charles Cushing to his brother, giving a true state of facts with regard to the Army in Canada, = - - - - VIII 115 116 116 116 117 118 118 119 119 119 120 120 121 121 121 122 124 124 124 125 125 125 126 127 127 128 236 233 128 x CONTENTS. 7. 1776. July, Letter from the Committee for Symsbury, Con- July 9,; Letter from Governour Trumbull to General necticut, to Governour Trumbull: The per- sons committed to Newgate Prison, as ene- mies to their eaey are not in safe cus- Schuyler: Has sent Major John Ely, a gen- tleman skilled in the treatment of the small- pox, to consult and assist in putting a “ity tody, é - - - 132 to its progress, - - - - 145 8, Letter from Sexfarhin Payire to James Warren: 9, Letter from Moses Morse to the Giabiedding John Graves, of Pittsfield, who aided Captain Officer at Crown-Point: Has been directed McKay, a prisoner, in making his escape, in by the General Court to ascertain the true violation of his parole, is in prison in Hart- state of the Army in that department, and the ford; it is recommended that he be removed danger that the country is in at ic from to Massachusetts for trial, - - - - 133 . that quarter, = - - - - 145 8, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to 9, Petition of the inhabitants of Truro to the Jerathmeel Bowers: He is desired to equip Council and House of Representatives of the the Colony vessels for sea immediately, - 134 Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, - - - 146 8, Letter from Samuel Elliot to Governour Trum- 9, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to bull, relating to Captain Harding’s Prizes, - 134 “General Ward, on the report that he had 9, Letter from Amsterdam to a gentleman in Lon- given liberty to a number of the Continental don: Effects of the American Revolution on Troops stationed at Winter-Hill, to receive the trade of France and Spain, - - - 134 the small-pox by inoculation, —- - - 146 9, Letter from Thomas Oliver to David Phips, - 135 9, Letter from General Ward to the Massachusetts 9, Letter from Colonel Dorsey to the Maryland Council: There are no Continental Troops Council of Safety: Has ordered the Elkridge at or near Winter-Hill, except a guard, and Battalion to meet immediately, and will send they have all had the small- -pox, - - 146 the number of men required to Annapolis, - 135 9, Letter from Sturgis Gorham, on the Bentect 9, Letter from Stephen Stewart to the bit against the Proceedings of the Town of Barn- Council of Safety, - - - 136 stable, Massachusetts, - - - - 147 9, Letter from the President of Osndtoks to Weeeph Protest of inhabitants of the Town of Barnsta- Trumbull, enclosing Resolutions of eye ble, June 26, - - 147 of July 8, - - - - 136 Letter from Joseph Otis, July 18, on the Pfo- 9, Letter froin Josiah Bartlett to “Meshech Weare, 136 ceedings of the Town of Barnstable, - - 147 9, Letter from Lewis Gordon to the President of 9, Intelligence from Salem, Massachusetts : Prizes Congress, - - - - 137 to the Yankee privateer sloop, (Captain 9, Letter from Gonimibaols Hopkitis to @iptin Henry Johnson,) in the Continental service, Hacker, - - : - - - - 137 lately fitted out at Boston, - - - - 47 9, Intelligence from the Indians, brought by 9, Letter from Benjamin Foster, Chairman of the George Morgan, - - - - - 137 Committee for erp to the Massachusetts 9, Letter from Captain Crawford, a prisoner, to Assembly, - 148 Jasper Yeates, - - - - - - 138 10, Letter from Thomas Gian Tostlons to Edward 9, Letter from Samuel Tucker to the President of Winslow, Halifax: The ‘application from the Congress, on the defence of New-Jersey: sufferers in America are like to be so very We contribute to the general defence of the numerous, that it will probably prevent the Continent, to the defence of New-York, of gratification of any; there is scarcely a Pro- Boston, of Virginia, of the Carolinas: When vince in America which does not afford shoals we are pressed by the stroke of war, in our of petitioners hanging about the Treasury, - 149 turn, are we alone to sustain the burden? - 138 10, Letter from the Camp at Gwinn’s Island: Lord 9, Letter from Joseph Barton to Henry Wisner: Dunmore has been driven from the Island ; Sussex County, in New-Jersey, abounds in the only loss we sustained was Captain Do- flint. The people there should be supplied hickey Arundel, of the Artillery, who was with powder; if attacked now, they have killed by the bursting of a mortar, - - 149 nothing but sticks or axes to fight with, - 139 10, Particular account of the attack and rout of 9, Letter from Ibbetson Hamer, a prisoner, to the Lord Dunmore, with his piratical crew, from President of Congress, —- - - - 140 Gwinn’s Island, - : - - - 150 9, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- 10, List of Lord Dunmore’ s Fleet, - 152 ington: State of the Army in New-Jersey, - 140 10, Letter from Edward Tillard to the Maryland 9, Letter from Captain Cregier to Thomas Ran- Council of Safety: The men for his Company dall: Account of action between the schoo- are nearly raised, but they have no firelocks ner General Putnam anda British vessel-of-war fit for service among them, - 153 of twenty guns, - . - - 141 10, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to 9, Letter from General Washington to Goleahour Jesse Hollingsworth, - 158 Cooke, - - - - - - '141 10, Letter from the Maryland Council as Safety a 9, Letter from General Washington td Governour Smyth, Hands, and Nicholson, - 153 Trumbull, - - - - - 142 10, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety be 9, Letter from General Washington to Ganeial General Buchanan, - 153 Ward, requesting him to detach immediately 10, Letter from the Maryland Gousieil of Safety £0 three of his fullest Regiments to Ticonde- Edward Parker: The service requires an im- roga - = 14% mediate supply of linen cloth, fit for making 9, Letter from Gaveril Wishinztat to the Alsat tents, - 153 bly of Massachusetts: Should it be deemed 10, Letter from the Maryland Goutidil of Safety 2 expedient by the Assembly, they are autho- Amos Garrett, for a supply of bayonets; they rized by Congress to imbody a number of are much wanted for the Militia of the Hlymg- Militia, equal to the Regiments detached, to Camp, 153 strengthen the Northern Army, - - - 143 10, Letter from. thi Maryland Gouneil of Safty by 9, Colonel Knox’s plan for increasing the Artil- Stephen Stewart: In great want of tents, - 154 ler - - - - - - 502 10, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to 9, Résaittions of the New-York Ovadeniton ap- John Archerand James Harris: The bts proving the Declaration of Independence, - 205 service requires linen fit for tenting, - 154 9; Declaration of See aries ob at 10, Letter from the Maryland Couneil of Safety to New-York, - 144 Richard Dallam, to send all the arms he has 9, Certificate of Biethress County, ovews viet, already made, and all he can make, to Gerard Committee, of the quantity of gunpowder Hopkins, Commissary of Stores, at Baltimore, 154 made by John R. Livingston, - 144 10, Letter from the Maryland Council of “ats to 9, Letter from General Schuyler to the Field- Ofi- William Whetcroft, - 154 cers, in reply to their remonstrance, - - 234 10, Letter from the ‘Maryland Cornell of Safety to to 9, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Captain Colonel Dorsey, - 154 Shaw, for an account of the cannon left at 10, Letter from the Maryland Gauitiesl vr Safeay.to to New- London by Commodore Hopkins, - 144 the Committee of Harford, to send all the 9, Letter from William Hillhouse to Nathaniel arms purchased by them, or manufactured Shaw, - - « - - - - 145 under their direction, to Baltimore, - = (155 Firth Serres.—Vot. I. 7 CONTENTS. XII July 10, Intelligence from Annapolis: Colonel Small- July 10, Letter from H. Glen, Commissary, to Walter wood’s Battalion embarked at “gehen for Livingston: He is forwarding as fast as pos- the Head of Elk, — + - - 155 sible men and stores to Colonel passin, at 10, Letter from the President of oliniess to dank: the German Flats, - - 175 ral Washington, referring to him Ephraim 10, Letter from H. Glen to eoeeral Schayles - 176 Anderson’s plan for wig ale the ne Si 10, Letter from General Arnold to General Gates: Fleet at New-York, - - 155 | Colonel Hartley has inna from a tour down Letter from Ephraim "Anderson, July 9, to the the Lakes, mati 207 President of Congress, submitting a plan for 10, Letter from Colonel Hartley to Efecral Areioltd destruction of the British Fleet, - - 155 Report of his scout down Lake Champlain, 207 10, Letter from the President of Congress to Wil- 10, List of Artificers sent from Crown-Point to Ti- liam Palfrey, = - - aod = 156 conderoga and Skenesborough,- —- - 209 10, Petition of Lieutenant Benjamin Flower ve the honourable the United States of America, - 10, Petition of Isaac Melchior, late a of Brigade in Canada, - - - - 10, Letter from the Marine haitties of Congress to Captain Parker, of the Brig Despatch : 10, Letter from the Provincial Congress of New- Jersey to the President of Congress: The 156 156 10, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: Suggests the arrangement of the Eastern and Southern troops in different Brigades, and the appointment of Colonel St. Clair to the command of the latter; the Eastern troops will act much better alone than joined with 11, Letter from the Baltimore Cumswaliian to the Council of Safety, recommending officers for , Instructions for his voyage to France, - 156 the others, - “ - - - ae W) 10, Letter from the Marine Committee to the Mes- 10, Letter from Ira Allen to the New-Hampshire sieurs Samuel and J.H. Delap: The Brig Committee of Safety: Suggesting measures Despatch is consigned to them, and, with for the protection and defence of the frontiers, 177 the proceeds of the cargo, after paying all 10, Letter from Nathan Miller to Governour Trum- expenses, they are requested to procure mili- bull, - - - : . - - 17 tary stores, - > - - - - 158 10, Letter from William Pitkin to Governour Trum- 10, Resolutions of Congress on A capitulation at bull: Fears an attempt will be made to de- the Cedars, = - - - - 158 | stroy his Powder Mill, ried Petnsts prota: Report of the Ehatkaalite on the capitulation tion for it, - 178 entered into between General Arnold and 10, Letter from Colonel Harta ie che Cerne of Captain Forster, June 17, - - - 159 Massachusetts, - - - - - - 178 Letter from: Captain George Forster to “Majer Resignation of Captain Flint and ‘his subal- Butterfield, sie 19: Terms of the Pepecala: terns, July 8, - : - 178 tion, - - 162 10, Conference between the Bshiaeil of Me teanhil: Articles of Capitulatiod rethicea Hissin Sher- setts and the St. Johns and Mickmack tribe burne and Captain Forster, May 26, - - 162 of Indians, - - 838 Articles of Capitulation between General Ar- 10, Worcester County, Massdibnenttl Sich ates) nold and Captain Forster, May 27, - - 163 authorize the employment of prisoners, - 178 ' Proceedings of a Council of War held in Cham- 10, Thomas Billings and others, confined to the bly, Canada, May 30, - - - - 164 limits of their farms in Worcester, - - 179 Major Butterfield’s testimony respecting a 10, Subscriptions in Kittery, Maine, for the encour- breach of the Convention at the Cedars, - 165 agement of inlistments, = - - 179 Captains Estabrook and Wilkins’s testimony 11, Letter from St. Eustatia to a gentleman in Phila- respecting a breach of the convention at the . delphia, - - - : - - 180 Cedars, - = - 166 11, Letter from Captain Wickes to the Sceaak Com- List of the Prisoners Balomaiais to the Ghatinel. mittee of Congress: Has taken a prize and tal Army taken at the Cedars, - - - 167 ordered her to ’ Philadelphia, - - - 180 List of the Prisoners belonging to the Conti- 11, Extract of a Letter from Savannah: Alermiig nental Army taken at Fort Cedars, Canada, 168 news from the Indians, - - 181 of, 10, Letter from Cesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney, 169 11, Resolutions adopted by the pushwaciicn’ os An- = 10, Letter from John Adams to Mrs. Adams, - 170 napolis, - - - - - 181 10, Address of Board of Officers to General Rober- 11, Letter from Jesse Haltigeranh to the Mary- deau, - = 170 land Council of Safety, — - - - - / 182 10, General Roberdemi” s eld ne the Mads - 171 11, Baltimore Committee order the arrest of Abra- 10, Resolutions of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, ham Evening, a Non-Associator, and sus- Committee, for collecting the arms of Non- pected of being unfriendly to the liberties of Associators, - - - - - - 171 America, - - - . - 182 Colony is drained of men for the defence of two companies of Germans, - 183 New-York; they should be permitted to re- 11, Letter from Harford Committee to the Maryland turn for the present, that they may save and Council of Safety: Rerommending officers secure their grain, already suffering, - - 172 for a Rifle Company, - 183 10, Declaration of Independence proclaimed at 11, Letter from the antpny etd Council of Salety to Princeton, New-Jersey, - 173 Colonel Hall, - - 184 10, Letter from General Washington to the ‘Presi. 11, Letter from dire Gausied of Salety to the, Balti- dent of Congress: The Declaration of Inde- more Committee, - - - - 184 pendence has been proclaimed before the 11, Letter from the Council of Safety to Colonel Army, and seemed to have their most hearty Hollingsworth for four hundred bayonets, - 184 assent. The Militia from Maryland, Penn- 11, Letter from John Adams to Mrs. Adams: While sylvania, and Delaware, to form the Flying- the Congress were employed in political reg- Camp, are in motion; from Connecticut they ulations his presence was necessary; but begin to come in; General Howe has between now these matters will soon be eginpieted, nine and ten thousand men, and large rein- and he will ask to be relieved, - 184 forcements are daily expected : the Staten- 11, Letter from Richard Ellis to the President of Islanders have all joined him, and talk of Congress: Offers to raise a Company to serve carrying all before them when Admiral Howe during the war, - - - - - 185 arrives, - tf 11, Letter fram the President of Mongress to Ge- 10, General jail adliveey of deserts in (Nase anc neral Washington, - - - 185 in pursuance of the Declaration for Indepen- 11, Letter from the Pennsylvania Compan of dency, - : - 174 Safety to General Washington, offering the 10, Letter from the Nows¥erk Bonvention to Eg- services of Captain Hazlewood to assist in bert Benson: They send him apo for preparing fire-vessels for the defence of New- the Northern Counties, - - 1394 York, + = - - 186 10, Petition of Joseph Blanchard and oblige to the 11, Petition of Francis Motiteas to the Congress, Provincial Congress of New-York: Complain for the appointment of Major in the German of their confinement in jail, occasioned, as Battalion, ¥ 186 they apprehend, by some mistaken notion of 11, Report of Marine Cowinittie on Gasman Sal- their political principles, — - - - - 175 187 tonstall and Whipple, > - — - XIII 1776. July 11,Committee for Lancaster County, Pennsylvania: Resolutions provinieey for their hap. gre of the Flying-Camp, 11, Letter from George oss to the President of Congress, : a 11, Letter from Goueril Wushingtoii te the Presi- dent of Congress: Has ordered the two Regi- ments in Massachusetts to march for New- York; and forwarded the resolve of Con- gress for employing the Eastern Indians, - Letter from Governour Trumbull, of July 4, to General Washington: The retreat of the Northern Army and the ravages of the small- pox have so weakened the defences of the northern frontiers of New-York and New- Hampshire, that the people in many places are abandoning the settlements, - - 11, Letter from General Washington to Governour Trumbull, - - - - - - 11, Letter from General Washington to the Mas- sachusetts Assembly, enclosing the resolve of Congress for the employment of the St. John’s, Nova-Scotia, and Penobscot Indians, 11, Letter from General Washington to General Schuyler: Reinforcements have been ordered for the Northern Army, - 11, Letter from Gen. Washington to Gdns Ward, 11, Letter from Rev. John Rodgers to Gen. Gates, 11, Letter from Ebenezer Hazard to General Gates, 11, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington, suggesting regulations for improving the health ofthe Army, - - - - 11, Examinations of Deserters and others from the enemy, - - - - - - 11, Letter from the Convention of New-York to the President of Congress: They were much surprised by the resolution of the Congress of June 26, which takes from them the nomi- nation of the officers for the Regiment they were requested to raise in the Colony; the good of the service will not be promoted by the measures the Congress have taken, —- Letter from Major Goforth, of July 5, to the New-York Provincial Congress, resigning his commission, Sahn officers potion been placed over him, Letter from Colonel hoi tines en bunt 21, to Me New-York Provincial een: liees oy et rege his commission, - - - - 11, Letter from the New-York Oonveieidh to the President of Congress, —- - - - 11, Letter from Colonel Seymour to Governour Trumbull: Arrived at New-York on the 8th, with five hundred Light-Horse. Independ- ency is highly approved by the Army, - 11, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to Jeremiah Pow- ell, - - - - - - - ~ 11, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates, 11, Letter from General Gates to General Arnold, 11, Letter from General Gates to General Schuy- ler; enclosing Colonel Hartley’s report of the proceedings of his detachment, - - Letter from General Arnold to General. Gates, of July 10: Colonel Hartley has arrived from a tour down the Lake, - - Letter from Colonel Hartley to Geiieral Ar- nold, of July 10: Report of his scout down Lake Champlain, - - - List of Artificers sent from Evite Poi to Ti- conderoga and Skenesborough, July 10, - 11, Letter from General Ward to General Wash- ington; with invoices of the cargoes taken on board the Scotch Transports, - 11, Letter from General Ward to General Wash- ington: Has forwarded the arms and accou- trements taken from the Scotch prisoners, - 11, Letter to Justices in Massachusetts empowered by the Court to deal with the Tories, - - 11, New-Hampshire Committee of Safety: Tnstruc- tions for Benjamin Giles, - - 11, Letter from the New-Hampshire Goririhittes of Safety to Colonel Wyman, - 11, New-Hampshire Committee of Safety : ‘ies tions to Captain Woodward, - - - 11, Petition of Selectmen of Portsmouth, New- Hampshire, to the Committee of Safety : For permission to the inhabitants to inoculate for the small-pox, — - : - . : 188 188 188 190 192 192 193 194 195 195 196 196-200 201 203 204 205 205 206 206 206 206 207 207 209 209 210 210 211 212 212 212 CONTENTS. 1776. July 12, Proclamation by Governour Bullock: Offering land bounties to those who inlist for the war, 12, Letter from John Page to General Lee, - - 12, Letter from Matthew Tilghman to the Presi- dent of Congress, —- - 12, Letter from N. ‘Ruxton Moore. to the Maryland Council of Safety, - - 12, Letter from John Weems to the Mexpland Gouil- cil of Safety: With information from Captain Chew that there are forty sail of square-rigged vessels up the Bay as far as Point Lookout, - 12, Letter from Thomas —— to eRe ae Coun- cil of Safety, - 12, Letter from Peter Gheillée to the Maryland Council of Safety, - - 12, Letter from the Dorchester Cotta Llastiniittee to the Council of Safety: Several persons have been apprehended as unfriendly, - Deposition of John Rumley, of Dorchester County, Maryland, July 9, as to Basil Clark- son’s going on board the British en a - Petition of Basil Clarkson, - 12, Letter from the Maryland Council ie Safety to to Elisha Winters, . 12, Letter from the Council of Safety to » Jesse Hol- lingsworth, 12, Letter from the Gori of Safety to chvitib ‘Misty. land Delegates in Congress: Recommending Mr. Hughes, who desires to contract for casting cannon, - - - 12, Letter from the President of lomeat=s to the Committee for Lancaster, Pennsylvania: Re- questing a guard to be kept over the pag ers in that Borough, - - 12, Letter from Thomas Stone to dhe Maryland Council of Safety, - - - - 2 12, Letter from the Pennsylvania Committee of Safety to the Maryland Convention, - - 12, Association of inhabitants of Donegal, Lan- caster County, Pennsylvania, = - - - 12, York County, Pennsylvania, Committee, restore James Rankin to his liberty, and the confi- dence of his countrymen, - - - - 12, Letter from British Officers, prisoners of war, to the President of Congress, spo Pog of ill treatment, - - 12, Letter from Ephraim Blsiak to the Tiesiddht of Congress, - - 12, Letter from General Wiaalitupeas to the sBeatie dent of Congress: Two of the enemy’s ships of war have passed the batteries at New- York, and run up the North River, — - - Minutes of a Conference of General Officers, July 8: Agreed to sink hulks in the North River, at Tappan Bay, to wes the ae s progress, - - 12, Proceedings of a pena of nace Qffiseis: Decide against a general attack on the ene- my’s quarters at Staten-Island, - = - General Orders, July 5 to July 12, - - 12, Letter from General Washington to General Clinton: Recommending measures for secu- ring the passes in the Highlands, - - 12, Letter from Ebenezer Hazard to General Gates, 12, Letter from the Convention of New-York to the Committees of East and South Hampton: Measures have been taken to secure the stock on the east end of Long-Island, - 12, Letter from a Committee to the New-York Convention: They have conferred with Ge- neral Washington, who refused his consent to keeping the stock on Long-Island; he is of opinion it should be removed with all ex- pedition, - - - - 12, Letter from the News¥oik Rdgitentioh to the President of Congress, calling attention to complaints against the arrangement of the Canada Regiment, - 5 “ « e Resignation of Lieutenant Aerson and others, July B}-rais - " . 12, Letter font Sumitted Ssslont hied others, to the New-York Convention: Complaining of the injustice of the late arrangement, . List of Company Officers in “the New-York Re- giments, who served the late campaign in Canada, - - - - - a é Colonel Dubois’s arrangement, — - - General Montgomery’s arrangement, - . XIV 212 213 215 215 216 216 217 217 218 218 218 219 219 223 224 224 225 227 227 1398 1414 CONTENTS. XV xvI 1776. July 12, Letter from an officerin New-York to his father July | 13, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Com- in Massachusetts, - - 230 mittees of the lower Counties, - -,, 252 12, Letter from the Committee for Pikohess Grinty 13, Letter from the President of Congress to Bank to New-York Convention: informing them of ral Washington: with the Resolves of Con- a dangerous insurrection that has been dis- gress relative to the treatment of prisoners covered in the County, — - - 1408 by Captain Forster in Canada, - - - 253 12, Deposition relative to piece Sutton’ s iddola- 13, Letter from the President of < hagpe to Gene- ration, == : - 622 ral Schuyler, - 253 12, Letter from Blortaial Schuylet t to General Wash- “= 13, Officers for the Bis ue aera appointed by the ington: Sickness, disorder, and discord reign Philadelphia Committee, - 253 triumphant in the Northern Army; the latter 13, Letter from John Cox to Jasper Racin tieg - - 254 occasioned by an illiberal and destructive 13, Letter from the Committee for Berks County, jealousy, which unhappily subsists between Pennsylvania, to the President of Congress : the troops raised in different Colonies, - 232 They have nearly raised their proportion of Minutes of a Council of War held at Crown- the Flying-Camp, — - - 54 Point, July 7, - - - - - - 233 13, Letter from the Committee rs F-eniiiehen: Beat - Remonstrance of Field-Officers at Crown- sylvania, to the President of Congress, - | 255 Point, July 8, - - - 233 13, Letter from General Washington to a Commit- Letter from General Schuyler to the Field- Ofi- tee of the New-York Convention: urging the cers, July 9, - - 234 adoption of measures to remove from New- Letter from General Sullivan to Genktal Sshefy- York and its environs persons of known dis- ler, July 6, : mide - - 235 affection and enmity to the cause of America, 255 Letter from General Reine to General Sulli- 13, Letter from General Washington to Egbert van, July 7, - 235 Benson: righ et the ships up Hudson’s Minutes of Gutinesl of Banca Officers held at River; - 2 256 Crown-Point, July 8, - - - 236 13, Letter from Caner Washington to Gaitain List of articles wanted for gondolas, seenél Dennis, requesting him to secure some ves- vessels, and batteries, - - - 236 sels in the Highlands, - - - 256 12, Letter from General Schuyler to omekour 13, Instructions to Captain Johnson: Regulations Trumbull, - - - - - - 237 for the North River Ferry, - 256 12, Letter from General Gates to Moses Morse: 13, Letter from John McKesson to SD chati Bankdh 257 giving him a general description of the state 13, Officers chosen in Queen’s County, New- York, 257 of affairs at Ticonderoga, - - - 237 13, Deposition relative to Joshua Gedney, - - 623 12, Letter from General Amold to General atch: 13, Letter from John Coe to the Commanding Offi- requesting him to examine the thirteen In- cer at Paulus-Hook, . - - 258 dians taken by Colonel Hartley, - - 238 13, Letter from the New- "York Convention ne Ge- 12, Letter from General Arnold to General Gates: neral Washington, - - 258 referring for his decision the case of William 13, Letter from the New-York Cannameibed to Gala Hay and others, suspected of being inimical, 239 nel Hammond: Serious incursions into the 12, Letter from Colonel Bedel to General Gates: country by pactlen from the ships i in the river urging the action of the Court of Inquiry, - 239 are not feared, - - - - 258 12, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General 13, Letter from the Cheanieatiche to Colonel Van Schuyler: by Captain Lester, who has raised Cortlandt: To furnish guards for the ae tig a company of Carpenters for the Lakes, - 239 property at Peekskill, . 259 Proceedings of the Connecticut Council of 13, Letter from John Jay to the New-York Guai- Safety, from the 5th to the 12th of July, - 240 vention: enclosing examinations taken by 12, Proceedings of a Convention of Committees of the Committee of Westchester County, - 1412 Safety, &e., at Petersham, Massachusetts, - 245 13, Letter from Colonel Clinton to General Wash- 12, Barnardston, Miastanhanle ties Committee: Trial ington, - - 259 and punishment of Jacob Orcut, for passing 13, Letter from Guripral Sebuylas to ole fovansicks 259 a counterfeit bill, - - - - - 2247 13, Letter from General Schuyler to Jeremiah Pow- 12, Application of the Boston Committee to the ell: Measures taken to prevent the small- Council for a revocation of the order permit- pox, which has so greatly reduced the Amy, ting the departure of Captain Holmes, wi ota from infecting the Militia interitlea to rein- 12, Letter from William Sever to James Bowdoin: force it, - - - 259 respecting the equipment of the armed brig- 13, Letter from Genaral Sehuvler to enoesl Gates, 260 antine at Plymouth, - - - 248 13, Letter from P. Van Rensselaer to General Gates, 261 Letter from Colonel Gilman to the New-Hamp- 13, Letter from General Gates to General Arnold: shire Committee of Safety, : 248 Making efforts to secure the naval superiority 12, Letter from the New-Hampshire Gainisined of on the Lake, - : - 61 Safety to the Selectmen of New-Market, - 248 13, Letter from Colonel Bedel to Gane Gates, - 261 12, Letter from the Committee for Kittery to the 13, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the Dien: Committee for Portsmouth, - - 249 dent of Congress: with an account of the 13, Letter from Williamsburgh, Virginia Defeat bf cannon left at New-London ca Membtealore Lord Dunmore, - ~#2151 Hopkins, - 262 13, Letter from Captain Wickes ‘3 the sta Com- 13, Letter from John Keiphleyito to tise Gouneil of mittee of Congress: Has made two prizes,- 249. Massachusetts: Has been three months in 13, Letter from William Falconer to the Hon. An- prison ; Pale he pit be heard or dis- thony Falconer: Account of the attack of charged, - 262 the British on Sullivan’s Island, - e 249 13, Letter ‘roka pease Finioe re hed Geanieil of 13, Letter from John Page to the Maryland Peale Massachusetts: The levies for reinforcements cil of Safety: The enemy driven from Gwinn’s to the Northern Army are going on eres Island will endeavour to possess themselves of tiously, - = - 263 some place on the Eastern- Shore ofMaryland, 250 13, Letter from Colonel Hurd to Genieend Bullivat! 263 13, Letter from Caleb C. Gough to the Council of 13, Instructions from the New-Hampshire Conk Safety, - - 251 mittee of Safety to Captain Eames, - - 264 13, Letter from John Hauedtl Jon yer Biharss a 13, Letter from Captain Parker to the New- “Hae the Council of Safety: recommending es shire Committee of Safety, - - 265 for officers, - . - 251 SEE aR 13, Letter from James Hindriannst to the Goyneil of RESOLVES OF THE ASSEMBLY OF MASSACHUSETTS. Safety: Sends three prisoners delivered to 1776. oe him by the Committee for Somerset County, 251 May 31, The Commissary directed to deliver two Can- 13, Letter from Colonel Barnes to the Council of non to Peter Coffin, - - 265 Safety: Fifty-eight sail of the enemy’s vessels 31, For supplying the Town ‘of Gidheester with opposite Smith’s Creek, in the Potomack, 252 Cannon, &c., - 265 13, Bae from John Weston to the Council of June 3, For filling up the four Companies at Doredaneed: 265 alety : srs ken en s ves tg 3, For paying Colonels Marshall and aes phi one is in blast, 252 month’s advance wages, - - - 265 XVII June’, Resolve to supply Captain i: naga with seven Fire-Arms, = - 3, Appointing a Committee to Suvthane Gaokon for the Armed Vessels, - * 3 7 3, On the Account of Jacob Boardman, -—° - 4, To erect a Fortification at Plymouth, — - - 4, For adjourning Worcester Court, - - 4, Appointing a Committee to correspond with Congress, - - - . “ < ~ 4, On the Petition from Mendon relative to some uneasiness subsisting in the Regiment there, 4, Establishment for Gunners on board Armed Vessels, - 5, To suspend sinking Hulks in etTiel Bisthstr of Boston, - “ 5, To supply the Rov of Beveily bith Shot, - 6, Appointing a Committee of Accounts, - 6, For transmitting hard Money to General Schuy- ler, - - - - - 6, For further fanitying the Harbour of Boston, - 6, For supplying the Committee for procuring Saltpetre with Money, - - - - 6, To explain the Resolve of Court with respect to the price of a bounty on Saltpetre, - - 8, For raising a Company of Matrosses, to be sta- tioned at Falmouth, - - 8, To remove the Apparatus, &e., of Heameardl Col- lege, from Concord to Cambridge, - 10, For supplying Captain Jordan, bound to Fal- mouth, with a Guard, - - 10, Relative to building a Powder-Mill i in Sidon! - 10, On the Petition from the Committee of Kittery, 11, Appointing a Committee of Fortification, - 11, For supplying the Town of Gloucester with Cannon, - - - - 11, On the Petition of HdWard Buiter; - - - 12, On the Petition of Benjamin Smith, - 12, On the Petition of eee: Edwards ata Samuel Brown, Jun., - 12, To supply Richard Darby valth Gitkcoues - 12, On the Petition of Reuben Higgins, - - 12, On the Petition of William Whitney, - 13, Appointing Officers for the. ptt bie at Fal- mouth, - 13, On the Petition of Stephen Hall. and ‘Peleg Crocker, - - - é a 13, For placing Cannon at the Gathat and for raising one hundred men to be stationed there, - - - - - - - 13, Appointing a Committee to make Landy rela-* tive to casting Cannon, - - - 14, To pay for losses at Bunker-Hill, a! Bowe - 14, Establishing a Form of Beating Orders and In- listment for raising three Companies of Ma- trosses, - - 14, For supplying the Golepuiies of Matioasés at Gloucester and Falmouth, - - - - 14, Appointing Muster-Masters, - - - - 14, On the Petition of Thomas Cook, - - - 14, For transmitting hard Money to Gen. Schuyler, 14, On the Petition of Lewis Allen, in behalf of his brother, Jolley Allen, - 14, For adding an Ensign to, and supplying the men stationed on the Gurnet, in Plymouth, 15, Directing the Commissary-General to secure the Colony’s stores, - - - - 15, Appointing persons to receive and pay for Salt- petre, - - - - - - = 15, For bringing forward causes which were eos ing in “the Superior Court, - . - 17, On the Petition of William Tupper, respecting captures, - 17, To supply the Teese of inva viel Bows der, &c., - - a ms x 18, On the Petition of Faitac Nickson, - - - 18, For procuring two decoy Ships, ‘Ken, “hi. - 19, Instructing the Committee on the Abstracts, - 19, Appointing James Warren Second ne -Ge- neral, - - - 19, Appointing Jonathan Dee nesiios Second hear of the Fourth Regiment in Middlesex, - 19, For payment of Colonel John Robertson’s Ab- stract, - 19, To prevent the expouasiin of Painless till the 10th of November next, - - . 4 19, On the Petition of Gilbert Harrison, “5 & 20, On the Petition of Nathan Smith, - " ” 20, On the Account of Jeremiah Putnam, - ~ - CONTENTS. 266 266 266 267 267 267 268 268 268 269 269 269 270 270 271 272 272 272 273 June0, Resolve for supplying Colonels Marshall’s, Whitney’s, and Craft’s tg with Medi- cines, - - 21, Directing the Gommiasary-Gehortl to receive all the Powder due from the Continent, - 21, For supplying the several Towns with Powder, 21, Relative to delinquent Collectors, - - 21, Relative to Dr. Stockbridge and others, and persons who, having fled to Halifax, &c., shall return to this Colony, - e : 21, On the Petition of John Stedman, - - _ 21, Directing Alexander ares to receive Salt- petre, - - - 22, On the Petition of the OBintiaittens efBriswick, 22, For supplying the Brig Rising co bie with Cannon, &c., - 22, On the Return made to ile) Court by ‘Major Barachiah Basset, - 22, Relative to supplying the three Colonial Reg ments with Medicines, - - 22, On the Abstract of Galonel Isaac Srhithe - 24, Directing the Treasurer to receive two Komee of Money of George Spriggs, - - - 24, On the Petition of George Langford, — - - 24, On the Complaint of Samuel Rice, - 24, To supply David Jeffries with fifteen hadted Pounds, - - - - - “ 24, Directing the Selectmen of the several Towns to lend Military Tools, — - - . p 24, For payment of Accounts for losses in battle, 25, Making provision for the Families of such To- ries as have left the Colony, — - : 2 25, For raising one hundred Men to be stationed at Martha’s Vineyard, - - : 2 25, For raising five thousand Men to cooperate with the Continental Troops at Canada and New-York, - - - - - - 25, Appointing John Cummings and John Fellows Brigadier-Generals, - 26, On the Petition of Jacob Harker ad others; bE Nova-Scotia, - - 26, On the Petition of Wlewaitdedt McLellan, - 26, Relative to erecting Beacons, - . 26, On the Account of the Selectmen of Haverhill, 26, Field-Officers for six Battalions chosen, - . Q7, For supplying part of the Moneys appropriated to the purchase of Flour to pay for Tents, - 27, For signing Bills of publick credit, - - 27, For the Commissary-General to sirtoarae Tents, 27, For procuring hard Money, - 27, For paying the PE cso of the Colony in Gon gress, - 27, For appointing Staff-Officers fot the Regiments going to Canada, - 27, For providing Canteens and GatipiKetiles) - 27, For paying Captain Scott and men, - - 28, Form of Inlistment for raising one hundred men, to be stationed at Martha’s Vineyard, 28, On the Petition of the Town of Charleton, - 28, For supplying Marblehead with Cannon, - 28, For supplying the Towns of Salem, Beverly, and Newburyport with Cannon, &c., - - 28, On the Petition of Edward Perry, - - 28, For a grant of fifty Pounds for the Goiiviitide on Camp-Kettles, - - 28, For purchasing Cannon-Ball for the Cokaniitids of Truro, - - - - . 28, For the route of the Troops destitied to Gartsida and New-York, - 28, For supplying the Town of Cape- Elizabeth orth Cannon, - - 28, On the Petition oe: Jerse! Bswites cha others, - - - - - - ~ 29, For supplying the Committee for raising Men with Money for that purpose, - : - 29, Relative to fortifying the Gurnet, - - . 29, Appointing a Committee to confer with a Com- mittee of the Assembly of Rhode-Island, - 29, On the Petition of Jonathan Stickney, - - 29, To supply the Committee for eA Men with more Money, - 29, For supplying the Sain af Amtiniel edith Powder, - - = 29, For paying Januiyea Minot for iiatibexiniy the People, - “ - 29, For procuring Stockings for the Aaayi - - 29, For supplying the Town. of Harpswell with ews Arms and Powder, - u " . XVIII 282 282 282 282 283 283 283 283 283 283 284 284 284 285 285 285 285 286 286 286 287 291 291 292 292 292 292 293 293 293 294 294 294 294 295 295 296 296 297 297 297 298 298 298 299 300 300 300 301 301 302 302 302 302 1776. 1776. June 29, Resolve for payment of losses in Battle on July 13, Resolve for supplying Westminster, in the Pro- the 19th of April, and 17th of June, 1775, - 302 vince of New-York, with Powder, Lead, &c., 321 July 1, For procuring a company of het Carpenters 13, On the Petition of the Committee of Safety of to go to Albany, - 303 Cavendish, in New-York, - - - - 322 1, Vesting certain powers in the Ssundil mantel 13, For forwarding Tents, &c., to the Army, -, 322 the recess of the Court, - . - 304 13, For supplying “Baker's Town, in the Rees of” 1, Empowering the Commissary to alalied out Cumberland, with Powder, - 322 Powder, &c., to the forces bound to Canada, 305 13, For appointing Gunners to the Compauaa of 1, For appointing an Engineer to direct in the Matrosses, - - - - - 322 works carrying on at the Gurnet, - - 305 13, On the Petition of Initel Davis, - - 323 1, Relative to the Accounts of the guardians of the 13, Relative to the St. John’s and Mickmack Indie 323 Dudley Indians, - - - - - 305 13, On the Petition of William esate - - 324 1, For taking possession of the Estates of Thomas 13, For procuring Wool, - - - 324 Hutchinson and Henry Lloyd, - - - 306 13, On the Report of the Cusuntied aioe’ to 1, Relative to the Commissary receiving Saltpetre, 306 distribute twelve hundred Pounds among the 1, On the Return of Estates in Woburn, - - 206 inhabitants of the eastern part of the County 2, For discharging the Schooner Charlestown of Lincoln, - - - - - = 324 Cutter, - - - - - . - 306 shactnnnandiel beamed 2, To fit out a Vessel of observation, - ~ - 307 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, ETC. 2, For raising a Company of Matrosses, to be sta- 1776. tioned at Salem, SF ee - - 307 | July 14, Letter from Jesse Hidlingswtyil to the Fal 2, Directing the Committee to ip victes i no more land Council of Safety, - - 325 Flour, - - - 307 14, Letter from John Hanson, Jun., to the Getiicil 2, For an ebtablishinent for the Bax Gallows - 3807 of Safety: The mode pointed out by the Con- 2, Relative to leaden window weights, - - 307 vention for the men now raising for the Con- 2, For supplying the Town of Falmouth with Can- tinental service will prove ineffectual, - - 325 non, - - - - 308 14, Letter from Colonel Somerville to the Council 2, Relative to the Test Act, - - 308 of Safety: A number of ships-of-war and 2, To encourage the manufacture of BitseAcms tenders have come into the Potomack, and it » and Cannon, - - - - - - 308 is said they intend to land on St. George’s 2, For procuring Teams, * : - - - 309 Island, in the mouth of St. Mary’s River, - 325 2, For procuring Coats, Blankets, Hats, &c., - 309 14, Letter from Colonel Dorsey to the Council of 3, On the Petition of David Cheever, - - 309 Safety, - - - - 326 3, Lending Cannon to the arias of pina ag 14, Letter from the Prosideitt of mah to Colo- shire, - - - 310 nel Roberdeau: requesting him to exert him- 3, For sending Brilowers from Truro to Bosinip, - 310 self in forwarding the immediate march of 3, Desiring the Council to isa pe of solemn the whole Militia destined for the etch Humiliation and Prayer, - 310 from Pennsylvania, - - - 326 3, For supplying the Counts of Lincoln sa Burn: 14, Letter from the President ‘a Congress to ihe powder, - - - 310 Pennsylvania Committee of Safety : Con- 3, Relative to men’s peace Ras phi other than gress earnestly requests them to supply the their own Towns, - - - - - 310 Flying-Camp and Militia with musket-car- 4, For advancing one month’s pay to the Officers tridges; the state of affairs will not admit of destined to Canada and New-York, - - $11 the least delay, - - - - - 827 4, Appointing a-Court to try certain persons sus- 14, Letter from the President of Congress to General pected of being inimical to the American Mercer: Directs him to march the Militia and Colonies, - - - - - - - 311 Flying-Camp to Brunswick, or other places ° 4, To sell the Tories’ Chaises and Carriages, - 312 in the Jerseys, as he may judge necessary, - 327 4, For supplying the Company stationed at Salem, 312 14, Letter from the Committee for Cumberland 4, Giving additional power to the Court appointed ; County, Pennsylvania, to the President of to try suspected persons, - - - - 312 Congress: Will be able to send five compa- 4, Appointing a Committee on Accounts, - - 312 nies for the Tesch efi arms can 5, Relative to Dr. Gelston, - - - ="e513 be had, - - - - 327 5, Relative to procuring hard Money, - - 313 14, Letter from General fctans As Gand Wash- 5, On the Petition of Jonathan Capen, oe ington: Suggests a surprise of the enemy’s of the Puncapaug Indians, - - 313 small posts on Staten-Island, = - - - 328 5, Desiring the Council to write a letter to ae 14, Letter from Colonel wg to He ig ee ral Washington, relative to raising men, &c., 314 bull, - - 328 5, Relative to a number of Masts at Georgetown, 315 14, Letter from Gentes FVAahin esti to the Pra. 6, On the Petition of John Collas and others, dent of Congress, - 329 prisoners in Salem Jail, - - - 315 General Return of the Army sane United Gales, 6, For employing two persons to ride post $5 nies in and near the City of New-York, ie) Crown Point, - - = - 315 13th, a ee ee a 331 6, Relative to paying the Officers of the cmt Return of the Regiment of Andillery% in the ser- Regiments destined to Canada and New- vice of the United States of America, com- York one month’s advance pay, - - 315 manded by Henry Knox, July 13th, - -. 332 8, On the Petition of Hannah Mather, . 315 14, Letter from General Washington to the New- | 8, To adjourn the Maritime Court for the Middle York Convention: on the importance of secu- District, - " 316 ring the Passes in the Highlands, - - 333 8, For furnishing forces iateoudd on Elizabeth 14, Letter from General Washington to the com- Islands with Powder, - - 316 manding officer of the Hae gag ies 9, For drafting men to make up the five thousand in New- -Jersey, - - 333 to reinforce the sry in New-York and 14, Letter from Colonel Ritzema go Gdheral Wash- Canada, - - 316 ington: He has many secret enemies, who 10, For furnishing the Golonials Hegirhenis with are endeavouring to blast his character ; to necessary articles for the sick, - - - 317 dvoid further persecution, requests pee” 10, For raising every twenty-fifth man to reinforce sion to resign his commission, - 333 the Northern Armmy,- — - 317 14, Letter from General Washington to. .Gelitel 10, For furnishing the Town of Marblehead with Ritzema: Is surprised to find an officer of apparatus for eight Cannon, ~— - - - 319 his rank in the Army soliciting leave to re- 11, Appointing James Bricket a Brigadier-General, sign his commission, when the enemy is in to command the forces to be sent to Canada, 3820 full view, and a battle hourly expected, - 334 12, Establishing the form of Inlistment for the 14, Letter from Gouverneur Morris to General twenty-fifth part of the Militia, - - 320 Washington: asking his advice as to what is 13, On the Petition from Beysareh and Beene best to be done with the Tory prisoners from field, - - —fs521 Queen’s County, on Long-Island. It is in 13, Directing that the ‘Maditiond Court for the Mid- their power to confine them close prisoners, dle District should be held at Salem, - ee PA or to take security for their future conduct, 334 CONTENTS. XXI XXII 1776. Memorial of sundry inhabitants of the City of Py 5, Letter from the Council of Safety to General New-York, and other friends to the peace and Dent: The fleet under Lord Dunmore having safety of the United States of America, on entered the Potomack, and will probably at- the danger of suffering the Tories to remain tempt a landing there, he is directed to take in the by or near it, in : Long-Island, Shrews- command of the a and ng the neces- bury, & 335 sary orders, - 843 July 14, Letter Pie: Golons| Pitkin an she Neneork 15, Letter from the Goan of Safety to Colaiel Convention: respecting Mr. Tyler’sconduct, 335 Barnes, - - 844 14, Letter from General Mifflin to Sires Wash- 15, Letter froda the C sanstill of Salty to Captain ington, - - - - - 336 Thomas, - - - 844 14, Letter from General Wadhiogipe hs the Com- 15, Letter from the Gouncil of Safety to Captain mittee for Orange County, in New-York: Hindman, - - - 344 Every precaution ought, to be taken to pre- 15, Letter from the Council of Salety to General vent enemy’s ships from getting supplies, or Hooper, - : - 344 keeping up any intercourse with the disaf- 15, Letter from the Gouna of Safety to Captain fected inhabitants, - Sis igen - 336 Smyth, - - 344 14, Letter from Colonel Hey to General George 15, Letter from the Gduden of Safety to Bolodel Clinton, - - - - 337 Johnson: A number of cannon is wanted 14, Letter from Gidemal nlite} to the Die w- for the use of the Province; he is requested York Convention, - - - - - 1402 to say on what terms he can furnish them, - 345 * 14, Letter from Colonel je casos to the New- 15, Proceedings of the Baltimore Committee, - 345 York Convention, - - 1426 15, Letter from the President of Congress to (oe 14, Letter from Egbert Benson to naw Wash- ral Washington, - - 346 ington: The late insurrection of the Tories 15, Letter from the President of aiprces to the in Dutchess eeanty was an inconsiderable Convention of New-Jersey: earnestly request- affair, . - - - - - 337 ing them to furnish the Flying-Camp and the 14, Letter from the Gomanistie for Dutchess Coun- Militia with all the lead they can procure; ty, New-York, to Colonel Clinton: proposing the amount already received is very ni short fire-rafts for the destruction of the enemy’s of what is wanted, - - - 346 ships in the North River, - - - - 338 15, Letter from the President of Cinagecasit to Dr. 14, Letter from Colonel Clinton to the Committee Shippen: Congress have appointed him Sur- for Dutchess County: Approves much of geon-General and Director of the Hospital of their plan for the fire-rafts, - - - 337 the Flying-Camp and Militia in New-Jersey, 346 14, Letter from General igi to the President “15, Letter from Samuel Adams to Richard sininlpe of Congress, - - 338 Lee, - - 347 14, Letter from General Ete view to Besent! Wash- ~ 15, Letter from Josiah Bartlett to Join Jiatigdoas - 348 ington: Yesterday discovery was made of ~—15, Extract ofa letter from John Adams, - 348 some desperate designs of the Tories; he is — 15, Letter from General Roberdeau to Righard bound by oath not to divulge names or par- Peters, - - - - - 349 ticulars, - - - - - 338 15, Resolutions of the Pennsylvania Council of 14, Letter from General Schuyler to un nee Wash- Safety, making provision for thé support of ington: introducing Captain Marquisie, a the families of “indigent Associators who have French Engineer, = - - - - - 338 been called into service, - 349 14, Letter from Colonel Schuyler to General Gates, 339 | “~ 15, Officers for the Flying-Camp appointed by che 14, Letter from Captain Veeders to General Gates: Philadelphia Associators, - 349 Is stationed at Skenesborough as a guard, — 15, Letter from Carpenter Wharton to the President but has no ammunition for his men, - - 339 of Congress: Two thousand of the Pennsyl- 14, Letter from an Officer at Fort George to an vania Militia have arrived at Trenton, New- Officer in New-York: The important services Jersey, and Colonel Dickinson’s Battalion of General Sullivan in Canada, - - - °339 have just marched for Woodbridge, - - 350 14, Letter from General Gates to Lieutenant Ganse- 15, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- voort: Sends thirteen Indians prisoners, who dent of Congress: The inhuman treatment are to be escorted safely to General Schuyler, of our people by Captain Forster deserves the at Albany, - - . - - - 339 severest reprobation; if, hereafter, the claims 14, Letter from General Gates to Colonel Schuyler, 340 of humanity are disregarded, justice and 14, Letter from General Arnold to General Gates: policy will require recourse to be had to the with the sentence of a General Court-Mar- laws of retaliation, - - - - 350 tial, who have dismissed Colonel Campbell 15, Letter from General aNUaRinicete to a Commit- from the service, - - - - - 340 tee of the New-York Convention: It is 14, Letter from Captain Brownsonto General Gates, 340 equally dangerous to set at large or permit 14, Letter from Ebenezer Bartram to General Gates: the continuance in New-York, of the prison- Recommends Captian Harding for promo- ers confined in the Jail of that City; they tion, . - - . - 340 should be sent to some place where they can 14, Letter from Andrew Hamilion to Jabez Fisher, 341 be safely kept, and can do us no injury, - 351 14, Letter from William Pyncheon to Jabez Fisher, 341 15, Letter from General Washington to General 14, Letter from Colonel Child to the New-Hamp- Schuyler: enclosing Resolutions of Congress, 351 shire Committee of Safety, ~ - 341 15, Letter from General Washington to Governour 15, Letter from a Member of the Council of Salety Trumbull: With the condolas, row-galleys, of Maryland, - 341 &c., in Connecticut, the ships in the North 15, Letter from William Lait to the Maryland Getuk River would be attacked, - - - - 352 cilofSafety, - = - 342 | © 15, Letter from General Washington to General 15, Letter from Colonel Jordan tha. Gouneil a Schuyler: enionin ga letter for General Bur- Safety: Between seventy and eighty vessels goyne, - - - - 352 are lying off the mouth of St. Mary’s River; this 15, Letter from General TMaahingtde to Gonbral morning ten boats full of men landed on St. Howe: enclosing resolutions of Congress, George’s Island, - - 342 of July 10, on the breach of the capitulation 15, Letter from John Dorsey to the Gaui of at the Cedars, by Captain Forster, = - 352 Safety, - ‘ : : - 342 15, Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to Chasleg 15, Letter from the Berraision for Talbot County, Petitt: Describes his meeting a flag from the Maryland, to the Council of Safety, - - 343 British fleet, with a letter from Lord Howe 15, Letter from Samuel Barret to the Council of to Mr. Washington, - - - - - 352 Safety, - 343 15, Examination of “Deserters from the oa 15, Letter from the Obani of Satots, to Gating fleet, - > 353 Somerville: They have been informed of the 15, Letter ‘cae the re vdaten of Now Wask to landing of the British on St. George’s Island, General Washington: Measures will be taken and have given the necessary directions, - 343 immediately to secure the passes in the High- 15, Letter from the Council of pati to Captain lands, and the utmost vigilance will be used Bealls < reiuit o 5% + 948 in watching the steps of the Tories, - - 353 XXIII | CONTENTS. | XXIV 1776. July 15, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gen. July 16, Letter from Council of Safety to the Commit- Washington: Vessels have been seen going tees on the Eastern-Shore of Maryland, - 365 to and from the ships-of-war at Tarrytown, - 354 16, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Com- 15, Letter from Colonel Hammond to the New- mittees on the Western-Shore of Maryland, 366 York Convention, - - - - - 1402 16, Letter from the President of Congress to the 15, Letter from the New-York Eonenyon to Colo- Virginia Council of Safety: requesting them nel Hammond, - - 1403 to send all the lead that can be spared; it is 15, Letter from Joseph Teas to thes New-York wanted for the Army in New-Jersey, and the Convention, = - - - - 1404 state of affairs will not admit the least delay, 366 15, Westchester County, Rawat ore, Ganairtss 16, Letter from the President of Congress to Colo- prohibit meetings of the Tories, - - - 354 nel Lewis: urging him to collect and send 15, Letter from General Clinton to General Wash- all the lead that can be spared, - - 366 ington: communicating the measures he has 16, Letter from the Pregident of ree to Colo- taken to protect the country on the North nel Kirmovan: informing him of his appoint- River from depredations by the enemy, - 354 ment as Engineer in the Continental service, 367 15, Letter from Colonel Hamman! to General Wash- 16, Letter from the President of Congress to the ington, - 355. |. Massachusetts Assembly: beseeching them, 15, Letter from Babert Beakants to the New’ Mork in the name and by the authority of Congress, Convention: Objections to a general call of as they regard the liberties of the country Militia at this time, - - - - = 3855 and the happiness of posterity, to strain every 15, Extract of a letter from sada SGOrREE of nerve to send forward the Militia for strengtlt the Tory plot, -— - - - 307 ening the Army at New-York, - — - 367 15, Letter from General Waterbury to General < 16, Letter from William Whipple to John Tavedon: Gates, - - - 357 The Declaration of indepondenre has had a : 15, Letter from Gana Bathe to General Arnold: glorious effect, - - 368 He will not decide on Colonel Campbell’s — 16, Letter from John Alsop to che ere York thet Court-Martial; that must be left to General vention: As the Declaration:of Independ- Schuyler; Colonel Hazen complains of irregu- ence is against his judgment and inclination, larities in the proceedings against him, = OO d he begs leave to resign his seat as a DeMantp 15, Letter from General Gates to “General Water- in Congress, - 368 bury, . - - - - - 358 16, Letter from General Motos a the President oF 15, Letter from pee Arnold to General Baten Congress, a - 8.389 To-morrow Colonel Bedel and Major Butter- 16, Letter from General Merder i General Wash- field are ordered up, and go off immediately, 358 ington: His plan of a proposed attack on the 15, Letter from Colonel Winds to General Gates, 359 British posts on Staten-Island, - - 369 15, Letter from Thomas. Bull to.General Gates: 16, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- soliciting a supply of ammunition for eighty ington . 371 men, alias Ac alain) de pethal- GBOo 16, Letter from Colonel Sesminny to Genceal Wash- 15, Letter from Danie] Tillinghast to General Wash- ington: Remonstrance of the Officers of the ington: Has sent three cases of fire-arms Connecticut Light-Horse against doing duty from Providence, ~ - - - - 359 on foot, and requesting a dismission in form, 371 15, Letter from F. Greene to General Washington, 359 16, Letter from General Washington to Colonel 15, Notice of the suppression of the Domes at Nine- Seymour: Agrees that the ueeop may be Partners, in New-York, - - 360 dismissed, - - 371 15, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Nathaniel 16, Letter from Gertorn hae iS eal Wash- Shaw - 360 ington, - - 371 15, Letter from John Roetie to Canin Haskell : 16, Letter Gam Aalonel Reed to Mrs. Recs By Oe D. His instructions as Captain of a vessel fitted Letter from Dennis de Berdt to Joseph Reed, . out for gaining intelligence REAPER BHE me May 3: Lord Howe goes to America as a British fleets and armies, - 360 mediator, and not as a destroyer; if a con- 15, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to ference should be brought: about, nothing Joseph Hawley, : =u ites -, S6l unbecoming a gentleman will be desired, nor 15, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to unreasonable concessions expected, - - 372 Joseph Trumbull, Commissary, - - - 361 16, Letter from General Spencer to a Committee of 15, Letter from Richard Newton to He Massachu- the New-York Provincial Congress: respect- setts Council, - 361 ing the discharge of two prisoners, - - 373 15, Letter from Bradbury Riahanisen to J etaiban 16, Pass for Members of the Convention from New- Moulton, - - - - - - - 362 York to the White-Plains, - - 374 16, Court-Martial on Lieutenant Williams, - - 362 16, Resolution of the New- Vork Committee for ihe 16, Letter from St. Joseph Dashiell to the inthe publication of the Declaration of Independ- land Council of Safety, - - 362 ence, on the 18th, at the City-Hall, - - 874 16, Letter from Captain Bracco to the oral er 16, Letter from Colonel Hammon to the NPP Safety: Has exhausted both money and credit Convention, - - 1404 to support the men under his command, - 362 16, Letter from the New- York Convention to Cold- 16, Letter from Richard Dallam to the Council of nel Hammon, - : m - - 1404 Safety, - - - 363 16, Letter from the New- York Gententtn to the 16, Letter from Captains Parnes and Elliott to the Committee for Ulster County, - - - 1405 Council of Safety: soliciting a reinforcement 16, Letter from the New-York Convention to Cad- for the defence of Kent-Island, - 363 walader Colden, Jun.: His petition is refer- 16, Letter from Colonel Johnson to ihe Council of red to the Committee for Ulster County, - 1405 Safety, - - 363 16, Letter from Colonel Hammond to the New- 16, Letter from General Dent ‘# the iC onace of York Convention, - - 1405 Safety: Will immediately set out to St. Ma- -|° 16, Letter from the New-York Geuventinn a Colo- ry’s, and take every precaution to guard nel Van Cortlandt, - - - 1407 against and repel the enemy, - - 363 16, Letter from the New-York Ganvaiion es the 16, Letter from Robert Porteus to the Council of Commissioners for building the Continental Safety, - - - - - 364 ships at Poughkeepsie, = - - - - 1407 16, Letter from John Skinner to the Council of 16, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gen- Safety, - - 364 eral Washington: As their troops are but 16, Letter from Colonel Tyler tp the iGbancal of ill supplied with ammunition, they request Safety, - - - - - 364 he will order them an immediate supply, - 446 16, Letter from the Council of Safety to the several 16, Letter from John McDonald to the New-York Committees of Observation in Maryland: Convention, - rs - 1413 with the Declaration of Independence, and 16, Letter from ahr pan re the pe York requesting it re! be So toerin in each Convention: uae a commission sak a County, - - 364 privateer, - - - 374 16, Letter from the Chane of Safety to the Sah 16, Certificate for the erection ofa Powder-Mill i in mittee for Worcester County, Maryland, - 364 Ulster County, New-York, - os - $74 CONTENTS. Firts Series.—Vot. I. evo XXVI 1776. i <6, Letter from John Coe to General Washington: July 17, Letter from the President of ni to Gen- giving information of the movements of Brit- eral Mercer, - - - 388 ish vessels of war up the North River, - 374 17, Letter from General Washinton to the Presi- 16, Letter from Colonel Porter to General Fellows: dent of Congress: Colonel Hand’s Battalion, 388 enclosing a letter from Egbert Benson, re- 17, Letter from General Vonece to the Presi- questing “some troops from the western part - dent of Congress, - 7 - 389 of Gonnecticut, for the defence of the High- 17, Letter from General Washington’ to General lands, . - - 375 Schuyler, - : “ - 390 16, Letter from General Gates to the Pieshtent of 17, Letter Hom General Washinea to Gétonel Congress: State of the Northern Army, - 375 Clinton: Approves the steps he has taken 16, Letter from General Gates to General Wash- for the defence of the Highlands, 2 =|) SOT ington, - 376 17, Letter from General Washington to the New- 16, Letter for Nathan Clarke to General Schuyler: York Convention, - d : - 392 with a list of the Officers nominated, to raise 17, Letter from a Seeret Cotiunittee of the New- the Green Mountain Boys, to be stationed York Convention to General Washington: on the eastern side of Lake Champlain, - 377 They have been appointed to form and exe- 16, Letter from Governour Cooke to the President cute any plan they may conceive necessary of Congress, = - «= $877 for the defence of Hudson’s River, - - 392 16, Letter from Governour Cok te General Wash- 17, Letter from Colonel Malcom to the New-York ington, - - - - - 378 Convention, - - + - - - 1410 16, Letter from Gov. Trumbull to Obi $veehitieton, 378 17, Letter from Colonel Hammond to the New- 16, Proceedings of the Connecticut Council of York Convention, - - - 1414 Safety, - - - - - - - 378 17, Letter from Colonel Dubois to the Prébident 16, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Gen- of Congress: respecting the pail ay of eral Washington: requesting his attention to Officers in his Regiment, - 393 the exchange of the officers and men of the 17, Arrangement of the Third New- York Battalion, privateer Yankee Hero, now ar one in the as they served at Canada the last campaign, 393 hands of the enemy, - - ° 380 17, Letter from General edith to General Wash- 16, Letter from the New-Hampshire Ovnistiee af ington, - - - 394 Safety to the President of Congress: Has 17, Letter from General Reiayter to the President received the Declaration of Independence, of Congress: Arrived yesterday at the Ger- and believes it will give great satisfaction man- Flats to meet the Six Nations, - - 394 throughout the Colony, - - 381 17, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour 16, Letter from Captain Barrow to the New- $e inp- Trumbull: This day about one hundred and shire Committee of Safety, - - - 381 ‘fifty Indians came in, and we expect a numer- 17, Letter from Captain Dunnell at Martinico, - 382 ous body of them in a few days, - - 895 17, Letter from Colonel Jordan to the Maryland 17, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates: Council of Safety: Attempt of the British to Hopes his endeavours to establish good order land on St. George’s Island, 3 382 and to eradicate the dangerous jealousy which 17, Letter from R. Hooe to the Maryland Oduncil has unhappily arisen amongst the troops will of Safety, - - . 8383 meet with the desired success, - = 896 17, Letter from Captain Barnes to the céutitel of 17, Letter from General Gates to General Water- Safety: Is much in want of ammunition; has ur - = - 396 not more than a gor ics of a aid of see 17, Letter from General Gates to Bomeral Arnold: der perman, ~- 383 He sends the Commodore, with the largest 17, Letter from Colonel Soinbiville to the Maryland and best schooner, for his instructions in re- Council of Safety, - 429 gard to the cruise he ih to make down 17, Letter from Jesse Hollingawetth to the Oduncil the Lake, - - - 397 of Safety, - - - - - - 384 17, Letter from General Gates to the Commanding 17, Letter from Daniel Wolsienholm to the Com- Officer at Fort George: There is a wanton manding Officer at St. George’s, S 519 waste of powder at that fort, in firing a 17, Letter from William Waters to the Council of morning and evening gun, and in unneces- Safety: with the proceedings of the Commit- sary salutes; none must be used but in op- tee for Somerset eM ott James ee posing the atticks of the enemy, - - 397 field, L u 384 17, Letter from General Gates to alight Colo- 17, Letter ‘from Thomas B. ‘Hands to the Cbuncil nel Gansevoort, - 2 =) 397 of Safety: Declines accepting his appoint- 17, Letter from Captain Brovison 6 Gancie ment as a member of the Committee of Gates, - 398 Safety, - - - 885 17, Petition Of the Oeste: &e., of Goloiel Bedel’s s 17, Letter from Stephen Stewart to the CBitinittee Regiment, to General Gates, - 398 of Safety, - - - - 8385 17, Letter from Daniel Tillinghast to General Wash: 17, Letter from the Council of Safety to Captain ington: He sends more guns and flints, - 399 Crawford: directing him to convey ammuni- 17, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New- tion to St. Mary’s County, - - 886 York Convention, - 4 - 1452 17, Letter from the Council of Safety to General 17, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General Dent: Request of him fall information of the SOLES hpi ieee oad 399 numbers, situation, and movements of the 17, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Geert enemy; powder, lead, and flints are sent off Washington, - - * - 400 to Leonardtown, - - 386 17, Affidavit of Nathan Spiteri Vessel from New- 17, Letter from the Council of Safety to rffogias York sake tees the British Fleet with Ay Ringgold: Gunpowder and lead has been visions, - 401 sent for the use of Kent-Island, - - - 386 17, Affidavit of Sarnuél Siiediey! The people’ of the 17, Letter from the Council of Safety to Thomas Block Island boats not so friendly as ae Smyth, - - - - 386 ought to be to the American cause, - 402 17, Letter from the Gaile of Seca to Captains 17, Affidavit of Captain Niles: Has reason to nds Barnes and Elliott, - 887 lieve that the Block-Island boats are em- 17, Letter from the Council of Safety to ional ployed in furnishing the enemy’s ships with Ewing, - - - - jz 887 intelligence, supplies, and Sau comfort in 17, Letter from the President of Congress to Gent their power to afford, - 402 eral Washington, - - 387 17, Affidavit of Ebenezer Cle tox’: A "aes loaded ——~ 17, Letter from the President of: Gan pread to the with flour came from New-York to the British Convention of Pennsylvania: requesting a Fleet, . 402 Committee of the Convention may be ap- 17, Affidavit of Matthew Thonipsont: British Sites pointed under an injunction of secrecy, to were supplied with hogs, es &c., from confer with a Committee of the Congress, - 387 Block-Island, - s 403 17, Letter from the President of Congress to Colo- 17, Affidavit of Tomas Kanady: teapectiny a ahi nel Smallwood: To march the Maryland partly loaded with provisions, lying at an- Troops to New-York immediately, - - 388 chor at Fisher’s Island, - : - 403 XXVII met July 17, Letter from Joseph Hawley to Elbridge Gerry : _ The Declaration of Independence should have been accompanied with a declaration of high treason. Most certainly it must immediately and without the least delay, follow it, - - 17, Letter from General Lincoln to the Council of Massachusetts: Estimate of the fortifications ° and the number of men necessary for the de- fence of Boston, - - - - 17, Letter from Captain Fisk to the Mastachiisetts Assembly: Has captured the British armed schooner Despatch; and desires to know how to proceed with the prisoners, - 17, Letter from Meshech Weare to Galbniel Win- gate, 18, Letter from Francis Siivador to William H. Drayton, - - - - - - - 18, Recantation of Bennet Armstrong, - 18, Letter from John West to the Maryland oun cil of Safety: on empowering commanding officers to raise the Militia in cases of oreal emergency, - - 18, Letter from Gstenal Dorsey to Maryland Gore cil of Safety, - : 18, Letter from Captain Nicholaon to the donneil of Safety, - 18, Letter from the Cannoli of Safety t to the Com- manding Officer at St. Mary’s, - - 18, Letter from the Council of Safety to Colonel Somerville, - : 18, Letter from the Gonacil of Safety to fabaries Ridgely, Sen., - - . 18, Letter from the Council of Safety to Captain Smith, - - - - - - - 18, Proceedings at a special meeting of the Balti- more Committee, - ~ - - 18, Letter from the President of Conair’ to anc! ral Washington, - - - - 18, Letter from the President = Congress to the Pennsylvania Convention, - - - 18, Letter from the President of Canarees to eon ral Schuyler, - 18, William Allibone’s Reved on Flint Qtarnes 18, Letter from Samuel Chase to General Gates: He cannot conceive the propriety of erect- ing fortifications at Crown-Point, - 18, Letter from William Atlee to the Renurlvenia Committee of Safety : respecting the baggage of the British officers, prisoners on parole, who absconded from Lebanon, - - - 18, Letter from Colonel Burd to the Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Committee, with John White, a prisoner, charged with assisting the British officers to escape from Lebanon, - : 18, Ordinance passed by the Convention of New- Jersey, for punishing Traitors and Counter- feiters, - - - 18, Letter from General Mercer Goaeesl Wash- ington: If nothing unlooked for intervenes, he intends to- night to attack the British posts on Staten- Island, - - 18, Letter from General Mercer to Major owe ton: Instructions for the prolecieg Sepia of the enemy on Staten Island, - 18, Letter from Samuel B. Webb to Cetera Ward, List of articles taken in the transports, which General Ward is requested to forward from Boston to New-York as soon as possible, - 18, Letter from Samuel B. Webb to Governour Trumbull: On the refusal of the Connecticut Light-Horse to mount guard, the General was obliged to discharge them yesterday, - 18, Instructions to the Superintendents of the East River and North River Ferries, New-York, 18, Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to Robert Morris: with the Letter to him from Dennis de Berdt, - - - - - 18, Letter from General Wadsworth to Peecatous Trumbull: Account of the difficulty with Colonel Seymour’s Troop of Horse from Connecticut, - - - - . 18, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: Report of the position and move- ments of the enemy, - - - - 18, Declaration of Independence read and pub- lished at the City-Hall, New-York, — - - 18, Narrative of the case of Captain Robert Camp- bell, of New-York, - ni thpie . “ CONTENTS. 403 404 405 406 406 407 407 408 408 408 409 409 409 409 409 409 410 410 410 411 412 412 413 413 413 414 414 414 415 417 418 418 419 Fils ts, Letter from the New-York Convention to the XXVIII Committee of Rochester, in Ulster County, 1415 18, Letter from the New-York Convention to Ge- neral Washington, - - - 18, Letter from Colonel Van Cortlandt and Cap- tain Platt to the New-York Convention: re- porting their proceedings for the defence of the Highlands, - . - 33 18, Letter from a Committee nf the New-York Convention to General Washington: Have taken a survey of the fortresses in the High- lands, and are sorry to say that they are by no means in a proper state of defence, - 18, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates: Encloses the Declaration of Independence, to be preriaimnes throughout the Northern Army, - ’ é 18, Letter from Gomera Wnterbetpie to General Gates, - - - = “ < 18, Resolves of the Connecticut Committee of Safety for the arrest and punishment of sus- pected persons, - - - - 18, Letter from Timothy ‘Parker to Governour Trumbull: Declines the appointment of First Lieutenant of the Colony ship commanded by Captain Coit, - - - - - 18, Letter from Captain Tinker to Governour Trum- bull, - - - - - - - 18, Declaration of Independence proclaimed from the balcony of the State-House in Boston, - 18, Declaration of Independence proclaimed from the Council Chamber in Watertown, - 18, Letter from Timothy Pickering to Raphard Derby: Urges the adoption of some regula- tions to prevent the spread of the small-pox, 18, Letter from the Selectmen of Northfield to the Council of Massachusetts, - - - 18, Letter from Joseph Otis: on the proceedings of the Town of Barnstable, Massachusetts, on the 25th of June, - - - - - 18, Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of Safety to Colonel Bayley, - - - - 18, Declaration of Independence braganed at Portsmouth, New-Hampshire,_ - - 19, Letter from General Lee to a Member of Con- gress: giving his opinion on the propriety of waiving his rank in favour of some ghia dent adventurer, ~ - - - 19, Letter from George Scott to me Maryland Gans cil of Safety, + - 19, Letter from Thomas Patel ‘ the Gounel a Safety, - - - 19, Letter from General ie tees i the Bounced oF Safety: Has called out the Militia, but they cannot be kept together, without money for their subsistence, = - - - 19, Letter from Colonel Harrison to the Gorncil of Safety, - - 19, Letter from General Dent to tbe iCoanti of Safety: Strength and movements of the ene- my; the Fleet continues at the mouth of St. Mary’s River; it is said they intend only to wood and water, and then proceed to sea, - Examination of Cunningham, yeecpned from the British Fleet, - - - 19, Letter from Daniel Tye laahelne to Gelondl Barnes, - - 19, Letter from the robgitn of Safety to clonal Dorsey: Do not desire him to send in any more Militia, - 19, Letter from the Goan aa of Se ays Meryland to the Council of Safety of Virginia, - - 19, Letter from the Council of Safety to "eh Weis- enthall, - - 19, Letter from the Genaed of Safety to he Came mittee for Alexandria, in Virginia: Will cheerfully afford them assistance. BPpBi etry emergency that may require it, - 19, Letter from the Council of Safety to Stephen Stewart, - 19, Letter from the Obudell, of Safety to the. Com- mittee for Charles County, - 19, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Mary- land Delegates in Congress, - - 19, Letter from the President of Cemaress to ont ral Washington, « - - Letter from General Lee to Mi AE of Congress, July 2, - - - “ 2 422 422 423 423 424 424 425 425 425 426 426 427 147 4Q7 427 428 430 430 430 433 433 434 434 435 XXIX 1776. Circumstantial account of the proceedings of the British Fleet and Army, both before and after their defeat at Sullivan’s Island, - July 19, Letter from the President of Congress tb the Convention of New-Jersey: requesting the live stock on the sea-coast of New-Jersey may be removed to the interior, - - - 19, Letter from the President of Congress to the Convention of New-Jersey: The Congress wish to know by what means the letter to _ Mr. Kinsey reached his hands, - - 19, Letter from William Goddard to the Board of War: applying for the it ip aya of Lieu- tenant-Colonel, - - - - Memorial of William Goddard to attipeiss: re- questing a military appointment, - - 19, Letter from J. Kinsey to Samuel Tucker, - ——~ 19, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- ington: The weather so tempestuous last night that the troops could not cross to Sta- ten-Island, - - - - - Plan for attacking Staten- Blend) - - - 19, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: The determination of the General Officers of the Northern Army to retreat from Crown-Point surprised him much; the more it is considered, the more striking does the impropriety appear, = - - - Letter from the New-York Convention to Gene- ral Washington, July 16, - - - - 19, Letter from General Washington to the Com- mittee of the City of New-York : recommend- ing the removal ofall equivocal and suspicious persons from the City, - - - - 19, Letter from General Washington to the Secret Committee of the New-York Convention, - 19, Letter from General Washington to the New- York Convention, - - - - - 19, Letter from General Washington to Governour Trumbull, - - - - 19, Letter from General Washington to Geteral Gates, - - - 19, Letter from the New-York Gomvamien to the Committee of Litchfield, Connecticut: re- questing them to take charge of some pri- soners, - - - - - 19, Letter from Colonel Banmend ‘6 the New- York Convention, - - - - - 19, Letter from Colonel Ludenton to ne New-York Convention, - - - . : 19, Letter from General Washington «tha General Gates: Lord Howe has arrived ; he and the General, his brother, are appointed Commis- sioners to sore yee to eau sinners, - ~ - - 19, Letter from Gener Wasligtatan to Gatretal Ward: Request five hundred barrels of Rows der may be sent to Norwich, - : 19, Letter from Ephraim Anderson to the Breaniang of Congress: Is preparing for the destruction of the British Fleet in the harbour of New- York, - 19, Letter from ayer Trambull 5 the President of Congress: The Northern Army is in want of provisions the Commissary has no posers and is largely in debt, - - 19, Letter from General Greene to General este ington, - 19, Letter from Gulbis Hay to arora Wikehins- ton: The enemy now lie in Haverstraw-Bay, and are using every effort to land and destroy the property of the inhabitants; a supply of powder and ball is absolutely necessary, = - 19, Examination of Richard Turpin, a deserter from Captain Wallace, of the ship Rose: Commu- nications of the Tories with the British, = - 19, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates: Fears he will be detained at the German- Flats much longer than he expected, - - 19, Resignations and promotions in Colonel Day- ton’s Regiment at the German-Flats, - . 19, Letter from Walter Livingston to General Gates, 19, Petition of the inhabitants of Shelburne, on Lake Champlain, to General Gates: request- ing a party of men may be stationed there for their protection,» = 3 y 2 19, Letter from Samuel Squier to Bev ernour Trum- bull, - - - - . - “ - — 436 440 440 441 442 469 443 443 444 446 448 448 449 450 650 1419 1420 1422 450 451 451 451 | 452 452 452 453 453 454 455 455 CONTENTS. July 19, Proceedings of the Council of ality of Con- necticut, - - - - 19, Resolve of Committee for Syiasbuty, in Con- necticut, respecting Tories, - 19, Court of Inquiry at STrury on John Moses and Jesse Cosset, — - uJ 19, Letter from the Council: of Massnchysetts to the President of Congress: The calls for Troops have so areatly thinned us of men that it has become extremely difficult, if not impracticable, to raise any more, ‘ 19, Treaty between Massachusetts and the St. John’s and Mickmac tribe of Indians, - 19, Letter from Benjamin Austin to Thomas Cush- ing: Respecting presents for the St. John’s and Mickmac Indians, - 19, Letter from General Lincoln to ieee iGush- ing: Recommends detaching the Militia in the neighbourhood of Boston harbour, the erection of beacons, and establishing signals, that all may be ready in case of an alarm, - 19, Letter from Tristram Dalton to Elbridge Gerry: The important results from the Declaration of Independence, - - - - 19, Letter from the Portsmouth Simutcek to the New-Hampshire Committee of Safety: Re- questing permission for Mrs. Livius to pro- ceed to Quebeck,~— - . - - - 19, Letter from the Portsmouth Committee to the New-Hampshire Committee of Safety: Onthe projected voyage of Captain Roach, - 20, Letter from Captain Richards to the English Postmaster-General, - - - 20, Extract of a letter from Tondiah - - - List of British armed vessels on the North- American station, - - - - - 20, Letter from Samuel Curson to Comfort Sands: Powder continues in great plenty at St. Ku- statia, = - - 20, Account of a battle between the Militia of Fin- castle County, Virginia, and the Cherokee and Creek Indians, near the great Island of Holstein, - 20, Declaration of Tdevendenas ereted by the Council of Virginia to be published in the several gazettes, and proclaimed at the Court- House door of each peunty by the several Sheriffs, - - - - - 20, Letter from John Page to the Bratidestt Ae Con- gress: The people of Virginia have been anxiously expecting the Declaration of Inde- pendence, and will receive it with joy, - 20, Letter from Elisha Winters to the patyland Council of Safety, —- - 20, Letter from Captain Martin to the Gounteil ae Safety : Proposes to raise men for the defence of Oxford, - - - - : 20, Letter from General Dent to the Goaniil of Safety: The fleet has gone up the Potomack, 20, Letter from the Council of Safety to Major Shryock: Request he will forward the Militia of the Flying-Camp, - - - 20, Baltimore Committee authorize the discharge of John Amos, - - - - - 20, Letter from the President of Congress to Gentes ral Washington, - : - — 20, Extract ofa Weties from Fah cenit - - 20, Letter from M. Pelissier to the Presidént of Congress: He was among the foremost in Canada to support the American cause; by the retreat of the Army from Canada he is ruined, and dare not return, - - 20, Philadelphia Committee ‘dmonumend to the Cap- tains of the Militia to use their utmost abili- ties to complete their Companies, — - — 20, Letter from Robert Morris to Joseph Reed: If the Commissioners have any propositions to make, they ought to be heard; if they have no power beyond granting pardons, it will unite all America in support of independence; but if they can offer peace on admissible terms, the great majority of the American people would still be for accepting it, - - 20, Letter from Samuel Tucker to the Brosident of Congress, - Letter from J. Kinsey to Samuel Tucker July 19: The letter came to Mrs. Reed in a packet from her brother, Dennis de Berdt, - - - 460 461 461 461 462 462 463 463 464 464 466 467 467 468 469 XXXI 1776. 4 Letter from the Bridgetown Committee to the New-Jersey Delegates in Congress, May 6: They are suffering from the depredations of the enemy, and solicit a supply of pawder and ball, - - «> July 20, Letter from General Rtcrccd to the Daiinns of Congress, - 20, Letter from Philip B. Bradley t to Canard Wash- ington: Is of opinion that Captain Ephraim Burr’s conduct, upon the strictest scrutiny, will appear unexceptionable, - . - 20, Letter from General Wadsworth to Governour Trumbull: But little more than half his Bri- gade has arrived, an event very disagreeable under the present circumstances of the Army, 20, Letter from the New-York Convention to Colo- nel Ludenton, - - 20, Letter from the New- York anepetee to their Delegates in Congress: They have relin- quished the thought of removing the stock from Long-Island, - e A es 20, Letter from the New-York Ra ention to Gene- ral Washington, - - ‘e . A. 20, Resolutions of the New-York Convention for removing the stock from Long-Island, - 20, Letter from the Committee for Dutchess County to the New-York Convention: It will be dif- ficult to raise the two Regiments in the County without money to pay the bounty on inlisting, - - - - - - 20, Letter from General Schuyler to the een of Congress: Sees no prospect of erecting a fort at Oswego, or building galleys: on Ontario, this campaign, - 20, Letter from General Schuyler to Gentral Vash ington, - = 20, Letter from eee nt ie: Gopi Gates, - ~ - - 20, Letter from General Gates to Nathan Ginrk ds Sends eighteen commissions for the officers of the six Companies, but has no authority to appoint a Field-Officer, - - - 20, Instructions from General Gates to Colonel Hartley, - . - 20, Letter from reat de Ree tite to Cdteral Gates, - - = 20, Letter from Governour Goske to repel Wash- ington: The Captains of the row-galleys are ordered to progeed dmmediataly to ‘Naw; York, - 20, Assembly of Rhode- island senses He for the King of Great Britain, or for the success of his arms, - - - - 20, Declaration of Independence proclaimed 43 Newport, Rhode-Island,_ - - " 20, Letter from Governour eal to the el dent of Congress, - - c 20, Letter from Gorenionr eunll to Nathanich Shaw, 20, Letter from William and to iv ohn evan: The eastern settlements are without ammunition; not one-tenth part of the inhabitants have any, 20, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to the Selectmen of Boston, - 20, Letter from Jonathan Glover to Geapenl Wash. ington, - - = 20, Letter from General Bellows to Meshach Weare, 20, Letter from Colonel Wait to Colonel Hurd: The Northern Army has been treated with cruel neglect, or we might have been in pos- session of Quebeck; there were Generals without men, Artillery without supplies, Commissaries without provisions, Paymas- ters without money, Quartermasters without stores, Physicians without raPRLGIO OF and the small- -pox in the Army, - ’ 20, Letter from Benjamin Giles to Meshech Woe. 20, Letter from Colonel Hurd to the New-Hamp- shire Committee of Safety: Is informed that seventy-two ships have arrived at Quebeck, and the Ministerial Army made up to ten thousand British and Canadians, under Ge- neral Carleton, - - - 21, Letter from Charlestown, Santhe Carolina: nel CONTENTS. 469 469 470 470 1422 1425 538 538 472 479 480 480 art has prevailed upon the Cherokees to take ~ up the hatchet against our countrymen, - 21, Account of the attack of Watauga: Fort by ihe Cherokees, - 481 481 eroe Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to General Dent: A reinforcement under ep Price has been sent down, - 21, Letter from James Tilghman to the Maryland Council of Safety: For arms, - 21, Letter from B. Johnson to the Council i Safe- ty: Captain Good cannot procure arms with- out money; with money he can get both arms and blankets, - - - - - 21, Letter from the President of Congress to Col- onel Haslett: Directing him to march, with the brodpa under his command, to Philadel- phia, 21, Toe from Dr. Franklin to pee Bowes On hts mission to offer pardon to the Colonies, - 21, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: Has just been informed that ten ships, supposed to be part of Lord Howe’s fleet, were seen coming in, - - 21, Letter from General Washington to Samuel Tucker: Urging the completion of the levies as soon. as possible, as the period is at hand when there will be the most pressing occasion for troops to oppose the formidable army expected against us, - - - - - 21, Letter from General Washington to the Secret Committee of the New-York Convention: It is not in his power to reinforce the garrisons in the Highlands with more men, as but about five thousand of the new levies have arrived in camp, of the fifteen thousand ordered, - 21, Letter from General Washington to Colonel Clinton: Sends him Lieutenant Machin, who has given great satisfaction as an engineer at Boston, - - - - - - 21, Letter from General Washington to Lieutenant Machin: Directs him to proceed to the High- lands and report to Colonel James Clinton, - 21, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to James Bow- doin: A person is at No. 4 to receive and forward the troops from Nexabagand | going to. Crown-Point, - 21, Letter from General Greene i Cianerdl Wash- ington: Is informed that eight hundred ne- groes, collected on Staten-Island, were this day to be formed into a Regiment by Gene- ral Howe, - - - 21, Letter from the Secret Peeeaane Pe the wey York Convention to General Gates: Request- ing him to send to Poughkeepsie the chain intended to obstruct the navigation of the Sorel, ° . x S % E. 21, Letter fcr General Gates to Genera Washing ton, - = 21, Letter from William Gilliland yr Goacml Gates, 21, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: Arrived at Crown-Point yesterday; there is no news yet from down the Lake, - - 21, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Arnold, 21, Letter from S. Metcalf to Colonel Bayley: with four Canadian officers, late of Colonel James Livingston’s Regiment, - - - 21, Letter from Governour Cooke to Lord oua, 22, Letter from Colonel Williamson to William H. Drayton; Is encamped at Baker’s Creek, with about seven hundred effective men; will do his utmost to check the Cherokees, - 22, Letter from General Henty Clinton to General Lee, - - 4 22; Committee for Ded ania Connie FieieeR publish George Herndon and others as ene- mies to the rights and liberties of America, 22, Account of the progress of Lord Dunmore’s fleet up the Potomack, = - - 22, Letter from Dumfries, Virginia: Dearainions of the British fleet up the Potomack, - = 22, Letter from General Thomas Johnson to. the Maryland Council of Safety, - ° 22, Letter from James Murray to the Maryland Council of Safety, - 22, Letter from Richard Dallam ad Cospedl of Safety: Has made and delivered some guns 5 ; more are ready, - - 22, Letter from Matthew Tilghman to the Bonncil of Safety: enclosing a ‘Petition, - A 22, Letter from Thomas Stone and William Tah Maryland Delegates in Congress, to the Council of Safety, - sur - ~ XXXII 481 482 482 482 482 484 484 484 485 485 485 486 486 916 486 486 487 488 606 488 489 489 490 490 490 491 491 491 492 XXXIUIT July’ 22, Letter from the Council of Safety to Captain Perkins: They have no muskets to supply any company belonging to the EKastern- Shore Battalion, - - - 22, Letter from the Council of Safety to General Hooper: His arrangement of the Militia meets with entire approbation, - - - 22, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Com- mittee for Kent County; They haye received by Captain Berry a quantity of powder and arms, : 22, Letter from hie dane! of Safety to Thowas Ringgold, with powder and lead for the de- fence of Kent-Island, . - - - 22, Letter from the President of Congress to Gen- eral Lee: with thanks of Congress for repulse of British fleet and army in South-Carolina, - List of Officers who were in Fort Monlttie on the 28th of June, - 22, Letter from the President of Goneros to Col- onel Moultrie: with the thanks of Congress for his patriotick and spirited conduct on the 28th of June, - - - 22, Letter from the Proaitont of [Gorcwree to Col- onel Thompson: with thanks for the impor- tant part he acted on the 28th of June, —- 22, Letter from the President of Congress to the Governour of Virginia, - - - 22, Letter from the President of Sosigness to Gen- eral Lewis: directing him to order two Bat- ‘talions of Continental Troops in Virginia to join the Flying-Camp in New-Jersey, - 22, Letter from the President of Congress to the Pennsylvania Convention: requesting them to augment the quota for the Flying-Camp, with four Battalions of Militia, - - - 22, Letter from the President of Congress to the Convention of New-Jersey: to augment their quota of the Fiying-Gamp with three Bat- talions of Militia, - x 22, Letter from the President of eranis 4“ Col- onel Griffin: Appointed DeputyrAdjutant - General to the Flying-Camp,_ - 22, Letter from Dr. Franklin to General Wiashine- ton: with Joseph Belton, who has a contri- vance for destroying the enemy’s ships, - 22, Letter from Josiah Bartlett to John Langdon: The Confederation is now before a Commit- tee of the Whole in Congress; by reason of so much other business it goes on but slowly, “~ 22, Letter from Williem Whipple to John rere don: Pennsylvania and New-Jersey are all alive; men of fortune march as private sol- diers; Colonel Dickinson and all the others have marched with their Battalions; the Declaration of Independence has done won- ders, - 22, Petition of Lavi Allen . the Bbugnasel Re- quests application may be made for the ex- change of his brother, Colonel Ethan Allen, and the prisoners taken with him, — - - General Spencer and others recommend Levi Allen as a fit person to be intrusted with a flag to the British fleet, - - - - 22, Colonel Brown’s certificate respecting Colonel Ethan Allen, - - - - - . 22, Letter from Goloviel Thompson to the Commit- tee for Lancaster, Pennsylvania: For publick guns to arm the men ready to turn out, —- 22, Letter from General Mercer to the President of Congress, - - - - - - 22, General Return of the Forces in New-Jersey, - 22, Letter from an officer in the Second Pennsyl- vania Battalion at Amboy, - - - - 22, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress, PSHE aeeain Wilpen, - 22, Notice of the Flags fico bard and ge ners Howe to General Washington, - - - 22, Letter from an officer in the Army at New- York, - - - - 22, Letter from General Wiihinctan to the Presi- dent of Congress, - “ 5 ~ s Memorandum ‘of what passed in the interview between General Washington and Colonel CONTENTS. 1776. 492 492 493 493 493 493 494 494 494 494 495 495 495 496 496 497 498 498 498 498 499 575 499 499 471 472 499 Patterson, Adjutant- -General of the Army - under General Howe, July 20, 1776, - a 500 Colonel Knox’s plan for increasing the Artil- lery, July9, - a General Orders, from duly 13 to ‘Tily 21, - General Return of the Army in and near New- York, July 20, - : - A Return of the Ragiitinn of Artillery commanded by Colonel Knox, July 20, - - - Return of Grininee Stores, July pa = July 22, Letter from General Washington to John Au- gustine Washington, 22, Letter from Baron de Calbiac to General Wash- ington ” - 22, Letter from Colonel Huntington a Case reaite Trumbull, - - 22, Letter from General ‘Greene to General Watli- ington: The ships that came in Yenieray have troops on board, : 22, Letter from Colonel Joseph Drake to wa Nese York Convention, - - - 22, Letter from the New-York Given to their Delegates in Congress: On Mr. Eiiss:) s re- signation and conduct, - - 22, Letter from Colonel Isaac Nicoll to hen New- York Conyention, - - - - - 22, Letter from Abraham Yates, Chairman of the Secret Committee, to the New-York Con- vention, - - - - 22, Letter from Robert Yeates to William Deiat Two armed sloops are to be fitted out at Albany, to protect the North River from the depredations of the British, - 22, Letter from General. Schuyler to Célonel Day: ton: There is reason to suspect that Lieu- tenant McDonald is concerned in the em- bezzlement of the effects at Johnstown; all concerned in this affair must be arrested and tried, - - 22, Letter from Genaral Gates to aay aa Schuy- ler, - - 22, Letter from John Trumbull is Chlduel Read He is required to collect all who are well, at Fort George, and return with them to the Army at Ticonderoga, - 22, Letter from Captain Wilson to opera a nold: Has taken some suspietous Bersons on the Lake, - - 22, Letter from Major French bs Genera Wash- ington, - - - 22, Letter from euienial Geta to Governour Trumbull: Respecting the dismissal of the Troop of Light-Horse under his command, - 22, Letter from General Ward to General Wash- ington: Sargent’s and Hutchinson’s Regi- ments marched on the 18th for Norwich; Glover’s on the 20th; the two remaining Regiments will follow as soon as they have recovered from the small-pox, - - - 22, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to Colonel Foster, - - - - - 22, Declaration of Independence celebrated at Worcester, Massachusetts, - - - 22, Letter from Joseph Palmer to James Bowdoin, 22, Petition of the Town of Warren to the New- Hampshire Committee of Safety: for fire- arms and lead, of which they are destitute, - 22, Letter from David Gilman to the New- -Hamp- shire Committee of Safety: The works at New-Castle go on very well; it will be one of the most complete ones upon the conti- nent of North-America when finished, - 23, Letter from B. Johnson to the Maryland Council of Safety: Captain Hardman, if furnished with money, could get guns, blankets, &c., - 23, Letter from Major Price to the Council of Safety: Has determined to detain Mr. Wol- stenholme until he hears from the Conyen- tion, > = £ - > 23, Letter from Colonel Barnes to the Council of Safety: Relating to Mr. Wolstenholme’s de- tention by Major Price, - - - - Letter from Mr. Wolstenholme to the Com- manding Officer at St. George’s: Requesting when a ‘flag comes for him from the fleet, due respect may be paid to it, - . Letter from Daniel Wolstenholme to Colonel Barnes: Complains of his detention by the military after he had received a passport from the civil authority, - - - : “ XXXIV 502 502 507 507 586 509 509 510 510 1428 1431 1450 1453 511 511 511 512 512 621 513 514 515 515 516 517 517 517 518 518 519 520 Loe CONTENTS. 1776. wits Proceedings of the Committee of Leonardtown, on the application of Daniel Wolstenholme for permission to leave the Province of Ma- ryland and return to Great Beata his native country, - July 23, Letter from ee Witlnne to the Wathen Council of Safety: Declines the appointment of Colonel of the Frederick oa Bat- talion, ~ . 23, Letter Porn Aig Heian to the ogtteh of Safety, - = = es. 23, Letter from the Committee for Dorchester County, Maryland, to the Council of Safety: There are not a fourth part of the Militia of the County who have arms that can be de- pended on, and these only eee ee and squirrel-guns, - - 23, Letter from General Dent to the Pertti of Safety: resigning his commission, as he has been superseded by the Mp ah of Ma- jor Price to the command, - 23, Letter from General Johnson to ae Courter of Safety, - - - - - - - 23, Proceedings of the Committee for Baltimore County, - = + : : 4 23, Letter from the Bulumore Committee to the Council of Safety: They have appointed a committee to collect blankets and arms, - 23, Muster-Roll of Captain Grabill’s Company, - 23, Letter from the Council of Safety to John Yost: Are very desirous of knowing what arms he has ready for the publick, - - - - 23, Affair of the galleys near Sandy-Point, - - Captain Conway’s statement, Alexandria, Au- gust 10, - Deposition of Edvard Wales itl Cuthbert EI- lis, Midshipmen on board the Protector row- galley, August 10, - - - - - S. Hanson’s advertisement, July 31, - - Certificates of George F. Hopkins, July 29, - Certificate of Captain John M. Lowe and Mr. John M. Burgess, July 29, - - - Colonel Harrison’s statement, Chester Somat October 21, - Affidavit of John rimey. William fruntee ail James Lawrason, October 4, - Affidavit of John Matthews and William Stod- dert, October 18, —- - Statement of Henry Fendall snd Warren! Dent, October 20, - - : - - - 23, Letter from Samuel Chase and Thomas Stone to the Maryland Council of Safety, - - 23, Letter from a Member of the Congress to Ge- neral Lee: The Tories are quiet but surly ; Lord Howe’s Proclamation leaves them not a single filament of their cobweb doctrine of reconciliation, - - - 23, Council of Safety of Pennsylvania appointed by the Convention, - 23, William Maclay to Richard Peteie His ai covered flint suitable for fire-arms, —- 23, Letter from G. Noartts to Richard Peters: re consequence of an advertisement from the War Department, has taken Mars to discover a quantity of flint stone, - 23, Letter from William Allen to the Peasident bi Congress: Resigns his commission of Lieu- tenant-Colonel‘in the Continental Army, - 23, Proceedings of the Committee for Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, - : = 2 23, Letter from the Lancaster Committee to the Convention of Pennsylvania: Will, as far as in their power, carry the recommendation of Congress into effect; but their means are nearly exhausted; they have hardly muskets enough to relieve the necessary guards, —- 23, Letter from the Lancaster Committee to the Board of War: They have no barracks for the prisoners lately sent there, - - 23, Petition of Jonathan Roland and diene to aC Lancaster Committee: That destitute fami- lies of the Associators who are about to pa for the EE may be eeiod or, - 23, ) Letter fi from Captain Cregier to Thomas Rats. all, z - 23, Letter from Gas Washitieton to the Presi. dent of Congress, - - - - = - 521 521 522 522 522 524 524 524 525 525 526 526 527 527 527 528 “528 530 531 532 532 533 533 533 533 534 535 535 536 537 Letter from the New-York Convention to Ge- neral Washington, July 20: There are on Long-Island one hundred thousand head of horned cattle, besides a larger number of sheep and other stock. To remove these would reduce the inhabitants (twenty-five or thirty thousand) to the greatest distress; the Convention, therefore, “have given over the thou ghtof removing the stock from the Island, July 23, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress, —- : - Letter from Governour Trumbull 6 Gelierdl Washington, July 17, - - - . 23, Return of ammunition and other utensils at the different forts on Long-Island, - - - 23, Letter from General Washington to Baron de Calbiac : on the application made by him in behalf of some of his pits bes itae dugcainlg for offices, - - 23, Letter from Geena Greene to Geveel Wash- ington, - - - - = <, a 23, Letter from Colonel Varnum to General Greene: recommending a compliance with Captain Read’s request for a discharge, - - - 23, Declaration of Independence proclaimed at Huntington, on Long-Island, - - 23, Company of old men, to the age of seventy abd upwards, formed at Southampton, on Long- Island, for defence, in case of an invasion, - 23, Letter from Captain Denton to Nathaniel Wopd- hull: for commissions, = - Report on commissions for Captain Denton’ 8 Company, - - 23, Letter from Colonel Cortlandt and Osptitin Platt to the New-York Convention: The New- England forces will leave the Highlands on the 27th; part of the new levies should be on the ground by that time, - - - 23, Letter from the New-York Convention to Ge- neral Gates: Requesting him to communi- cate a full state of the military Aisa is he _ now superintends, - - > 23, Letter from New-York Guiiventiolt to HeeHard Gansevoort and Jacob Cuyler, a Committee appointed by the Convention to proceed to Ticonderoga and obtain exact information of the state of the Northern Army, a - 23, Letter from General George Clinton to General Washington, - - - - - - 23, Letter from Fort Montgomery: Proceedings of the British ships near the Highlands, - - 23, Letter from Johannes Sleght, Chairman of the Committee of Kingston, to the New-York Convention, - - - 23, Letterfrom Captain Wie uiesays to Geiierat (ator Sends one gondola from Skenesborough; will send another this week, and two more next week, - - - - - 23, Letter from General Gates to Colonel Harley Major Bigelow is sent with a letter to Gene- ral Burgoyne. The parties down the Lake should be called while the flag of truce is there, - - - - 23, Letter from General Galea to the Comminding Officer at Albany: with Mr. Brown, a pri- soner, who is to be confined in prison, - 23, Letter from the Committees of hea and Haverhill to General Sullivan, - 23, Letter from the Governour of Rhode- Taland (p the President of Congress, - - 23, Declaration of Independence proclaimed a East Greenwich, Rhode-Island, - - 23, Proceedings of the Connecticut Council of Safety, - - 23, Letter from the Gudicil of Minwachinaatid to the President of Congress: Men will be raised and forwarded as fast as possible, - - 23, Letter from Reuben Swain to General Wash- ington: To make a request of Lord Howe to liberate his sons, - - 23, Letter from Benjamin Barnard to Genet Wash- ington, - - - 23; Petition of the Committee of Broowheld 40 the Council of Massachusetts: For the ect tion of Captain King, - 23, Letter from Joseph’ Cushing to Sot Peylor: Have raised the men for New-York, and some for Canada, - - - - - - XXXVI 538 540 540 541 542 542 543 543 543 543 544 544 1432 1433 544 546 1459 547 548 548 548 549 549 549 550 550 550 551 551 XXXVII July 23, Notice of the Tyrennigiig privateer, Captain Fisk, : te 23, Letter from Migs Hawley to ho, Massachu- setts Council: The raising and marching of troops, - 23, Order of New- Eerepahite eh of Safety, forthe conveyance of Mrs. Livius to Quebeck, 24, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to L. Barret: They have sent eight hundred pounds of lead, - - 24, Letter from Thomas Sinsthet to the Pica} of Safety, - - - - 24, Letter from Josias Beall the *Countil of Safety : Desires a quantity.o of Powder may be sent to Piscataway, - 24, Letter from General Dent. to the icasg eet AC Safety: Wishes to know if they have any doubts of his military knowledge, agiduity, or personal courage, - - - 24, Letter from B. Graves to the Counc of Hoe 24, Letter from Robert L. Nicols to the Council of Safety, - - - - - - 24, Letter from J. Contee to the ened of Safety: The Committee for Prince George’s County say there is little probability of borrowing or purchasing any guns, - - 24, Letter from the President’ of costamee . Go- vernour Rutledge: enclosing Resolution of Congress for placing the Regiment of Ran- gers in South-Carolina on the Continental establishment, - - - - - - 24, Letter from the Brasident of Congress to Gene- ral Washington: Congress has left the dis- position of the Troops at New-York, the Flying-Camp, and Ticonderoga, wholly with him : hay x v 24, Letter from the Beecaut of Congress to Ge- neral Schuyler: As nothing can show greater weakness or wickedness than to throw pro- vincial reflections on one another, he is re- quested to suppress such ungenerous and base practices, and promote discipling, arder, and zeal, in the Army, = - 24, Letter from Thomas Stone to the Maryland Council of Safety: Sends from Philadelphia forty barrels of howder and fifty-four boxes of arms, - - - . - - 24, Letter from the epee Committee of Safety to the Committee for Berks County, 24, Letter from the Convention of New-Jersey to General Washington: The utmost efforts will be used to complete the Brigade ordered from New-Jersey for the reinlorgament of the Army, - 24, Letter from ean Moses to Caress Wash- ington: The harvest will be secured in a few days, when a considemable body of the Mili- tia of New-Jersey can be called out, - - 24, General Return of the Pennsylvania Forces in New-Jersey, under the command of pes dier-General Mercer, - - - 24, Letter from General Washington to saptite ENew: York Convention: Recommends the adoption of some regulations to prevent the enemy from receiving supplies of provisions, - - 24, Letter from General Washington to Governour Trumbull: The orders he has given to the armed cruisers of Connecticut for stopping provision vessels are extremely necessary, - 24, Notice of the men-of-war up the North River, - 24, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington, - - . - 24, Letter from the aermitied for Queen’s ers to the New-York Convention, - - 24, Examination of the evidence against Colonel Hamman in respect to his behaviour as an officer on the evening of the day on which the enemy’s aia came to anchor off Tarry- town, - 2 j! 24, Commission from ae Naw-kore Convention to Joab Horsington, as Major of Rangers in the Counties of Gloucester and Cumberland, 552 553 553 553 553 554 554 554 554 555 555 555 556 1300 556 556 557 557 558 559 559 - 1464 - 1438 - 1439 24, Letter from Dr. Samuel Cooke to Captain Platt, 1450 24, Letter from Colonel Henry Remsen to General Woodhull: Several perishable cargoes waiting the decision of a Court of Admiralty, - - 1452 24, Letter from Colonel Joseph Drake to General Morris, - - - - - - - 1461 CONTENTS. July's y 24, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash- ington: Describes the positions of the posts at “Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and gives his reasons for the removal of the AEAY to Ticonderoga, - - 24, Letter from General Waterbury | to General Gates, - x 24, Letter from General Ainata to Gonaral Chios, 24, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: Captain Wilson has taken some prisoners, from whom material discoveries may be made. Major Bigelow has just gone down, - - 24, Letter from “Colonel Hartley to General-Gates : Has sent down the Lake to intercept some spies on their return to St. John’s, — - - 24, Letter from Dr. Stringer to General Gates, —- 24, Petition of the Committee of Safety for Cum- berland County, in New-York, to General Gates: that the men required by the Provin- cial Congress to be raised in the County for the Northern Army, may be retained there for the defence of the frontier towns, - - 24, Extracts of the Votes and Proceedings of a General Convention of fifty-nine Delegates on the west side of the range of Green Moun- tains, on the New- Hanbehye Grants, held at Dorset, - 24, Benjamin Griffith aeriaed peinical to the United Colonies by Committee for Killingworth, - 24, Address to the Inhabitants of Massachusetts- ay, - - - - . - - - 24, Court-Martial at Boston on Lieutenant Moses Banks, - - - 24, Letter from John acheter to the Meson setts Council: Was mistaken in the informa- tion he gave against Captain Obrian, - : 24, Letter from William Sever to the Massachusetts Council: respecting the cruise of Brigantine Independence, Captain Samson, . - 24, Letter from the Cumberland County Committee to the Massachusetts Council, - - 24, Letter from the New- -Hampshire Committee of Safety to Benjamin Giles, - - - - 25, Declaration of Independence proclaimed at Williamsburgh, Virginia, - - - - 25, Letter from the Baltimore Committee to the Maryland Council of Safety, - 25, Letter from John Hanson to the eit of Safety, - - - - - 25, Letter from Colonel Stricker to ceniel hase. 25, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to General Johnson: The Militia from Frederick County will not be wanted; for although there are many of the enemy’s ships in Poto- mack, there are but few men in them, - 25, Letter from the Council of Safety to Major Price: He should be parbeulerly careful to secure deserters, - - 25, Letter from the Council of Ces to ae Com- mittees of Dorchester and Somerset, - - 25, Letter from the Council of paltty to Matthew Tilghman, - - 25, Letter from the Corned of Safety to Colonel Barnes: Mr. Wolstenholme’s case may be attended with peculiar circumstances; he must, however, submit to the times, - - 25, Letter from John Adams to the Massachusetts Assembly: Asks for leave to return home, - 25, Letter from Robert Morris to General Gates: Some people attribute the mismanagement in the North to a source he never should have suspected. Is it possible that General Schuyler is sacrificing the interest ofthat coun- try to his ambition or avarice? - - - 25, Proceedings of the Committee for Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, - - - - 25, Letter from the Lancaster Committee to the Associators from that County, - 25, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- ington: A material error ini his return of yes; terday, - - - = -—25, General Return of the Lgitapae in Wetetcrsey under the command of General Mercer, = — 25, Extract of a letter from the CamaR at Elizabeth- Town, e 25, Letter from Fer sieey Wisiiurten to the ite dent of Congress: Asking for an increase of his Aids-de-Camp, aes = sis 2 XXXVIII 559 563 563 564 564 651 564 571 571 XXXIX July’ 25, Letter from General Washington to the Mas- sachusetts Assembly : Requesting that the Troops for the Army may be sent as ise are raised to Skenesborough, - 25, Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed t to the eck dent of Congress: Recommends an increase of punishment for desertion and other mili- tary crimes, - - 25, Letter from Dr. Morgan to General Washing- ton: Recommending DMN Rag ike in’ the Hospital Department, - - 25, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: Asks how he shall proceed in relation to a duel that is to take place the next day, - 25, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: Requests an officer may be apilnrs to write and sign passes, - 25, Letter from the New-York Convention to Golo: nel Van Cortlandt and Captain Platt, - - 25, Sundry Affidavits with respect to inimical de- clarations and threats used by William Sutton and his son John Satton, - = « = 25, Examination of Balthazar De Hart, * = 25, Letter from Colonel Jacobus pene to the New-York Convention, - - - 25, Memorial of Captain ake Heats Roos t the New- York Convention, - = 25, Letter from General Heath to General Wash- ington: Complaining of the imprisonment of Ensign Bryant by order of Lord Stirling, - 25, Reports of General and Field-Officers of the quantity of paper required for a month, - 25, Letter from General Mifflin to General Wash- ington: The enemy have received informa- tion of the eae giey for fecal the river, 25, Letter ‘from Gotonel Hay to y Weneral Wash- ington: Since the destruction of Halstead’s house, and the robbing the poor man of his hogs by Captain Wallace, nothing of a hos- tile nature has been attempted by the men- of-war in the North River, - - iS P 25, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour Trumbull: The conference with the Indians is not yet opened, and Seer Hh will not be until the 29th, - - 25, Letter from General Schuyler to Genoral Gates, 25, Letter from General Arnold to General Gates: Has sent an express to General Schuyler to request he will procure two or three hundred seamen to man the craft that will soon be completed, - 25, Letterfrom Colonel Wynkoop & Getioral NRE The works at ee ag tae ery slowly, - - - 4 25, Declaration of Independence proclaimed at Providence, Rhode-Island, - - 25, Letter from Major Meigs to General etane ington: Has just returned from Quebeck on parole ; left about three hundred prisoners there in confinement, - - - - 25, Letter from the Committee for Litchfield, Con- necticut, to the New-York Convention: Their jail is so crowded that it is not safe to confine more prisoners there, - - 25, Letter from James Bowdoin to the Mesiachu- setts Council: Between thirty and forty men were inlisted for the new levies, on the 22d, on a promise of extravagant bounties; some demanded one hundred dollars over and above the Government bounty, - - - 25, Letter from James Bowdoin to the Massachu- setts Council: Recommends that the Eastern Indians be engaged heartily in the war, - 25, Letter from J. Palmer to Richard Devens, - 25, Letter from John Avery to Deacon Newell: Colonel Reed’s Regiment is delayed from marching to Canada poy for the want of camp-kettles, - 25, Letter from General Ward to General Wash- ington: As soon as the Regiments are able to march he will give orders therefor, and immediately retire, - Return of Ordnance Stores at Bectea qisy 22, Return of Stock and Tools belonging to the Continent, at Boston, July 25, - - - 25, Letter from Joseph Nye to the Massachusetts Council, - *, A L : 576 576 416 577 577 1440 1443 1444 1450 1499 578, 578 579 580 580 581 581 582 582 583 1441 584 585 585 585 585 586 586 587 CONTENTS. ia 35, Proceedings of a Convention of Committees of Hampshire County, Massachusetts, - - 26, Intelligence from England: Prizes taken by the Revenge and the “ars daa two Ameri- can privateers, - 26, Letter from Silas Deane to C. Ww. F. Dewan: Do vites acorrespondence on the dispute between the United Colonies and Great Britain, “ 26, Letter from Captain Meroney to the Maryland Council of Safety: Cannot furnish his com- pany with guns and blankets without money, 26, Letter from Major Price to the Council of Safety: as been under the necessity of sending home all the Militia, except fifty, and it was with much difficulty they were kept, - - 26, Letter from Major Price to the Couneil of Safety: The enemy’s fleet lies about a mile from the northeast side of St. George’s Island, - - 26, Letter from B. Hooe to the Council of ‘Safety, 26, Letter from John Darnes to the Council of Safety: His men are very anxious to be pro- vided with arms, - - - 26, Letter from Colonel Barnes 1b the Counvil of Safety: recommending Capt. George Cooke for the command of the Defence, = - 26, Letter from Captain Bracco to the Council of Safety: The small-pox has broken out among the men under his command; it was com- municated by a man who called himself a deserter from the British fleet, - - 26, Letter from Colonel Hawkins to the Council of Safety: The fleet have gone down the river, 26, Letter from Samuel W. weg to the Coun- cil of Safety, - 26, Letter from the Council of Safety t to ine Wor- cester County Committee: Inquiring about a number of cannon from a Spanish wreck, 26, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Mary- land Delegates in Congress, — = - - 26, Letter from the Council of Safety to Josias Beall: It gives sincere pleasure to find the people in different parts of the Colony so spirited, - 26, Letter from the Council of Safety to John Han- son: By first opportunity will send KD to pay for muskets and rifles, - - 26, Letter from the Council of Safety to Bante Tilghman: Requesting his attendance, as a member of the Council of Safety, = - 26, Letter from the Council of SA to the Balti- more Committee, ~ = 26, Letter from the President of Gatien to’ Gene- ral Washington: General Sullivan has sent in his resignation, - - - 26, Instructions of the Convention to the Pennsyl- vania Delegates in Congress, - 26, Letter from the Pennsylvania Council of ‘Safety to General Robexdeau, - 2 . ! 26, Proceedings of the Lancaster Committee, = - 26, Examination of William Poor and John White, in respect to the British officers (prisoners of war) who broke their parole, and escaped from Lebanon, in Pennsylvania, in June last, -= 26, Letter from General Mercer to the President of Congress, - 26, Letter from Géneral Meter “ Catioral Wash- ington: He is collecting all the craft, of which a return will be transmitted, = / 26, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- ington; Six ships have come into the Hook, _~ 26, Extract of a letter from General Mercer’s ge at Perth Amboy, - 26, Letter from Lord Stirling to Caner} WwW hing! ton: Captain Butler wishes to know the de- termination on his asking leave to resign, - 26, Letter from General Washington to General George Clinton, - 26, Letter from Colonel McDougall to Gendril Washington: Regiments engaged without time are more to be depended on for the defence of the country than those imbodied fora short period, - - - - - 26, Letter from General Putnam to Miss Moncrieffe, 26, Letter from General Greene to General cist ington, - - 26, Letter from: the New-York Ghsieehtion to Go- vernour Trumbull; Requesting him to remove some of the prisoners from Litchfield Jail to such convenient place as he may select, 588 589 590 590 590 591 591 591 592 592 592 593 593 594 594 594 594 594 595 1301 595 596 599 600 600 600 601 601 602 471 602 - 1445 XLI July 26, Letter from the New-York Convention to the Committee for Litchfield, Connecticut, - 26, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gene- ral Washington, a . 7 “ 26, Letter from New-York Rerrantion to the Com- mittee for Monmouth County, New-Jersey, - 26, Letter from the New-York Convention to the Convention of New-Jersey, - - - 26, Petition from William Sutton to the New-York Convention, - - 26, Letter from Dr. Grahain: to Renciel Woodhull, on the health of William Sutton, - 26, Petition of Alexander Py to the Newyork Convention, - 26, Letter from Henry Wilmot to hee apie York Convention, - 26, Letter from Henry Wilmot to ae Now York Convention, - - - 26, Letter from several Captains of Militia in King’s County to the New-York Convention: Re- quest their Companies may be excused from a draught, as the whole Militia engage to turn out whenever necessary, = - - - 26, Letter from Cornelius C. Roosevelt to the New- York Convention, - - - - 26, Letter from Captain Alexander Heciise to the New-York Convention, - - 26, Letter from the Committee of re Nei s County to the New-York Convention, - - 26, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gene ral Washington: With the information given by Balthazar De Hart, relative to the conduct of the Tories in Monmouth County, New- Jersey, - - - - - - - 26, Examination of Balthazar De Hart, - 26, Letter from Richard Varick (General Schuyler's s Secretary) to General Gates, —- 26, Letter from Colonel Ogden to Masoud arom. Batt: Independence is well relished by the North- ern Army. Generalship is now dealt out to the Army by our worthy and well-esteemed General Gates. Arnold will command the water-craft on the Lake in person, - 26, Court-Martial on Gantain Wentworth, at Bicone deroga, - - - 26, Letter from Gélens! Hata fa General Gates: There are ans men at Crown-Point without arms, . - - 26, Letter from ede endus Gohke to the News Hampshire Convention, - - - - Letter from Lord Howe to the Governour of Rhode-Island, June 20, - - - - Lord Howe’s Declaration, June 20, - - Letter from Governour Cooke to Lord Howe, July 21; Will transmit copies of his Letter and Declaration to the General Congress of the United States of America, - - 26, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Teallatn Williams: The Army in Canada last spring amounted to upwards of ten thousand men ; of these, there now remain about six thou- sand, three thousand of them sick. Among those who remain there is neither order, sub- ordination, nor harmony ; the officers, as well as men, of one Colony insulting and apes; ing with those of another, - - - 26, Letter from Timothy Newell to the Maasachi- setts Council, - - - - - Q7, Extract of a letter from St. Baia Account of the engagement between the Reprisal, Captain Wickes, and the Shark, a British sloop-of-war, off the harbour of St. Pierre’s, 27, Letter from James Creswell to William H. Drayton: Situation of affairs on the western frontiers of South-Carolina, - - 27, Letter from the Council of Vir ginia to the Pe sident of Congress, - - - Letter from the President of Sontht Gardlitia to the Virginia Convention, July 7, - - Letter from General Lee to the Virginia Con- vention, July 7, - - . : Letter from the Convention of North- Reavlida to the Governour of Virginia, July 21, - Letter from General Rutherford to the Council of Safety of North-Carolina, - 27, Letter from Elisha Winters #0 the Maryland Council of Safety: Makes forty muskets per month, agreeable to his contract, - - otH Series.—Vot. I. 1446 1446 1446 1446 - 1447 - 1448 - 1448 - 1453 - 1454 1460 1461 - 1462 1462 602 602 603 603 604 604 605 605 605 606 606 608 609 CONTENTS. ~ 1776. July 27, Letter from Charles Carroll, Barrister, to the Council of Safety, - - - - - 27, Letter from Colonel me ease: to the Council of Safety, - 27, Letter from Charles Bikvear' to the @ouvinil of Safety, - - 2 - - Roll of Captain Oglevie’s » Company, - - 27, Letter from Major Price to the Council of Safety, - - - - - Letter from Governour Eden to Danial Wol- stenholme, July 20, - - - Letter from Daniel Wolstenholme to Governour Eden, - 27, Letter from the Maryland Goundil of Salety to Richard Dallam, - . - 27, Letter from the Council of Safety to Gindon and Patten, - - 27, Letter from the Council of Bates to Geaata Hopkins: Officers of the Flying-Camp have no command over the stores of the Province, 27, Delaware Assembly order an election of a Con- vention to form a State Government, - - 27, Letter from the President of Congress to lag ty Trumbull, ~ - 27, Letter from’ the Maryland Delefates in Con- gress to the Council of Safety : It is said there is a large quantity of flint stones on the Wye and Choptank ; the Congress wishes to know whether they are good or not, - 27, Letter from the Committee for Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, to the President of Congress: They want arms for the Compa- nies they have raised for the Oy in New- Jersey, - - - - - — 27, Letter from General Mercer to Ganecal echt ington: Is preparing for an attack on Staten- Island, - - - - - — 27, Letter ott General Marae to Gulonel Dickin- son: Has sent ammunition for the troops at Elizabeth-Town, - - - - 27, Letter from General Wieshitetin to the Presi- dent of Congress: The Militia for the Flying- Camp come in but slowly; by General Mer- cer’s return they are but a little over three thousand, - - - - - > Letter from Major Teena to General Washing- ton, July 22, - - - 27, Letter from Gerieral Giecnge to (onstel Wash- ington: Has taken four prisoners, inhabit- ants of Queen’s County, that were sinthatie to make their escape to the enemy, - 27, Letter from General Greene to General rae ington: He has examined the prisoners, and finds them nore ignorant, cowardly fellows, - 27, Letter from Calouel Shee to Gener Mifflin, - 27, Letter from the Convention of New-York to General Washington, - - - - Deposition relative to William Sutton’s Decla- ration, July 12, - - - - - Deposition relative to Joshua Gedney, July 13, 27, Letter from Richard Brueré to the New-York Convention: He has no money, and requests the usual allowance for prisoners, — - - 27, Letter from the New-York Gon enian to Gov- ernour Trumbull, - - - - 27, Letter from the New-York Convention to Cap- tain Hazlewood: Requesting him to repair to Poughkeepsie with the combustible mate- rials for charging the fire-ships, - - - 27, Letter from the New-York Convention to the Philadelphia Committee: Requesting them to take charge of William Sutton, — - - 27, Report of a Committee of the New-York Con- vention, on the case of Alexander Stewart, - 27, Letter from Richard Varick to General Gates, - 27, Letter from the Marine Committee of Rhode- Island to the Council of Massachusetts: Re- questing Captain Grannis may be dismissed the service of Massachusetts, that he may enter the service of Rhode-Island, — - = 27, Proceedings of the Connecticut Gouncil of Safety, on the application from the Conven- tion of New-York for a loan ofcannon, = - 27, Letter from Joseph Ward to John Bradford, - List of articles taken in the transports which General Washington requests General Ward to forward from Boston to New-York, - XLII 614 614 614 615 615 616 616 616 617 617 617 618 618 619 619 621 625 joer CONTENTS. July! 27, Letter from Colonel Hurd to the New- Hamp. shire Committee of Safety, - 28, Extract of a letter from St. Eustatia: Pov ae and warlike stores are plenty at Martinique, and may be purchased and shipped without difficulty, - - - - - - 28, Letter from Dr. Morrow to fone Rumsey, - 28, Letter from General Chamberlain to the Pratie land Council of Safety, == - 28, Letter from Captain Dean to the Gawevl a Safety: No provision has been made for the Troops on Kent-Island, — - : 28, Letter from Benjamin Mackall to ee Couvell of Safety: Sends Mr. Braithwait, who desert- ed from the British fleet on the night of the 25th, - - - - - 28, Letter from the nhs of Safety to Generel Dent: Enclose his commission, and would be glad to see him as soon as possible, - 28, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: The enemy were alarmed last night; they may have heard of the fire-ships, - 28, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: Mr. Grant applies again for permis- sion to go on board the fleet, - - - 28, Letter from Colonel Ritzema to Colonel Sevey, 28, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates: Is surprised to find so little has been done towards building the gondolas, - - 28, Letter from General Mica? to Generkl Gates, - 28, Letter fen Galoual Hartley to Generel Saya The Lake will be pretty well secured by our shipping in a short time, and he has taken measures to make Crown-Point pretty safe on the land side, - - - - 28, Journal of Major Jacob Bivelow: - - : 28, Declaration of Independence proclaimed at Ti- conderoga, - - - - - - 29, Letter from General Lee to the Governour of Virginia, - - - - - - - Return of the forces in South-Carolina, - - 29, Extract of a letter from Charlestown, South- Carolina: Remains of the British fleet off the harbour, - 29, William Wall, of Remerie Nirdinias Publishes ed as an enemy to his country, - - - 29, Declaration of Independence read at the Court- House in Baltimore, - 29, Letter from George Weolles to the Meteytand Council of Safety : Has examined all the wharves about Baltimore, and found a few flint stones; is informed that there is a flint quarry about two miles from the head of Elk, 29, Letter from Captain Thomas to George Plater, 29, Letter from Archibald Buchanan to the Mary- land Council of Safety: Will undertake the building of two or three gondolas, —- 29, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Mary- land Delegates in Congress, - 29, Letter from the Council of pee to Colonel Somerville, > & 29, Letter from the Council of Safety to Colonel Kent: Wish to consult him upon matters relative to the arming, Be Rs and ele ping his Battalion, - 29, Letter from the Council of Safety to Colonel Dashiell, - - - - - 29, Proceedings of the Baltimore Camantiee. - 29, Letter from the President of Spabeces to Gen- eral Washington, - - 29, Letter from the President of Contes ne Gen. Washington: The Congress readily agreed to his having another Aid-de-Camp, . - 29, Petition of George Nicholson to the Congress: To be continued in service, - - 29, Letter from Josiah Bartlett to John Teo dane General Sullivan, disgusted at the appoint- ment of General Gates to be a Major-Gen- eral, and being sent to the Northern Army, has petitioned Congress for leave to pean his commission, - - — 9, Extract of a letter from Soha dana) On the Confederation, - - - “ —~ 29, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- ington: Dissatisfaction among the troops, - San: Letter from General Mercer to Colonel Dick- inson, == : - - - - - 625 628 628 628 629 630 986 630 630 631 632 633 633 633 634 634 634 634 635 635 635 636 636 636 637 637 638 638 1776. July 29, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: Fears the troops have not — got entirely clear of the small-pex; will use every precaution to DIST the infection spreading, - Return of the Army in and near New-York, July 27, - - Return of the Regiment) of Artillery, July 27, - 29, Letter from General Washington to the Board of War: On Bppomunenly and premotor inthe Army, - - Return of the Officers be Calonal Nixon: s Re- giment, - Return of the Onieer: of Colonal MeDougall’s Regiment, . Return of the Officers of Golaeel Webb’s Re. giment, - - - - - - - Persons recommended to fill the vacancies in Lord Stirling’s Brigade, - - - 29, Letter from Gen. Washington to Gen. Ward, 29, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to the Pasedont of Congress, - - - - - - 29, Extract of a letter from New-York: Two gal- leys have gone up the North River to meet | ' the enemy’s vessels when they come down, 29, Advertisement of the General hospital; at New- York, for nurses, &c., - 29, Petition from Richard Cantillon aid John. Park- inson to the New-York Convention, - - 29, Letter from Abraham C. Cuyler and others to the New-York Convention: They hope in the course of time to remove the suspicion that they are inimical to the country, - - 29, Orange County, New-York, Committee de- clare Dennis Snyder, Jesse Snyder, William Snyder, and Samuel Snyder, inveterate ene- mies to the common States of America, - 29, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates: Will be greatly distressed for a supply for the Indians; more than eleven hundred have arrived, and four or five hundred more are expected to-day, - 29, Letter from General Gates to ‘dhe Peeoidant of Congress: Affairs begin to wear a less gloomy aspect ; General Arnold has most nobly un- dertaken to command our fleet upon the Lake ; the whole of that department is com- mitted to his care. Encloses a letter from General Washington, and his answer, - Letter from General Washington to General Gates, July 19: His objections to the removal of the Army from ort to Ticonde- roga, - 29, Letter from Gener! Gates io General Wash- ington: The Board of General Officers were unanimous for removing the Army to Ticon- deroga: their decision was founded in reason and good sense. The General Officers at Ticonderoga are in nothing inferior to their compeers at New-York, - - Letter from Dr. Stringer to General Gates, Fly. 24: The hospital at Fort George is without medicines, surgeons, and attendants ; the sick are dying for want of assistance, - General Orders, at Bigonteree from Jans 10 to July 29, - 29, Letter from General Gains to Richurd Vesiok! Sends the chain wanted for pia heat the North River, - - : 29, Letter from John Dewitt te) General Coan: Complains that Captain Romans has ordered’ his name to be left off the return of his Com- pany; : + q - P ¥ 29, Extract of a letter from Ticonderoga: They are hard at work rer, sek pengning the id French lines, - - 29, Letter from the Cnenrnte of Boulinay to General Gates: fora erery of poe and lead, - 29, Letter from Jacob Bayley and Jane Bayley to General Gates, - 29, Letter from Governour Goole to Genstal Wash- ington: Captain Bucklin, in a privateer from Providence, has returned from a successful cruise, in which he has taken five valuable prizes, - FS - - ~ r= 29, Letter from Govern Trumbull to General Gates, - - 4 - je is a XLIV 638 639 639 641 644 844 645 645 642 643 647 647 1457 1472 648 648 649 650 651 653 658 658 659 658 XLV 1776. July 29, Letter from Stephen Budkisnd to Governour Trumbull, - 29, Letter from James Bowdoin es GéxBinour Cooke; His answer to Lord Howe expresses the mind of every one of the United States, 29, Letter from opie Bowdoin to General Wash- ington, - - ~ < = Examination of James’ decide tt he of the sloop Peggy, - 29, Letter frem General Ward to Generel Wash- ington, - - - - - - - 29, Notice of prizes taken by American Privateers, 29, Letter from James Bowdoin to General Wash- ington, - - - - - - - 29, Examination of Captain James Kennedy, - 29, Letter from General Warner to the Massachu- setts Council, - - 29, Letter from Richard Deity to bTaihies Howden, Notices of the Maritime Court for captured vessels, - 30, Letter from Turbutt Wright 16 the Maryland Council of Safety: Captain Darnes’s Com- pany is full, but arms cannot be aot for them, - - 30, Letter from General Hiapert to the Mfstyland Council of Safety: Stations of the Militia on the Eastern-Shore, - 30, Letter from Joseph W. Henan to the Mary- land Council of Safety: Captain Conway has arrived with a fine cargo of arms and ammunition, - 30, Letter from Gerard Hopkins to the Maryland Council of Safety, = - 30, Letter from the Council of Safety to Golatiel Hollingsworth, - - 30, Letter from the Council of Safety ta Avéhibald Buchanan: Desires to know if he can build two row-galleys, - 30, Letter from the Council of Ssifaty to Facob Schley: Require him to send to Annapolis the rifles he has made for the use of the Province, - - . 30, Letter from the OBiunvill of Safety to the @ub- lock Commissioners: The Province is in great distress for arms; few of the troops raised for the PRM ged oie are ee ee with them, - 30, Letter from the @bdnpil of Sie to iM ajor Price: The cannon that were sent down will be wanted here, - - ~ - - 30, Letter from the Council of Safety to General Chamberlaine: For an account of the pow- der in the magazine, - 30, Letter from the Council of Safety ita Captains Barnes and Elliot, - - x 30, Letter from the Council of Bare to Isaac : Griest, - - - - - - - 30, Proceedings of the Baltimore Committee, - 30, Letter from the President of Congress to Gen- eral Washington: With sundry resolves re- lating to new THE opie and NS pe ca in the Amy, - - : 80, Letter from the President of Considss to Gen- eral Washington, - = “ 30, Letter from the President of Gorvies ‘3 abs tain Morris, = - 30, Letter from Samuel Gitasd to the Maryland Council of Safety, - 30, Letter from Thomas Siatio-t to the Maryland Council of Safety: There are only three thousand men in New-Jersey, where there ought to be at least ten thousand, —- - 30, Letter from the Marine Committee of Congress to John Bradford, = - - - 30, Letter from the Marine Gottiinittee: to Osiieain Cleaveland: His instructions as commander of the brigantine Despatch, - - - 30, Letter from the Marine ranted to Samuel and J. H. Delap, - 30, Letter from Samuel Chase to Richard ity Lee: The Confederacy has engaged our close attention for a week ; three great diffi- culties occur—representation, the mode of voting, and the claims to the South Sea, - 30, Proceedings of the Committee for Lancaster, Pennsylvania, . . 30, Letter from Captains Martin and aiidinai to the Lancaster Committee, - " 2 7 CONTENTS. 1776. July 30, Letter from General dae to the President _— — 661 661 | — 661 662 662 836 836 663 663 664 665 665 666 666 666 667 667 667 667 of Congress, - - - 30, Letter from General Métcer to General Wash- ington: Recommends the calling out of two thousand of the New-Jersey Militia, - - 30, Letter from General Mercer to Colonel Dickin- son: Respecting the att attack on Sta- ten Island, - - . 2 Hs 30, Letter from General Ribertedd to the Penn- sylvania Council of Safety: Requests some cannon in Philadelphia may be sent to Am- boy, . - - - - - AS 30, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: There are but three or four thousand dollars in the Paymaster’s hands, and two months’ pay due the Army, besides many other demands. The want of money may occasion consequences of an alarming nature, - - - - - - “ General Orders, Head-Quarters, New-York, July 22 to July 31, - - - . 30, Letter from General Washington to @itteral Howe: Sy aN Ps a general tiene of prisoners, 30, Letter from Baron ae Calbiac t to Gaver Wash ington, - = 30, Letter from pepe William Dutcher to the New-York Convention: Offers to raise a Company out of Colonel Drake’s Regiment to serve under Colonel Thomas, - “ 30, Letter of the Committee of the City of New- York to the New-York Convention, - 2 30, Petition from Daniel Shaw to the New-York Convention: For permission to purchase gunpowder for the use of the aa a of war the Harlequin, - = 30, Letter from General Waterbury to énetal Gates: Every man at Skenesborough is em- ployed to the best advantage for the publick ood, - - - - - . - 30, Heiter from Colonel Wynkoop to General Gates: Sends another gondola down, - - 30, Letter from General Arnold to General Stuy: ler: Sorry to hear his treaty with the Indians is so long retarded, as his presence is much wanted at Skenesborough and Ticonderoga, Return of Ordnance and EAR: Stores at Ticonderoga, - - 30, Orders to Colonel Buell to joie tits Reeient at Ticonderoga, ~ - - - - 30, Petition of Lieutenant Fowler and others to General Gates: Asking leave to resign their commissions, - - - - - - 30, Extract of a letter from Ticonderoga: Impa- tiently waiting the return of the flag sent by General Gates to General Carleton, - 30, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: Ensign Hughes, who went down the Lake on the 24th, returned on the 29th without making any discoveries, - - 30, Proceedings of the Connecticut Coanell of Safety, - - - - = ' 80, Letter from the abeaehiestia Council to The- ophilus Cushing, - - - : 30, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Jo- seph Nye, - » 30, Letter pees Fines Bow dbin to General Wash- 672 673 ington, - - 30, Extract of a ere f¥otin poe in Wapiind: Capture of the Yankee, privateer, and ill treat- ment of Captain Johnson, - - - 31, Petition of the inhabitants of the Pariah of St. George and St. Paul, including the ceded lands in the Province of Georgia, to General Lee, - 31, Extract of a letter from Charlestown, South- Carolina: We are just setting out for the burning sands of Georgia, on an expedition planned against part of East-Florida, - . 31, Letter from General ee ce to the eet tie Council of Safety, - 31, Letter from Captain Smith 8 the Maryland Council of Safety, - - - XLVI 673 674 31, Letter from the Dorchester Cotnhy Connie . to the Maryland Council of Safety, with pri- soners lately taken in Hooper’s Straits, in the’ service of Lord Dunmore, - - 2 Be Deposition of Joseph Mareman, - -~— = Deposition of Moses Yell, - - — = - 688. XLVI CONTENTS. XLVI 1776. July 31, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to the Governour of Rhode-Island: The Committee of the Council do not consider themselves authorized to dismiss Captain Grannis, - 701 ty - - - - - 689 31, Letter from General Palmer to Benjamin Lin- 31, Letter from the Maryland Gousiail a Safety to coln: The Armourer has but little iron, no Captain Conway: Wish to see him imme- steel, no files, and but little coal, - - 701 diately at Annapolis, to consult with him 31, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to about another voyage, 690 Richard Derby: Request him to procure a 31, Letter from the Maryland Gorell ‘of Bafiy ts to conveyance for the four Indians to General Joseph Gilpin: To make pint about the Washington at New-York, - - - - 701 July A, Letter from the Maret Council of specu to Major Price, - 689 31, Letter from the Maryland Gotlnel os Safety to a Committee for Northumberland Coun- Flint quarry, - 690 31, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to the 31, Letter from the Maryland aS of Safety to to absent Members: Requesting their imme; Alexander McFadon, - - 690 diate attendance, - - - - - 702 31, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Gene- ral Washington: With William Shaw, who goes with the four Indians, - 702 51, Tietics from the Masaachoacttd Council to ad. ral Washington: With Newell Wallis, one of the four Indians, - - - - - 702 31, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to James Bowdoin: With talks with the Indian Chiefs, - 702 Letter, dated Sine 22, “ibaa Sinphen iSpsith to ihe Massachusetts Council: Transactions 31, Letter from the President of Congress to he Pennsylvania Council of Safety : ‘Requesting some cannon may be immediately forward- ed to General Mercer, in New-Jersey, - 690 31, Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- ral Washington: On explaining to General Sullivan the reasons of Congress for promo- ting General Gates over him, he has with- drawn his resignation, - - - - 690 31, Letter from the President of Congress to Ben- jamin Flower: Appointed Commissary of Military Stores for the Flying-Camp, - - 691 with the Indians, —- - - - - 703 — 31, Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- Petition of Jacob Barker and others, a Com- ral Mercer, - - - 691 mittee on behalf of the inhabitants of the ‘river St. John’s, in Nova-Scotia, May 21, to the Provincial Congress or General Assem- 31, Letter from the Drecident of peepee to Gene- ral Schuyler, - - 691 31, Letter from the Drectdant of Congress to Joseph bly of the Massachusetts-Bay, - 703 Trumbull, F 691 Letter of Agency to Asa hone and Asa ren 31, Deposition of John relies pa Martha Nahi ball, May 14, - # i: - 704 Proceedings of, the ‘habitants of the Gontiey respecting the escape of Colonel Kirkland, - 1304 of Sunbury, in the Province of Nova-Scotia, ——~ $1, Letter from General Mercer to General Weahe ington, - - - - - - - 691 May 14, - s " ‘ “ - 05 Examination of two Negroes, deserters from 31, Instructions of the Freeholders and others, in- Staten-Island, - . - = . - 692 habitants of Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, 31, Letter from oneal Washington to the Presi- to their Delegates in the General Assem- dent of Congress, - - - - - 692 bly, - . - - - 706 31, Letter from Ephraim Anderson to the President of Congress: Has completed and hauled off in the stream two fire-ships, at New-York, Aug.1, Extract of a letter gate St. Biarral s, Martinique: After the engagement between the Reprisal and the Shark, Captain Wickes triumphantly and will complete two more to-morrow, - 692 entered the port, and landed amidst the ac- 31, Letter from General Washington to General clamations and caresses of a multitude of Schuyler, - - - - - 693 people, - - - - - - 706 31, Memorial of the Regimental Shyla in the 1, Extract of a letter from Pensacola, in West Army commanded by General Washington to Florida: Governour Tonyn’s Proclamation, - 706 the Congress, - - - - - - 694 1, Letter from the Maryland Comics of Barty to * 31, Memorial of the Regimental Surgeons to Gene- Captain Woolsey, - "07 ral Washington, =cnien Mal iF -, = 695 1, Letter from General Dent to the Maryland 31, Letter from William Palfrey to Francis Lewis, - 696 ' $1, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington, - - - - 696 31, Letter from Colonel Hever B. leyaeoien to General Washington: There area prodigious number of cattle on Long-Island ; two can- Council of Safety: Returns his commission, as they have a controlling power under which he is resolved never more to act, - 107 1, Letter from Thomas Smith to the Maryland Council of Safety: The Companies raised at Chester-Town will be much delayed for want non have been mounted at the east end of of arms, - ‘ ¥ - 07 the Island, but there is no ammunition for 1, Letter from John ae . the Maryland Council them, Soke Gus acai sho pene, (= 696 of Safety, - = - - 07 31, Letter from the Committee for Queen’s County to the New-York Convention: Enclosing a 1, Petition of Mary Giagine to thé Rinses Com- mittee of Congress: Her husband was killed copy of Lord Howe’s Proclamation, which has been published by Governour Tryon and on board the Alfred, in her action with the Glasgow, and she prays for the bounty pro- sent up by Sheriff Willett, - - - - 1466 mised to the widows or children of seamen 31, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour killed in action in defence of America, - 708 Trumbull: Our misfortunes in Canada have 1, Extract of a letter from Philadelphia: Arrival made the Indians somewhat assuming, but of prizes, - - - - - ~- 708% hope they will not engage against us, - - 696 1, Resolutions of the Eengajeanic Convention on 31, Letter from Colonel Gansevoort to John Mc- the defenceless condition of the frontiers of Kesson, - - - ~ - 697 Northumberland and Northampton, - - 709 31, Letter from Colonel Greaton to General Heath, 697 1, Ordinance of Pennsylvania for securing the 31, Letter from General Gates to General Waters arms of the Non-Associators, - e - 709 bury: Glad to hear that the Militia begin to arrive at Skenesborough, - - - - 698 31, Letter from John Trumbull to Lieutenant-Colo- nel Gansevoort: Sends Major Hubley to take an inventory and appraisement of the late Baron Woedtke’s goods, - - - - 698 31, Petition of Captain Young to General Gates, - 698 1, Ordinance of Pennsylvania to prevent the coun- terfeiting the Paper Money issued by the Continental Congress, or by any of the Uni- ted States of America, 710 1, Persons appointed by the Philadelpiita oti mittee to distribute money for the women and children whose husbands and fathers are 31, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General now in actual service, :. ss < a fy | Schuyler, - - - - - - - 699 1, Letter from Gabriel Davis to the Lancaster, 3], Prbcacdined of the Connecticut Council of Pennsylvania, Committee, - - 711 Safety, - - - - - - 699 1, Letter from General Howe to General ach: ington: The enlargement of Colonel Allen must depend upon General Carleton’s deter- mination, but will consent to an exchange of prisoners such as has been proposed, - - 711 (31, Letter from Major Hawley to the Matai obiieetts Council: Urges the passing of an act like that of Connecticut, to p ston the Digceenings of the Tories, - : 700 XLIX CONTENTS. L 1776. . Aug.1, Letier from General Washington to eveminl ae 4 Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- Trumbull: Requesting Colonel Ward’s Regi- ment may be marched to New-York imme- ral Washington: Reasons of Congress for authorizing "Gerieral Gates to fill up vacancies diately, - - - - - 712 in the Army, while the same authority was 1, Letter from Gedemi Washington to Governour withheld from General Washington, - - 7125 Trumbull: For Colonel Elmore’ s Regiment, 712 2, Memorial of George Measham, late of Montreal, 1, Letter from General Washington to Gulonel in Canada, to the Congress, 3 = 726 Elmore, - - - - - -| 712 Letter from Dr. Franklin to John eke 1, Letter from Pahendl Wadsworth to Governour Recommending the case of Mr. Measam to Trumbull, - - - - - - - 712 the attention of the Board of War, - at 726 1, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- 2, Warrant for apprehending John Thomas and ington: Thirty sail of ships are standing in Arthur Thomas, - - 1306 for the Hook, - - - - - - 713 2, Warrant for apprehending soni Hadon? Sen., 1, Letter from Gencral Greene to General Wash- and John Hatton, Jun.,~— - - - - 13807 ington: The fleet reported coming in this 2, Letter from the Pennsylvania Committee of morning consists of bach sail, tenders and Safety to the Committee of Salem County, all, - - - - - 713 New-Jersey, respecting the arrest of Colonel 1, Letter from Sylvester Salisbury to the New- Kirkland, - - - - - - - 1307 York Convention: His Company of Horse 2, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to the President have unanimously cst to turn out as of Congress, - - - - - - 726 Footmen, - - - 714 2, Resolution of the Convention of New-Jersey 1, Letter from Colonel sffder to the New Work for taking charge of the estates of Refugees, - 726 Convention: If the Horse be exempted from 2, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- doing duty equal with the rest of the Militia, dent of Congress: The enemy’s force is daily it will create a mutiny, - - 714 augmenting and becoming stronger by new 1, Letter from Colonel Ritzema to Tolin McKes- arrivals, - - - - (27 son, - - - - : - 1467 2, Letter from General Washington to the Maséa- ie Letter from the Gantmiltes at the White-Plains chusetts Council: Exchange of prisoners, - 727 to the New-York Convention, - - 1471 2, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- 1, Letter from Richard Spaight to the New: vor ington, - - - 727 Convention: He is in prison as a person 2, Letter from the Comblitied of the City of New- disaffected to the American cause, but is York to the New-York Convention: With the willing to accept the appointment of Chemist names of sundry persons taken up in Bergen or Surgeon to a Regiment in the Army, - 1482 Woods, as disaffected to these States, - - 1484 1, Letter from Henry Van Schaack to the New- 2, Letter from the New-York Convention to the York Convention, = - - - - - 1527 Committee of Kingston, - - - - 1471 1, Commitment of David Matthews, - - - 1550 2, Letter from General George Clinton to General 1, Letter from General Schuyler to the President Washington: The three hundred New-Eng- of Congress, - - - - - - 714 land troops left on SA without giving 1, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates, 715 the least notice, - 728 1, Letter from General Pie to General Wash- 2, Letter from Colonel Hay to Getteral Washided ington, - - - - 716 ton: The enemy’s vessels are at anchor near 1, Letter from General Waterbury to encral Teller’s Point, and have, since they changed Gates: Four Companies of Connecticut their ground, received Saas, from the troops have arrived at Skenesborough, - 716 Westchester shore, - 728 1, Letter from Harmanus Schuyler to General 2, Letter from Colonel Van Cortlandt He Cuniain Gates, = - - - - - - Se1t Platt to the New-York Convention: Some 1, Letter from General Gates to the Committee rascal must have informed the enemy of the for Cumberland County, New-York: The departure of the New-England troops on Congress have ordered a Regiment to be Saturday, without leaving a sufficient number raised under the command of Colonel War- to guard the shore; they landed and carried ner, for the defence of the frontier, ~ - SO Le off some live stock, - - - 729 1, Letter from General Arnold to the Court-Mar- 2, Letter from Isaac Nicoll to the New-York Con- tial at Ticonderoga, - - - 1278 vention: Three Companies are at Haverstraw, 1, Letter from Nathaniel Shaw, aw to Genctal but have no store of Hts Ea or Washington, - - Sn I Lia Wa ball,- —- - 729 1, Letter from Thomas Mumford to Governour pa, héttet from William Baealae to the New York Trumbull: Is directed to return to Connec- Convention: Forasettlement of his accounts ticut the powder oe lent to General as Commissioner of the Highlands, that he Washington, - 718 may pay the artificers and others, who are 1, Letter from Enos Stoité to the Mhsag cli tout pressing for their money, - - 730 Assembly, . - - - 718 2, Letter from the Albany, New-York, ‘Cunuittess 1, Declaration of Widépaundtaee proclaimed # to Governour Trumbull, —- 889 Amherst, New-Hampshire, - - - 719 2, Letter from General Schuyler to Genet Wash- 2, Letter from General Lee to Richard Peters, ington, - - - - - - - 815 Secretary of the Board of War: Is busy in 2, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates, 730 arranging matters for an expedition into East 2, Letter from General Waterbury to General Florida, - - - - - - - 719 Gates, - - - - . - - 730 2, Letter from the Committee for Queen Anne’s 2, Letter from Samuel ewes to Governour Trum- County to the Maryland Council of Safety, - 722 bull, - - - - - 730 2, Letter from Captain Graybill to the operand 9. Proceedings of the Condeenent CouRe of Council of Safety, - 722 Safety, - 731 2, Letter from Maryland Gouditcil of Salety to 2, John Birdsey and i@enlien Bitdeey pokitated General Hooper, - - 7122 as enemies to the country by the Committee. 2, Letter from the Maryland Commies of Safety for Middletown, Connecticut, - = - 732 to the Committee for Dorchester County: 2, Committee of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, publialt They send some powder and lead, _—- 723 Charles Goodrich as an enemy to his country, 733 2, Letter from the Council of Safety to the Mary- 2, Letter from Richard pers? to General Wash- land Delegates in Congress, - 723 ington, - - - 733 2, Letter from ‘thd Maryland Council of Safety % 2, Letter from the pee to the Mbaabemtectia General Dent: Ask a personal conference Delegates in Congress: Respecting the Pe- with him; they can satisfy him that no affront tition from the Town of Onslow, in Nova- or indignity was intended in sending te Scotia, - 733 Price down to St. George’s, - - 724 2, Letter froin Ss. McClintock to William Whitple: 2, Letter from Christopher Pelissier to the sivas. On the state of publick affairs, - - 734 dent of Congress: Appointed Engineer ; re- 3, North-Carolina Council of Safety declare the questing two y months? pay in advance to equip charge against William Edwards totally him for the service, - - = r Py py groundless, - - - - . - 735 CONTENTS. LI Lil 1776. 1776. Aug.3, Letter from the Virginia Council of Safety to ‘lug. 4, Letter from Colonel A. Williamson to Govern- the President of Congress: have ordered a our Rutledge: Account of an attack on his number of the Minute-men and Militia on detachment by the Cherokees, at the Seneca duty, in place of the two Begin ordered Ford of the Keowee; Mr. Salvador killed and to the Jerseys, - - - 736 scalped, - - 749 3, Letter from General Lewis to Bid Pyesidetit of — 4, Letter from General Meréer to the Presi@int BE ; Congress: Will send the two Continental Congress: Some of the Militia have become Battalions now in Virginia to New-Jersey as much dissatisfied ; the officers in some of the expeditiously as possible, - - - - ‘736 battalions with difficulty prevent a desertion, 3, Court-Martial on Lieutenant done, by order DF not of men singly, but by companies, - - 50 General Lewis, - - 736 4, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to the President 3, Letter from the Maryland Counell of Safety s of Congress, = - * - 160 Thomas Smyth and Thomas Ringgold: Sup: 4, Letter from General Greene to Gaberu Wash- plies for the Flying Camp, - 737 ington: Eight sail arrived at the Hook this 3, Letter from the Maryiane Council of Safety to morning, and thirteen coming in, ~ 750 George Scott, - 738 4, Account of an engagement of the row- Behave 3, Letter from Richard Thompson to the Maryland with the British patugtocuiny up the North | Council of Safety: It is impossible for him, River, - "51 at this time, to accept the appointment of 4, Extract of a letter Ror New: Yorke Doahata Quartermaster of a Regtnens paiging for the tions of General Mifflin to prevent the British Flying-Camp, - - - ‘738 vessels-of-war from descending the North 3, Letter from Jos. Earle to J. Nichblaou: - - 738 River, - é - 51 3, Memorial of William Stone to the Maryland 4, Letter from Rieherd Vinck to antral Gates, - ‘752 Council of Safety, —- - 738 4, Letter from General Waterbury to General 3, Letter from John Adams to Goneral Henth- Gates: Has sent to im di the Brpops from The Army must be well officered, armed, New-England, - - - 753 disciplined, fed, clothed, covered, and paid ; 4, Letter from General Ward to ‘ehysn ee in these tebepts we do as well as we ington, - - - - 53 can, - - 739 4, Resolutions of the Comminee of Williamstown, 1004 3, Letter from the Non York Convention to Meecrs. 5, Address to the Lord Mayor of London on the Jay, Livingston, and Yates: Requiring their cruel treatment of Lape Johnson and his attendance with the Committee formed for crew, - - - - - - 754 the organization of a new Government, ~ 1472 Account of the ened of the Yankee, priva- 3, Letter from William Goforth and John Houston teer, Captain Johnson, - = = =e TDD to the New-York Convention: Apply for en- 5, Proclamation by Governour Rutledge: Requir- couragement in erecting salt works, - - 1475 ing the General Assembly to meet at Charles- 3, Letter from the Committee of the City of New- town, on the 17th of September, - 756 York to the New-York Convention: Praying 5, Declaration of Independence proclaimer * the House to erase from their Journals, and Richmond, Virginia, - “ 756 bury in eternal oblivion, a motion now before 5, Letter from General Dent to the Maryland them respecting the rights of the City and Council of Safety, - 757 County to say who shall represent them in 5, Letter from the Maryland Connoll os Safety to General Convention, - - - - 1476 Captain Tootell, - 4 57 3, Letter from Cesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney: 5, Letter from Captain Brooke to Hes Maryland On the proposed Convention in Delaware, - 740 Council of Safety, - = laste 3, Letter from Cesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney: 5, Letter from John Hanson, Jun., a the Mary- Prizes taken by Captain Wickes, - - TA1 land Council of Safety, —- - fer 3, Extract of a letter from Philadelphia: Notices 5, Letter from Colonel Ewing to the Maryland of prizes, - - . - : - Al Council of Safety, - "57 3, Letter from the Non sates Convention to their 5, Letter from Dr. Weisenthall ie Nee Maryland Delegates in Congress: On the preservation Council of Safety, - 4 "58 of the ferries over "thé Passaick and Hacken- 5, Meeting of the Baltimore Criarnece - - %58 sack, between Newark and Powles Hook, - 742 | .= 5, Letter from Josiah Bartlett to John Langdon: 3, Resolves of the New-Jersey Convention for A vessel fitted out by the Secret Committee raising the whole body of the Militia, - - 748 has brought from France a quantity of arms, 3, Letter from General Mercer to Colonel Dick- powder, and Jead. Mr. Alsop’s resignation, ‘758 . inson: The account given of the disposition 5, Order for the commitment of Alexander Mau- of a Battalion of Associators appears, the rice, charged as being inimical to the Ameri- more it is thought of, the more alarming, - 744 can ‘States: - - 1308 3, Letter from Colonel app EY to General Wash- 5, Letter from ‘the Pennsylvania Gonmnities of ington, 766 Safety to their Delegates in Congress, - 1308 3, Letter from Richard eee to oA Wash- 5, Commitment of John Hatton, Sen., to the State ington: Supplies for the fleet on Lake Cham- Prison, - - - - - - - 1308 plain, - - - - - 744 5, Proceedings of the Lancaster, Henneplyania, Lists of articles wanted for the gondolas, angen Committee, - - - - - 59 vessels, and batteaus, on Lake Champlain, - 745 5, Letter from Lieutenant Bacto (prisoner) 3, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates: to the Lancaster Committee: for an increase The opinion of General Washington’s Coun- of his accommodations, —- 761 cil, that the General Officers at “Ticonderoga — 5, Letter from General Mercer to onan Wash- had acted reprehensibly, without knowing ington: The whole force of the Flying-Camp their reasons, is so insulting that he cannot is as yet only two hundred and seventy-four sit patiently under it, - - - 747 rank and file, and the Pennsylvania. Militia 3, Letter from Colonel Bedel to (ayer Gales’ have become very clamorous to return home, 761 Mentions his former services, and that now, 5, Letter from General Washington to the Presi because he did not understand General Ar- dent of Congress, - 762 nold’s orders, or because other gentlemen Return of the Army of the United Statee 3 in a have understood them differently, he has been near the City of New-York, August 3, - 763 broke and ordered home, - - - - TAT Return of the Regiment of Artillery: commanded 3, Extract of a letter from Ticonderoga: Colonel _ by Henry Knox, - - - - - 763 Bedel and Major Butterfield are cashiered Return of the Regiment under the command and rendered incapable of bearing a commis- of Colonel Jonathan Brewer, - - - 765 sion in the Army of the United States, - 748 Arrangement of Colonel Brewer’s Regiment, - '765 3, Letter from Colonel Hurd to the New-Hamp- Letter from General Washington to General shire Committee of Safety: Captain Payne, Howe: Proposing an exchanee of pyrowers, of Lebanon, has just returned from a scout; July 30, - os - - "65 he went to Ticonderoga, Crown-Point, down Letter from General ine 3 General Wash- q the Lake to Onion River, to the La Moelle, ington: Agrees to exchange of prisoners, and back to Cohos, but saw no enemy, - 748 August 1, - - - - - - 765 CONTENTS. LUI LIV 1776. 1776. Letter from Colonel Tupper to General Wash- Aug. 5, Letter from Francis Abbot to Richard Devens: ington, August 3: Action of the galleys with The roads are so bad that it is almost pe cm the British ships up the North River, - - 766 sible to get to Ticonderoga, - 779 Letter from Governour Cooke to General Wash- 5, Notice of Prizes taken by “Captain White, of ington, July 29, - 767 Falmouth, = Examination of Richard Shea, a erence - 7, Extract of a letter from Elizabeth- Town Point, New-Jersey: The current opinion of the British Generals is, that they will take New- York without difficulty; but are much afraid that the Rebels will destroy it, - - - 7, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: His opinion on the ne- cessity there is of eppoinnng more General Officers, - Letter from Corer Seated Fi Gener Wash- ington, August 2, - - - Intelligence brought from Oswego by Taenie: nant McMichael, - Letter from General Schuyler ie (General Wash: ington, June 10, - - - Extract of a letter from Colonel Tvederiek Pel- lenger, of the German-Flats, to the gent Committee, June 7, - ~ - Letter from the Albany Committee to Gureral Schuyler, June 8: papeoted attack of the Upper Indians, - - - - Letter from Jonathan Glover to General Wash- ington, July 20, : - - 7, Letter from General {agmeten to the Apres! dent of Congress, - - - 7, Letter from General Wastitewat to the New- Jersey Convention: Requesting they will cause a number of suspicious persons col- lected in Monmouth County to be secured; and urges them to complete ae proportion of the levies, - - - - 7, Letter from General Wetinotene to General George Clinton: for a return of his strength. There is reason to believe a general attack will be made in the course of a few days, - - - - - 7, Letter from General Washington to Colonel Elmore: to put himself under the command of General Schuyler, - - - - 7, Letter from General Washington to General Schuyler, - “ - - - - - 7, Letter from General Washington to Governour Trumbull: Learns from two deserters from the British fleet that they are to attack New- York, Long-Island, &c., in the course of a week, - - ~ - - - 7, Letter from General Wathinetont to Colonels Fitch, Sears, Mead, Hindman, and Cooke: Requesting them to call forth their Regi- ments without delay, and march to New- York, where the army, from sickness, the deficiency of regiments, and other causes, is far short of its intended complement, - - 7, Letter from General Washington to Jesse Root: An attack is hourly expected, and the levies from New-Jersey, New-York, and Connecti- cut, are not completed within parton of their establishment, - - Letter from General Washington to Timothy Edwards: To engage in the service as many. of the Stockbridge Indians as he can, as they are very anxious to take ee in our favour, - - 7, Letter from General Washingtell to the orn mittee of Hartford, Connecticut: parr cue Major French, - - 7, Letter from General Washinpioe to Major French, - - - - 7, Letter ae John Beriaat to Phe Neeson: Congress, - - - - =ieth m LVI 810 811 811 811 812 812 814 815 815 816 816 817 817 817 818 819 819 820 820 821 822 822 822 823 823 824 LVII CONTENTS. 1776. Alug.7, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: More than a hundred boats full of men have come from Cs ipa to the ships, ~ 7, Memorial of ‘Abel “Noble and Peed Townsend to the New-York Convention, - - - 7, Letter from the New-York Convention to their Delegates in Congress, - - or 7, Examination of Jacob Halsted, of Orange County, - - - : 7, Letter from Walter. inpinkaton to General Wich? ington: Is greatly distressed for money to purchase provisions for the Army; the mill- tary chest of the Northern Army is empty; cattle cannot be procured without the cash, 7, Letter from Richard Varick to General Gates, 7, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wa- terbury, - - - - - - - 7, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour Trumbull: Is this moment going to open the conference with the Indians; seventeen hundred are present, and one hundred and sixty more are expected to-day, - - - 7, Letter from General Arnold to General Gates: The work on the galleys at Skenesborough much more forward than he expected; the last gondola will be launched in a few days, and the seamen will be drafted this after- noon, - - - 7, Letter from General pata to Goer Ente Accusing the Court-Martial of unfairness, - 7, Letter from General Gates to General Water- bury, - - - - 7, Instructions by apart Gates to nek Ar- nold, as commander of ty fleet on Lake Champlain, - 7, Letter from General Sins to Getler Wash- ington, - - - - - “ - Examination of Captain Mesnard, - - - Journal of a scout from Crown-Point to St. John’s, Chambly, &c., by Lieutenant Whit- comb and four men, - - - - 7, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., - - - - - - 7, Letter from Colonel Ward to Governour Trum- bull, - - - - qy Letter from General Ward to the President of Congress, - - - - ~ 7, Letter from the Massachusetts eiineil to Gen- eral Washington: Everything necessary re- specting the marching of troops for Canada has been done, - - - - - - 7, Letter from John Avery to the absent members of the Massachusetts Council: Beaguing their attendance, - 8, Letter from Lord George Canasind to William Hey : The Province of Quebeck being cleared of the Rebels, it is necessary the courts of justice should ‘be forthwith opened, - 8, Letter from the eae Council of Sety to John Hanson, - 8, Letter from Matthew vipers to the Mary- land Council of Safety: With the resignation of N. Thomas as NE RECESS of the Fourth Battalion, - - - 8, Letter from ‘Captain Mantz to sManphind Goda. cil of Safety, - - - - - 8, Letter from Isaac Griest to the ae saat Coun- cil of Safety, - - - - 8, Letter from the President of Geagree to Gen- eral Washington: The treatment of LEGNe ant Josiah, - - - - 8, Letter from the President of Consress +a Gen- eral Lee: Directing him to repair to Phila- delphia, to receive “such orders as the Con- _gress may think proper to give, - - - 8, Letter from Cesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney: ' The Delaware Battalion is under marching orders for BEabOy ps are sarc) arm- ed, - 8, Orders from the War Office fox the marching of troops to Amboy, - . — §, Notice to the Associators from the pitintende . ing officer in Philadelphia, - - - ~ Address of a private Associator to the com- manding officer, - : 8, Commitment of William Sutton , by Piier af the 824 825 825 1274 826 826 827 828 828 829. 830 830 830 830 831 831 831 831 832 832 &32 833 833 833 833 Pennsylvania Committee of Safety, - - 1312 Frets Series.— Voc. I. Letter from James Bowdoin to General Wash- ington, July 29: The passengers on board the ship Peggy, who fled from Boston last March, came to Boston this morning, and are now in jail there, - - - Examination of James Wenagdy a master of the ship Peggy, = - - - - - = Letter from James Bowdoin to General Wash- ington, July 30: aan of ey Eastern Indians, - A Conference held at Watertown! in Athe Gsiony of Massachusetts-Bay, between the honour- able the Council of the said Colony, in behalf of the said Colony, and of all the United Colonies, of the one part, and the Delegates of the St. John’s and Mickmack Tribes of aes in Nova-Scotia, on the other part, July - - - - - - Treaty ed Alliance and Friendship entered into and concluded by and between the Govern- ours of the State of Massachusetts-Bay and the Delegates of the St. John’s and Mick- mack Tribes of Indians, July 19, - - 8, Letter from General Washington to the Penn- sylvania Associators: Urging them to remain at the present crisis, and showing the ruin- ous consequences to the Army, and the dis- credit to themselves, of their now leaving the service, - - - - - - - 8, Letter from General Washington to General Livingston: The unexpected arrival of the Carolina Army on Staten-Island, added to the Hessians and foreign troops under Lord Howe, exhibits a force justly alarming, when compared with that which we have to \ oppose them, = - - - - - . - 8, Letter from General Washington to General Mercer: In consequence of the great rein- forcements of the enemy, and considering how much deficient the Army is, from the not filling up the new levies and sickness, desires that one of the Rifle regiments may be sent over, as there is not one corps of that kind on the Island, - - - . 8, Letter from General Washington to the New- York Convention: From information, in which the fullest confidence may be placed, it is not to be doubted but the number of the enemy’s Army will greatly exceed ours. Re- inforcements are indispensable, - - - 8, Letter from General Washington to the New- York Convention: Relating to the appoint- ment of General George Clinton, and the de- fences of the Highlands, - - . - 8, Letter from General Washington to General George Clinton, - - : : s 8, Letter from General Washington to Maier French, - ~ 7 A z 8, Letter from Daniel Goldsmith to the New- York Convention: Joseph Andrews appears to be very friendly to the American cause, - 8, Examination of Edward Willett, Sen., bvard Willett, Jun., and Thomas Hicks, by the New- York Convention, - - 8, Letter from General Washington tb the New- York Convention: For reinforcements, - 8, Letter from General Washington to the New- York Convention: On the appointment of General Clinton, - - - - - 8, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gen- eral Clinton: Informing him of his appoint- ment, - - - 8, Letter from the New-York Guiven tee to Gen- eral Washington, = - - - 8, Letter from Abraham Le Dat to the New-York Convention: Offering to raise a eh a, of Volunteers, = - - - - 8, Petition of Joseph Andrews, of PeughkESpsic, to the Provincial Congress of New-York, - 8, Letter from the New-York Convention to Ge- neral Washington: The Convention have measures in contemplation for the security of the State, which they conceive of the utmost importance to the general cause of America, LVIII 1776. lug. 8, Letter from General Mercer to Sah Wash- ington, - - - 834 8, Letter from Chancel Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress, - 2 b- - - 834 836 836 836 838 849 851 851 852 852 853 853 853 1485 1487 1487 1489 1489 1489 854 854. LIX ow 76. Aug. 8, Resolutions of the New-York Convention for the defence of the Highlands, - 8, Extract of a letter dated from off Fort Wash- ington, New-York: Remarks on the engage- ment between the galleys and the men-of- war up the North River, - - - 8, Letter from Colonel Thomas to the New- York Convention: Sends Joshua Ferris, an old offender, - - - - - - - Examination of Joshua Ferris, - - - 8, Letter from General Schuyler to the President of Congress: The Conference with the Six Nations was yesterday opened in form; the Northern Army is out of money; the service has for some time been carried on upon cre- dit, but that, too, is exhausted, and he is now driven to the necessity of borrowing money at interest, or leaving undone what is indis- pensably necessary to be done, - 8, Paper delivered to Major Bigelow, by Captain Craig, at Isle-aux-Noix, - 8, Letter from General Arnold to Generll Sear ler, - - - - - 8, Letter from Colonel Wy ALae to General Gates, Return of the Sick in the General He let at Fort George, - - - - 8, Letter from “Governour Trumbull to General Gates: The Companies ordered to be raised are not filled; those who are inlisted are marched; the small-pox has been a great discouragement, - - - - - 8, Letter from Andrew Ward, Jun., to Governour Trumbull: Difficulties in raising men, - 8, Letter from Thomas Mumford to Governour Trumbull, - - - - - - 8, Letter from Charles C. Chandler to Governour Trumbull: Half of the Militia of Woodstock have entered the publick service already, but in the present crisis ts will endeavour to send more, - - 8, Letter from William Watson to Gener Wash- ington, = - > - 8, Letter from Richard Dare} don, to the Pc dent of Congress: General Ward designs in a few days to retire from his military depart- ment; the appointment of a General Officer in his place is necessary, - - - - 8, Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of Safety to the Committee of War in Massachu- setts: Request the loan of a few large cannon for the defence of Portsmouth, - - 8, Letter from Ethan Allen to the Gosnenacat Assembly: The cruel treatment he has re- ceived from the British officers; was landed at Halifax on the 5th instant, and is now in the common jail there, - - 9, Extract of a letter from the Hague: affairs in Europe, - 9, Letter to the Printer of the ioaan Pabligk Ledger: Relations of France and England ; Lord Stormont, Mr. St. Paul, and the French Court, - - - - * “ : 9, Intelligence from Williamsburgh, Virginia: Lord Dunmore took leave of the Capes of Virginia on the 7th; has with him near four hundred in all—regulars, negroes, and tories, 9, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to the Committee for St. Mary’s County, - 9, Letter from the Council of Safety to their Dele- gates in Congress: The Flying-Camp are beginning tomove. General Dent is elected for Charles County. Under all the difficulties arising from the want of arms and necessa- ries, and also from resignations, the Council are exerting themselves to the utmost, - 9, Letter from Lieutenant Pownall to the Maryland Council of Safety, = - - - . 9, Letter from Samuel Chase to General Gates: On his letter to Mr. Adams of July 17, - 9, Resolutions of Pennsylvania Convention, - Pay and Rations in the Continental service, - 9, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- ington: Colonel Miles will march to New- York with his Riflemen. A cowardly, infa- mous spirit of desertion, prevails in his Army too much; General Washington’ s letter to the Associators will be read to each corps, and must have good effects, - - = State of 854 855 855 855 856 | 987 1033 857 857 859 859 859 860 860 861 861 863 863 864 864 865 865 CONTENTS. 1776. Aug. 9, Letter from Colonel Guy Johnson to Lord George Germaine: Arrived at Staten-Island on the 29th of July; sends the best intelli- gence he can procure respecting the back country and the Indians, - - - Declaration of Thomas Gumersall, who left the Mohock country about the beginning of June last; taken at Staten-Island August 6, - Copy of a letter intercepted from S! Kirkland, a New-England Missionary among the Onei- das, to Mr. Schuyler, a Rebel General and manager of their affairs, dated Oneida, May 22, - - : ; a a . a 9, Letter from General Washington to Colonel Dubois: To march his Regiment to New- York as fast as an officer’s party are inlisted, 9, Letter from Lieutenant-Colonel Hardenburgh to the New-York Convention: Is at New- York with five Companies, and thinks it hard that men are taken from their homes and brought down to defend their pee with- out arms, - 9, Letter from ean Wallace to General Wish ington, - 9, Letter from eles McDougall a General Washington, - - - - - - 9, Letter from Ebenezer Hazard to General Gates, 9, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to the President of Congress: Suggests the necessity of a large quantity of salt being secured by the Congress for salting provisions for the Army, 9, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington, - - - - : - 9, Letter from Robert R. Dinitbeten to General Washington: A considerable body of troops will be on the march for King’s Bridge to- morrow ; in five or six days their number will be increased to seventeen or eighteen hun- dred men; suggests the possibility of the enemy’s destroying the bridge before any assistance could come in, - - - - 9, Letter from the New-York Convention to Ge- neral Washington: From disaffection, the want of arms, the exposed situation of Long- Island and the frontiers, the possession of one County by the enemy, and the probability of their being called upon for reinforcements for the northern frontier, they are deprived of the assistance of nine Counties of the fourteen ‘ which compose the State; it is, therefore, not in their power to do as much at this crisis as the cause of America requires, - - 9, Examination of Nathaniel Mills, Caleb Mills, Joshua Mills, and Elizabeth Hicks, on mieet s County, New- York, - ~ : 9, Letter from Jacob Cuyler and esnaes Gane. voort to the New-York Convention, - - 9, Letter from the Committee of Poughkeepsie to the New-York Convention: They labour under many difficulties for the want of cash for the publick service, —- - 9, Letter from Richard Varick to Goren! Bates 3 Will send supplies as fast as possible, - - 9, Letter from Colonel Dayton to the Indian Chiefs: Sends two barrels of powder, - - 9, Letter from General Waterbury to General Gates: None of the troops at Skenesborough have tents, except the small parhies of the New-York Regiments, - 9, Letter from General Gates to Gaui Richard Varick, - = « i 9, Letter from Obadiah Toleen to Governour Trumbull, - - - - - - - 9, Letter from Colonel Cooke to Governour Trum- bull: Has called out his Regiment, and ex- pects to march, in a short time, to New- York; but as it is near seed time, it will very much damp the zeal of the people, if Ber cannot expect to be soon dismissed, - 9, Letter from Colonel Crafts to the Massachusetts Council, - - 9, Letter from Timothy Tanodam to ion Avery, - 9, Letter from Colonel Mitchell to the Massachu- setts Council, - - 9, Notice of a prize taken by the Hancock, of Philadelphia, - 9, Letter from Colonel Gale to the New-Hamp- shire Council of Safety, - - LX 866 866 867 868 868 869 869 869 870 1491 1507 1513 871 872 872 872 872 873 873 874 874 874 874 875 LXI CONTENTS. LXII 1776. tne. 10, Letter from Charles W. F. Dumas to the Secret Aug. 10, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates : Committee of Congress, (original,) - - 875 Major Bigelow has returned safe, though his 10, Letter from Charlensive F. Dumas to the Secret embassy, “has proved abortive in some re- Committee of Congress, (translation, ) = 878 spects, - - - - 888 10, Letter from Colonel Ric eet % to General Washington: Captain Harris, who has just arrived at Newport, fell in with a fleet of one hundred and eight sail of ships-of-war and transports about ‘the latitude of Sandy-Hook, 888 10, Letter from Governour Trumbull to the New- York Convention: Desires the Tory prison- ers from New-York may be removed from Connecticut, - - - - : - 888 Letter from the Committee for Albany, New- York, August 2, to Governour Trumbull: with a number. of Tory prisoners, - - - 889 Lette rfrom Arthur Lee to C. W.F. Dumas, dated July 6: The strange timidity of the French Courtrequires great patience and management, 881 Letter from Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas, dated July 26, - - - - 881 10, Extract of a letter gah Gaps Frangois: It is said an armament is now fitting out at Brest of twenty sail of the line, twelve frigates, and fourteen thousand land forces! - - - 882 10, Letter from the Committee for Prince George’s County to the Maryland Council of Safety: They cannot he Near arms and blankets without money, 882 10, Letter from the Albany Committee to the New- 10, Letter from Archer & Piers itd the Maryland York Convention: respecting the Tory pri- Council of Safety, = - - 882 soners, - - - - - - - 889 10, Letter from the President of Gonutees hs Bane 10, Letter from Colonel] Fitch to Governour Trum- enclosing lists of promo- bull: Has received General Washington’s orders to call out his Regiment and march forthwith to New-York; but is sick, and de- sires a field-officer may be appointed to take eral Washington: tions in the ‘Army of the American States, - 883 10, Letters from the President of Congress to Ma- jor-Generals Heath, Spencer, Sullivan, and Greene, with their commissions, - - 883 command and call the men out, - - 891 10, Letters from the President of Congress to Brig- 10, Letter from the BLS se yer Council to Ma- adier-Generals Read, Nixon, St. Clair, Mc- jor Hawley, - 891 Dougall, Parsons, and Clinton, bay their 11, Letter from Colonel rie ‘Stephen S <7 commissions, - 883 Council of Virginia, - - - 892 11, Letter from Colonel Ewing to a Maryland Council of Safety: urging, if there is any way possible, to let him have arms; has none 10, Letter from the Pedaldont of eustGss to Wil- liam Tudor, appointed Judge-Advocate Gen- eral to the ‘Army, with the rank of Lieuten- ant-Colonel, - - - - - BA geo: for his battalion, which is meee to march for 10, Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- the Jerseys, = - 892 ral Washington, 884 11, Letter from Captain Thaenad i the Maryland 10, Letter from William Floyd to oles iWeKedson: 884 Council of Safety, - 892 10, Resolutions of the Pennsylvania Convention 11, Letter from James Gibson to the Maryland for the encouragement of the Associators, - 884 Council of Safety, - - - - 893 10, Resolutions of the Lancaster Committee for 11, Letter from John Bartlett to John Vevadead - 893 marching the Associators, - - 885 11, Letter from Stephen Parker to Jonathan Be 10, Resolutions of the New-Jersey Convention for Smith: Is about to return to Machias; his preventing desertion, - - 885 coming to Philadelphia has not been attend- — 10, Letter from General Mercer to General Washing- ed with such success as the deplorable cir- ton: Will push forward to New-York as many cumstances of that people constrained him ofthe troopsascan be prevailedupontomarch, 885 warmly to wish, LW Pedant - 893 10, Letter from Robert H. Harrison to General — 11, Letter from Gehdral Mercer to General Wagh. Mifflin: General Washington requests his ington: Has sent about twelve hundred particular attention to works erecting on the spears, and will push on as many of the other side of King’s Bridge; the enemy ah Flying-Camp and volunteers as_ possible. attempt to destroy the Bridge, - - 886 The Pennsylvania Associators continue to 10, Letter from General Washington to Colonel Efity. 886 desert by bodies, = - 894 10, Letter from General Washington to Richard — 11, Leiter from General Mercer a Caloucls Dek Varick, - - 2 886 inson: Has requested New-Jersey to order 10, Letter from General Washington to Timothy out the Militia to prevent the desertion of Edwards: With two Stockbridge Indians, the Pennsylvanians, - — - 895 who have expressed the desire of their peo- — 11, Letter from General Mercer to GAloaele Dick ple to become part of the eh of the Uni- inson: requesting him to use his utmost ted States, - - 886 address to induce the Militia to before their 10, Letter from Aaron Burr to Piiothy Bier’ The King’s land army is at present fifteen or duty at this critical time, - - 895 11, Letter from Admiral Hawe to Lord ere Germaine: sixteen thousand strong; they expect very soon to exceed twenty-five thousand. They are to invest New-York by the North and East rivers, to land on both sides the Island, draw a line across, which will hem us in and He had little expectation that his Letters and Declarations would reach the hands of His Majesty’s Governours. His object was, that they should be circulated as extensively as possible throughout the Pro- vinces, = - - - - 895 11, Letter from General Winbieaeed ft the oii mittee for Queen’s County, New-York: re- questing them to take care of the property of the suspected persons that have been ap- totally cut off all communication, - - 887 10, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: Has sent over nine suspected Tories from Long-Island this morning, - = 1897 10, Commission for Lewis Graham as Judge af the High Court of Admiralty for the ‘State of prehended and sent to Connecticut, - - 896 New-York, - = 2 - 1494 11, Letter from General Washington to the New- 10, Resolutions & the New-York Gsivondoh for York Convention, ~- - - - 896 embodying the Militia of the State, - - 1495 11, Letter from Geiieral Washington to Gaverncn: 10, Letter from the New-York ~orktnsee de ye to Wil- liam Paulding, - z 10, Letter from Colonel Blauvelt t to tha Newark Trumbull: Is compelled to trouble him with more suspected persons, whose characters are such as to make it unsafe for them to - 1496 Convention, - - 1503 remain at their usual aon of abode on 10, Letter from Colonel Folivide i ha Net York Long-Island, ~ - - - - 897 Convention, - 1507 11, Letter from Colonel Huntington to Governour 10, Letter from William Repti ve the N ewiVork Trumbull, - - - 898 Convention, ~ - - 1507 11, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: The sick in the Regimental Hospital suffer for want of proper accommodation, - 898 11, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ington: enclosing a list of the principal Tories in the different towns on Long- Island, - - - « Le r - 898 10, Letter from General Gates to Major Hawldy: requesting him to write to the Committee at Number Four, to put a stop to the pernicious practice of inoculating the Militia, and to send the Doctor who inoculates imitiediz ately to jail, = - - 70 ie - - 901 CONTENTS. 1776. Resolutions of New-York Convention on the LXIII LXIV 76. Alug. 11, Letter from the Rev. Samuel Provost to the New-York Convention: requesting to be excused from delivering a sermon before the information that the inhabitants of King’s County have determined not to oo te the Convention on the 27th instant, which has enemy, - 911 been set apart to be observed as a day of General Orders, Heal Quartdem Reediork, fasting, humiliation, and prayer, - - 1470 August 6 to August 12, - - 911 11, Letter from Colonel: Sipiots oe to John Aug. 12, Letter from General Washington to tha: ies. McKesson, - - 1510 dent of Congress : referring to Congress for 11, Letter from General idea to Geiiersl Setiny- their decision the case of Colonel Campbell, ler, enclosing Major Bigelow’s Journal, - 986 of the Northern Army, who has been tried 11, Potiee from General Gates to Governour fein by a General Court-Martial at Ticonderoga, - 915 bull: giving him a particular state of the Letter from General Gates to General Wash- Army in the Northern Department, - - 899 ington, July 21: with the proceedings of the 11, Letter from General Gates to General Putnam: Court-Martial on Colonel Campbell, - - 916 His progress in fortifying Ticonderoga, - 900 12, Letter from General Washington to General 11, Letter from General Gates to General Water- Lee: The strength of the enemy when the bury: To send the whole of the Massachu- Hessians arrive, cannot fall short of twenty- setts Militia to Pyeudetoge as soon as their five thousand men; ours under twenty, very tents come forward, - - - 900 sickly, and posted on Governour’s Island, 11, Letter from Colonel Ovden to eta Burr: Long-Island, at Powles Hook, Horn’s Hook, General Arnold is taking a very active part and at the pass near King’s Bridge, - - 916 in the command of the fleet on the Lake; he 12, Letter from General Washington to the New- will sail himself in a few days, - - - 901 York Convention: informing them of his 11, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General ‘Gates, 902 proceedings with the Queen’s County Tories, 917 11, Letter from Major French to General Washing- 12, Letter from General Washington to General ton; with a letter to General Howe, request- Ward, - 917 ing he may be exchanged, - - - - 902 12, Letter from Golokel McDougall to General 11, Letter from Thomas Cushing to the President Washington: with recommendation of John of Congress: On the propriety of une one Lawrence for Paymaster, - - - 918 the Missionaries among the Indians, - 902 12, List of officers in Col. John Lasher’s Re oteaent 918 Case of the Stockbridge Indians, - 903 12, List of officers in Colonel Goose Van Schaick’s 12, Extract of a Letter from Cape Nichola Mole: Regiment, - 918 It is said four French ships are to cruise 12, List of officers in Golanel Toke Migoleeat s Re- about the Island of St. pest to ae giment, - - 919 the American trade, - - - 904 12, List of officers in SGelondl Comelius D. aven- 12, Letter from General Armstrong to the Progiflent koop’s Regiment, —- - - - 919 of Congress: On the operations in ae 12, Return of sundry articles sent VR General Carolina, - : 904 Schuyler, - - 919 Opinions of the anand and Field- Qiiven on 12, Letter from Dr. Morsad to ithe Brasidand of the construction of a Resolve of Congress Congress: On the condition of the General with respect to certain Regiments in South- Hospital, - - - . - - - 919 Carolina being on the Continental establish- 12, Letter from General Greene to General Wash- ment, - - 905 ington: Four ships went through the Nar- 12, Address of the Baptist Ghireiest in ve to rows yesterday, and are at anchor nines the the Governour, - - - - - - 905 New-Utrecht shore, - - 921 Answer of Governour Patrick Henry to the Min- 12, Letter from the New-York Gaaventidh to Jolin isters and Delegates of the Baptist nes, Jay and R. R. Livingston: requiring their and the members of that communion, 906 attendance on business of importance, - 1498 12, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to 12, Letter from Captain Hamilton to the New-York Colonel Ewing, - 906 Convention, - - 1509 12, Letter from the Maryland Gaatoll ay Safety ts 12, Memorial from John Holt, Ghisles ice Gerard Hopkins, - - 906 and Thomas Elms, to the New-York Con- 12, Letter from James Ganoi chad to the Mary- vention : requesting that the Paper-makers land Council of Safety : Has left the service may be exempted from military service, - 1510 under Lord Dunmore, and is willing to enter 12, Letter from Abraham C. Cuyler and others, that of America, - - - - - 907 to the New-York Convention, - - 1526 12, Proceedings of the Baltimore Committee, - 907 12, Letter from A. C. pou to the Naved York 12, Letter from John Adams to Mrs. Adams: Thou- Convention, - - 1527 sands of schemes for privateering are afloat 12, Letter from Henry Ven Schaick is ine) Nek in American imaginations ; out of their spec- ° York Convention, - - 1527 ulations, many fruitless aa some pee eele 12, Letter from David Matthews to ibe Meviey ork projects will grow, - 907 Convention, - - 1549 12, Letter from General Mercer in the Proviaanit pf 12, Letter from David Matthews te to Mrs. Matthews, 1550 Congress: Upwards of eighty sail of ships 12, Letter from Moses pipes to the New-York have been seen standing in from sea towards Convention, - - 1551 New-York this morning. Notwithstanding 12, Last order issued by Bengaitiiceeatel Heath the desertion of many of the Associators, we to his Brigade, - - - - - 922 will have a respectable force here, - 908 12, Letter from Richard Varick to pends Gates, - 922 12, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash 12, Letter from General he gles to Captain ington: Intends to have ready at New-York, Eddy, - - - 1004 as speedily as possible, two thousand men 12, Letter from Gen. Riiatbhry és aa Gates, - 924 to reinforce the Army there, if their services 12, Letter from General Gates to Dr. Potts: Wishes are thought necessary, —- - - - 909 to be informed of the substance of a solemn 12, Letter from General Livingston to General declaration of a matter that highly concerns Washington: Two thousand men for the the interest of the United States, made by Flying-Camp under General Dickinson are the Baron de Woedtke some time before his in great forwardness; though little acquaint- death, - - - - - 3 - 924 ed with their duty, may be of service in New- 12, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General York. In the present emergency great part Schuyler - - - - - - 924 of the Militia must be kept in New-Jersey, 12, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Gtneral to supply the place of the Pennsylvania As- Gates: The controversy with Great Britain sociators, who are deserting their Post in seems now approaching fo a crisis, - 925 considerable numbers, - - - 909 12, Letter from the Rev. William Gordon to ears. 12, Letter from Lord Drummond to Lord rae! - 1027 ral Gates: The Howes have been juggling 12, Propositions communicated to hae Howe by together to learn General Washington’s tem- Lord Drummond, - - - - 1027 per; and, to their great mortification, have 12, Letter from General Washingtoif i the Presi- found it to be resolutely steady and immov- dent of Congress, . - = fa - 910 able, . . 4 “ n " - 925 & CONTENTS. 1776. ‘lug. 13, Letter from Governour Trumbull to General LXV LXVI 1776. Aug. 12, Letter from General Ward to General Washing- ton: Has sent one hundred barrels of powder to Norwich, and one chest of arms for New- Schuyler: Captain Seth Warner has consent- ed to raise a GOmpAny of seamen, for the York, - 926 Lake service, - a . - 9387 12, Letter from Sidi Bradford to eu. Washingt, 927 13, Letter from etornvec’ Trumbull to General 12, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Major Gates, - 937 Hawley: Intreat him to use his utmost to 13, Letter from Henry oaeatd to Ceara) tah raise his proportion of the fifteen hundred ington, - - 2 ze - 938 men and march them to Ticonderoga, - 927 13, Letter from Colonel Fitch to Cerematere Prout 12, Letter from Colonel Hurd to the New-Hamp- bull: His Regiment is ordered off to New- shire Committee of Safety: Sends Colonel York, but the complaints of the men are Porter, who has tried every means to Braxent without number; in all places part of their being sent to Exeter, - 927 work is done, and there are not men engugh 12, Letter from Ethan Allen to the Doadadtiont left behind to finish it, - 938 Assembly, - - 928 13, Letter from Jacob Bayley to oman} oe 13, Letter from Arthur Lee ‘i Charles W. F. Danas’ 929 The road is so well marked from Number 13, Letter from the Maryland Council of Bafety to Four to St. John’s, that cattle may be easily Colonel Hyde, - - 929 driven there, - - - - - - 938 13, Letter from Joseph Bibhandess to tie Maryland 13, Intelligence from Halifax, in Nova-Scotia, - 939 Council of Safety, - 929 13, Authentick list of the naval and aBEary, force 13, Letter from Francis Baker * the Maryland in the Province of Halifax, - - 939 Council of Safety: Returns his commission, 930 14, Letter from John Hanson, at St. Croix, to the 13, Letter from Robert Christie, Jun., to the Mary- President of Congress: Offers, if he can be land Council of Safety, = - - 930 of service, to settle his affairs, and sail for 13, Letter from Thomas Stone to the Maryland America, - . - - - 940 Council of Safety: Strength of the American 14, Letter from Colonel Thompas to ie President and British armies, and “the necessity for a of Congress, - 940° reinforcement for General Washington, - 930 14, Extract of a letter from a Field- Giices of South 13, Letter from the President of Congress to Gene- Carolina, at Camp Keowee s engagements ral Washington, - 930 with the Indians, —- 941 13, Letter from Mease and Caldwell to Hisnerd 14, Letter from the Maryland rept esi BE Safety - Peters, - - - - 931 the Committee for Rorthamhersnd Gonnty, 13, Resolutions of the Tae of iar - - - 931 Virginia, - 941 13, Letter from John Hubley to William Atlee, - 931 14, Letter from John Dalton i the Maryland create 13, Persons appointed by the Committee for Ches- cil of Safety, - 942 ter County, Pennsylvania, to provide for the 14, Letter from Samuel Michal, to the Maryland distressed families of the Associators, when Council of Safety: Two tons of flint-stones they are in actual service, - - - 932 may be readily got at Emerson’s Landing, - 942 13, Letter: from General Hawa to General TTA 14, Letter from Dr. Wicmenthat to the Meryland ington: For permission for the landing of Council of Safety, - 942 Robert Temple, ~ - - 932 14, Letter from Captain Lowe to the Maryland 13, Letter from General Washington to the Prachioht Council of Safety, for money, - 942 of Congress: Sends to the care of Congress 14, Letter from Colonel Hollingsworth to the Mary- all the publick papers in his hands, lest by any land Council of Safety, - - 942 . event they may fallinto the hands obit enemy, 932 14, Letter from Robert Morris to Gen. yethneugn 943. 13, Letter from General hates to General Extract of a letter from Clarke & Nightingale, Schuyler, - “ - - - 932 of Providence, Rhode-Island,_— - 943° 13, Letter from General aiid to Rential Washing- 14, Letter from pe Adams to Mrs. petiore Tee ton: requesting payment for rey Brigade, to vices for a medal to commemorate the sur- the Ist of August, - 933 render of Boston to the American arms. 13, Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed i the Bees Notice of M. du Simitiere, - - 943 dent of Congress: with two suspected per- 14, Letter from Cesar Rodney to Thomas Heeear 944 sons, arrested by order of General Washing- 14, Letter from Francis Lewis to Mr. Gates, - 945 ton, who has Beek them to g° to Phila- 14, Regulations for the sale of Salt, established by delphia, are 934 the Pennsylvania Convention, Solin) <= 946 13, Letter from Stephen Moylan to the Beenie tte 14, Proceedings of the Commitee for Lancaster, of Congress, - 934 Pennsylvania, 7 946 13, Letter from ‘ite Baron iia Cues to Richard 14, Letter from Clement Biddle to Richard jee 948 Peters, - ~ 934 14, Return of the Army in New-Jersey, under the 13, Letter fins the Nelwia York GativenG Je to Mena: command of General Mercer, - 963 ral Washington: By sparing them the dis- 14, Letter from Governour Tryon to Lord Pane agreeable task of apprehending the disaffect- Germaine: The confederated Colonies have ed, he has conferred upon them a consider- declared themselves independent States. Wile obligation, - - - 1502 The whole armament, except the last divi- 13, Letter from Robert Yates, Ginicrts of the sion of Hessians, being now assembled at Secret Committee at Poughkeepsie, to the Staten-Island, by the courage and strength New-York Convention, - - - = 1515 of this noble Army tyranny wal, be crushed 13, Letter from General Scott to the New-York and legal government restored, - - 949 Convention: In favour of eta Taylor, a- 14, Letter from ‘General Washington o the Presi- prisoner, - - 934 dent of Congress: The enemy have received 13, Letter from Schivdul ava to the Ne wala | an augmentation to their fleet, of ninety-six Convention: It is necessary to remove his ships. Colonel Varnum, of Rhodes Island, press from New-York to some place of safety, 935 has tendered his resignation, conceiving fie 13, Letter from Gen. Wadsworth to Gov. Trumbull, 935 self greatly injured i in not having been noticed 13, Letter from Robert Yates to General Washing- in the late promotions of General Officers, - 949 ton: The fortifications at West-Point, op- Letter from Colone! Henshaw to General Wash- posite Fort Montgomery, are going on with ington, July 6, - - - 950 spirit; it is a most doe post for the de- Examination of Thomas Ciene a veneers hard fence of the river, - 935 Staten-Island, - . . : - 950 13, Letter from Captain Smith (s prisoner) an the 14, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- New-York Convention, - - 936 | dent of Congress: Captain Mocballe, a Dutch 13, Letter from Governour Trombull to Gaaarel gentleman, “from Surinam, desires to enter Washington: The strength of the enemy and the service of the States, - - 951 the weakness of the American Army were 14, Letter from General Washington to Ceneral equally unforeseen and surprising ; has order- James Clinton, - - - - - - 951 ed fourteen Regiments of the Connecticut 14, Letter from General Washington to General Militia to march without loss of time as a Gates: He is mistaken with senerd to the reinforcement, - : - ; : - 936 Council of War, - - - - 951 LXVII CONTENTS. iar 14, Letter from General Ak ee tie to James Bowdoin, - - : 4 : 14, Letter from General Scott to the New-York Convention: Case of Willet Taylor, - - 14, Roll of the Troop of Horse of King’s County, New-York, who were on mah to drive off the stock, - - 14, Roll of the Troop of Hive of | Oudeti s Donne, 14, Application of John Broome and others to the New-York Convention for a commission for a privateer, - = 14, Examination of Isaac Beast! Capen Hallet and others, of Queen’s County, New-York, have gone over to the British at Staten-Island, 14, Letter from Joseph Trumbull, Commissary- General, to the New-York Convention, - 14, Letter from Henry Wilmot to the New-York Convention: with the examination of John Sloane and Thomas Clarke, - - - 14, Letter from Robert Yates, Sebati at to the New- York Convention, - > 14, Letter from William staal to che New! York Convention, - - - - 14, Letter from Thomas Graiit to the New-York Convention, - - 14, Letter from the New- York Gouvention 46 the Committee for Ulster County, - . - 14, Letter from Robert Yates to General Washing- ton: requesting a supply of powder for two armed vessels, as the little powder belonging to New-York is dispersed through the Coun- ties for the use of the Militia, = - - - 14, Letter from General Waterbury to Gen. Gates, 14, Letter from General Gates to General Water- bury: requesting him to send to Tyonderoga all the troops from Massachusetts and New- Hampshire, now at Skenesborough, - - 14, Letter from General Gates to Colonel Ganse- voort, - 14, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: The three men sent to St. John’s have re- turned safe, with aay. intelligence from that quarter, - 14, Letter from Govemour THainbull to Geers Gates: Is happy to hear that the Army be- gins to emerge from the state of distress and dejection that chee a their retreat from Canada, - 14, Thomas Genet deetarea to veh disaireetad' to the United States, by the Committee for Nor- walk, Connecticut, - - - - - 14, Letter from Colonel] Hinman to Governour Trumbull: Of his Regiment, called out to .reinforce General Washington, several Com- panies have gone, and to-morrow the US will be off, - - 14, Letter from Captain Barnes: of Khe Eagle, & his owners in Whitehaven, England: with an account of his capture by the. eee ery Captain Bucklin, = - 14, Letter from Major Hawley ts Genéril Gated: Number-Four is ninety miles from North- ampton. It is contrary to the orders of the Council of the State that a man should aaLy to inoculate, - 14, Letter from Major Hawléy to the Massachusetts Council, - - - - 14, Letter from Benjamin Greenleaf eb the Meeas: chusetts Council, = - - - - 14, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to re Committee of Salem, - - 14, Letter from Jacob Emerson to the Masdichn- setts Council; Calling their attention to Colonel Campbell, and “other prisoners, = 14, Lemuel Hedge disarmed, and confined to the limits of his own farm, by the Committee for Warwick, Massachusetts, - - 14, Proclamation by the Lieutenant- Gorenout Bf Halifax: Forbidding the master of any ves- sel to take on board any person to convey him from thence, under a penalty of any pounds, - - - ~ 15, Notice from the Cifeiisatoers for the sale of Lord Dunmore’s estate, - 15, Letter from the Maryland Council of Salety te Colonel Hollingsworth, - 15, Letter from Major Brooke to the Maryland Council of Safety, resigning his commission, 952 953 955 955 956 957 957 958 958 958 958 958 959 959 959 960 960 960 1776. Aug. 15, Letter from Jesse Hollingsworth to the 2g land Council of Safety, —- 15, Letter from John Veazy to the > Maryland Coun- cil of Safety, - 15, Letter from William Cox to Richard Reibrd: recommending William Strong, who is so- liciting employ i in some publick ont asa clerk, - 15, Petition of Major ered in behalf of the offibers and soldiers taken prisoners on the 31st of December last, at the storming of Quebeck ; requesting a cartel may be settled for an ex- change of prisoners, - - - - Fi 15, Pennsylvania Convention direct the command- ing officer of each Battalion or Company of Associators to return a list of all who have deserted from their respective corps, - - 15, Persons appointed to relieve the distressed fami- lies of Associators in Reading, Berks yt are Pennsylvania, - 15, Letter from General aetserst to General Wash- ington, - - - 15, Letter from General Réberiea a Gatien Washington, - - 15, Letter from Lord Howe die Lexa Deviniolas 15, Letter from General Howe to Lord Gobrce Germaine: Informs him of the arrival of the two fleets, under the convoy of Commodore Hotham and the Repulse; the Guards and Hessians on board are ey to be very healthy, - - - 15, Letter from General Washitieton to the sBfes- dent of Congress, - - General Orders, Head- Qiartaie N Swaiviork. August 13 to August 15, - . - 15, Letter from General Washington to the ew York Convention, - - 15, vate from Andrew Reatiniok to Robert Ben- on, - = - - - - 15, Lee from fosepH Trumbull to the President of Congress, - - - . - 15, Letter from General Greene to “General Wash- ington: Colonel Hand reports that the Hes- sians were oe on Staten-Island last evening, - - - - 15, Letter from Richard Varick to Gaara Gates: The return of General Schuyler from the Ger- man-Flats is hourly expected, - - 15, Letter from Colonel Dayton to General Sechagler 15, Letter from General Waterbury to General Gates: None of the Continental Regiments have arrived at Skenesborough, and the Mili- tia come in very slowly, - - - - 15, Letter from Col. Gansevoort to Gen. Gates, - 15, Letter from General Gates to Colonel Hartley: General Arnold will jasc pag gh make a cruise down the Lake, - - - 15, List of the Fleet on Lake Ghainplaint - - 15, Letter from George Pitkin to Governour Trum- bull: requesting permission to retire on the arrival of his Regiment at New-York, - - 15, Letter from Oliver Wolcott to Governour Trum- bull, - - - - - - - - 15, Letter from Colonel Lewis to Governour Trum- bull: His Regiment, in number about four hundred and twenty, marched from Fairfield for New-York yesterday ; Captain Cooley has refused to take up arms against the King, and Captain Sumner’s company are ety Tories, and refuse to obey him, - - 15, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to Colo- nel Herrick: to direct a er mray to chee officers, - 15, Letter from the Wh nesachdeetis Gouneils to the Committee of Reading: respecting the pri- soners with Colonel Campbell, . - « 15, Letter from James Bowdoin to the Massachu- setts Council, - - - - - - 15, Intelligence from Boston: Prizes, &c., - - 15, Extract of a letter from Halifax: An expedition has been formed there for landing some men at St. John’s Fort, on St. John’s River, in the Bay of Fundy, - 16, Letter from Goieuel Hasest to in ‘Lewis Gervais, - 16, Intelligence from Williamebneety Beitr The First Virginia Continental Regiment has marched for New-York. Indian affairs, - LXVIII 960 961 961 962 962 962 964 996 - 1027 963 963 964 1511 1530 966 967 968 1033. 968 969 969 969 970 970 970 971 971 971 972 973 973 973 EE ee ae ae ps, 16, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to the tent-makers: *To get the tents msec y with the greatest despatch, 16, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Captain Dean: requiring him paiperiately - to march to Philadelphia, - 16, Letter from the Maryland Council ~ Safety to Captain Bourke: Arms for his Company have been procured, and he is poneingd to pigcatd to Philadelphia, - 16, Letter from the Maryland Council ns Safety to the Committee for Dorchester County, - 16, Letter from the Maryland Council of Batty to Edward Parker, : 16, Letter from the Maryland elses of Salety fh the Linen Manufacturers, - 16, Letter from the Maryland Council a Safety Fa Jesse Hollingsworth, - - 16, Letter from the Council of Safety to ete Mary- land Delegates in Congress: Will have four thousand men with the Army ina short time ; this is more than their Brg heton of the Flying-Camp, - - List of the Troops aerated a Maryland - 16, Letter from the Maryland Council of mataty to Captains Smyth and Perkins, — - 16, Letter from the paniiene Coynell of Salty ie John Gordon, - 16, Letter from Captain Smyth % the Maryland Council of Safety, = - - 16, Letter from the President of Congress to eames ral Washington, - 16, Letter from Philip Livingston to the Kero Convention, - 16, Letter from the Marine ecramnttee of ances to Captains Jones and Hallock, - - - 16, Resolutions of the Pennsylvania Convention: Respecting the Associators who have de- serted, - - 16, Letter from the Gaceatan of Newey crass to the Board of War, - First Battalion of New-Jersey Troops, ard Stirling Colonel, - Second Battalion of New-Jersey, Wilhane Max- well Colonel, - Third Battalion of New-Jersey, Elias Dayton Colonel, - 16, Letter from Lord Hore to Dr. Franklins He has no powers to negotiate a reunion with America under any other description than as subject to the Crown of Great Britain, - 16, Letter from General Howe to Lord George Germaine: Has appointed Captain Macken- zie Paymaster General for the Provincial Corps already raised, and the new levies which may probably be made in the progress of this American war, - - - 16, Letter from General Suet niandt to the Presi- dent of Congress: With great regret he men- tions to Congress the sickly condition of the troops; none of the Field-Officers in some of the pasate are capable of doing duty, - - - 16, Letter from Gener! Washington to the New- Jersey Convention: Requests Isaac Low, late of New-York, may be released from re- straint, = - = . = * - - 16, Letter from General Washingiony to Governour Trumbull, - - - 16, Letter from General TWtashisiaton to Brederick Jay: with several disaffected persons, on their way to Governour Trumbull, - - 16, Letter from General Scott to Robert Ben- son, - - - - - - - - 16, Letter from Major Nicholas Fish to the New- York Convention, - - 16, William S. Livingston to seen Washington: Is desired by General Greene (who is sick) to say that a considerable number of Hes- sians were banding esterday on Staten- Island, - 16, Letter from William Flodicat to Genéral Brash ington: By order of General Greene, he in- forms that fourteen vessels have entered the Narrows, - - - - - 16, Intelligence from New-York: Ratbaspt tostestroy the British vessels in the North River with fire-ships, - : - - - - - 974 974 974 975 975 975 975 975 976 976 976 976 977 977 977 978 978 978 979 979 979 980 980 980 981 981 981 982 982 CONTENTS. 776. “ths. 16, Letter from General Schuyler to the President of Congress: His character has been barba- rously traduced ; urges in the strongest man- ner the propriety ‘of examining, with the strictest scrutiny, into his conduct; he should be convicted or acquitted of whatever may be laid to his charge, —- 16, Letter from General Schuyler to Ge uacal Wash- ington, - - Letter from Conaral Cates to aca Schuyler, August 11, - - - Journal of Major John Bigelow. Taly 28, - Paper delivered to Captain Bigelow by Captain Craig, at Isle-aux-Noix, August Se) ac 16, Extract of a letter from Skenesborough : The Army is every day receiving reinforcements, by single companies, from the different States of New- England, - - - 16, Letter from General Arnold to emer Cates - 16, Letter from Jacob Bayley to General Gates, - 16, Letter from Richard Law to Governour Trum- bull: Has had an interview with General Washington, and is in hopes there is not that foundation for Jealousy that was appre- hended,_ - - - - ~ Parole given by the Tapered persons sent from New-York to Connecticut, - - - Instructions for the Officer appointed to go to Connecticut with the prisoners, - - 16, Letter from the Massachusetts Council to the Council of Safety of New-Hampshire: It is not in the power of Massachusetts to supply New-Hampshire with any cannon, - - 16, Intelligence trom Newburyport : Prizes, - - 16, Letter ‘from Thomas Fletcher to the Massachu- setts Council: Conference with the Penob- scot Indians, - - - - 16, New-Hampshire Toler Cees - - 17, Letter from William Finnie to the President of Congress, 17, Letter from ‘the Maryland Cage na Safety to Captain Deakins: Should send to ABBABCHS immediately the men he has got, 17, Letter from the Maryland Council of Salety ‘4 Colonel Hollingsworth, - 17, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety ts Colonel Richardson, - - 17, Letter from the Maryland Council bs Safety a Captains George and Alexander, - 17, Letter from Dr. Tootell to the Maryland Ceti cil of Safety, - - - 17, Resolution of the Maryland onesie to maintain the freedom and mdenendenny of the United States, - - - - 17, Baltimore Committee order the arrest of ans: topher Limes, - - - - 17, Letter from the President of Gameicss a Gen- eral Washington: Has received the box of publick papers, and is directed by Seagarass to take care of it, = - 17, Letter from Commodore Hiopins Ps the eee dent of Congress, - - - - - 17, Letter from the Committee for Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, to the President of Congress, - - - - - Account of moneys advanced to the Gs eat of the marching Militia and Flying-Camp Companies of Cumberland County, - - 17, Resolutions of the New-Jersey Convention making Continental Bills of Credit a legal tender, - - - - - ~ 17, Letter from the Committee of Monmcuths New- Jersey, to the New-York Convention, - 17, Letter from Gen. Washington to Lord Howe, - 17, Letter from Lord Drummond to General Wash- ington, - - 17, Letter from General Washington to Lord Dams mond, - - - 17, Letter fam Gen. Via lonetod to ip Hames - 17, Letter from General Washington to the Breet. dent of Congress, - ~ - - - Letter from eaters Roberdeau to General Washington, August 15, - . a Examination of Captain “Alexander antes! escaped from on board the Rockingham transport, - 2 - - - Examination of Isaac Taniaes a Pilot of Phila- delphia, escaped from the British fleet, - LXX 983 985 986 986 987 988 988 989 989 989 990 990 990 990 991 991 992 992 992 993 993 993 993 993 994 994 995 995 1534 1026 1026 1027 1094 995 996 996 996 CONTENTS. LXXII LXXI wis Examination of a deserter from Staten-Island, 996 An 17, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Nathaniel Examination of John Hammond, - - ~ 997 Shaw, Jun.: The Tory prisoners at New- Examination of William Brooks, - 997 London will be taken care of till further Aug. 17, Letter from General Washington to the New- orders are given, - - 1004 York Convention: recommending the re- 17, Proceedings of the Gonneotiuat ‘Goiees) of moval of the women and children from the Safety, August 9 to August 17, - - - 1005 City, - - - . - - - 997 17, Intelligence from Providence, Rhode-Island : 17, Proclamation by General Washington: recom- Prizes, - : - - - 1010 mending to all women, children, and infirm 17, Letter from the Count of Massachusetts to persons “to. remove with * expedition from the President of the State of New-Hampshire, 1010 the City, - - 998 17, Letter from Eleazer Russel to Meshech Weare: 17, Letter ae Colonel Reed to Neeneral Heath : His reasons for not signing the Association, 1010 with M. Martin, an Engineer, - - 998 18, Letter from Silas Deane to the Committee of 17, Letter from Colonel Cary to General Herth: - 998 Secret Correspondence of Congress: His 17, Letter from William S. Livingston to General proceedings and negotiations in France, - 1011 Washington: General Greene had a very bad 18, Letter from Silas Deane to C. W. F. Dumas, - 1021 night, and i is no better this morning than he 18, Letter from Baron de Beaumarchais to the Com- was yesterday, - - - 998 mittee of Secret Correspondence of Congress, 1021 17, Report of Committee of ‘New- Work ‘Convention 18, Extract of a letter from the camp near Seneca: on removing the prisoners from Kingston to Engagement with the Indians, - - - 1023 Morris-Town, New-Jersey, - - - 1517 18, Letter from Colonel Ewing to the Maryland 17, Letter from the New-York Convention to the Council of Safety, - 1023 Committee for Ulster County, - - - 1518 18, Letter from Captain Bourk a the Maryland 17, Letter from John McDonald, miner, to the Council of Safety, - - 1024 New-York Convention, - - - - 1519 18, Letter from the Maryland Cate aaah an a 17, Letter from the Committee of Safety for West- President of Congress for ten thousand dol- chester County to the New-York Conven- lars, on account of aaa se jis for the ys tion: Concerning some prisoners brought ing-Camp, 1024 from Bedford to White-Plains, and Tories 18, Letter from Tonk Bartlett ¥ Coloael Whip- lately confined in their jail, - : - 1523 | ple: The ship Morris is arrived from France 17, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gen- with sail-cloth, lead, powder, &. Commo- eral Washington: They agree to the pro- dore Hopkins has been found guilty of dis- posed obstructions in the East River, - - 998 obedience of orders, and Congress have 17, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gen- ordered him to be censured, = = - - 1024 eral Washington: A committee has been “ 18, Extract ofa letter from John Adams, - - 1025 appointed to provide for the removal of wo- 18, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- men and children from the City, - - 999 dent of Congress, - - - - - 1025 17, Resolutions of the New-York Convention for Letter from General Howe to General Wash- the removal of the women, children, and ington, August 13, - - - - - 1026 infirm persons, remaining in the City, - 999 Letter from General Wantnaor to Copeia! 17, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates, 1000 Howe, August 17, - - 1026 17, Letter from H. Glen to Walter Livingston, - 1001 Letter from Lord Drummond is General Wash- 17, Extract of a letter from an Officer at Fort Stan- ington, August 17, - - - - - 1026 wix: Ensign Younglove, of the Third Batta- Letter from Lord Drummond to Lord Howe, lion of New-Jersey, killed by the Indians, - 1001 August 12, - - - - - - 1027 17, Letter from General Waterbury to General Sketch of propositions communicated to Lord Gates: Wishes some quarter-deck plank to Howe by Lord Drummond, August 12, - 1027 be sent to Skenesborough, - - - 1001 Letter from Lord Howe to Lord “Drummond, 17, Letter from General Waterbury to General August 15, - - - - - - 1027 Gates: Is obliged to employ twelve boats Letter from General Washington to itty Drum- constantly in Wood Creek, - - 1001 mond, August 17, - - - 1027 17, Letter from General Gates to General Water- 18, Letter from General Washington . thes Mews bury: Sends twenty batteaus to bring such York Convention: He cannot advance any _ of the Massachusetts troops as have arrived money for expenses incurred in obstructing at Skenesborough, - -~— - - + 1002 the navigation of the East River, - - 1028 17, Letter from General Gates to Colonel eae 18, Letter from General Washington to Governour voort, - ~ = 1002 Trumbull: Captain Thomas, it is feared, 17, Letter from Genes) Arnold to Gondral Gates: perished in the attempt to fire the Phenix ; Commodore J. Wynkoop has refused to obey the whole British forces in America, except his orders, and imagines his appointment by those employed in Censdas, are now at New- General Schuyler cannot be superseded, - 1002 Yorkjuow- - 1028 17, Orders from General Arnold to Caplan Sea- 18, Letter from William Blodget t to Leet Wash- man, - 1002 ington: General Greene is better, and is in 17, Letter from Ghrniadote Wiyukoon to ised hopes in a few days to be able to go abroad, 1029 Arnold: Knows no orders but what are given 18, Letter from Lewis Morris to Abraham Yates, - 1522 out by himself, except sailing orders from the 18, Letter from Jonathan G. Tompkins to the New- Commander-in-Chief, - - - - 1002 York Convention: relating to Josiah and 17, Letter from General Arnold, Commander-in- Isaac Brown, imprisoned at the White-Plains, 1524 Chief of the fleet on Lake Champlain, to 18, Letter from General Heath to General Wash- Commodore J. Wynkoop: If he does not obey ington: The Rose and Phenix have peeced orders, will be under the disagreeable neces- down the river, - 1029 sity of immediately arresting him, - - 1003 18, Letter from David Mattheuure to te Se Recagie 17, Letter from Commodore Wynkoop to General Begs the favour of being heard before the Pro- . Gates: General Arnold says he is to have the vincial Congress, before they come to a final : command of the Navy. Without showing determination about him, - - 1030 | any authority for it, he ordered two schoon- 18, Letter from Colonel Gilbert rake to Captain ers down the Lake, on some information he Brown: Directs him to proceed to Cortlandt’s says he had of the approach of the enemy, - 1003 Manor, and apprehend all persons disaffected 17, Letter from William Page to General Gates: to the good of the States of America, - - 1030 respecting Captain Eddy’ s company of car- 18, Letter from General Schuyler to the President penters from Rhode-Island, - . - 1003 of Congress: Transmits to General Washing- Letter from General Waterbury to Captain ton the transactions of the late treaty with Eddy, August 12: By General Gates’s orders the Indians. The commissioners thought it the company of carpenters under his com- needless to make entries of all the meetings mand, having lately had the small-pox, cannot with Indians, on affairs of eery little or no enter the service, - - - - - 1004 moment, - - 1030 Resolutions of the Committee of Wiliamatown, 18, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash- August 4, - wi zs . - - 1004 ington, - - - 1031 LXXIII 1776. Letter from General Arnold to General ai ler, August 8, - . Letter from Colonel Dayton to General Schuy- ler, August 15: Desertion of Lieutenant McMichael and others to the enemy, - - Information given by Richard Bell and Samuel Freeman of the scout from Fort Schuyler to Oswego, in pursuit of McMichael, under the command of Sergeant Youngton, - - Conference of the Commissioners for Indian Affairs with the Six Nations of Indians, at German-Flats, in August, 1776, - - Aug: 18, Letter from General Schuyler to Giébietél Gates, - - - - - : 18, Letter from General W atdebiy to General Gates: Will forward the Bay troops as fast as they arrive, according to orders, - - 18, Letter from General Gates to General Schuyler: More artillery and picts will be wanted for the fleet, - - - - - - 18, Letter from General Gates to General Arnold: Orders him instantly to put Commodore Wyn- koop in arrest, and send him prisoner to Head-Quarters at Tyonderoga, - - - 18, Letter from Colonel Stewart to General Water- bury, - - - - - - - 18, Letter from George Pitkin to Benjamin Payne, 18, Letter from Meshech Weare to James Bowdoin: Is extremely sorry at the’delay the troops met with. The villanous ee ak of the Doctor at Number Four, - 19, Opinion of the Georgia Gbinell of Safety on General Lee’s questions, as to the propriety of invading East-Florida, - - - - 19, Letter from General Lewis to the President of Congress: Has ordered the First and Third Battalions, in Virginia, to march with all speed to the Flying-Camp, in New-Jersey, - 19, Instructions to the Delegates of Anne Arundel County, in the Maryland Convention, - - 19, Letter from the Delegates in Convention to the Electors of Anne Arundel County: They consider several of the instructions, if carried into execution, destructive of free govern- ment; and submit to them the propriety of reconsidering their instructions, - ~ 19, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Colonel Hollingsworth : ue ppaeire of his on for forwarding the troops, - 19, Letter from the “Maryland Council of Safety " the Committee for Kent County, 19, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety 6 Colonel Ewing: The order of Convention is, that all companies are to march that can be armed and equipped; his ete are not to march unarmed, - 19, Letter from Isaac Griest to the. Maryland Gouts: cil of Safety: He don’t know what will be done for blankets; all the guns are in bad order, and very few have bayonets, = - - 19, Proceedings of the Baltingpre Committee, - 19, Address delivered at the opening of the election in Dover, Delaware, for the choice of Mem- bers of the Convention, - 19, Letter from John Bartlett to Jott Langton The insolence of the commanders of the British vessels-of-war in. the West-Indies is becoming intolerable; they have attempted to take possession of some American vessels in the harbour of St. Eustatia, but were pre- vented by the Dutch, - ~ - - - 19, Letter from General Wooster to the Congress: Having their approbation of his past conduct in the Army, is still one to serve in his “properrank, = - . 19, Letter from William Gics to William Atlee, - 19, Proceedings of the Sa vadel pats oe eh mittee, - - = 19, General ‘Orders, by Gites Mercar; at Blige. beth-Town, New-Jersey: Thanks ‘the Penn- sylvania Associators for their attention to duty; he relieves part, and hopes it will soon be in his power to give an honourable dis- mission to the remainder, - - Ms 19, Proceedings of the inline igen teats Committtee, - — 19, General Roberdeau’s Addrews to the Renzisyly a- nia Associatorsat Amboy,- | - ; Firra Serres.—Vot. I. 1033 1033 1034 - 1035 1050 1050 1050 1051 1051 1051 - 1051 1052 1053 1054 - 1055 1055 - 1055 - 1055 | 1056 | 1056 - 1057 | 1060 1060 1061 1061 CONTENTS. LXXIV 1776. Aug. 19, Letter from General Mercer to General Wash- ington; with some intelligence that may be eh ok consequence, - - - 1064 Information given by seen ave cainail, Isaac Osborne, and Robert Peas, escaped from a British transport, — - = - - 1064 Examination of Captain Britton, - - - 1064 19, Letter from General Roberdeau to General Washington: Informing him of a report spread by the post- -rider, - - - 1065 19, Letter from Lord Howe to Genditl Washing- ton, - - - - - - - - 1095 19, Letter from Lord Drummond to General Wash- ington, - - - - - . - 1158 19, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress, - - - - - 1065 19, Letter from General Washington to General Roberdeau: The report propagated by the Post-rider is totally destitute of truth, - - 1066 19, Letter from pet ky alu Bias to General Gates, - - - 1066 19, Extract of a letter from New! Wort Escape of the Rose and Phenix, - - - - 1066 19, Letter from Colonel Hitchcock to Géindril Washington: Thinks himself entitled to pro- motion with Colonel Varnum; the moment Colone] Varnum receives preferment, and he remains unnoticed, he will resign his com- mand; and at the end of the campaign, his whole regiment, officers and soldiers, will follow, - - 1067 19, Letter from Golanel McDougall - to General 19, Report of Captain Suydam of the Light- Horse; Washington: with the substance of the examination of Mary Debeau, - - 1068 1068 19, Examination of William Newton and others, taken bagel at ey by Captain Suydam, - - - - 1069 19, Letter from the Nuits York Camriiitee of Safety 1522 to General Clinton, - 19, Letter from General ‘Schaples to Golovel Seth Reed: Grants him leave of absence, - - 1070 19, Extract of a letter from Albany, - 5 - 1070 19, Letter from H. Glen to Walter Livingston, - 1070 19, Letter from General Waterbury to General Gates, - - - - - - 1071 19, Letter from Colonel Mott to General Gates: In consequence of sudden family afflictions, asks for a short leave of absence, - - 1071 19, Letter from the members ef a General Court- Martial at Ticonderoga to the President of Congress: On the conduct of General Ar- nold, - - - - 1072 19, Letter eas Geiiarel Gates to : Gartétal Arnold: desires that Mr. Wynkoop be sent, as already ordered, immediately, under arrest, to him, at Tyonderoga, - - - - - - 1073 19, Letter from General Gates to Governour Trum- bull: Soon as the row-galleys at Skenes- borough are completed, will despatch them, under the command of Brigadier Waterbury, to reinforce the ih dh dp now with General - Arnold, - - . - 1073 19, Letter fans General Gates to tid Rev. Mr. Olcott: Requesting that the Committee at Number-Four will call before them a certain Doctor Stevens; and that the Doctor, with his acai PASE be sent to close confine- ment, - - - 1073 19, Letter ori Gentral Aorta to piCeneral Gates: Has ordered Commodore Wynkoop to Head- Quarters; recommends that he may be per- mitted to return home without being cashiered, if it can be done with propriety, - - 1073 19, Letter from Joseph Gilbert to General Gates : The difficulties he has had to contend with in forwarding the troops with provisions, for their march to Ticonderoga, - - - 1074 19, Letter from Colonel Seyinour to Governour Trumbull, - - - - 1074 19, Letter from the Reverend William Gordon to General Gates, - - - 1074 19, Letter from General Word to General Wash- ington: Great solicitude is felt for him and the Army at New-York, - - 1075 19, Letter from Thomas W. Waldron bo Meshech Weare, - - - . - 1075 20, Extract of a letter fis St. Augustine, - - 1076 LXXV ac 20, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Jesse Hollingsworth: They want a person that understands manufacturing flints, - 1076 20, Letter from Captain Darnes to the Maryland Council of Safety: His company is really armed, and vastly anxious to receive their marching orders, - - - 1077 20, Letter from Isaac Griest to the Maryland Coun- cil of Safety, - - - 1077 20, Extract of a letter from Philadelhie! - - 1077 20, Letter from Samuel Griffin, Deputy Adjutant- General, to the Board of War, - : - 1079 General Return of the Army in New-Jersey under the command of General Mercer, - 1079 20, Proceedings of the Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Committee, - - - - - - 1079 20, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: Encloses a copy of Gen- eral Carleton’s orders. Will not trouble Con- - gress with any strictures upon this indecent, illiberal, scurrilous performance, so highly unbecoming the character of a soldier and a gentleman, - - - - - 1081 20, Letter from (oritnisents Trumbull to Colonel Chester: His beef man is sick, and there is none but Seats Isham who can supply his place, - - F - 1082 20, Letter from Gen. Heath to en Washington, 1082 20, Letter frony Colonel Dubois to General Wash- ington: His officers request they may be ordered into immediate service at New-York, or wherever it may be thought fit, - - 1082 20, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates, 1083 20, Letter from General Schuyler to Governour Trumbull: Is informed that the Connecticut troops, since their return, are striving to in- crease the unjust jealousies against him in different parts of the country. Conscious of the rectitude of his conduct, he has entreated Congress for a minute inquiry into it; if the misfortunes in Canada were occasioned by malconduct in him, he ought to be held up to publick detestation, - - - 1083 20, Letter from the Albany Committee ‘6 Governour Trumbull: On the information they have re- ceived, that the Tory prisoners from Albany, by false reports and artful insinuations, are endeavouring to Aree the character of Gen- eral Schuyler, - - - 1084 20, Letter from H. Glen io Walter Sanieton: Commissary-General, - - - - 1085 20, Letter from Colonels Pettibone and Chapman to Governour Trumbull: They are on the march to New-York, according to orders received, 1085 20, Letter from David Matthews to John McKesson: Complaining of his hard treatment, - - 1085 20, Letter from the Committee of Greenwich, Con- necticut, to General Washington: Desire to know whether the service requires the whole of the few men remaining in town to be raised immediately ; and if so, whether they can be supplied with arms on their arrival at New- Vor rere! MTB Wan aina La). 1986 20, Letter from Major Hawley to General Gates: Has done every thing in his power to sup- press the pernicious ‘practice of delaying the march of the troops for the sake of taking the small-pox, - - - - 1086 20, Letter from the Selectmen of the gown of Min- den to the Massachusetts Council : Respect- ing the conduct of the Scotch officers, prison- ers at that place, - - x - 1087 20, Proceedings of the Gomer for the County of Middlesex, Massachusetts, - - - 1087 21, Orders of the King i in Council: Prohibiting the exporting out ‘of the Kingdom, or carrying coastwise, gunpowder, saltpetre, or any sort of arms or ammunition, for three months from the 23d day of the present month of August, 1088 21, Orders of the King in Council: Continuing until the 31st day. of October the bounties to seamen who enter PS ae to serve in the Royal Navy, - - - - 1089 21, Letter from Thomas Jones i the Maryland Council of Safety: Has delivered to Thomas Walker, at the request of Captain Nicholson, four hundred and thirty-two half barrels of powder, eighteen chests of arms, &c., - - 1089 CONTENTS. Cus 21, Letter from the Maryland Council of “ip hed the Committee for Cecil County, Z 21, Letter from the ae bo Council of Salety to Isaac Griest, - 21, Letter from the Maryland Conta of Safety to the President of Congress: for ten thousand pounds, for money advanced by the Province on account of the Congress, - 21, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Samuel Dorsey, - 21, Letter from Captain Darnes ito the Maryland Council of Safety, = - - 21, Letter from Dr. Wiesenthall to the Maryland Council of Safety, = - 21, Letter from Amos Garrett ke the Maryland Council of Safety: with his account for mus- kets and bayonets, - - - - 21, Letter from Caesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney, 21, Petition of the Captains and Subalterns of the two old Virginia Regiments to the Congress, 21, Memorial of Preudhome la Jeunesse, of Mon- treal, in Canada, to the Congress: For the commission of Captain of a corps of Cana- dians, Acadians, French, and others who speak French, for operations in Canada, - 21, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress, —- - - Letter from General Washington to Lord Howe, dated August 17: On the general exchange of prisoners in the naval line, and of that of Lieutenant Josiah in particular, - - - ~ Letter from Lord Howe to General Washington, dated August 19: Will propose an exchange of an officer of the same rank with Lieuten- ant Josiah, when he arrives, . - - 21, Letter from General Abie ieee to General Schuyler, - : - 21, Letter from Joseph Rea Aap ionGeneat to the New-York Convention: Simtel a letter from Governour Martin,» - - 21, Report of A. W. Depeyster to the New+¥ork Convention: Relative to the disposition of the prisoners in Connecticut, - - - 21, Letter from General Livingston to General Washington: Information he has received from a spy returned from Staten-Island, = - 21, Extract of a letter from an Offecer on board the Royal Savage, in Lake Champlain: They ex- pect to sail to-morrow for St. John’s, - - 21, Letter from Colonel Hand to General Nixon: Embarkation and movements of the enemy, - 21, Letter from Richard Brueré and others, prison- ers, to the New-York Convention, - - 21, Resolutions of the Committee for Dutchess County, New-York: ea a SL) a ited of salt, - - 21, Petition of Gadwaladdy Gosden Tui of Ulster County, to the New-York Convention, - 21, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Sulli- van: The works at Crown-Point might have been repaired bef@ this, so that five thousand men would have stopped the enemy had they attempted toadvance ; but wiser councils have fixed on Ticonderoga; the fleet goes down the Lake to-morrow, under General Arnold, 21, Proceedings of the Connecticut Council of Safety, - - - - 21, Letter from Governour Trombull to the Massa- chusetts Council: The practice of inoculating the troops for the small-pox exposes the other troops anew to that infection, which has al- ready rendered abortive the hopes of the Army, - - - - - : 21, Orders of the Massachusetts Gouneil, - - 21, Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of Safety to Major Gains, - - - 22, Letter from Lord George Germaine to Genet Howe: on filling up army vacancies, - - 22, Letter from Lord George Germaine to ‘General Howe: Has received his plan on which the corps of Loyal Nova-Scotia Volunteers was then formed ; and hopes by the activity of the officers, they may soon be able to ta ag the corps, - - - 22, Letter from Lord Gedrae Gurniaiste to Geseval Howe: The King approves of his prudence in waiting for the arrival of reinforcements ; and also of his whole conduct and plan, - LXXVI 1090 - 1090 - 1091 - 1091 1091 1091 1092 1092 1093 1093 1094 1094 1095 1095 1528 1529 1531 1096 1111 1096 - 1096 1097 1098 1099 1100 1100 1101 1101 1102 1102 LXXVII 1776. Aug. 22, Letter from Lord George Germaine to General Howe: The King having read and considered the reasons assigned for the detention at Halifax, is of opinion that an earlier removal from there was impracticable, = - - 22, Letter from Lord George Germaine to Gover- nour Tryon: The steady loyalty of the people of Staten-Island, and their affectionate recep- tion of the troops under General Howe, can- not fail to recommend them to Govern- ment, - - - - - - - 22, Letter from Lord George Germaine to Gover- nour Carleton: It is hoped that, with the prisoners he has taken, he can procure the release of his Majesty’s officers and loyal sub-, jects who are in the disgraceful situation of being prisoners to the Rebels, without com- mitting the honour and dignity of the King or using his name in any negotiation for the purpose, - - . - - . 22, Letter from Lord George Serres to Gover- nour Carleton: on rank in the Army, - 22, Letter from Lord George Germaine to Gover- nour Carleton: The rapid success of his Majesty’s arms in driving the Rebels out of Canada does great honour to his conduct. After clearing the frontiers of Canada of all the Rebel forces, and taking possession of the Lakes, he must send a detachment to communicate with and act under the com- mand of General Howe, - - - 22, Letter from Lord George ‘Germaine to Gack: nour Carleton: The proofs the Indians have already given of their fidelity, and the mani- fest utility which large parties of them must be of to the Army leaves no room to doubt that every means has been exerted to induce them to a general declaration in our favour, - 22, Letter from Silas Deane to the Count de Ver- gennes: Is surprised by the arrival of Mr. Arthur Lee, the agent of the United Colo- nies in Great Britain, - - = 22, Letter from Cornelius Stevenson to Dr. Frank- lin: Has forwarded to him from St. Eustatia a packet from Amsterdam, - - - 22, Petition from the Committee of the Settlements of Watauga and Holstein, to the North-Car- olina Council of Safety, - > - - 22, Letter from the Marine Committee of Congress to Commodore Hopkins: instructing him to send to sea as soon as practicable the Alfred, Columbus, Cabot, and Hampden, with di- rections in what seas to cruise, - - - 22, Letter from the Marine Committee to Captain Hacker: He will receive orders from Com- modore Hopkins, - - - - - 22, Letter from the Marine Committee to Nathaniel Shaw, Jun.: requesting him to purchase a prize schooner, and equip her for a Conti- nental cruiser, - - 22, Letter from the Marine Committee ne N athaniel Shaw, Jun.: to receive certain articles the Secret Committee have directed Barnabas Deane to deliver to him, - 22, Intelligence received at Bigistiaiphigs Stravipth of the British forces on Staten- Island, - 22, Resolution of the Committee for Berks County, Pennsylvania: on the application of M. Berie Hertel de Rouville, - - - - 22, Letter from Colonel Wilson to the Teanadent of Congress: on the rewards offered to for- eign troops who will desert the cause of Great Britain, : - - - 22, Letter from General Washington t to the rei: dent of Congress: There is every reason to believe that an attack is shortly designed ; we are making Nee pace usauan to receive them, - ° mn Letter from Lord sling to Colonel Vison, - 22, Extract of a letter from New-York: Preparations of the enemy for an attack, - 22, Petition of Abel Noble and Peter TPapenserd, proprietors of the Stirling Iron Works, to the New-York Convention: for an exemption from military duty of the Fencons engaged at their works, - . ‘ Rk : Schedule of the artificers and lalate: employ- ed at the Stirling Iron Works, - . CONTENTS. 1102 1103 1103 1104 1104 1105 1105 1106 1376 1106 1107 - 1107 - 1108 1109 - 1109 - 1110 1110 1111 11114 1112 - 1112 Y 1776. Aug. 22, Letter from the New-York Convention to Col- onel Joseph Reed, - - fp : 22, Letter from the New-York rire etn to Gen- eral Washington: relative to a report that the city of New-York was to be burnt if the troops left it, - - - 22, Letter from Gancmi Heath to Glenn Mifflin : Requests him to attend the Court for inquir- ing into the conduct of the Captains of the. Row- Galleys, - a 22, Letter from Cadwallader Golden, Jun. o the New-York Convention, - - 22, Letter from General Waterbury to ere Gates, - 22, Letter from Ganaral Gates to eee Benson: Dr. Stringer has gone a preferment hunting to the Congress ‘at Philadelphia, while the troops are suffering inexpressible distress for want of medicines; entreats that this letter may instantly bé laid before General Wash- ington, - - - - - 22, Letter from Canonel Hise to General Gates: A reconnoitering party sent down the Lake, towards Gilliland’s, has just returned, and re- ports all quiet there, - - 22, Intelligence from Mewnars Rhode-Island: : Prizes, - - - “ - : 22, Letter from ‘Epiete Trumbull to General Schuyler, - - - - - ~ 22, Intelligence from Boston: Prizes, - - - 22, Letter from General Ward to General Wash- ington: Will order Captain Burbeck, with his company of Artillery, to march as soon as possible to New-York, — - - - - 22, Letter from Thomas Rice to James Warren, - Subscription for exchanging hard money for Continental bills, —- - - 22, Letter from the Massachusetts Conta to the Committee for the Town of Mendon, - 22, Letter from the New-Hampshire Committee of Safety to the Selectmen of Charlestown, (Number-Four :) Are of opinion that there is great danger that the small-pox may be car- ried from Number-Four to the Army, - . 23, Letter from Benjamin Harrison, Jun., to the President of Congress: with his accounts, - 23, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to Captain Darnes: The Convention has direct- ed them to despatch all the companies of the Flying-Camp that could be armed, with the utmost despatch, - 23, Letter from the Maryland Cacned “Of Salty to Edward Parker, - - 23, Letter from J. Nicholson to the Marland roti cil of Safety: Captain Darnes has been ex- ceedingly active, in endeavouring to arm his company of the Flying-Camp, to march to the northward ; he has pearly got them Sip ped for that purpose, : 23, Appointment of James White as lannaocene missary for the Province of Pennsylvania, - 23, Letter from the Marine Committee of Congress to Lieutenant Baldwin: Instructions for his cruise in the Continental schooner Wasp, 23, Stephen Shewell and Joseph Shewell declared enemies to their country by the Philadelphia Committee, - - - - - 23, Discharge of the battalions of et trie from the City of Philadelphia, they having com- pleted six weeks’ service, - " “ 23, Extract of a letter from an officer returned from the German-Flats, - - « 23, Letter from General Washington the rece dent of Congress: Eight or nine thousand of the British have landed at Gravesend- Bay, on Long-Island, and approached within three miles of our lines. talions from New-York, which is all that can be spared, as an attack is anticipated there. Owing to the sickness of General Greene, General Sullivan is appointed to the com- mand of the Army on Long-Island,_ - : 23, Letter from General Washington to General Heath: The enemy halted last night at Flat- bush, - 5 - 23, Letter from Gen. Sullivan to Gen Washington, 23, Letter from Colonel Cooke to Governour Trum- bull, - - - - : - - - Has detached six bat-* LXXVUI 1528 1531 1113 1113 1114 1114 - 1114 1115 1115 1116 1116 1116 1116 1116 1117 1117 - 1117 1117 1117 1118 - 1118 1119 1119 1119 1120 1120 1136 1120 LXXIX 1776. ug. 23, Proclamation by General Howe: Informing all persons who have been forced into rebellion, that on delivering themselves at Head-Quar- ters of the Army on Long-Island, they will be received as faithful subjects, - - 1121 23, Letter from Major RSDLgE to the /New- York Convention, = - - 1537 23, Letter from General Washington to Apts New- York Convention: Contradicting the report that the City of Np riatiork was to be aban- doned and burnt, - - 1538 23, Letter from Capen Heath to Genteal Wash- ington: Is more afraid of the arts than the force of the enemys thay must be well watched, - - - 1121 23, Letter fan General Heath to Guleanl Necoll: directing him forthwith, to march to Fort Washinston, and, in case of an alarm, to proceed” to Bloomingdale, and join General Mifflin, - - - - - 1122 23, Letter from General Heute to the Commissary of Provisions, - - 1122 23, Letter from General Heat to erent Mifflin, - 1122 23, Letter from General Ten Broeck to the New- York Convention: For promotion of officers, 1122 23, Letter from Colonel Cortlandt to General Gates, 1122 23, Letter from General Gates to the President of Congress: Saturday se’nnight expects the whole of the Militia of the different States, with the two established Regiments from Boston, will be at Tyonderoga, - - - 1123 List of armed vessels on Lake Champlain, - 1123 Application of the Field-Officers of the Regi- ments from Jersey and Pennsylvania for a post between swine and 'Ticonde- roga, - 1123 General One fi Cone) Gatast gala har ters, Ticonderoga, August 6 to August 22, - 1124 23, Letter from General Gates to General ‘Amold, - 1129 23, Letter from Captain Nelson to the President of * Congress, - - - - - - - 1129 23, Letter from General Arnold to General Gates, - 1129 23, Letter from Colonel Brewer to General Gates, - 1130 23, Intelligence from New-London: Prizes, - - 1130 23, Letter from the Council of Massachusetts to the Board of War: Steps have been taken to procure a list of the prisoners now in Massa- chusetts, - - - - - - 1130 24, Letter from Ganedal Lee to the President of Congress: The present state of Georgia, its strength and weakness, will be transmitted to the Board of War, - - 1130 24, Letter from General Lee to the Board of War ‘ and Ordnance, - - 1131 24, Letter from the Maryland Coun on Salety e General Washington, - - 1133 24, Letter from the Maryland Council Safety to Captain Darnes: with orders for furnishing him with arms; Colonel Richardson will give him marching orders, 1133 24, Letter from the Maryland retest he Safety to the Baltimore Committee: with a quantity of powder to be stored and secured in or near Baltimore, - 1133 24, Letter from the Margiand Ge unal Re Safety to Stephen Steward, - - 1133 24, Letter from the Maryland Conan ae Safety R Gerard Hopkins, Copan of anos at Baltimore, - - 1138 24, Letter from the Maryland Ganpedl as Safety to Colonel Richardson: Captain Bourke’s com- pany will leave Annapolis for the Head of Elk this afternoon; medicines must be fur- nished, and the arms repaired at Philadelphia; tents may be had at New-York ; then cannot be got here, - - - 1134 24, Letter from John Hanson, a F $0) the Mary- land Council of Safety: The money sent to Frederick-Town, for the support of the pri- soners, is allexpended,_ - - - - 1134 24, Letter from Colonel Hollingsworth to the Ma- ryland Council of Safety: Captain Alexander, of the Flying-Camp, has his company com- pleted, and only waits orders to march, - 1134 24, Letter from Captain Dean to the Maryland Council of Safety: Has arrived at the Head of Elk, but finds nothing provided for him there, and no Field-Officer to direct him, - 1134 CONTENTS. ee 24, Letter from the President of Congress to Gen- eral Washington: Congress highly approve of the manner in which the officious and in- temperate zeal of Lord Drummond has been checked, - - - - 24, Proceedings of the Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Committee, - 24, Letter from John Givadex to Dr. Frankiade Re- quests permission to return to Canada; says he has been justified by every man, whatever his politicks, in refusing to deliver up the papers, - - - - 24, Letter from Gonekdl Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress, - - - _ Letter from General Sullivan ‘a Give] Wash- ington, August 23: The enemy attempted to pass the road by Bedford this afternoon, but were driven back by the Riflemen, — - - General Orders of General Washington, Head- Quarters, New-York, August 16 to August 24, Letter from General Washington to General Schuyler, - - - - - - 24, Letter from General Washington to Governour Trumbull, - - - - - 24, Letter from Colonel Knox to Gapeial Huth, - 24, Letter from James Livingston to John Jay, - 24, Extract of a letter from New-York: Skirmish on Long-Island, - - 24, Letter from Captain i aplartink Platt . the New-York Convention: Many of the troops have no money to eh the necessaries of life, - - - 24, Letter from General Gedcas iheac: to ‘Mejor Verbryck, - - - - - 24, Resolutions of the Nereis Goudenied for removing the stock from the south and west parts of Long-Island, - - 24, Letter from Christopher Tappen ond Gilbert Livingston to the New-York Convention, - 24, Letter from Erastus Wolcott to the Committee at Saybrook, Connecticut: Two of the ene- my’s frigates have none by New-London to the westward, - - 24, Letter from Gen. Heath to Gan? Wstsainoton, 24, Letter from General Mifilin to General Heath : asking a court-martial for the trial of Lieu- tenant Priestly, of Col. Magaw’s Battalion, 24, Letter from General Heath to General Mifflin: Thinks it advisable to take the opinion of General Washington on Lieutenant ions case - - 24, Letter ‘from. the Garaoaeee ior Uleetonastar County to the New-York Convention: They have caused a number of disaffected persons to be arrested and confined in jail, —- - List of Tories arrested by the Whentehesibe Committee, - - i 24, Letter from GAliniel Samuel esue fe thes New- York Convention, - ad be ' x, 24, Letter from the Committee of Kingston, Ulster County, to the New-York Convention: re- specting the removal of the prisoners from Kingston to Morristown, - - - - 24, Letter from Dr. Potts to General Gates, - - 24, Letter from Elbridge Gerry to General Gates: General Carleton is angry that a scout has taken off one of his General Officers; but is it not justifiable on the principle of retalia- tion? The frontier inhabitants are indiscri- minately murdered by Indians in the service of his Britannick Majesty, - - - 24, Letter from J. Trumbull to the Mubssaciimette Convention: with a return of the deserters from the Massachusetts Regiments now ser- ving in the Northern Army, - - - 24, Letter from Colonel Moulton to the New- Hampshire Committee of Safety: Has raised and equipped fifty-nine men out of his regi- ment, and ordered their march for New-York on the 25th instant, - 25, Letter from Claude Grespigay to Ralph lvend: The Court at St. James’s laugh at the Decla- ration of Independence; in their exultation they will not choose to remember that inde- pendence was not premeditated in America, but is only the immediate and necessary con- sequence of their own acts, - - - LXXX 1135 1135 1135 1136 1136 1137 1142 1143 1143 1143 1144 1536 1537 ~ 1537 1541 1544 1144 1144 1145 1145 1145 1145 1146 1146 1146 1147 - 1147 1148 LXXXI 1776. e Aug. 25, Intelligence from Charlestown, South-Carolina: Engagement with the Cherokees, - 25, Letter from Captain Mantz to the Maryland Council of Safety, - ‘ 25, General Washington’s orders to hears Put- nam: to restrain the loose, disorderly, and wasteful firing, which he witnessed yester- day; a kind of fire that tended to disgrace our own men as soldiérs, and to render our defence contemptible in the eyes of the enemy, - - - - - - - 25, Resolutions of the New-York Convention on the distresses of the inhabitants who are compelled to abandon their habitations by the cruel and unnatural invasion now made upon the State, - - " 25, Letter from Colonel Knox to Genext Heath, - 25, Letter from Colonel Varnum to General Wash- ington: Is convinced that promotions in the Army are not designed for those whose prin- ciples are disinterested enough to serve the Continent without; as his continuance in the Army can be of no possible advantage, he asks permission to retire, - - A 25, Letter from General Heath to Major icalay: Requires him to attend his duty at King’s Bridge, or another Aid-de- hectares will be ur pointed i in his place, - - 25, Letter from General Schuyler to the Bacident of Congress: On the defects in the Commis- sary’s Department, - - - - - 25, Letter from General Schuyler to General Gates, 25, Letter from General Waterbury to General Gates: Captain Titcomb’s company of car- penters are all sick except four, and have ap- plied for discharges, - - - - - 25, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: The fleet is under way from Crown-Point this morning; intimates his disapprobation of General Arnold’s making detachments from his Regiment alone, - - - - - 25, Letter from James Bowdoin to Governour Cooke: A British ship-of-war is cruising in Boston Bay, and has taken several prizes; the Continental ships lately built in Massa- chusetts are without guns; requests that if any armed vessels are at Rrovidenge hey may be sent, - 26, Petition of Charles Shaw ‘a ine, News York Convention, - - - - 26, Report of Committee of New-York Cnoeeiiin of their conference with General Washing- ton, about calling out the western Suffolk, and Queen’s County Regiment, - - 26, Letter from Colonel Joseph Drake to the New- York Convention, - - 26, Letter from the New-York Ganvensan fp Gen- eral Woodhull, - - - - - - 26, Instructions of the New-York Convention to General Woodhull, - 26, Letter from the Maryland engl of Safety fe Captain Nicholson, - - - - 26, Letter from the Baltimore Committee to the Maryland Council of Safety: with a list of officers recommended to form a Battalion. Case of Jesse Hollingsworth, who has sold tea above the limited | price, - - 26, Letter from the President of Congress én Ge- neral Ward: requesting him to continue in the command of the,Army at Boston, until an officer to relieve him can be fixed upon, . - - - - - - 26, Memorial of George Measam, late of Meureal, to the Congress, - - 26, Letter from James Work to William Atlee, - 26, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: From the movements of the enemy, it appears that they mean to land the main body of their Army on Long-Island, and to make their grand push there. Con- siderable reinforcements of our HORS have been ordered thére, - - i Letter from Lord Drummond to Gases Wash- ington: On the violation of his parole, August 19, - - - - “ ‘ 4 : Proceedings of a General Court-Martial of the line on Lieutenant-Colonel Zedtwitz, August 25, 4 2 “a P = - - - CONTENTS. - 1148 1149 1149 1539 1150 1150 1151 1151 1153 1154 1154 * 1155 1540 1541 1542 1543 - 1543 1155 1156 1156 1157 1158 1158 1158 1159 Caias 26, Letter from Major Henley to General Heath: Requests he will appoint some person to take his place, as he cannot leave New-York be- fore the action, - - 26, Extract of a letter from New- Rovde Netive of Zedtwitz’s treason, - . “ - * 26, Intelligence from New-York, - - - 26, Petition of George Harris to the New-York Convention: For relief from the ill-treatment he has received from the Tory inhabitants of Rye, in Westchester County, = - - 26, Letter from General i. oh to General Wash- ington - 26, Letter from Creaniival Gates to Canad Sehifylar: enclosing letters received yesterday by three inhabitants from Mr. Gilliland’s. The letters are wrote in so extraordinary a style and manner that the authors must be either sub- orned by the enemy, or the letters themselves a forgery. They ought to be sent without delay to Congress, - - Letter from General Stioorpson dated Qheteck Harbour, August 5, - - - - - [ Letter from Ebenezer Sullivan to General John Sullivan, Montreal, August 14,] - - - [Letter from Theo. Bliss to the Rev. William Emerson, Montreal, August 14, | - - [Letter from Ebed Greene to Colonel Israel Morey, Montreal, August 14,] - - - Parole of American Prisoners in Canada to General Carleton, August 9, - - List of American Prisoners sent home from Canada on parole, - = 26, Letter from Rev. Bulkley Olcott to Gondial Gates: On examination of his charge against Dr. Stevens, his conduct appeared to the Committee much less feed he than was represented, - - - 26, Letter from the Committee of Safety for Charles- town, (Number-Four,) to General Gates: Re- port ‘of their examination of the charges against Dr. Stevens, - - - - - 26, Letter from Doctor Phineas Stevens to General Gates, - - - - 26, Letter from Govaninu’ oeke to data Bow- doin: The two Continental ships in Rhode- Island cannot be got ready; so that no assist- ance can be given, ~ - - - - 26, Intelligence from Hartford, in Connecticut: Arrival of Tories, = - - - “0 - 26, Intelligence from Watertown, Massachusetts: Prizes, &c., - - - - - 26, Isaac Chauncey, convicted of being notoriously inimical to the American States, advertised by the Committee for rite ate Massachu- setts, - 26, Letter ‘from J. Wentworth to GUncral yenek ington: Condemnation of prizes, - 27, Letter from General Beale to the Maryland Council of Safety, - - 27, Letter from Captain Perkins to dike Maryland Council of Safety: for as much money as will defray the Sle oF his pal le to New-York, - 27, Letter from "Moses Chaille Ho tite Maryland Council of Safety, - . 27, Letter from E. Johnson to the Maryland Ban: cil of Safety, - - - * : » 27, Constitution of Delaware agreed ie in Con- vention at New-Castle, —- . 27, Letter from John Bartlett to Goiensi Whipple: The articles of Confederation were last week finished by the Committee of the — House, - - 27, Letter from Feuneis iis to Mrs. Antes: Gen- eral Gates commands at Ticonderoga; Gen- eral Schuyler is treating with the Indians at German-Flats; they will always be on sepa- rate commands, - - - - 27, Resolution of Pennsylvania Corweuition® re- quiring double guards of the Associators this night, as a number of the Militia in the bar- racks have been very riotous this day, - 27, Memorial of the Chevalier Sauralle to the Con- gress: Is a young officer who has served two years as a volunteer in the artillery at St. Domingo; now offers his services to the Con- gress, - - - - - : LXXXII 1162 1162 1163 1163 1164 1165 1166 1167 1167 1168 1168 1169 1170 1170 1171 1179 1180 1180 1180 LXXXIII 1776. Aug. 27, Letter from the Marine Committee to Captain Stone, - - - - - - 27, Letter from John Hai to the stra geey Penn- sylvania, Committee, - . 27, Letter from General Woodhull to the sate York Convention: He is at Jamaica with less than one hundred men; will remain there as long as he can, in pbb of a .rein- forcement, 27, Letter from Colonel aay Drake to General Morris: Two men-of-war are now anchored between Hart and City Islands; one more has gone past Frog’s Point, - - 27, Letter from General Woodhull to the new York Convention, - - - - - Letter from the New-York Convention to Gen- eral Washington: suggesting a reinforcement for General Woodhull, 27, List of Prisoners at Lancaster, - - - 27, Letter from Robert G. Livingston to the New- York Convention: Mr. Robert Hyslop has refused to receive Continental currency in payment for a bond for nine hundred pounds, 27, Letter from Joseph Trumbull to the President of Congress, - - 27, Letter from Robert H. Harken to the fhresi- dent of Congress: Has just returned from our lines on Long-Island, where he left Gen- eral Washington, by whose order he writes, that there has been an action to-day between the enemy and our detachments, which have sustained a considerable loss; General Sulli- van and Lord Stirling are among the missing, 27, Extract of a letter from an officer in Colonel Atlee’s Battalion, on Long-Island, - - 27, Extract of a letter from New-York: Our people have been engaged with the enemy on Long- Island all this morning, and are at it yet; we cannot get at the particulars, - 27, Letter from General Woodhull to the snes: York Convention: Has removed the cattle to the eastward of the Cross Road between the two Counties; unless he has more men the stay there will be to little purpose, - 27, Letter from General Heath to General Mifflin: Has just been informed that three ships have come to anchor just above Frog-Point; a re- giment has been detached to. Satoh their landing, - - 27, Letter from Ganagal Heath to Galeudl coeuan 27, Petition of Jacobus Wynkoop to the Congress: setting forth all the circumstances connected with his arrest, and asking for such relief as he is entitled to, - 27, Letter from General ia tesiaey to Gea Bites, 27, Extract of a letter from Crown-Point: The enemy’s fleet is said to be on the way up the Lake, - - - - - - 27, Letter from Fentenant plone! Brown to Gene- ral Schuyler, - - - - - 27, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Gages Gates: Glad to hear affairs at the North are so favourable, - - - be i 27, Letter from Gayemara Trumbull to Tati Bow- doin, - 43 4 27, Proceedings of the Guaneerees Coupeil of Safety, - = 27, Letter from Goloné! Bayiby te the New- -Hamp- shire Committee of Safety, - - - - 28, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to John Hanson: Send money for the support of the prisoners at Frederick-Town, - . 28, Letter from the Maryland Council of Safety to the Committee for Charles County: for some , cannon powder for pabss ee who is” just ready to sail, - - - 28, Letter from the Maryland Couneil of Safety to ,Robert Berry, - - - - 28, Letter from Captain Darnes hs the Maryland Council of Safety: His Cees is now on the march, - - - 28, Letter from the Praidept ae giarats to the officer commanding a Virginia battalion: to proceed by the nearest route to New-Jersey, avoiding Philadelphia, - : - - 28, Petition of Jean Laugeay, (artificial fireworker, ) to the Congress: Offers his service to Con- gress, =) enh of > Yibenents he CONTENTS. 1181 1181 - 1544 1544 1546 1547 1182 1182 - 1182 1183 1183 - 1184 1184 - 1184 1185 1189 1189 1190. 1191 1191 1191 1191 1191 i: 28, Petition of Paul Fooks to the Congress: Offers his services to Congress as an interpreter of LXXXIV the French and Spanish languages, - - 1192 28, Notice from the War Office: Yequiring all the troops, without exception, now in Philadel- phia, on their way to the onuts to march to Amboy immediately, - 28, Letter from Cesar Bee Dey to Thomash Rod- 28, Letter fi from Dr. Heankiie 0 Cancel Gateen The Congress continues firmly united; arms and ammunition are also continually arriving, the French having resolved to reams the ex- portation to us, - - - 28, Letter from General Mercer to the Prsstifent of Congress: His whole force, including the New-Jersey Militia, from Powles Hook to Shrewsbury, amounts to eight thousand three hundred men. Will have on Bergen, ready to pass over to New-York, if required, from three to four thousand men, . - - 28, Extract of a letter from New-York: The small part of our Army engaged yesterday behaved most manfully; they fought the enemy, treble in number, several hours in the open field, - 28, Extract of a letter from New-York: We yester- day had asevere engagement with the ssa on Long-Island, - - - - 28, Extract of a letter from Head-Quarters, Ete: Island: Brief notice of the pis ghs or of yesterday, - - 28, Extract of a letter omnis an éffider in the iNtary- land Battalion, on Long-Island: The battalion has suffered very much ; a great number of officers and men are killed and missing, —- 28, Extract of a letter from Long-Island: Account of yesterday’s occurrences, - - - 28, Letter from the New-York Convention to Gene- ral Washington: Enclosing copy of a letter from General Woodhull, - + 28, Letter from the New- York Ganventittn to Go- vernour Trumbull: for one thousand men, or any greater force that can speedily be obtained, - ~ - - - - - 28, Letter from the New-York Convention to sun- dry Committees in Connecticut: requesting them to assist in removing the stock from - 1192 - 1192 1193 1193 1194 1194 1195 1195 1195 1196 1196 Long-Island, where there are between eighty ) and one hundred thousand head of cattle, and as many sheep, - - 28, Letter from General Woodhull to thé Neve Work Convention: If no reinforcements are sent him he will have no men by to-morrow night ; hopes the Convention does not i a him to make bricks without straw, - - 28, Letter from the New-York Convention to David Matthews, - - - - - - 28, Letter from the New-York Convention to Go- vernour Trumbull, — - 28, Letter from Colonel ‘Joseph Drake to ase} New- York Convention, - - 28, Letter from the New-York Convention to Soheril Towns in Connecticut: requesting their as- sistance in removing the inhabitants a the stock from Long-Island, - - - 28, Letter from the New- York Convention tb Go- vernour Trumbull, = - - 28, Letter from the N ew-York Gententide to Gblo- nel Joseph Drake, - - - 28, Examination of Colonel Covenhoven by the New-York Convention, - - - 28, Letter from General Washington to thes New- York Convention, - 28, Letter from Cornelius Van Wyek to sen Now: York Convention, . - 28, Letter from Peter T. Onvecaiitis to the N eweYinn Convention, - - - - - - 28, New-York Convention adjourn from Harlem to meet at Fishkill, on spare next, oa ber 2, - - 30, Letter from the N smu ork Commitee of Safety (at King’s Bridge) to General Washington, - 28, Letter from the New-York Convention to their Delegates in Congress: asking for assistance in fortifying Hudson’s River and adalah the passage of the Highlands, - - 28, Letter from General Gates to General Washing- ton, . - - - - . @- o - 1196 1548 1551 - 1551 1552 1552 1553 - 1553 1554 - 1554 - 1555 1557 1557 1558 1548 1197 CONTENTS. LXXXVv ° LXXXVI 1776. Return of a Regiment of Foot, Sohal by Aug. 29, Accountof the engagement on Long-Island on Colonel Elmore, a - the QT th) te ai a ts wh rs? ager. =) 1212 Return of Colonel John ‘Nicholson’: s Regiment, 29, Another account, it a a " a - 1213 Albany, August 26, - - - - 1199 29, Letter from New-York: There was a constant General Return of the Army bitider General firing on Long-Island all yesterday afternoon, 1214 Gates, Ticonderoga, August 24, - - - 1199 29, Proceedings of a Council of General Officers Return of Provisions at Skenesborough, Aug. 19, 1201 held at Long-Island, - - P - 1246 Return of men who drew provisions on the. 12th 29, Determination of a Council of General Officers and 13th of August, - - - - - 1201 on Long-Island, - - £ = - 1246 Provisions in the Magazine at mien 29, Colonel Fanning informs the New-York Com- August 13, - - - 1201 mittee of Safety that General Washington List of GUntinental Armed yeddele on Lake has ordered his regiment to withdraw from Champlain, August 18, - — - . - 1201 Long-Island, - -~— - wt. 1557 Return of men who drew provisions on the 24th 29, Letter ‘from Ebenezer Hazard to ‘Rabert Liv- of August, - - - - - - 1202 ingston, - é - 1214 Provisions on hand in the Magazine at Ticon- 29, Letter from Comfort Sind i the New-York deroga, August 23; - - - - ~ 1202 Convention: Sends Daniel Redfield, who General Gates’s instructions for Lieutenant will give important information, - : - 1214 Whitcomb, going on a party of observation 29, Letter from Joseph Drake to the New-York into Canada. Tyonderoga, August 19, — -_: 1202 Committee of Safety, - - 1214 Extract of a letter from General “Schuyler to Examination of Daniel Redfield, of KGlifhgs- General Waterbury, Albany, August 17, = - 1203 worth, in Connecticut, = : - 1215 Aug. 28, Letter from General Gates to Colonel Hartley : 29, Letter from General Heath to the: Committee Did not suppose General Arnold would take of Fairfield, Connecticut: Sends a number any of his men, as the vessels all had their of prisoners taken on Long-Island on the full complement when they left Tyonderoga, 1203 27th, : A a - 1215 29, Orders by General Heath fork Hiohteiane Um- stead to convey the prisoners to Fairfield, - 1215 29, Letter from Colonel Graham to General Heath: His regiment has full employ, and some other force should be sent, as there are many points to guard, - - - . - 1216 29, Council of Warat King’s aBrides decide that one hundred men should be sent to Long-Island this night, to surprise the British Light- Horse, who are pillaging the inhabitants at Flushing, 1216 29, Letter from General Heath to Colonel Graham: directing him to attempt the surprise on 28, Letter from Colonel Maxwell to the President of Congress, - - - 1203 Memorial of Colonel Willian Maxwell to the Continental Congress: Finds himself much aggrieved by the appointment of a younger officer, (Colonel St. Clair,) promoted over him. He would have quitted the Army imme- diately, but that the present alarming state of the country required his presence in the field, 1204 28, Letter from Colonel Phinney to General Gates : Will make the best of his way to aa it Soh as directed, = - : - - 1204 28, Letter from Governour Trumbull to Panera Schuyler: No misrepresentations of Tories will have credit enough, in Connecticut, Long-Island, if he thinks it may be effected, 1216 29, Letter from Abraham King to Peter Livingston, 1216 29, Letter from General are. to the President greatly to wound his character, - - 204 of Congress, - - - - 1217 28, Letter from Colonel Stickney to the New- Hamp- Letter from General Gates to General Schuyler, shire Committee of Safety, - 1205 August 18, - - - - - - 1218 28, Letter from Major Daniel Ilsley to the L@otk Letter from Lieutenant-Colonel Brown to Gen- mittee of the town of Falmouth: His com- eral Schuyler, August 27: Account of scout plaint against Colonel Mitchell, - - - 1205 down the Lake, - - - - - 1218 28, Letter fom Francis Shaw, Jun., to the Massa- Petition and Memorial ‘of John Brown, Lieu-, chusetts Council, -' - - - - 1208 tenant-Colonel of Colonel Elmore’s Regi- 28, Letter from James Lyon to the Massachusetts ment, to the Continental Congress, - - 1219 Assembly: Thinks Nova-Scotia worth an- 29, Letter from General Schuyler to General Wash- nexing to our dominions, and proposes an ington: In the Army the home sickness be- expedition to subdue it, - - - - 1280 gins to prevail about the middle of October, 28, Intelligence from Halifax, in Nova-Scotia, - 1209 and when that unconquerable distemper American prisoners in Halifax, - - - 1283 takes place pat consideration gives way 29, Memorial of R. Souralle to the recon - 1209 to it, - > - - - 1220 Letter from M. De la Valletiere, - - 1209 29, Letter from Gesierdl Schuyler yi General Gates: 29, A proposed Ordinance of the State of Bantisyt: Encloses a copy of Cpa: Meee, Ss me- vania, declaring what shall be treason, and morial to Congress, - - - 1221 for punishing ‘the same, and other crimes 29, Letter from Captain Fasset to ‘General Gates, - 1222 and practices against the State, - - - 1210 29, Letter from Governour Cooke to the Massachu- 29, Letter from General William Livingston to Wil- setts Council: requesting Captain Grannis liam Hooper, in Congress, - - 1210 may be dismissed from the service of Mas- 29, Letter from General Washington to the rae sachusetts, and that he may be permitted to dent of Congress: Mr. Harrison has informed inlist a complement of Marines there for the the Congress of the engagement between a Continental agi Warren, er out at Pro- detachment of our men and the enemy, on vidence, - - 1222 the 27th. Neither General Sullivan nor Lord 29, Messages from the Oschdil of Massachusetts Stirling have yet been heard of, nor has our to the House of Representatives, - - 1223 loss been ascertained, - - 1211, Message from the House of Representatives of 29, Letter from General Mifflin to Geheril Heath : Massachusetts to the Council, - - - 1225 Many battalions are coming over from New- 29, Intelligence from Boston: Arrival of Mr. S. Jersey this evening to relieve others here, - 1211 Adams: Prizes, . - . - 1226 29, Letter from Colonel Josiah Smith to the New- 29, Letter from Dr. Brackett to die New-Hampshire York Convention: He is ready to march to . Council of Safety: Condemnation of the ship New-York, and desires orders, - - - 1211 Prince George at Portsmouth, - . - 1226 29, Address of General William Erskine to the in- 30, Letter from General Lee to the Governour of habitants of Suffolk County, Long-Island: Cape Francois: It is for the interest as well He has been appointed commanding officer as the glory of France to furnish us with for the eastern part of the Island, and com- means of supporting our liberties. We do mands all Committee-men and others, acting not require any aid of men; we require small under the authority of the Rebels, to cease, arms, powder, field-pieces, woollen and linen and remain at their respective homes, - - 1211 to clothe our Soe and drugs, eetly 29, Extract of a letter from an Officer in Colonel bark, - - ‘ : - 1227 . Atlee’s Battalion: Sullivan and Stirling are 30, Intelligence from Williamsburgh, Virginia: In- prisoners; Colonel Atlee, Captains Howell, dian. depredations, - si - 1228 Herbert, Murray, and Nice, and others, wails 30, Letter from Thomas Rodney to Gaus? Rodney, 1228 eighty privates of the regiment, are missing, 1212 30, Admiralty Court, Philadelphia, : “ - 1229 LXXXVII ee 30, Resolution of Council of Safety, Pennsylvania: urging the immediate necessity for the Asso- ciators to hasten their march to the camp in New-Jersey, - - = - 30, Letter from the Lancaster, Banned Com- mittee, to the President of Congress, - _— - 30, Letter from Captain Lowe to the Maryland Council of Safety: His company now in the Flying-Camp are desirous of serving as regu- lars on the Continental establishment, - 30, Letter from General Washington to the New- York Convention: By the unanimous advice of a council of General Officers, it was deter- mined to abandon Long-Island, - : 30, Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to General Heath: Long-Island was evacuated last night; it was a measure th oh on the full- est necessity, - ~ 30, Letter from Colonel Fategh Reeds to Goxitil Livingston: The gh aee eS and losses of the 27th, - - . - - 30, Extract of a letter from an efieds of the Mary- land Battalion: giving a short account of the late engagement on Long-Island, —- : 30, Extract of a letter from penadnagd ree 9 The retreat from Long-Island, - - 30, Letter from John "Sloss Hobart and James Townsend to the New-York Convention: They found, on their arrival in Queen’s County, that the Militia had dispersed, and that General Woodhull had fallen into the hands of the enemy. The County as far as Jamaica is in possession of the enemy, and the disaffected from east and west have gone over to them, - - - - - - Ebenezer Dayton’s narrative of the proceed- ings of the First Regiment in Suffolk County, 30, Letter from Colonel Livingston to General Washington, - - . - - 30, Letter from Colonel Titcenten to Governour Trumbull: Has the command of a detach- ment, of two hundred men for the protection of the inhabitants, stock, &c., on Long- Island; the communications are cut off, and the detachment is in danger, - - - 30, Letter from the Rev. S. Buell to Governour Trumbull: The enemy, sixteen thousand strong, have a line across Long-Island, from the Sound to the south. They have cut off communication with our Army, and have command of the west end of the Island entirely, - - 30, Letter from William nes to {General Wesh- . ington: One Lownsbery, at the head of four- teen Tories, was killed yesterday; in his pocket-book was found a commission from General Howe to Major Rogers, empower- ing him to raise a battalion of Rangers, and with it a warrant from Rogers, apiomyng Lownsbery Captain, - - - 30, Letter from the New-York Gommtkse of Safety, at King’s Bridge, to. General Washington: Desire to know if the Army has been removed from Long-Island to New-York, - - 30, Petition of Jonathan Purdy to the New-York Convention: to be considered a pe of war, - - - - - - 30, Letter from General George Clinton ay the New-York Committee of Safety, - 2 30, Examination of Captain Brinton Payne by the New-York Committee of Safety, - “ 30, Letter from Philip Livingston to the New-York Committee of Safety, - - - : 30, Letter from General Heath to poe pe eta of Provisions, - 30, Orders from General Heath t to thal Captain ai the main Guard, - 30, Letter from J ames Ww. Payne tf Genet Hsath: The enemy’s Light-Horse are pillaging the country all along the shore opposite Frog Point, - - - - - + 30, Letter from Eanes! ata to General Gates, - - - 4 A 30, Letter from Colonel Fraser £6 Ghaltal Gates, - 30, Letter from Colonel Hartley to General Gates: Crown-Point is a place of the last import- ance; the enemy, in possession of it, could effectually destroy our navigation, - - CONTENTS. 1229 1230 1230 1230 1230 1231 1232 1233 1233 1234 1235 1235 1236 1236 1237 1237 1558 1558 1564 1237 - 1237 1238 1238 1238 1239 1776. Aug. 30, Letter from Stephen Badger to James Bow- doin: on the propriety of eetnptinting: Colo- nel Jones, of Dedham, - - - 30, Recommendation of the Committee of Safety of New-Hampshire, on the chanies against Zaccheus Clough, - - - 1 30, Proclamation by General Carleton! Governour of Quebeck, - - 30, Address of the City of Montreal to Govemmons Carleton, - - - - - General Carleton’s anes - 31, Letter from Ralph Izard, in Pagioadl to Claude Crespigny: The Ministry are fully persuaded that Mr. Howe will winter in Philadelphia, - 31, Letter from the Council of \yngiele to the Board of War, - - 31, Letter from General Lewis to the President of Congress, - - - 1 31, Extract of a letter from Philedelphia’ Notice of the late engagement on Long-Island, - - 31, Letter from General Washington to the Presi- dent of Congress: The retreat from Long- Island was made without any loss of men or ammunition. Lord Howe is extremely de- sirous of seeing some members of Congress, for which purpose he has allowed General Sullivan to come out on parole, to communi- cate to them what has ee between him and his lordship, - - 31, Letter from Lord Stirling to General Wadjor- ton: His account of the ee eae on the 27th, - - Proceedings of a Gael of Gusev Oligers; held at Long-Island, August 29, - - - Determination of a Council of General Officers, held at Long-Island, August 29, - - General Orders, by General Washington, Head- Quarters, New-York, August 25 to August 31, List of the names of such Officers of the Penn- sylvania battalions as are prisoners and miss- ing, - - - - - - - - List of the names of such Officers as are prison- ers with the enemy, and have, by a flag of truce, sent for their baggage and cash, - Death of Philip Johnston, of New-Jersey, - Journal of transactions on Long-Island, on the 27th of August, by Colonel Samuel Atlee, - 31, Extract of a letter from Admiral Lord Howe, to Mr. Stephens, Secretary of the Admiralty, - Letter from General Howe to Lord Genrer Ger- maine, September 3, - - - - Return of American Prisoners tadigin on png: Island, August 27, - - - General Howe’s return of brass ayn iron Ord- nance taken from the enemy in the engage- ment on the 27th of August, and found in their different redoubts on Long-Island and Governour’s Island, - - - - ~ General Howe’s return of the killed, wounded, and missing, of the British Army, August 27, Extract of a letter from an officer in General Frazer’s battalion, September 3, - - 31, Letter from John Sloss Hobart and James Townsend to the New-York Convention: A number of the Militia of Huntington, on Long-Island, are under arms, but a general complaint among them is, that their officers have deserted them, - - - - - 31, Letter from Colonel Livingston to General Washington: Many of the inhabitants of Long-Island have been prevailed with by the disaffected to solicit pardons from General Howe. Our communication is cut off from New-York by land, and the ships are en- deavouring to intercept it by water. General Woodhull was taken prisoner and cruelly treated by the enemy; after he was taken, he received a wound in the head, and was com- mitted close prisoner to Jamaica Jail, - - 31, Letter from the Suffolk County, Long-Island, Committee, to Governour Trumbull: asking for assistance ; most of their men capable of bearing arms are with the Army, - - 31, Letter from the Rev. S. Buell to Governour Trumbull: Without some assistance, ten thou- sand people in Suffolk County, with all the stock in the County, will fall into the enemy’s hands, - - - - - - - LXXXVIII 1244 1245 1246 1246 1247 1250 1250 1251 1251 1255 1256 1258 1258 1258 1259 1260 1260 1261 LXXXIX CONTENTS. ; ° xc 1776. 1776. Aug. 31, Letter from Cornelius C. Roosevelt to the New- Aug. 31, Letter fromthe Committee of Southold, in Suf- York Convention, - - 1262 folk County, to Governour Trumbull, - - 1279 31, Letter from the Naws York eernites of Safety 31, Committee of Guilford, Connecticut, agree to as- (at the house of Mr. Odell, in Phillipse’s Ma- sist in removing the stock from Long-Island 1279 nor) to General Washington, - - - 1560 31, Letter from Maltby Gelston to Gov. Trumbull, - 1279 31, Resolutions of the New- York Committee of 31, Rev. William Gordon’s letter to the inhabitants Safety, for forming the Militia of King’s and . of Massachusetts, - 1284 Queen’s Counties, - - - - 1561 | Sept.1, Rasoiution of the Ne w-York Ge cunthes of Safe- 31, Letter from Colonel Hopkins to General oatae ty, (Croton River, at the house of John Clinton: The people at Frog: s Neck pray for Blagge,) directing the Post between New- a reinforcement, - - 1262 York and Albany to ride, for the present, on 31, Orders from General Heath to ernianrat dere the east side of Hudson’s River, - - 1562 don: to proceed immediately with a detach- 1, Letter from General Washington to the New- ment and take post near the landing-place York Committee of Safety, - - - 1563 at Harlem, - - - - - - 1262 2, Colonel Rensselaer informs the New-York 31, Letter from General Heath to the officer com- Committee of Safety (at Fishkill, in Dutchess manding at Mount Washington, - - 1262 County) that the garrisons at forts Constitu- 31, Pay-roll of the officers on board the armed gal- _ tion and Montgomery are ill armed, and ley Lady Washington, - - - 1263 otherwise in a condition ill calculated to an- Petition of Col. Morris Graham mene the officers noy the enemy, - - - 1562 under his command to Gen. George Clinton, 1263 3, Letter from the New- Tork Caminita of Safety Return of Elkanah Day’s company, - - 1263 to the Committee for Westchester County, - 1564 Muster-Roll of Captain Joseph Hatch’s compa- ny of Rangers, under the command of PAAIOT Joab Hoisington, - 1264 PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 31, Letter from General Schuyler to eee Wash- 1776. pe ington, - - - 1264 | July 5, James Dunlap appounied Surgeon of the Naval 31, Letter from General Ceca to (ett Ontaet 1265 armament, - - 1287 31, Letter from General Gates to Colonel Hartley, 1265 5, Levi BIB rletet: ma Theat Prensa 31, Letter from Doctor Kennedy to General Gates : sent to New-York for cannon, - . - 1287 Report of the Surgeons on the health of the 5, Robert Towers, Commissary, ordered to deliver Army, - - - - - - - 1266 thirty thousand flints for the Army under 31, Letter from Colonel Gansevoort to Conan General Washington, at New-York, - - 1287 Gates: For a reinforcement, agreeably to Ge- 5, Mr. Palmer and Mr. Nicholson appointed to neral Schuyler’s orders, —- - - - 1266 examine and value the arms of the Non- 31, Letter from Colonel John prepa to Temes Associators, = - - 1287 Bowdoin, - — - - - 1266 5, The good women of Diaatentas requested to 31, Letter from General ened to General (ee furnish as much old linen for lint and band- Is with the fleet at Button-Mould Bay. De- ages as can be spared, - - - - 1287 spatched Lieutenant Whitcomb yesterday 5, Philadelphia Committee requested to procure morning. Recommends the sending of a good linen for tents for the Associators, - - 1288 officer, if one can be procured, to act as_ - 6, Pay of Officers of the armed booty Provincial Captain of the Royal Savage, - - - 1266 ship, and floating battery, - - 1288 Sept.2, Letter from General Gates to the President of 6, Daniel Burkhard, George Hubley, Levan Bun- Congress: In the removal of Captain Wyn- ner, and Benjamin Weiser, recommended koop a little of the dictatorial power was for Captains of the four German Companies, 1289 exerted, but perhaps it was never more ne- 6, Committees of Bucks, Chester, Northumber- cessary than on that occasion. Sends the land, Lancaster, and Berks Counties, re- proceedings of a General Court-Martial on quested to publish the Declaration of Inde- Colonel Hazen, on a complaint exhibited by pendence on Monday next, . - 1289 General Arnold; here, again, he was obliged 6, Sheriff of Philadelphia directed to read ad pro- to act dictatorially, and dissolve the court, claim at the State House, on Monday next, the instant they demanded the arrest of Ge- at twelve o’clock, the Declaration of Inde- neral Arnold. Wishes this affair may be pendence, - - 1289 represented in the most favourable ight to 8, Eight rounds of powder wearer for the ye Congress, - 1267 ciators, to be used in training them, - - 1289 General Orders, - Cor Cate, eat saree 8, Army Regulations printed for ‘the Associators ters, Ticonderoga, August 23 to ‘September 2, 1268 going into the Continental service, - - 1289 General Arnold’s protest against the proceed- : 8, Ironmasters employed in casting cannon or ings of the Court-Martial on Colonel Hazen, shot authorized to employ prisoners of war for rejecting the evidence of Major Scott, - 1272 at Lancaster and Reading, - - - 1289 Minute of the Court requiring an apology from 8, Adam Kuhn appointed Physician and Surgeon- General Arnold, - - - 1278 General to the troops under orders for New- Letter from General Arnold to the Cont, Au- Jersey, - - : - = - - 1290 cust 1; reflecting upon their vote, and inform- 8, Persons employed in making guns, gun-locks, ing them that as, in their apprehension, their chevaux-de-frise, or piers, for the publick nice honour is injured, as soon as the dis- not to march with the Militia without Baccus agreeable service is ended he will withhold permission, - - 1290 from no gentleman of the court the satisfac- 8, Two hundred weight Pilead f be atiected to tion his nice honour may require, —- - 1273 Colonel Miles, for the use of the troops un- Letter from the Court-Martial to General Gates, der his command, - - - - - 1290 August 6: with their reasons for felgeting 8, Committee to collect all the leaden window- the evidence of Major Scott, - - 1273 weights, and other lead in Germantown and Letter from the Court-Martial to General Cates. its neighbourhood, - - - 1290 August 6: Review of the conduct of General 9, Two hundred pounds of lead ireh Sor an Arnold, - - - - 1273 Artillery company of New-Jersey, - - 1290 Letter aah General Reet i rareve Gates, 9, Order for one hundred thousand dollars re- August 7; The letter of the Court-Martial is ceived from the Congress, - - - - 1290 couched in the most artful terms, to deceive 9, Committee of Bucks County directed to have and gloss over their private resentment, under repaired all the fire-arms collected from the an appearance of the greatest concern to Non-Associators, - - - - - 1291 keep up discipline, &c., - - - - 1274 9, Prisoners from North-Carolina permitted to Letter and extracts relating to the arrest of write to their friends, = ~ “ - 1291 Commodore Wynkoop, — - bh B15 9, Twelve hundred flints, one quarter cask of Aug.31, Letter from Governour email to eooren powder, sixty pikes, and powder and lead Washington: The measures he has taken to for sixty Riflemen, ordered to be delivered afford assistance to Sofa Copy, on Long- to Colonel Thomas McKean, of the Fourth Island, - - - - = 1977 Battalion, - - - - - - 1291 Firru Sermes.—Vot. I. 6 XCI ; | CONTENTS. 1776. July 9, Parole of Allan McDonald taken, - - - 10, Fifty pounds offered to any person who will apprehend Major Rodgers, and deliver him 1291 XCil 1776. July 31, Depositions of John Walker and Martha Ash, respecting the escape of Colonel Kirkland, - 1304 /lug.1, Jacob Barge directed to attend the Board, - 1305 to the Council of Safety, - £ - « 4291 1, Resolve that Rules and Regulations of the late 10, Prisoners of war sent from Philadelphia to House of Assembly respecting the Associ- Yorktown, ° x = . - - 1292 ators ought to be complied with, 4 - 13805 11, Committee to examine and value awnings to 1, Captain John Hamilton, of the Congress, and be taken and made up into tents, - - 1292 Captain James Montgomery, ofthe Chatham, ~ 12, Committee to pay for the brigantine Nancy, - 1292 armed boats, resign their commissions, - 1306 12, Committee to draw up a plan for the support 2, Warrant for apprehending John Thomas and of the poor Associators upon the Ptapane Arthur Thomas, - - - - - 1306 expedition into the Jerseys, - 1293 2, Warrant for apprehending John Hatton, Sen., 12, Lieutenant Webb, of the armed bout Bull-Dog, and John Hatton, Jun.,-— - - - - 1307 restored to his command, : - 1293 2, Letter to the Committee of Salem County, New- 12, Lieutenants and Ensigns for the four Gurnen Jersey, respecting the arrest of Col. Kirkland, 1307 Companies recommended to Congress, - 1293 5, Order for the commitment of Alexander Mau- ‘ rice, charged as being inimical to the Ame- rican States, - ~ < - 1308 5, Letters to the Delepaees in Congress for arms, 1308 5, Commitment of John Hatton, Sen., to the State prison, - - - - - 1308 6, Committees for hearing the doraplaluits of the families of the Associators who have gone 12, Committees of Inspection and Observation of the several Counties requested to be vigilant in securing the arms of the Non-Associators, 1293 15, One hundred thousand cartridges directed to be sent to Jersey, - - - 1294 15, Persons employed in the ienntaetne of small arms must be permitted to continue that necessary business, - - - - 1294 to camp, - F “ - 1309 15, Abraham Marshall permitted # to resign his com- 6, Thomas Wharton, Iu, “cheese President and mission, - - - . - 1294 David Rittenhouse Vice- President of the 15, British Officers, prisoners, réquiren to leave Council of Safety, - - - 1309 Philadelphia within twenty-four hours, and 6, Sixty stand of arms to be soppiied to the ‘Town to repair straightway to the places where they of Lancaster, - - - - 1309 are ordered to reside, - - - - 1295 15, Provision made for the support of the families of the poss Associators while in actual ser- vice, - 1295 16, Alexander McDonald berated on pis Bexiles 1296 16, An allowance fixed for the maintenance of Mrs. Conolly, - . - - - 1296 17, Persons who have leaden weights or clock- weights requested to give them up immedi- ately to the et Stine ie to collect 7, Deputy Quartermaster- General’ s assidtael au- thorized to quarter their troops in the several places of publick worship in Philadelphia, in turn, provided they cannot procure suitable quarters elsewhere, - - - 1310 7, Colonel Matlack requested i lay before the Convention the necessity of raising the Fly- ing-Camp, - - - - - - 1310 7, All the companies of Associators that are suffi- ciently provided ordered to proceed forward them, x - 1296 to the camp without delay, - - - 1310 18, Maries on board ihe ship and Abatingsbestery 7, Commitment of John Conner, - - - 1310 allowed fifty shillings per month, - - 1297 8, Commitment of William Sutton, - - ~ 1312 19, James Carter appointed on the Committee for 8, Commitment of James McConnaughy, - - 1312 superintending the making of fire-locks and p g 8 8, Militia on their march towards the camp in the gun-lock ingen pete for the use of the New-Jersey to quarter in such private houses Province, - - - 1297 as are empty, - ~ = ‘ “ 2» 1813 20, Brigadier- General McKinley perminsa Hi pure 9, Committee for carrying on the salt works chase fifty rifles in Lancaster, - - 1298 erected by the late Committee of veictes in 22, Minutes of the Council of Safety directed i New-Jersey, - - ##1313 be laid before the Convention, - - 1298 9, Officers commissioned in Colonel Sine! ae Miles’s battalion, - - - - - 1313 July 24, New Committee of pil eee ae by the 9, Francis Mentges appointed a Lieutenant, in Convention, - - 1298 consequence of General Mercer’s recom- 24, Oath administered to the Members - - 1299 mendation, and of Mentges’s merit, - - 1313 .24, Resolution on a letter from the Committee for 9, Committee to fix upon a plan of the fortifica- Berks County, - - - 1299 tion at Billingsport, - - - r: 01513 24, Letter to the Committee of Berks Goanty, - 1300 9, Two pieces of heavy cannon to be sent to camp 25, Jacob S. Howell appointed Secretary, - - 1300 in New-Jersey, - . - - - 1314 26, Court-Martial on John Peale, Boatswain of the 10, Dispute about the naval command on the Dela- Ranger, ordered, - - 1301 ware referred to the Convention, - - 1314 27, John Maxwell Nesbit ep puiaced Pieaniret, - 1301 27, Two tons of lead, and two tons of powder, made into cartridges, ordered for the use of the Army under General Mercer, . - 1301 29, Further provision made for the support of dis- tressed families of Associators now in actual service, - - - - - - - 1302 12, Letter to the President of the New-York Con- vention, informing him that William Sutton is confined in the State prison, - - - 1815 15, Commanding Officers of each battalion or company of Associators requested forthwith to return a list of the names of the Associ- ators who have deserted from their Sep 29, Two new cables and such small rigging as he corps, - - - ~ 1388 may want for sinking the pier for fixing a 17, Resolutions respecting the edsdvintiles on duty boom at Fort Island, ordered to be delivered as guards in Philadelphia, - - Bae to John Colburn, - - - - - 1302 20, Commodore Davison and the Captains an the 29, Order to deliver Thomas Hazlewood two hun- galleys summoned to attend the Council on dred pounds of brimstone for the use of the Thursday next, - - - 1322 fire-rafts, - - - - - - - 1302 20, Warrant for the arrest of George Cowws, ehitieed 29, Application to the Convention to determine with forgery, - + 1822 the matter respecting the command of the 20, John Hatton, of New- “Jersey, and Tohis Hales, fleet of the State, = - - - - - 1303 enlarged on bail, - - 1322 31, Captain Blewer ordered to procure and forw ard 21, Lieutenant Brownback and Ensign Gipher to General Mercer ten six-pound and ten summoned to attend the Council on Saturday four-pound cannon, - - - - 1303 next, the 24th instant, to answer for leaving 31, Captain Hazlewood directed to deliver famed their colours without leave of their command- Mease fifty barrels of combustibles, - - 1303 ing-officer, - . - - - # ‘= 1322 31, Warrants for the arrest of persons concerned in 21, Lieutenant Greenway, of the ship peatgOnery; the escape of Colonel Kirkland, - - - 1303 resigns his commission, = - - 1323 31, Persons employed at the iron works in casting 22, George Craws brought before the Gbinell oe cannon or shot for the publick ordered not Safety, - - - - - - - 1323 to leave their respective works, nor to march 22, Commitment of George Craws to the State with the Militia, - . = - - 1304 pfison, ~~) btsieaeems pirtee =~: 28824 CONTENTS. Xclil XCIV 1776. 1776. Aug. 22, Commodore Davison and the Captains of the July 26, Charges against the Rev. John Scott, examined galleys appear before the Council, and are by the Council, - - - - 1348 heard, “ - 1324 27, Commissions to Militia oftieéts issued, - - 1344 24, Application to the ‘Bourd of War for aiaty stand 29, Heavy cannon to be sent to Annapolis, - - 1344 of arms, to supply the Ae now on their 30, Commanding officer at Annapolis requested to way to camp, - t ~ - 1325 arrest William Warren Clayton, and bring 27, Printers in the State, in the present scarcity of him immediately before the Council, P - 1345 cartridge- paper, requested to spare a quantity 31, Order for the arrest of William Yeldel, - - 1345 of their paper for the purpose of making Aug. 1, Commissions to officers in Colonel Kent’s bat- cartridges, - - - - - - 1326 talion of Militia for the Flying-Camp, - - 1346 27, Samuel Davison dismissed from the command 2, Commissions for officers of a company in Kent of the naval armament of Pennsylvania, = 1327 County, for the Flying-Camp, - - - 1347 27, Henry Dougherty appointed to the command of 3, William Bartlett Townsend brought before the the Delaware galley, building at Kensington, 1327 Council, examined, and committed to a 27, John Rice appointed Commander of Conven- guard, - : . r “ - 1347 tion galley, - - . - - - 1327 3, Colonel Ewing ordered to march his battalion, 27, Reward for the apprehension of the ringleaders in detachments, as fast as they are armed, to in the riot this day, at the = in Phila- Philadelphia, - - 1347 delphia, - ‘ ~ : * 1327 3, Basil Clarkson, Joseph sea Shi ent 28, Commanding Officers of the trode in Philadel- and Robert Howith, brought before the Coun- phia directed to proceed with all their men cil, examined, and committed to Jail, - - 1347 to Amboy, to-morrow morning, and not to 5, Commissions issued to officers of Colonel Hall’s wait for any arms or ammunition, a wea? battalion of Militia for the si akdis Reeves - 1348 30, Commission granted for the privateer brig Gen- 6, Sundry commissions issued, - - 1348 eral Montgomery, commanded by James 7, Commissions to Colonel Griffith’ Thutiaibowe&ch 1350 Montgomery, - - - 1330 20, Caleb Jones examined before the Council, and 30, Resolution of the Gouneil of ‘Safety on the re- placed under bonds, - - - - - 1356 ports of designing men, that there are more 27, Colonel Hall requested to march his batihlion, troops in the camp y in Jersey than are wanted, 1330 with all convenient speed, to Philadelphia, - 1360 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. 1776. _ 1776. pak July 6, Council of Safety meets at Annapolis, - - 1331 | July9, Three tons of powder to be sent from the Bri- 6, Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer appointed Presi- gades of Edenton, Halifax, and Newbern, for dent, and Charles Carroll Vice President, - 1331 Charlestown, - - 1363 7, Contract with John Yost for making three hun- 10, Oath to be taken by Fades of the Courts ia dred muskets, - - - - - - 1331 hearing and determining Maritime matters, at 8, Lieutenant Moore to throw up intrenchments the ports of Edenton, Bath, Newbern, and for the protection of Annapolis, - - - 1331 Wilmington, - - - - - - 1363 9, Advertisement for supplies for the troops, - 1332 11, Proceedings on the information that many per- 9, Field-Officers for the Upper Battalion of Militia sons within the Province, inimical to the lib- of Prince George’s County appointed, - 1332 erties of America, have offered Bills of Credit 9, Colonel Smallwood directed to make a: return at a depreciation, - 1363 of his Battalion, - - 1332 11, Money advanced to Richard Blackled ge, bo en- 9, Company officers appointed be Golonel Srall. able him to erect and carry on salt “works, - 1363 wood’s battalion of regular forces, —- - 1333 15, Rev. George Micklejohn to be removed imme- 10, Advertisement for a number of labourers, - 1333 diately from the County of Orange, - - 1364 11, Resolutions of the Associators of the City of 15, Commissioners for the purchase beth ata Annapolis presented, - - - - 1334 lead, &c., appointed, - - : - 1364 11, Captain Fulford authorized to employ as many 22, Committees of the respective Mowe and Coun- men for the protection of Annapolis as can ties in the Colony required, on receiving the conveniently work at the intrenchments, - 1334. Declaration of Independence, to cause it to 13, The proprietors of Poplar-Island, Tilghman’s, be proclaimed in the most publick manner, - 1365 Sharp’s, Baron, and James’s Islands, and the 23, Five hundred men, under the command of Colo- Islands from Hooper’s to Cagre’s Straits, re- nel Taylor, to be marched, with beac HOR quired to remove from them immediately all to the western frontiers, = - - 1365 the stock except such as are used for tillage, 1335 William Miller, Andrew Wilson, afi Ww nian 16, Committee to superintend the fortifications and Clarke, sent to particular places, on parole, - 1365 breastworks in the City of Annapolis, under 25, New Test subscribed by the members of the the direction of the commanding officer, - 1337 Council of Safety, = - - - 1366 18, Three Sal arg ag sent down to St. Mary’ s 25, John Hunter sent to the town of Martiasbbs County, - - 1338 rough, on parole, = - - a Z - 1366 18, Commanding Oiieer!s in “St. Mary’ s n@eunty A 25, Resolution to encourage the Sela of rected to take under his charge the schooner common salt, - - - = - 1366 lately taken from the enemy; likewise the 25, Resolution to prevent the forestalling of com- sloop aground there, if it can be done with mon salt, - : On ti. - - - 1367 safety, - . - - - 1338 26, Resolution to enforce the directions of weed a 18, Colonel Hale’s battdlion to ware Paoli respecting exportation, —- - 1367 to Annapolis, - 1339 27, Agreement with Robert Neilson for ‘the import 18, All persons between Annapolis antl St. Mary’ s “ation of salt, arms, and ammunition, - 1367 County requested to give their aid and assist- 27, William Turner and others committed to Jail ance in getting down the cannon, ammuni- for passing counterfeit money, - - - 1367 tion, &c., to St. George’s Island, - - 1339 27, Thursday, the 1st of August, set apart for pro- 19, Captain Thomas’s company ordered to proceed claiming the Declaration of Independence, in immediately to St. Mary’s County, - - 1339 the town of Halifax, - : - - - 1368 20, Militia companies on rae at Pure dis- 29, Resolution of the Continental Congress, of the charged, - - 1340 24th of June last, with respect to treason, 22, Denwood Turpin mr Sibloracin Ward, biachi sent to the respective Counties and Towns under guard from Somerset County, examined of the Colony, to be made publick, - - 1368 before the Council of Safety, = - - 1341 29, Order for the arrest of William Harrell, - - 1369 22, Slaughter-houses in Annapolis prbhibted, - 1341 29, General Rutherford directed to order three hun- 23, Alexander McGee, of Baltimore County, exam- dred men to act in concert with the Virginia ined before the Gdnixeid of Safety, - - 1341 forces against the Overhill Cherokees, - - 1369 25, No person whatever hereafter permitted to em- 30, Examinations respecting sundry persons con- bark on board any man-of-war, tender, or cerned in passing counterfeit money, - - 1369 other vessel, in order to remove out of thi 30, Thomas Harrison, suspected of being an enemy Colony to Great Britain, - - - - 1342 to the Colony, arrested, - - 5 - 1369 KCV ee 1, John Gale, or William Calvert, appointed to command the brigantine Betsey, now lying in Edenton Bay, laden with a cargo on Con- tinental account, - - - = “= 1, Arrangement with Robert Smith, of Edenton, for the importation of salt, arms, ammuni- tion, and other warlike stores, - - - 2, Order for the arrest of John Smith, charged with passing counterfeit money, - - ° 3, Order for the arrest of John Pitts, - - - 3, Charges against William Edwards declared to be totally groundless, - - 3, Directions for appointing proper persons to ex- plain to the people of the western parts of the Colony the justice and necessity of the meas- ures pursued by the United States of America for sustaining our civil rights and liberties, —- 5, Agreement with John Webb, for importing salt, arms, ammunition, and other warlike stores, - 6, Colonel Folesome and Colonel Smith appointed to proclaim the Declaration Pingo pen yeR oe in Cumberland County, - ~ - 7, Committee of Edenton authorized to appoint a known friend of American independence to command the brig Betsey, - - - - 9, Recommendation to the people to pay great attention to the election to be held on the 15th of October next, - 9, Lewis Williamson required to keep possession of the books and papers of AOD; War- wick & Co., = 9, Richard Dunniv anand W han ‘Millet aeehaeed from parole, and declared to be members and free citizens of the State, - - - - 12, Lead Mine on Great Fishing Creek, in the County of Halifax, ordered to be examined, 13, James Childs, a preacher of the New-Light Bap- tist persuasion, declared to be an enemy to the State, - - - - - - - 13, John Campbell to be henceforward considered as a member and free citizen of the State, - 13, Adjourned to Wake Coun at the house of Joel Lane, - - - ~ - Alug.21, Council met in Wake. County, - - - Samuel Ash chosen President, in place of Cor- nelius Harnet, who has leave of absence, - 22, Petition from the Committee of the settlements of Watauga and Holstein, called By them the Washington District, - - 22, Officers and soldiers of Virginia te “ie State, who have marched against the Cherokees, requested to restore to the owners the stock they may recapture from the Indians, - - 23, John Cowper, of Beaufort County, merchant, re- quired to deliver, on oath, an exact account of the quantity ofsalt he has now in his possession, 23, On information that the Cherokees, of the Low- er, Middle, and Valley settlements, have aban- doned their towns, the order for reinforcing General Rutherford is countermanded, - 23, Persons, of the Militia in Hillsborough District, who have refused to do diy) to be tried by Courts-Martial, - - 23, Conner Doud directed to sell the “are in ved pos- session to the Whigs who bore arms in the late expedition against the Tories at Moore’s Creek, - - - - - : 24, Petition of a “ate of inhabitants of Cumber- land County, complaining of many abuses committed by Colonel Folesome, - - 26, Proceedings in relation to William Campbell, late owner of the ship Alexander, - 28, Reneca Julian, James Walker, Jacob Elliot, Abraham Woodward, James Wilson, William Draper, and John Underhill, brought from Guilford County, as persons inimical to the cause of America, - 28, Commissioners at the ports a awian) “Bath, Newbern, and Wilmington, empowered to give permits to vessels for any of the French, Spanish, Dutch, or Danish Islands, - - Adjourned to Salisbury, in the County of Rowan, Sept.6, Council met at Salisbury, —- 6, James Hunter and Joseph Dobson, Ae Guilford County, admitted as free citizens and mem- bers of the State, = - ° a “ s CONTENTS. 1373 - 1373 1373 1374 1375 1375 1375 1376 1376 1376 1376 1377 1377 1377 1377 1377 - 1378 - 1378 1379 1379 - 1379 1379 1776. Sept. 7, The troops stationed on the frontiers of cairn County, to remain there, - 4 9, Petition for the release of Michael Holt, late of Orange doen at page comtnene in Phila- delphia, - 13, Adjourned to the Topen af Hellen in nthe County of Halifax, - - - Sept. 27, Council met at aliens - - - - 27, Willie Jones chosen President, in place of Samuel Ashe, who has leave of absence, - 27, Order for the arrest of Hance Hamilton, of Gran- ville County, a Aerie inimical to the liberties of America, - - - - - 27, Soldiers, except such as have a right to vote, not permitted to be or appear at the ensuing election of Delegates, - - - Oct. 1, Orders to Sylvanus Pendleton, oe of the armed brig King Taminy, - - - 1, Orders to Joshua Hempstead, commander of the armed vessel Pennsylvania Farmer, - - 1 Adjourned to meet at this Town of Halifax, on the 17th, - - - . . 17, General Moore Peioasnna lay before the Gone cil a state of the Continental forces in the State, - - - - - - - 21, Commission for the RR ICe s0P Polly is- sued, - - - - 21, Further orders to Gariain Pondieea: - - Orders to Captain John Foster, commander of the armed brig General Washington, - - 23, Further orders to Captain Hempstead, - - The Continental Battalions in North-Carolina, being far from complete, sickly, and ill pro- vided with clothing, their march to the North is suspended, - - - - 25, General Howe directed to folacn the North- Carolina soldiers inlisted in the service of South-Carolina, and to remand the whole of the North-Carolina troops now in Georgia - 25, Nicholas Long directed to take into his posses- sion the Tory horses and wagons condemned by the last Congress, - - - - - NEW-YORK CONVENTION. 1776. as July9, Provincial Congress met at the Court-House in the Town of White-Plains, in the County of Westchester, - - 9, General Nathaniel Woodhull elected President 9, John McKesson and Robert Benson chosen Secretaries, - - - - - - 9, Credentials of the Delegates presented, - . 9, Deputies from Charlotte County produced no credentials, - : - - - - 9, Members who had not been sworn required to take the general oath of secrecy, - - 9, Benjamin Smith, refusing to take the oath of secrecy, required to withdraw, - =i) 0 9, Letter from the Delegates in Congress, dated July 2, received and read, - - - - , 9, Letter from the Delegates in Congress, enclosing the Declaration of Independence, - - 9, Committee on the Declaration of Independence, 9, Letter from Joseph Reed, Adjutant-General of the American Army, read and referred, - 9, Committee to consider and report on the let- ters on the subject of the new regiment, - 9, Letter from William Goforth, dated July 6, re- signing his commission of Major, - - 9, Resolutions approving the Declaration of he pendence, - - - - - 9, Committee to consider and report the Heo places for the reception and means of sup- port of the poor inhabitants of the City and County of New-York, - - 9, Additional powers granted to the Gamunaiae on the conspiracy lately discovered, - - 10, Credentials of the Delegates from Tryon County, 10, Credentials of the Delegates from the City and County of New-York, - - - 10, Depositions and Examinations taken by the Secret Committee, delivered by Mr. Morris, 10, Style and title of the House changed from ‘‘ The Provincial Congress of the Colony of New- York,” to “The Convention of the Repre- sentatives of the State of New York,” - XCVI 1383 1383 1383 1383 1384 1384 1384 1385 1386 1385 1385 1385 1385 1387 1387 1387 1387 1387 1389 1389 1390 1390 1391 - 1391 1391 1392 - 1393 1393 1393 & CONTENTS. ject of these complaints, - - 12, Information received that three ships oe ar had passed New-York and oS he ee peled s River, - - 12, Committee to take such measures as may he necessary on the occasion, - - - 13, Ammunition ordered for the Militia of Queen’s Coun - - - 13, Letter Ma GMOOT ELT pieties Van @orilandtt - - 13, Letter to Lieutenant-Colonel Hammond, - 13, Letter to General Washington, ~— - - 15, Letter from General Washington, of July 14, - 15, Letter to General Washington, — - - 15, Committee to consider General Whaliaseot? S letter of July 14, - 15, Letter from Colonel Harachobra} éF July 14: Has taken one John Fowler, returning from on board the men-of-war, - - - 15, Letter from Colonel Hammond, dated at arr y town this day: The men are pet desirous of being relieved, - - 15, Colonel Thomas dederda to teherd the Militia stationed at Tarrytown, - - - - 15, Letter to Colonel Hammond, - - - 15, Resolution of the Convention to cooperate cheerfully with General Washington, if he should think it expedient to abandon the city of New-York, and retire to the north of King’s Bridge, - - - - - - 15, Letter to General Washington, - - . 16, Letter from Colonel Hammond, with a return of the men under his command, - - - 16, Letter to Colonel Hammond, 16, Letter from sola Travis, duted'a at Peekskill, July 15, - 16, Pétition of Gud Wallader @eldea; Fite dat Ae Ulster County Jail, July 6, 16, Letter to the Committee for Ulster County, - 16, Letter from Colonel Hammond, - - - 16, Resolutions for the defence of the Highlands, - 16, Letter to Colonel Van Cortlandt, - - - 16, Letter to the Commissioners for building the Continental ships at Poughkeepsie, - - 16, Resolution ofthe General Committee of Dutchess County, of July 13, - - = 16, Letter from the Committee of Datohess Coinney. dated July 12: read and referred, 16, Secret Committee for obstructing the channel of Hudson’s River, or annoying the enemy’s ships in their navigating up that river, - - 16, Letter to General Washington, - - “ 16, Consideration of the necessity and propriety of establishing an independent civil government postponed to the Ist of August next, - - 16, Resolutions defining treason against the State, 17, Letter from Colonel Malcom: Many of his men are without arms, = - KE 3 i J 17, Secret Committee impowered to impress boats, vessels, teams, wagons, horses, and drivers, - 17, Order for the arrest and confinement of James Horton, Jun., William Sutton, and John Sutton, - - - a a g J - 1399 1399 1399 1400 1400 1400 1401 1401 - 1402 1402 1402 1403 1403 1403 1403 1404 - 1404 - 1404 1404 1405 1405 1406 1407 1407 1408 1408 1409 1409 1410 1410 1410 1411 1412 mittee appointed to deal with Pia sadnn and disaffected persons, - - 18, Report on the Rangers for the asians of the frontier Counties read and recommitted, - 18, Letter from Colonel Pierre Van Cortlandt and Captain Zephaniah Platt: read and ordered to be sent to General Washington, - - 18, Letter to General Washington, = - - - 18, Report on the cattle on ‘Nassau-Island: con- sidered and postponed, - - - - 18, Report of Committee on dangerous and disaf- fected persons, - - - . - - 18, Report approved, and prisoners directed to be sent to Litchfield, Connecticut, - : = 19, Bond of John Carpenter and others, for ae for erecting a powder-mill, - - - 19, Report of the Committee relative to the cattle on Nassau-Island further considered, - - 19, Letter to the Committee of Litchfield, Con- necticut, - - - - - 19, Letter rots Colonel Henne at Cartas Perry. a - - - 19, Committee of Weslehester Cot? requested to meet on the 22d instant, for the trial of pri- soners now in jail, - - - 19, Consideration of the report on the hivitea cattle and live stock on Nassau-Island resumed, - 20, Letter from Colonel Henry eh ay of Duteh- ess County, of July 19, - - 20, Letter to Colonel Ludenton, - 20, Letter from General Washington, dated Tie 19, read and sent to the Secret Committee, : 20, Resolutions formed on the report of the ‘Com- mittee on General Washington’s answer re- lating to horned cattle on Nassau-Island, - 20, Letter to General Washington, ~ - - - 20, Committee to transact business during the ad- journment of the House, - ~ 20, Letter from Colonel Weisentels, dated ee York, July 14, - - “ : 21, Permission given i dismiss a Orig of the men from neighbouring States now doing duty on Hudson’s River, - 3 . 22, Letter from Colonel Joseph Drake - - 22, Committee on his complaint, - * 22, Letter from John Alsop, Delegate in oengrals, dated July 16, - - - - Y 22, Mr. Alsop’s resignation accepted, - - - 22, Report of the Committee on raising Rangers in the northern Counties of the State, - - 22, The report considered and agreed to, - ~~ - 22, Letter to the Delegates in Congress on the sub- ject of the dismission of John Alsop, - é 22, Committee to wait on General Gates, and ob- tain a full insight into the state of the ‘Horthiern Army, - - - - - es 23, ardenites to wait on Governour TramBuil; 3 23, Exportation of provisions nee the port of New- York prohibited, - - . tL 23, Letter to General Gates, . 23, Letter to Leonard Gansevoort and J agen Oiler, XCVII XCVIII 1776. 1776. July 10, Committee to confer with the Commander-in- July 17, Letter from General Scott, dated New-York, Chief, concerning the son ge o the July 16, - = : = 1412 stock on Long-Island, t - 1393 17, Field- Officers of the Restntents of Militia, to go 10, Recommendation of Congress to form a Go- into immediate service, appointed, — - - 1412 vernment to be considered on Tuesday next, 1394 17, Letter or Report from John McDonald, dated 10, Letter from the Committee of East and South Little Nine Partners’ Mine, = - 1413 Hampton, dated July 5, 2 Selah to the stock 17, Letter from Egbert Benson, dated July 12, of cattle, - - - - - 1394 again read, - - 1413 10, Letter to Egbert Benson, - - - - 1394 17; Report on the letter fia ey postponed’ - 1413 11, Letter to the Continental Congress, - - 1395 17, Letter from the Committee appointed to confer 11, Committee of Tryon County authorized to take with General Washington, dated New-York, the leaden weights out of all the windows in July 12, - - - - 1414 the County, d - 1397 17; nests on the Letter vita atia’ ween one! - 1414 11, Lead furnished to Charlottes Cumbérientas and 17, Letter from Colonel Hammond, - - - 1414 Gloucester Counties, - - - - 1397 18, Committee to examine two prisoners appre- 11, Committee on thé fefundl of the Troop of ‘Worse hended by Major Graham, - i. - - 1415 of Westchester County to furnish their quota 18, Letter to the Committee for the town of Roches- for reinforcing the Army at New-York, - 1397 ter, in Ulster County, - - 1415 11, Letter from the President of Congress, of July 6, 18, The President ordered to absolve all the Ném- enclosing the Declaration of Independence, - 1397 bers and the Secretaries from the oath of 11, Letter to the President of Congress, - - 1398 secrecy taken under the resolution of the 5th 12, Letter to the Committees of East and South- of June last, relative to dangerous and dis- Hampton, ~ - - - 1398 affected persons, - : - 1415 12, Memorial from Officers, deniieining of i Abe 18, Members added to the Céitnittes on fia Hétned per appointments by Congress, - - 1398 cattle and live stock on Nassau-Island, - 1415 12, Letter to the President of pa shes on thé sub- 18, Letter from David Matthews and application 1399 from John L. C. Rome, referred to the Com- - 1415 1415 1416 1416 1417 1417 1417 1418 1419 1419 1420 1420 1420 1422 - 1422 1422 1424 1425 1426 1426 1427 1428 1428 1428 1428 1429 1430 1431 1431 1432 1432 - 1432 1433 XCIX 1776. July 23, Resolutions for the raising and appointment of Rangers in the northern Counties, = - 23, Company of men to be raised for a guard to the stores and vessels with provisions ‘and ammv- nition in and about Albany, - - - 24, Report of the Committee on the manufacture of saltpetre, - - . < L 2 24, Gunpowder sent to the Indians, - - 24, Committee to provide modes of providing for deserving officers who stood forth in defence of the liberties of America in the dawn of this dispute, —- 24, Two hundred thousand Poonlss in Bills of Ose dit, ordered to be immediately struck and issued for the apribligk oxigeneres of the State, - 24, Joab Hoisington anpointed Major if the Raa- gers raised in Gloucester and Cumberland Counties, - - = - - = 24, Examination of witnesses on the complaints against Colonel Hammond, - - - 24, Commission to Major Hoisington, - - - 25, Letter from Colonel Van Cortlandt and Captain Platt, dated at Peekskill, July 238, - - 25, Letter to Colonel Van Cortlandt and Captain Platt, - - ‘- - - 25, Committee to examine Balthazar de Hart, - 25, Letter from the Committee of Litchfield, Con- necticut, dated July 22, - - - - 25, Committee to consider the state of the prison- ers lately sent to Litchfield, - - - 25, Report of the Commie on the case of James Stewart, - - - - 25, Affidavits with respect to the inimical apolar tions and threats used by William Sutton and his son, John Sutton, - - - - 26, Examination of Balthazar de Hart, - - 26, Letter to Governour Trumbull, - - - 26, Letter to the Committee of Litchfield, Connec- ticut, - “ - - - - 26, Letter to General Washington, - - - 26, Letter to the Committee of Monmouth Coun, New-Jersey, - - - 26, Letter to the aa idant of the Epasehiion of New-Jersey, - - 26, Report on the Troop “8 Aiseny in Westehcsthr County, - - - - ~ - - 26, Petition of William Sutton, - - - - 26, Letter from Dr. Graham, - - - - 26, Memorial of Alexander Stewart, - - - 26, Examination of William Sutton, - - - 27, Letter from Colonel Nicoll, July 22, : - . - 27, Letter from Colonel Swartwout, Fishkill, July p] 27, Letter from Dr. Cooke, Poughkeepsie, July 24, 27, Letter from General WV esniigtons New-York, July 24, - - - - 27, Letter from Gennes Praga Lebanon, July 17, - - - - - - - 27, Lett to Governour Trumbull, - - - 27, Letter from Colonel Henry Remsen, one of the Members for the City of New-York, July 24, 27, Letter from the New-York Committee, yay 26, 27, Thomas Fleet’s bond, - 27, Letter from Robert Yates, Poughkeepsie, July 27; Letter ait Henry Wilmot afi 26, - - 27, Letter to Captain Hazlewood, - - - 27, William Sutton sent under a Gite guard, at his own expense, to the jail of Philadelphia, = - 27, Letter to the Chairman of the Committee of Philadelphia, - - - 27, Report on the Petition me Alepartier Steer, - 27, John Sutton admonished and discharged, - 27, Adjourned to meet at Harlem on Monday next, 29, Convention met in the Church at Harlem: no quorum, - . - - - 30, Petition of Bishan Cantillon, of Pineanie pre- cinct, and John Parkinson, of Charlotte pre- cinct, in Dutchess County, - - - 30, The Doorkeeper, who necessarily hears many of the debates of the Convention, sworn to secrecy, - 30, Report on vipplying the psd eGphe of sep State with salt agreed to, - - 30, Information received that a nmuiber of dintfect- ed persons had inlisted in the Continental service, - - é i ‘ i . - 1436 - 1437 1437 1438 1439 1440 1440 1441 1441 1441 1441 1443 1444 1445 1446 1446 1446 1446 1447 1447 1448 1448 1449 1450 - 1450 1450 1450 1452 1452 1452 1453 - 1453 1453 1454 1454 1454 1455 1455 1456 1457 1457 1457 1458 - 1458 1459 CONTENTS. 1776. July 30, Letter from the Committee at Kingston, July 23, acknowledging the receipt of prisoners, - 30, Letter from several Captains of Militia in ag s County, July 26, - - - 31, Returns required of the state of the Militia i in the several Brigades of the State, on the Ist of September next, - - 31, Letter from Colonel Joseph ‘Datkal at “New- Rochelle, July 24, - 31, Richard Morris appointed Badte of she High Court of Admiralty of the State, - - - 31, John McKesson appointed Register, and Robert Benson appointed Marshal and Provost Mar- shal of the High Court of Admiralty, - - 31, Letter from Cornelius C. Roosevelt, - - 31, Letter from Captain Alexander Hamilton, - 31, Letter from Joseph Robinson, Deputy Chairman of the Committee of Queen’s County, - 31, Memorial of Lieutenant-Colonel Stockholm and Major Livingston, - - - - . 31, Committee of Dutchess County requested to send a guard to John R. Livingston’s pow- der-mill, - - - - - - - 31, Letter from William Datcher, offering to raise acompany, - . 31, Objections made by Mr. Morris ito Generel Scott’s right to a seat in the Convention, - 31, Letter from the Committee for macanis County, July 24, - - ‘lug. 1, Militia of Chitlottet Sumber last aud rt ter, formed into two brigades, - - i Jacob Bayley, of Newbury, appointed Brgesien General of the Militia of Gloucester and Cumberland Counties, - - - - 1, Report on issuing a second emission of bills of credit in the Colony read and recommitted, - 1, Committee to report a plan for instituting and framing a form of Government and a bill of rights, - - = = z A = 1; Petition of Alexander Robertson and others, who propose to make salt, - - “ 1, Letter from the Committee for Queen’s Caunty enclosing Lord Howe’s Proclamation, - 1, General Scott requested to take into custody Sheriff Willet, of Queen’s County, = - - 1, Letter from Colonel Ritzema to John McKes- son, - - - - - - - . 2, Committee on the letter from John Berrien, on the frequent sales of Bohea tea, - - - 2, Letter from John Berrien and others, dated New-York, July 30, - - - . - 2, Quit rents formerly due and payable to the King, are now declared to be due to the State, - - - - es - - 2, Day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, ap- pointed for ‘the 27th instant, - - 2, Richard Morris declines to accept the a of Judge of the Court of Ad otras - - 2, Memorial of Daniel Shaw, - - 2, Letter from the Committee at ‘ie White- Plains, - - - - - 2, Letter to the Committee at Kinovien, felatize to the prisoners there on parole, - - 3, Letter to the absent Members of the Secret Committee, - = 3, Letter from Abraham Culex aud avers for per- mission to return to their respective homes, 3, Mr. Morris’s motion for a peremptory order to the Committee at Albany to return their pro- ceedings against Abraham Cnyer and others rejected, - - 3, Letter from Goldrisl Vee Cortlandt aaa Captain Platt, August 2, - 2 5, Lewis Graham appointed yee of the Dake of Admiralty of the State, - - z= 5, Application of William Goforth and John ‘Hane ton for encouragement for erecting salt- works, - ~ - - 5, Telescope belonging to the College in iNew- York taken for General Washington, - - 5, Letter from the Committee for the City of of New- York, - - 6, Letter to General Wathingtals - - - 6, Examination of Thomas Willett, - - - 6, Letter to the Committee of the tty of New- York, - - - 6, Consideration of the gtieetion on “Mr. Scott’s eligibility postponed till to-morrow, - - 1459 1460 1461 - 1461 1461 1461 1461 1462 1462 1463 1463 1463 1463 1464 1464 1464 1465 1466 1466 1466 1467 1467 1469 1469 1470 1470 1471 1471 1471 1471 1472 1472 1473 1473 1474 1475 1475 1476 1477 1478 1480 1481 CI 1776. Aug.7, Committee to report regulation ee ang a fund in the State, - : 7, Memorial of Abel Noble and Peter Townsend, ", Letter from Richard Speight, of August 1, - 7, Mr. Roosevelt’s report on printing and signing the bills of credit under the resolutions of 5th March and 8th May last, —- . A 7, Letter to the Diepatee of the State in Con- gress, : 7, Letter from the General \donuuittes of the City of New-York, - - - - - - 7, Committee of New-York requested to detain in jail pemessone | taken up by General Wash- ington, - - - - tf Report on the state of the biel in the Mili- tia, - - - - - 7, Consideration of “the ‘Paspeiety of General Scott’s being admitted to a seat in the Con- vention postponed till Friday next, = - - 7, Edward Willett, Sen., Edward Willett, Jun., and Thomas Hicks examined and discharged, 7, Committee to examine Nathaniel Mills of Ja- maica, - - - - - ti Committee to report repalations for establishing a fund in the State dissolved, - - . 8, Letter from General Washington: Giving in- telligence received by two deserters from the Solebay man-of-war, - - - : 8, Letter from General Washington relative to the Militia called forth from the Counties of Dutchess, Ulster, Westchester, and Orange, 8, Letter to Brigadier-General Clinton, — - - 8, Letter to General Washington, - 8, Letter from Abraham Le Dieu, of Wetchester County: Offering to raise a SHOvARy of vol- unteers, - - 9, Examination of fests Bieta, +: Orange County, - - 9, Petition of grag Carpill eaters Barer Praying to be exempted from military duty; - 9, Letter to General Washington, - 10, Certain machines in the City “ietUpik: aid to be the property of Captain Foy, taken for the use of Samuel Ogden, - - - 10, Commission to Lewis Graham, - - - 10, All persons between the ages of sixteen and fifty abiding in any County for fourteen says to be enrolled in the Militia, = - - 10, Abraham Yates, Jun., chosen President, in te necessary absence of General Woodhull, - 10, Resolutions respecting the Militia, - - 10, Letter to William Paulding, - - 10; Order for the preservation of the publick. stores in New-York, where an attack is daily ex- pected, - - - - - - - 10, Committee to repair to King’s County and as- certain the truth of a report that the peaple there will not oppose the enemy, - 12, Letter to John Jay and R. R. Deen Re- questing their attendance in the Convention, (3, General Washington authorized to apply cer- tain houses to the use of the General Hospi- tal of the American Army, aig ia “ 13, Memorial of Captain Jacobus Roos, — - - 13, Letter from General Washington, of August 11, 13, Intelligence brought from Oswego ay Lieuten- ant McMichael, - 13, Letter from General apparent a; Leet 12, 13, General Scott empowered, with the permission of General Washington, to dispose of Willett Taylor, - - - 13, Tics to ‘General Seomianedon! - - 13, Letter from Colonel Blauvelt, of Pesaseey 10, - 13, The President of the Convention authorized, in case of urgent necessity, to remove the pub- lick papers to a place of safety, - - - 13, Resolutions providing for the issue of five hun- dred dollars in bills of credit, — - - - 13, Examination of Isaac Burga, - - - 14, Mr. Polhemus admitted to a seat as a Deputy from King’s County, - - i 14, Letter from the Committee appointed to “ale depositions at Jamaica, - 14, Examination of Nathaniel Mills, Caleb Mills, Joshua Mills, and Elizabeth Hicks, - - 14, Order for the arrest of Elizabeth Hicks, - - 14, Encouragement for the manufacture of Saltpetre and Gunpowder, - - - * - 1481 1481 1482 1482 1483 1484 1484 1485 1485 1485 1486 1487 1487 1487 1489 - 1489 - 1489 1490 1491 - 1491 - 1493 1494 1494 1494 1494 1496 1497 1497 1498 1499 1499 1500 - 1501 1501 - 1502 1502 1503 1504 1504 1506 1506 - 1507 1507 1507 1508 CONTENTS. As. ‘14, Letter from Captain Alexander Hamilton, - 14, Persons employed in certain manufactures ex- empted from military duty, “ 7 4 14, Memorial of John Holt and others, . €, 14, Letter from Henry Remsen to John McKesson, August 11, - - 14, Letter from Joseph Trumbull, Commissary General, - - . 15, Letter from General Washington, of: Aebust 15, Letter from Henny Wilmot, of August 14, - 15, Examination of John Sloane and Thomas Clarke, - 15, Letter from Jacob ‘Guxler dnd Leowerd Ginee. voort, Commissioners sent to the Northern Army, - - - - 16, Plan for obstructing the diuvipition of the Bast River submitted to General Washington, - 16, General Clinton requested to remove all the cannon lying beyond King’s Bridge, - - 16, Letter from the Secret Committee at oe keepsie, August 13, - - 16, Letter from Robert Yates: Chainswn of the Se- cret Committee, August 14, —- - - 16, Letter from Thomas Grant, - . - - 16, Letter to the Committee for Ulster County, - 17, Order for the removal of the prisoners from Kingston to Morristown, in New-Jersey, - 17, Letter to the Committee for Ulster County, - 17, Order for stopping up the channel between the Grand Battery and Governour’s Island, - 17, Letter to General Washington, — - - - 17, Committee of Safety appointed to sit during the adjournment of the Convention, - - 17, Report of John McDonald, miner, - - - 17, Letter of Ezra Thomson, - - - 17, Letter from General Washington: Recom- mending the removal of the women rip chil- dren from New-York, - - - 17, Committee for the removal of such persons, - 17, Letter to General Washington, - - - 18, Letter from General Washington: on obstruct- ing the navigation of the East River, - . COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 19, Letter to General Clinton on discharging the Orange County Troop, - - - 19, John McDonald authorized to meer aitie the exploring the lead mine in the Great Nine Partners of Ezra Thomson, - - - 19, Mr. Duer requested to consult with General Washington, on obstructing the navigation of Hudson’s River, - - - - 20, Letter from General Morris, New-Rochelle, August 18, - - - - - - CONVENTION. 20, Letter from the Committee for Westchester County, concerning some prisoners of war and Tories, lately pee in their jail, Au- gust 17, - - - 20, Letter from the prisoners in White Pails jail, 20, Commissioners appointed to pad of and provide for prisoners, - 20, Letter from Jonathan G. Terese Aust 18, 20, William Miller, Deputy Chairman of the West- chester Committee, examined as to the Hore prisoners, - - - - 21, Committee of King’ s County requested to hold an election for a Representative in the Con- vention, - - = ~ > - - 21, Committee to report on the mode of confining, securing, or otherwise disposing of the pris- oners now confined by order of the Con- vention, - 21, Letter, dated Magee 12, feat ‘bration C. Cuyler and others, prisoners sent and con- fined in Hartford jail, praying to be released, 21, Letter dated August 12, from A. C. Cuyler, re- questing permission to return home to visit his sick wife, - 21, Letter, dated August 12, from Hee Vat Scheack, declaring his innocence, and com- plaining of injustice, - 21, Letter dated Albany Tory Tue ‘Aueaet 1, fin Henry Van Schaack and others, to the Al- bany Committee, — - - 22, Letter from Adjutant General Read. enclosing a letter from Governour Martin, - - - cil 1509 1510 1510 1510 1511 1511 1512 - 1512 - 1513 1514 1514 1515 1515 1516 1517 1518 1518 1518 1518 1519 1519 1519 1520 1520 1521 1521 1522 1522 - 1522 1522 - 1523 1523 - 1523 1524 1524 1525 - 1526 1526 - 1527 - 1527 - 1527 1528 CONTENTS. Cill CIV 1776. 1776. Aug. 22, Letter to Colonel Reed, - - 1528 | Jug.28, Committee to consider what means can be de- 22, Report of Ab. W. De Peyster, eelanye to the dis- vised for supplying the SPEES peith pining position of the prisoners in Connecticut, - 1529 and blankets, - - 1548 22, Letter from Andrew Bostwick, mpshen; Au- 28, Letter from General Woodhull, - - 1548 gust 15, enclosing a petition, - - - 1530 28, Committee to repair to General Woodhull, rrith 22, Petition of Abel Noble and Peter Hea rand: power to impress horses, boats, &c., - 1549 praying that one hundred and fifty men em- 28, Letter from David Matthews to General Wood- ployed at their iron works may be xpmped hull, dated Litchfield, August 12, —- - 1549 from Militia duty, = - . - - 1531 28, Commitment of Mr. Matthews, August 1,. =. 1550 22, Letter to General Washington, relative to a 28, Letter from David Matthews, Litchfield, August report that the City of New-York was to be 12, to Mrs. Matthews, at Flatbush, - - 1550 burnt if the Army left it, - - - - 1531 28, Letter from Moses maymoun £ to General Wood- 22, Letter from General Livingston of New-Jersey, . hull, August 12, - - - - 1551 to General Washington, August 21, - - 1531 28, Letter to David Matthews, - - - - 1551 22, Committee on General Livingston’s letter, - 1532 28° Letter to Governour Trumbull, - - - 1551 23, Report on General Livingston’s letter, read, 28) Letter from Colonel Joseph Drake, - - 1552 and committed to the Deputies from Suffolk 28, Governour. Trumbull requested to send one and Queen’s Counties, - - - - 1532 thousand troops into Suffolk County, - - 1552 24, Resolutions reported by the Committee, con- 28, Letter to several Towns in Connecticut, re- sisting of members from Queen’s and Suf- questing their assistance in removing the folk, read and agreed to, - - - - 1533 stock from Long-Island,_ - = - 1552 24, Better. from the Gonitetties at Monmouth, in 28, Letter to Gov. Trumbull on the same spice - 1553 New-Jersey, August 17, - - - 1534 28° Examination of Colonel Covenhoven, - - 1554 24, Letter from the Committee « of the County of 28, Letter from General Washington, - - - 1554 Cumberland, - - - - 1535 29, Letter from Mr. Van Wish; dated Flushing, 24, Letter from Captain Platt, on Arie corihietns August 28, - - © 1555 among the troops concerning money, - 1536 29, Samuel Townsend reared to 55 to ong’ 24, Letter from Major Verbryck, requesting a dis- Island, it being dangerous to send a letter, - 1556 mission from the present service, - 1537 29, Reward to Mr. Flood for appretionaee Wil- 24, Letter from General Clinton to Major Detbiget 1537 liam Lounsbury, - - 1556 24, Report of the Committee appointed to recon- 29, Committee to consider what sts of Militia sider a former report on General Livingston’s - can be called out for the defence of the letter, read and agreed to,- —- - 1537 State wy. o- amar - 1557 24, Letter from General ‘Washington, gerta 23, 29, Adjourned to meet in ope Baglin Siem 7 contradicting the report that New-York was Fishkill, on Monday next, - os - 1557 to be abandoned and burnt, - - - 1538 COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. 25, Further report from the Committee on Comer 29, Committee met at Harlem, - : _ 1557 Livingston’ s letter, read and agreed to, - 1539 29, Letter from Colonel Josiah Smith, phi that 26, Report from the Committee on disposing of the General Washington has ordered his Regi- prisoners confined by the Convention, - 1540 rapnitite witht Gini Long-Island, - - 1557 26, Petition of Charles Shaw, — - ¢ - 1540 29, Colonel Smith ordered to march his erie: 26, General Morris ordered to attend at Congress, to Horn’s Hook, t 1557 at Philadelphia, ‘and return with “all. conve- 29, The Militia in the Counties oF Oraiiite: iigees! nientspeed, - - = “ROA! Westchester, and Dutchess to be held ready 26, Report of the Committee appointed to wait on to march at a moment’s warning, . - 1558 General Washington, respecting the sedeay 30, Committee at King’s Bridge, - “ ‘ - 1558 of the stock on Long-Island, _— - 1541 30, Letter to General Washington,. - - - 1558 26, Letter from Gilbert Livingston ane Ghrstepier 30, Letter from Brigadier-General Clinton, - > 1558 Tappen, Commissioners for ngs vessels 30, Examination of Captain Payne relative to the at Poughkeepsie, —_- ae ~ 1541 taking of John Woolly, - — - - 1559 26, Letter from John Sleght, Chairman of the ‘King- 30, General Clinton Behe ib Anke further ex- ston Committee, - - - - 1542 aminations, . - f - 1559 26, Order for searching the house i Colonel ipuinh 30, Ebenezer Hazard, PSone fackthe District Martin, and for the arrest of poe Samuel Mar- of New-York, requested LORRI ee tin, of Rockaway, ‘ : 5 - 1542 from the city to some convenient — near 26, Letter to General “peanut - - - - 1543 Dobbs’s Ferry, - i _ 1559 26, Instructions to General Woodhull T - 1543 31, Committee met fat the hones of Mr. Odell, in COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Philips’s Manor, - - - 1560 27, Mr. Hobart chosen Chairman, «, - 1544 Letter from General Washington, dated Nagase 27, Committee to confer with General Warhineidn 30, requesting a body of Militia may be ready relative to the state of Nassau-Island, - 1544 Be prevent or retard the landing of the enemy 27, Mr. Dearing Chairman in the room nr Mr. : east of Harlem River, r « - - 1560 Hobart, - bs " - 1544 31, Letter to General Washington, - 4 - 1560 27, Letter from Erastus Wolcott to the Commit- 31, Resolutions for organizing such of the Militia tee of Saybrook, brought to Harlem ay ex- as may turn out, = - 1561 press, ia e , , 5 1544 | Sept.1, The Committee met at the —— of Satie 27, Committee to report ways and means for ne Blagge, at Croton River, - ¢ - 1562 sale of fat cattle on Nassau and Shelter- Mr. Hazard requested to direct the post be- Islands, - - 2 = - 1545 tween New-York and Albany to ride on the 27, Records and papers of ie Coneention ordered east side of Hudson’s River weekly, - - 1562 to be removed to General Clinton’ S SE og 2, The Committee met at Fishkill, in Dutchess ; ment at or near King’s Bridge, - - 1546 County, - s y x ¥ - 1562 27, Captain Benson ordered to apprehend Nieticias « 2, Committee to visit Forts Gbastitation and Covenhoven, who is suspected of giving in- Montgomery, - " x : z - 1562 telligence to the enemy, - . - - 1546 2, Information given by a member that a number 27, Letter from General Woodhull, - “ - 1546 of indigent infirm persons are on board a sloop at Fishkill Landing, . = - 1562 Pst gol meae 3, Letter from General Washington, September 1, 1563 28, Letter to General Washington, = - - 1547 3, Letter to the Committee of Westchester Coun- 28, Mr. Van Wyck sent to Flushing to gain Midis: ty, - - - - - - - - 1564 ligence of the situation of the enemy, - 1547 3, Letter from Philip Livingston, one of the Dele- 28, Letter to the Delegates of New-York in Con- gates at Continental Congress, pated August gress, - - - - - - - 1548 30, - - - - - - 1564 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY, &c. CORRESPONDENCE, MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS, PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEES, &c. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 1, 1776. Sir: I wrote you by the express on Saturday last, since which nothing has occurred worthy your notice. ‘The sole reason of troubling you with this is to acquaint you, that in consequence of your orders to Captain Peters, he proceeded with Major Rogers to this city, and called on me on Satur- day last, and in the evening of that day relieved him of his charge, and put Major Rogers under guard at the barracks, where he now remains, the Congress having, by a particular appointment, had under consideration a momentous matter this day, which prevented their attention to Major Rogers. My next will inform you, I hope, of some very decisive measures. Being much engaged, I can only add my best wishes for your health and success ; with respects to your worthy lady. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. P.S. In justice to Captain Peters, I must say he has con- ducted exceedingly well. JOHN WHITTIER TO JAMES WARREN, Haverhill, July 1, 1776. Gentiemen: I have very lately heard that [am appointed to the command of a Regiment for the Canada expedition. I most sincerely and heartily thank the General Court for their repeated honours done me, and should gladly have accepted the appointment, were it not that my health of late has so far failed me, that, at present, I find myself unable to perform a journey of twenty miles without much difficulty and delay. Notwithstanding my willingness to assist in this (as I apprehend) just and righteous cause, yet the great and constant care of a Regiment, and the fatigues of such a long journey, render it impossible for me to accept the invitation with honour to myself and any advantage to the Province. ‘Therefore I trust that the honourable Court will justify me in declining to accept, at present, of such an appointment. Gentlemen, that you may have all that wisdom which is profitable to direct, and that the American arms may be crowned with victory and success, is the ardent prayer of your most humble and obedient servant, Joun WHITTIER. To the Honourable James Warren, Esq., Speaker; to be communicated to the Honourable House of Representa- tives at Watertown. JOHN COVENHOVEN TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS, [Read July 3, 1776.] In Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, Burlington, July 2, 1776. GentLemen: We have this moment undoubted inform- ation, by Lieutenant Colonel Scudder, from Monmouth County, that about four o’clock yesterday afternoon, he observed nearly the whole of the enemy’s fleet in motion, and at half past six in the afternoon, saw about one hundred and thirty sail in the channel from the Hook to New-York, within nine miles from the Narrows, (a few vessels being left at the Hook ;) that he left Mcddleton at eleven o’clock Firtu Series.—Vot. I. last evening; and about four this morning, being at the highland, between Upper and Lower Freehold, (about fifty miles from New-York,) on his way hither, heard a very heavy firing of cannon; whether this was at New-York, or to cover the landing of their troops, he could not judge. We also received, by Colonel Scudder, a letter from Co- lonel Taylor, of Monmouth, dated yesterday, informing us of that County being so exposed to the enemy without, and the Tories among themselves, that he apprehends the Militia will not be prevailed on to march to New-York, and leave their wives and children to fall either a prey to the enemy, if they should be repulsed at New-York, or be murdered by the Tories in their absence, who are imbodying themselves, and a considerable number already encamped at the Cedar Swamps. We thought it highly necessary to inform you of these matters, not doubting that you will, without the least delay, send forward all the assistance in your power, and take all present measures possible on this alarming exigency. We are, gentlemen, your most obedient servants. By order of Congress: Joun Covennoven, Vice-President. To the Honourable Continental Congress. SAMUEL TUCKER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. In Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, Burlington, July 3, 1776. Sir: The bearer, Major Anderson, having been rendered for some time past unfit for service, is on his way from Can- ada to the Continental Congress, and requests our recom- mendation. He is at present an officer in the second battalion of Continental troops lately raised in this Colony, and now on service in the Northern Army. Of our own knowledge we can certify, that from the beginning of the present controversy Mr. Andérson has been a warm and active friend to the American cause, and a very useful officer of Militia, in which he was a Major. His behaviour in Canada has been very highly commended to us in various letters from the gentlemen of the Army in Canada, of which he will produce other testi- monials. We have only to add, that besides his services in the Militia, and of late in Canada, he has formerly served in the Bratish Army. By order of Congress: Samuet Tucker, President. To the Honourable the Continental Congress. GENERAL COURT OF MASSACHUSETTS TO THE COMMITTEES OF SEVERAL TOWNS. Watertown, July 2, 1776. Sir: The General Court have received from his Excel- lency General Washington a pressing letter that the troops destined to New-York may be sent with all despatch, as he is well informed that General Howe is arrived from Halifax at the Hook. You will please to communicate this to your brethren, that you and they, with all possible expedition, may raise and march the troops going from your County. The General Court expect you will not let anything prevent their marching as fast as possible, as you see the exigency of the case requires. By order of the General Court. To the Chairman of the Committee for raising men in the County of ———. 3 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 4 MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Watertown, July 3, 1776. Sir: The Court acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 28th ultimo, with the resolution of Congress; and having taken them into consideration, find, that as their Com- mittees are now out on the business of raising and marching the three thousand men required of them by the Congress for the department of Canada, as also the three thousand destined for New-York, that it is not probable that the two battalions for the same service that are requested by Congress can be raised with that despatch that the exigency of the case requires. Therefore they beg leave to propose to the hon- ourable Continental Congress that they would be pleased to give out directions to his Excellency General Washington to order two of the regiments now stationed at Boston to march immediately to Canada ; and if they shall see cause so to do, this Court will take effectual measures that their numbers shall be immediately supplied. We are, &c. To the Honourable John Hancock, President of the Con- tinental Congress. GENERAL SULLIVAN TO COLONEL HOISINGTON. Crown-Point, July 3, 1776. Dear Sir: I this moment received your favour of the 28th ultimo. Am much obliged by your kind offer of as- sistance, but have the pleasure to inform you that at pre- sent our Army, weak and reduced by sickness as it is, will be fully sufficient to oppose any force that may be sent against us at present. I am well convinced that the enemy has neither boats to transport any army, nor armed vessels upon the Lake, to defend themselves against us; for which reason I suppose they will be very careful about making any attempt upon us at present. Perhaps some future day we may find ourselves under the necessity of embracing your generous offer ; in the mean time, beg you and those friendly Americans to hold yourselves in readiness either to defend yourselves or repair to this place, as occasion may require. Dear sir, I am, &c., Seas reer ae To Colonel Hoisington, of Woodstock, New- York Govern- ment, west of Connecticut River. OFFICERS ON GOVERNOUR’S ISLAND, NEW-YORK, TO GENERAL HEATH. Governour’s Island, July 3, 1776. May ir PLEASE your Honour: We, the Officers of the Seventh Regiment, stationed on Governour’s Island, are determined to fight in defence of our country to the last ; yet we think it too much for America to risk such an important post as this with seven or eight hundred men, especially con- sidering the extensiveness of the lines we have to defend, and the difficulty which will attend our immediate supplies, when most probably in case of an attack wind and tide will be against them; whereas, should a sufficient number be on the spot to withstand any force that could be sent against them, they would have the same advantage of wind and tide with the enemy, should they aim at any other part. We think it likewise very necessary to have some field-pieces and a re- inforcement of the train, in order to secure the retreat, should it be thought proper, from the outworks to the citadel. We therefore pray your Honour to represent the affair to his Excellency, and solicit a proper reinforcement, which in our opinion cannot be less than two thousand men. We are, as in duty bound, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servants, Wituiram Prescorrt, Colonel, Jounson Moutron, Lieutenant- Colonel, Henry Woops, Major, In behalf of ourselves and Officers. To the Honourable Brigadier-General Heath. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. Philadelphia, July 3, 1776. GentLemeNn: You are so well acquainted with the criti- cal and alarming state of our public affairs, that it is unneces- sary to use arguments to press you to a compliance with any resolves of Congress calculated to promote the cause of liberty in the United Colonies of America. I am therefore to request, by order of Congress that the troops you are raising to form the Flying-Camp may be sent to the City of Philadelphia with the utmost expedition. That they may arrive the sooner, it is the desire of Congress that you will send them by battalions, or detachments of battalions, or companies, as soon as raised. I am persuaded the Committee of Lancaster County will strain every nerve to comply with this requisition of Con- gress, with all the despatch which the infinite importance of the present situation of affairs requires. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joan Hancock, President. To the Honourable Committee of Lancaster County, at Lancaster. COLONEL BURD TO COMMITTEE FOR LANCASTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA. Tinian, July 3, 1776. GentLemen: Last Monday the Board of Officers of my Battalion being met at Harris’s Ferry, the enclosed allega- tions against Daniel Shelly were laid before them. ‘They unanimously resolved that said Shelly should be appre- hended, and if found upon examination there was any reason for the charge, that said Shelly should be sent down with a safeguard to you. I examined Daniel Shelly and William Wall and Ann Wail, in the presence of a number of officers and privates, who were unanimously of opinion that he should be sent down to you, as likewise the evidences. [ accordingly send him, under the care of Mr. Michael Sheerer, Constable, who is to provide a guard for his safe conduct, and have ordered down to you William Wall, evidence. His wife being unable to travel, herewith I send you her depo- sition. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, SamueL Burp. To the Chairman and Standing Committee of Lancaster County. Str: Whereas it was yesterday represented to the Board of Officers of my Battalion, (met at the house of Mr. John Harris, upon publick business,) that a Captain Daniel Shelly has been attempting to raise soldiers for the Ministerial Army, offering a reward of nine pounds per man by way of bounty, the Board, taking the same into consideration, re- solved that you immediately send a party of your Company and apprehend the said Danzel Shelly, and bring him before me, with you and your officers, that we may examine said Shelly, and do further what shall appear to us to be right in the case. Given under my hand, this 2d July, 1776. SamueL Burp, Colonel. To Captain James Crutch. P.S. Bring Wiliam Wall and any other evidences you can find. hee Daniel Shelly told Wiliam Wall that people that were true to the country were great fools. If the English troops knew as well or as much as I do, the English troops would have the country in six weeks’ time. He also says that he knows where there are plenty of powder and ball that can be got within twelve miles or a quarter of a day’s ride as would keep the Americans employed. ‘The said Shelly also went to Lewis Morris, and told him if he will list under him that he will give him nine pounds bounty. He also says that Colonel James Burd will not swear to be true to the country. Present: William Wall. Lancaster County, ss: Before me, James Burd, Esq., one of the Justices for the County of Lancaster, personally appeareth Ann Wall, who, being duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say, that last Sunday, on the Hill Island, she (deponent) at the house of Daniel Rosse, heard a certain Daniel Shelly ex- press himself in the manner as follows: ‘Although they take their arms from them, a creditable man informed him they have powder and balls enough for them, and that the powder and ball could be found ina half a day’s travel, and 5 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 6 that the King was only playing with them now, and correct- ing them as he would his child, and that the ships in the harbour were as thick as the trees in an old field, (pointing to a field where the trees stood very thick,) and that the King could take this country in three weeks if he pleased.” And that a certain Morris Lewis told this deponent that the said Daniel Shelly wanted much to inlist him under him for the space of six months, offerimg him a bounty of nine pounds, and that the said Lewts asked Shelly for what. He told him it made no odds for what ; that this deponent asked him would he make up a company, and he said he did not know what he wanted him for. fot Ann » Watt. mark. Sworn and subscribed before me, 2d July, 1776. SamueL Burp. MATTHEW TILGHMAN TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read 8th July, 1776.] Annapolis, July 4, 1776. Sir: In obedience to the order of Convention, I enclose you their Resolutions for raising the number of Militia re- quired of this Province for the Flying-Camp. The alacrity and unanimity with which these resolutions were formed and passed, are a proof of the readiness in this Convention to do everything in their power that may contribute to the common safety. I make no doubt the same disposition will prevail individually, and that the several members will use their influence in forwarding this service, which I hope will be soon completed. I am also directed to request you will, by the first oppor- tunity, order to be transmitted to the Council of Safety for this Province the last Resolution of Congress respecting the pay of the Militia when called into actual service. I have the honour to be your most obedient servant, MatruHew Titeuman, President. To the Hon. John Hancock Esq., Philadelphia. In Convention at Annapolis, June 25, 1776. Resolved, unanimously, That this Province will furnish three thousand four hundred and five of its Militia to form a Flying-Camp, and to act with the Militia of Pennsylvania and the Delaware Government in the Middle Department, that is to say, from this Province to New-York, inclusive, according to the request of the Congress in their Resolution of the 3d day of this instant June. __ That, for that purpose, four Battalions be instantly raised, each of them to consist of nine Companies, and each Com- pany to consist of ninety men, to wit: one Captain, two Lieutenants, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drummer, one Fifer, and seventy-six Privates; each of the said Battalions to be commanded by one Colonel, one Lieu- | tenant Colonel, and one Major; and that to each Battalion there be allowed a Quartermaster, an Adjutant, a Surgeon, and two Assistants; and that over and above the said Bat- talions, there be also instantly raised one other Company, to consist of one Captain, three Lieutenants, four Sergeants, * four Corporals, one Drummer, one Fifer, and ninety-six Privates; and that the whole of the said Militia so to be raised be commanded by a Brigadier General, who shall have the appointment of a Brigade Major. That warrants immediately issue to such persons as shall be appointed by this Convention to take the enrolment of the said non-commissioned Officers and Privates, which enrolment shall be made of those who shall voluntarily offer themselves for the said service and subscribe an enrolment in the following words, to wit: ‘ We, the subscribers, do hereby enrol ourselves to serve as Militia of Maryland in the Middle Department, that is to say, from this Province to New-York, inclusive, until the lst day of December next, unless sooner discharged by the honourable Congress, according to the Resolution of the Convention of Maryland, held at Annapo- lis, the 21st day of June, 1776.” That the said warrants be in the following form, to wit: “By the Convention of Maryland, June 1776: *¢ You are empowered to enrol... .. . effective free- men, to act as Militia of this Province in the Middle Depart- ment, according to the Resolutions of this Convention and the form of enrolment herewith delivered to you; and on your doing which, and their passing as effective, you are to be entitled to, and shall receive a commission as Captain, as First Lieutenant, or Second Lieutenant, or Ensign, as the case may be, of a Company to be composed partly of those ou enrol.” : y Marruew Trineuman, President. Extract from the Minutes: G. Duva.t. EDICT OF THE KING OF PORTUGAL, FROHIBITING ALL IN- TERCOURSE BETWEEN HIS DOMINIONS AND THE AMERI- CAN COLONIES. Joseph, by the Grace of God, King of Portugal and of the Algarves, &c., &c., &c.: I make known to all who shall see this present Edict, that having been lately informed that the English Colonies in America had not only separa- ted themselves, by an act of the Congress the 15th of May last, from the subjection to the Crown of Great Britain, but also were making laws of their own, and giving particular power to resist the lawful authority of his Britannick Majes- ty, my good brother, friend, and ally: And whereas so pernicious an example ought to interest even the most indif- ferent Princes not to favour or assist, directly or indirectly, subjects thus publickly and formally rebelling against their lawful Sovereign, it is my will and pleasure to order, that in all the ports of these Kingdoms and his dominions, no shelter shall be given to any ships, loaded or in ballast, coming from any of the ports of the said North American British Colo- nies; but, on the contrary, that they are to be repelled from the said ports, and in the same manner they entered, without giving them the least succour of any kind whatsoever. The Masters of ships who have been permitted to enter hitherto, in consideration of not having received any express injunction to the contrary, shall be notified to depart with their ships out of the abovementioned ports within the space of eight successive days without fail; examination being had before their departure, if they have on board any gunpowder, or other warlike stores, of the kinds already prohibited by my Royal Orders, given the 21st of October last, to the Arscnal of the Army, and to the Office of Outward Consulship ; and confiscating, for the benefit of the publick works, any of the said ships on board of which shall be found clandestinely concealed any of the abovementioned warlike stores, as goods rightly seized and manifestly known to be the property of Rebels. Our Lord the King hath ordered this by his Royal Decree of the fourth of this current month of July, and directed it to his Royal Council, commanding it to be printed and set up in all publick places of Lisbon and ports of this Kingdom, and of the Algarve, in order that every one should have notice thereof, and that no person may pretend ignorance. (Signed) Count pe AzamBusa, President. Lisbon, 5th of July, 1776. BARBEU DUBOURG TO DR. FRANKLIN. Paris, July 5, 1776. Sir: I am privately informed that at the General’s Office they are actually raising funds for a great armament, now fitting out by land and sea, with the greatest despatch. I did not receive this advice until last night, and that with the greatest secrecy. I hasten to inform you of it, and shall not neglect it on my part. I shall be very happy when my dear country will have a common cause with yours ; in the mean time recommend me to the favour of our future allies. I am, with all my heart, my dear friend, Barseu Dupourc. GEORGIA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a Council, July 5, 1776: Present: His Excellency Archibald Bulloch, Jonathan Bryan, John Houston, John Girardeau, Daniel Roberts, Nathan Bronson, John Were- at, Benjamin Andrews, John Adam Treutlen, William Le Conte. Mr. Jonathan Bryan, John Houston, and Colonel Mc- Intosh, waited on the Board, and reported what they had represented to General Lee relative to the state of this Pro- vince, which was as follows, viz: The Deputies sent by desire of General Lee, from the , Colony of Georgia, to confer with him upon the state of 7 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 8 that Colony and the mode of putting it in the best posture of defence against all enemies, external and internal, are of Opinion, that it is evident that Province is in a most weak and defenceless situation; and besides the intrinsic value of the lands and other property in the Province, its situation as a frontier, its fine inlets, harbours, and rivers, and plenty of provisions, make it of the utmost consequence, perhaps equal to any other on the Continent, in the great cause of America. ‘That as it is not only liable to be attacked by sea on the east, in common with the other Colonies, but from the south and west, by the garrisoned Province of the Flo- ridas, and the most numerous tribes of Savages in North America, and far less able than any of them to bear it: the Deputies sent from Georgia, by desire of his Excellency General Lee, to confer with him upon the state of the Co- lony, in order to devise the best method of putting it ina proper posture of defence, beg leave to represent, that from the weak and defenceless situation of the Colony, sur- rounded as it is with enemies, it stands in immediate need of assistance from the General Congress. And when they consider, that however small the Colony may be of itself, in a comparative point of view, yet that from the great plenty of provisions, numerous stocks of cattle, excellent inlets, harbours, and rivers, perhaps equal to any upon the Conti- nent, with which the Colony abounds, and above all, the firm attachments of its inhabitants to the American cause, they are led to trust that the protection and security of that Colony will be held an object of considerable importance. Not one of the thirteen United Colonies is so weak within or so much exposed from without. ‘To the east, the inhabi- tants suffer the ravages of British cruisers. ‘Their negroes are daily inveigled and carried away from their plantations. British fleets may be supplied with beef from several large islands, well stocked with cattle, which line their coasts, and round which large ships may sail. 'To the south, they have the Province of East Florida, the inhabitants and soldiers of which must of necessity make inroads upon Georgia for the article of provision with which they have been heretofore chiefly supplied. Georgia here stands as a barrier to South Carolina, and effectually secures that Province against the like depredations. ‘The southern parts of Georgia contain vast stocks of cattle, and our most valuable rice plantations lie that way. By some late computations, there are said to be upwards of thirty thousand head of black cattle in the Province, and hogs without number. We have certain accounts of there being at this time upwards of one thousand British troops in Saint Augustine. To the west, and almost down upon the Georgia line, are the most numerous tribes of Indians now in North America, viz: the Creeks, Cherokees, Choctaws, and a number of small tribes, in the whole at least fifteen thousand gun-men. All these nations have been much tampered with by the emissaries of Govern- ment, and without the utmost exertions of prudence on our side it is feared may be brought to act against us. They are so situated as to make it extremely convenient for our enemies to supply them, from Kast and West Florida, with ammunition and everything that they want. Our last ac- counts from the Indians are rather unfavourable, and when we consider their natural principle of infidelity, and how much more able our enemies are to purchase their friendship by presents, &c., than we are, there seems to be the greatest reason to apprehend a rupture with them. In such a case the fate of Georgia may be easily conceived. Add to all these considerations the vast number of negroes we have, perhaps of themselves sufficient to subdue us. In point of numbers, the blacks exceed the whites, and the ready chan- nel-and secure retreat which Saint Augustine affords, render them much to be dreaded. The conquest of Georgia would be considered a great acquisition by Great Britain. It isa most excellent provision country, abounds with ship timber and lumber of all kinds, and is conveniently situated for a place of rendezvous to their shipping. Under all these cir- cumstances, it must certainly appear indispensably necessary that measures be immediately taken for the defence and security of that Province. But the low situation, in point of means or ability, of its inhabitants, puts it out of their power to do it of themselves, more especially.as they have been already put to a very great expense in consequence of the late descent upon them. The great objects seem to be men, fortifications, and a good understanding with the Jn- dians. We would therefore beg leave to propose— Ist. That his Excellency General Lee be requested to state the peculiar situation of the Province of Georgia to the General Congress, and to obtain directions from them to raise and take into Continental pay so many men as may be conceived to be sufficient to defend that Province. In our opinion, less than six battalions will not answer the purpose. But we do not conceive any of these men can be recruited in Georgia. We would apprehend it full as eligible, if that can be done, to order some of the regiments already raised, to march thither; and further, that the four troops of horse already raised be augmented to a regiment, and put upon the Continental establishment. Part of these battalions and troops may be so stationed as to serve equally for the pro- tection of Georgia and South Carolina against the Indians; and above all, may entirely shut up the communication between them and our enemies to the southward, which, in our opinion, will be the most effectual means of preventing an Indian war. 2d. That the sum of ———— sterling be granted by the General Congress for building fortifications and guard- boats in the Province of Georgia. The reason why we conceive this ought to be a general charge is, because it is evident the same will serve against attacks from the south, and for cutting off the communication between East and West Florida and the Indians, upon which the peace of the back inhabitants of Georgia, South Carolina, North Caro- lina, and Virginia, depends. Besides, it seems to be a part of the plan of Administration to throw forces into the Indian country, where they expect to be joined by a considerable number of the savages; and in that event, there is no Pro- vince or place through which they could so conveniently pass as through Georgia. 3d. It is a fixed principle with the Indians to be paid for their good offices ; and in this controversy we conceive they will expect to be well paid even for neutrality. The arti- cles they prefer will doubtless be ammunition and clothing, but these we have it not in our power to give them. We would, then, propose cattle as a substitute, and are inclined to think, if the communication between them and our en- emies was cut off they would soon be broucht to be well satisfied with a present of this kind. It is therefore submit- ted to the General Congress whether it would not be worth while to give direction that ———— head of cattle be pur- chased and distributed among the Indians by Commissioners. We are of opinion this step would answer many valuable purposes, and would have a tendency not only of attaching them to our interest from gratitude, but would also be a means of civilizing them, and by fixing the idea of property, would keep them honest and peaceable with us, for fear of reprisals. ' REFORMATION OF THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER BY THE VIRGINIA CONVENTION. In Convention, Williamsburgh, July 5, 1776. Resolved, That the following sentences in the Morning and Evening Service shall be omitted: ““O Lord, save the King, and mercifully hear us when we call upon Thee.” That the 15th, 16th, 17th, and 18th sentences in the Li- ° tany, for the King’s Majesty, and the Royal Family, &c., shall be omitted. That the Prayers in the Communion Service, which ac- knowledge the authority of the King, and so much of the Prayer for the Church Militant as declares the same autho- rity, shall be omitted, and this alteration made in one of the above Prayers in the Communion Service: “Almighty and everlasting God, we are taught by thy Holy Word that the hearts of all Rulers are in thy governance, and that Thou dost dispose and turn them as it seemeth best to thy godly wisdom; we humbly beseech Thee so to dispose and govern the hearts of all the Magistrates of this Com- monwealth, that in all their thoughts, words, and works, they may evermore seek thy honour and glory, and study to preserve thy people committed to their charge, in wealth, peace, and godliness. Grant this, O merciful Father, for thy dear Son’s sake, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” That the following Prayer shall be used, instead of the Prayer for the King’s Majesty, in the Morning and Evening Service: “O Lord, our heavenly Father, high and mighty King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the only Ruler of the Uni- verse, who dost, from thy throne, behold all the dwel- 9 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. lers upon earth, most heartily we beseech Thee, with thy favour, to behold the Magistrates of this Commonwealth, and so replenish them with the grace of thy Holy Spirit, that they may always incline to thy will, and walk m thy way; endue them plenteously with heavenly gifts; strengthen them that they may vanquish and overcome all their ene- mies; and finally, after this life, they may obtain everlasting joy and felicity, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” In the twentieth sentence of the Litany, use these words : “That it may please Thee to endue the Magistrates of this Commonwealth with grace, wisdom, and understanding.” In the succeeding one, use these words: “That it may please Thee to bless and keep them, giving them grace to execute justice and maintain truth.” Let every other sentence of the Litany be retained without anysalteration, except the above sentences recited. Epmunp Penpueton, President. J. Tazewew., Clerk of the Convention. COURT MARTIAL ON CAPTAIN BALL. Williamsburgh, Virginia, July 5, 1776. At a General Court-Martial, held in the City of Wil- liamsburgh, the 5th day of July, 1776, by order of Brigadier- General Andrew Lewis, for the trial of Captain Burgess Ball, of the Fifth Regiment, (arrested for suffering the Brig which was run aground on Willoughby’s Point to be retaken by the enemy,) the Court, upon hearing the evidence of Captain John Willoughby, which was corroborated by the testimony of Captain Nathaniel Boush, Ensign Beale, and Mr. Cocke, and Mr. Netherland, Cadets, were unanimously of opinion that the loss of the prize could in nowise be impu- ted to Captain Ball, and therefore honourably acquitted him. Which sentence of the Court-Martial was approved of by the General. DAVID HALL TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 8. Referred to the Delegates of Maryland.] Lewis, Delaware, July 5, 1776. Sir: [have the honour to enclose sundry depositions, con- taining, as we think, a true state of the general disaffection that prevails among the people in the County of Sussex. Sundry gentlemen from the neighbourhood of Broad Creek, and Wicomico, have been qualified to the truth of it, on whose attachment to the cause of America we very much depend. ‘The Council of Safety have ordered down part of an Independent Company now under their direction. A company of the Delaware Battalion is also preparing to march. ‘The most alarming circumstance is, the danger of Lord Dunmore’s recruiting with success among the dis- affected, who repair to him without reserve, and supply him with the produce of the country. We earnestly entreat that Congress may take the matter into their serious con- sideration, and order what may be thought necessary to fix the minds of the wavering, and secure the common safety. By order of the Council of Safety. Iam, with the greatest respect, Sir, your most humble servant, Davin Hati, Chairman. To the Hon. President of the Continental Congress. Sussex County, Broad Creek, Delaware, July 5, 1776. GentLEemeN: The situation of the part of the country in which we live having of late appeared to us rather.critical, and a number of armed vessels lately appearing in our rivers, occasion us to think ourselves bound in duty, both to our country and our families, to lay our case before you, both for advice and assistance. We need not inform that a large majority of the people in the lower part of this country appear disaffected, which, being lately fully demonstrated by these hostile appearances, occasions troops to be sent from above to quiet them; and we are sorry to say, that it is our opinion that they (viz: the enemies of the cause) are not better affected than they were before those troops came,- (we mean in the parts near us,) although we are fully of the opinion that the gentlemen appointed and sent down as heads of that business thought proper to have a few hun- dred riflemen sent amongst us at that time, who took up some of the most insolent, and put them in confinement, disarmed the offenders of less note, and left a few troops as 10 a protection to the well disposed. Things at this time should have worn a face much more in favour of the country than it now does. The night before last, we sent an ex press down to Vienna, a small town in Maryland, upon Nanticoke River, to give information of what men-of-war or tenders were in the rivers. Yesterday our express returned, and gave an account, that in the mouth of the River Nanticoke, there lay the Fowey ship-of-war and four tenders; in the River Wicomico were three tenders. Those up Wicomico had run far up the river into the heart of the country; but we had no account of any great damage they had then done, They had landed, and attempted to rob some plantations ; but were driven back to their vessels. Although the Militia were about ten miles below the mouth of the river, they went on shore, and robbed the most wealthy man in the neighbourhood, of his cash, and all his negroes they could lay hands on; after which, they tied the gentleman, and took him off on board their vessel. We also may inform you, that parties from tenders and other vessels supposed to belong to Dunmore’s Fleet, have taken large quantities of cattle and other stock from what is called the Islands, which lie just below the mouth of Nanticoke River ; and we have reason to believe that they have taken stock out of the river they left, which they might easily have done, as great part of the inhabitants upon the river, from the mouth to the head, would be glad to have an opportunity to deal with them, and would take great pleasure to supply them with anything in their power. This much, gentlemen, you may depend on, that vast numbers of the inhabitants of Somerset and Dorchester Counties, in Maryland, and of Sussex County, in Delaware, have men on board of these men-of-war and tenders, either trading, inlisting, taking the oath of alle- giance, or something we really are not informed of; but we have it from such authority, that we do really believe that they purchase some sorts of goods from the tenders, very low; and also, that the captain of the tenders registers the name of every person who goes on board of them. We are also fully convinced that numbers of the inhabitants have actually voluntarily entered into the service under Dunmore; some of whom, we have reason to believe, now bear command on board these tenders, and we look upon them as a more dangerous enemy than the Ewropeans. They know our country, and are able to carry the vessels they command to the heads of our rivers; and it is reported (and we believe it to be true) that these traitors have sent word (by their neighbours, who have been down on board trading) to their relations, who live in the heart of the country, that in a very short time they, with their armed vessels, will pay them a visit. It would be impossible for us to relate to you, gentlemen, on paper, every threat that has been thrown out by the disaffected amongst ourselves, as well as the people on board the tenders and ships-of-war, and therefore shall only add, that, from the disaffection amongst ourselves, which we conceive to be so great, that there is, at least, six disaffected to one firm man for America,—we say, from that melancholy appearance, and from the arrival of these armed vessels, we think it our duty to make application to you for assistance of men; and make no doubt but that, if it is in your power, you will grantit tous. Ifit is not in your power, we must be candid enough to inform you, that self-preserva- tion will oblige us either to leave our hivings, or fall in and run with the current, either of which will be hateful to us, But we believe it cannot be required of us to offer ourselves sacrifices for our country, without there being some prospect of benefit arising therefrom. If, gentlemen, upon reflection, you judge it practicable and expedient to grant us men, we beg they may continue stationed amongst us, until we shall appear able to protect ourselves; and for that purpose, we pray you will, in our behalf, make application to Congress that we may not be liable to have them called away, and again be left destitute ; for if we should have them only a short time, and then taken from us, our case would be worse than now, as revenge might prompt our enemies to more desperate actions. Al- though we represent our case to be distressing, we do not mean to represent it as past hope ; for we are of opinion, if you favour us with only three or four good companies, with pru- dent officers, we shall not only be able to defend ourselves, but also that it will be a means to reclaim a considerable number of the disaffected, and bring them to their duty, as 11 it will enable our officers to pursue such steps as is neces- sary to accomplish this purpose so much wished for. Not doubting but that you will do everything for us that may appear to you necessary, We rest, and are, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants, JonatHAN Bett, Joxnn Mrrcue tt, Jno. Pox, Isaac Horsey, Joun Creicuton, Levin Connaway, JosrepH Forman, Roserr Houston. To the Hon. the Council of Safety now sitting at Sussea. I do hereby certify, that the several subscribers to the within letter were sworn to the truth of the facts in said letter set forth before the Council of Safety for the County of Sussex, in Delaware, 5th July, 1776. By order of the Council of Safety. ~ Davin Hay, Chairman. Testimony of Exocu Scupper, July 4, 1776. Enoch Scudder, being duly sworn on the holy Gospel, doth depose and say: That on the third of this instant July, in travelling down from Philadelphia, he was overtaken by four men near Cedar Creek, who asked him if he had heard that Lord Dunmore had landed an armament of men in Maryland, and whether he (this deponent) was going to join him: upon which, this deponent asked them if there were any men there that would join Dunmore, and how many, and whereabouts they were to be gathered: upon which, they informed him that fifteen hundred might be col- lected about Cedar Creek, and between that and the place where Dunmore had landed; and that he, (this deponent,) in several harvest-fields, heard the people converse to this pur- pose; and that they were determined that the gentlemen who had been busy in calling the Tories to account should not be suffered to pass without a guard; and they further told him that Boymer Lloyd was actually with Dunmore. July 4, 1776. Enocu ScuppeEr. Sworn before Jno. Dacworrtuy. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO COLONEL HASLETT. Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. Sir: I have it in command from Congress to direct you to station one Company of the Battalion under your com- mand at Lewistown, and to march the remaining seven companies to the town of Wilmington, and there remain until the further order of this Congress. You will there- fore immediately put this order into execution. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Colonel Haslett, or Officer commanding the Battalion of Continental Troops in Delaware Government. P.S. The enclosed Declaration you will please to have read at the head of your battalion. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO THE CONVENTION OF NEW- JERSEY. Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. GentLemen: You will perceive, by the enclosed Re- solve, that the Congress have judged it necessary to remove the prisoners from your Colony to the town of York, in Pennsylvania, and have directed me to request you to carry the same into execution immediately. Their vicinity to our enemies, and the opportunity of deserting to them, or keep- ing up a communication dangerous to the interest of these United States, rendered this step not only prudent, but absolutely necessary. I do myself the honour to enclose, in obedience to the commands of Congress, a copy of the Declaration of Inde- pendence, which you will please to have proclaimed in your Colony in such way and manner as you shall judge best. The important consequences resulting to the American States from this Declaration of Independence, considered as the ground and foundation of a future Government, will naturally suggest the propriety of proclaiming it in such a mode as that the people may be universally informed of it. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. Honourable Convention of New Jersey, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 12 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO THE PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. GeNnTLEMEN: I do myself the honour to enclose, in obe- dience to the commands of Congress, a copy of the Decla- ration of Independence, which I am directed to request you will have proclaimed in your Colony in the way and man- ner which you shall judge best. The American States being now forever divided from those who wished to destroy them, it has become absolutely necessary, for their security and happiness, to adopt some Government of their own. In this view of the matter, the important consequences flowing from a Declaration of Inde pendence, considered as the ground and foundation thereof, will naturally suggest the propriety of proclaiming it in such a mode that the people may be universally informed of it. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. Honourable Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania. GENERAL WOOSTER TO COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS, Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. As I understand my conduct in confining Major Gray, Colonel Dufee, and St. George Dupree, has been found fault with, I must beg leave to give the reasons that induced me to it. Sundry captains of militia applied to me to issue an order, directing them to deliver up the commissions they had re- ceived from General Carleton, by which they were obliged to take up arms against the Continental troops whenever they should be commanded by General Carleton; which they did not choose to do, but would rather take commis- sions under the Continental Congress. Being fully sensible of the propriety of their request, I accordingly gave out an order for that purpose, and allowed every parish the privi- lege of choosing their own officers, and making a proper return to me; which they cheerfully complied with. I then granted commissions under the honourable Continental Con- gress to almost all the officers of militia in the District of Montreal, as far as the Three Rivers. As the Field Offi- cers belonging to Montreal had not given up their commis- sions, several Captains applied to me to oblige them to do it, as they should yet be obliged to take up arms against us in case General Carleton should call upon them to raise the militia; upon which I called upon these officers to deliver their commissions pursuant to my orders, as it was incon- sistent for them to pretend either to friendship or neutrality, while they held commissions for the very purpose of taking arms against the Colonies whenever they were commanded by General Carleton or his successor. And here I must observe, these commissions were predicated upon a procla- mation issued by General Carleton, in May or June, 1775, denouncing destruction to the Traitors and Rebels of the New-England Colonies. The French officers appeared willing to deliver up their commissions, but Major Gray swore he would not deliver his, let the consequence be what it would, and the whole posse of Tories in Montreal used their utmost endeavours to dissuade the French officers from complying with my orders, which they effected. It there- fore became necessary for me to support my authority, or both 1 and my orders would appear contemptible in the eyes of Tories and Canadians. | told these officers if they persisted in their disobedience they must repair to the fort of Chambly, as a place of security, and to put it out of their power to do us that injury which might be justly appre- hended from them. Major Gray, as early as December, swore we had not taken Quebeck yet, and never should take it; which conver- sation had a very bad effect upon people who were far from being our friends ; indeed, the whole tenour of his discourse in the coffee-house last winter was against the honourable Continental Congress and their measures. ‘Therefore, I judged him a dangerous man, and, with all his adherents, inimical to the cause of the United Colonies; and, as such, pursuant to General Schuyler’s orders and my own senti- ments, I sent Colonel Dufee and him and St. George Du- pree to Chambly. Here I must observe, that the honourable Commissioners 13 from Congress, on their arrival in Canada, did, ex offcto, supersede my orders, and released the abovementioned per- sons to go to Montreal, where Major Gray put on his sword and cockade and strutted about like a victorious conqueror. Two prisoners of war also had this enlargement at that time to go from that fort into the adjacent village, and in a few days they went off, recruiting for the King’s Army among the Canadians. I must beg leave to observe, that by the above transac- tion, the greatest insult and indignity was cast on my cha- racter and conduct, being then commander-in-chief in Canada; and it was certainly inconsistent with good poli- cy, let their private sentiments of me and my measures be what they would, as it naturally rendered general orders contemptible in the eyes of the officers and soldiers of our own Army, as well as of our enemies. And yet, what is more extraordinary, all this was done before I could possibly have an interview (consistent with the publick safety) with these gentlemen on the subject. Davin Wooster, Brig. General. To the Honourable Committee of Congress. GENERAL WOOSTER TO THE COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS. Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. As I understand that my character has greatly suffered by an injurious representation that I am guilty of robbing one Bernard, an Indian trader in Montreal, of his goods last winter, I therefore beg leave to state that matter in its pro- per light. In January last I called the Indian traders of Montreal together, and.inquired of them whether they ex- pected passports in the spring to carry their goods, &c., into the Indian country as usual; they told me they expected that indulgence; but that, at any rate, they should be per- mitted to carry provisions to their people in the upper coun- try. As I apprehended the granting of passports for the upper country might be attended with unhappy conse- quences to the interests of the United Colonies—as the goods which they make use of for that trade were much wanted for our Army, and there was the greatest reason to expect that by this way our enemies would be supplied with everything they wanted—I did not incline to grant passports without the direction of Congress. I therefore advised them to choose a committee to wait upon Congress for their direction. ‘They sent Mr. Forbisher, who did not return till the month of April. Soon after, I was informed the merchants were determined to send off their goods in the spring, with or without passports; upon which I gave out a general order prohibiting the carrying any coarse goods out of the city, except such as were wanted by the country people. About the 20th of March I was informed that the abovementioned Bernard had privately conveyed out of the city into the suburbs a large quantity of coarse goods for the upper country trade; and upon further inquiry, found that the goods were loaded in the night and carried off twenty- nine sleigh loads. I immediately sent a party after them, who, about thirty miles from Montreal, overtook and brought back seven loads of blankets, powder, and various other goods, calculated for the Indian trade. ‘These goods were all brought to Head-Quarters; and as I was then preparing to go to Quebeck, | gave them into the hands of Mr. George Measam, with orders to take an exact account of them, and to keep them to be delivered out to the troops when wanted ; that if it should afterwards be judged that Mr. Bernard had not properly, by the rules of war, forfeited them, they might be paid for. You will please to observe that this Bernard had broken through and violated a publick agreement, disobeyed general orders, and was carrying warlike stores, provisions, &c., to our enemies; and, notwithstanding, I was called a robber for detaining the man’s goods. I am far from being certain that many are and will be of opinion that the goods were as legal a prize as any vessel or goods taken coming from Great Britain or the West Indies this war. In addi- tion to my own opinion of the propriety of preventing the Indian trade, 1 had General Lee’s instructions to prevent the carrying off of coarse goods, which you will see by his letter of the 28th of February. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Daviv Wooster, Brig. General. To the Honourable the Committee of Congress. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 14 ELBRIDGE GERRY TO GENERAL WARREN. Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. Dear Sir: I have the pleasure to inform you that a determined resolution of the Delegates from some of the Colonies to push the question of Independency has had a most happy effect, and, after a day’s debate, all the Colo- nies, excepting New-York, whose Delegates are not em- powered to give either an affirmative or negative voice, united in a declaration long sought for, solicited, and neces- sary—the Declaration of Independency. New-York will most probably, on Monday next, when its Convention meets for forming a constitution, join in the measure, and then it will be entitled Tur Unanimous Deciaration oF THE TuiRTEEN Unirep Srates or AMERICA. I enclose you a copy of the Declaration for yourself, and another for Major Hawley, and offer you my sincere con- gratulations on the occasion ; and I pray that we may never want the Divine aid, or the spirit and the means to defend it. Yours, &c. aye? Ex.sripee Gerry. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED PHILADELPHIA, Juty 5, 1776. By a person this day from the lower counties in Jersey, we are informed that the brig Nancy, Captain Montgomery, of six three-pounders and eleven men, from St. Croix and St. Thomas for this port, loaded on Congress account with three hundred and eighty-six barrels of gunpowder, fifty firelocks, one hundred and one hogsheads of rum, and sixty- two hogsheads of sugar, &c., on board, in the morning of the 29th ultimo, when standing for Cape-May, discovered six sail of men-of-war, tenders, &c., making towards him, as also a row boat. ‘he boat and tenders he soon after engaged and beat off, stood close along shore, and got as- sistance from Captains Wickes and Barry, when it was agreed to run the brig ashore, which was done, and, under favour of a fog, they have saved two hundred and sixty- eight barrels of powder, fifty arms, and some dry goods, when, the fog clearing away, Captain Montgomery dis- covered the enemy’s ships very near him, and five boats coming to board the brig; on which he started a quantity of powder in the cabin, and fifty pounds in the mainsail, in the folds of which he put fire, and then quitted her. ‘The men- of-war boats (some say two, some three) boarded the brig, and took possession of her, with three cheers; soon after which the fire took the desired effect, and blew the pirates forty or fifty yards into the air, and much shattered one of their boats under her stern. Eleven dead bodies have since come on shore, with two gold-laced hats, and a leg with a garter. From the great number of limbs floating and driven ashore, it is supposed thirty or forty of them were destroyed by the explosion. A number of people from on board our ships-of-war, and a number of the inhabitants of Cape-May, mounted a gun on shore, with which they kept up a fire at the barges; which the men-of-war, &c., returned, and killed Mr. Wickes, (brother of Captain Wickes,) third lieutenant of the Continental ship Reprisal, and wounded a boy in the thigh. MEASURES FOR DEFENCE OF NEW-JERSEY AND PENNSYLVANIA, At a Conference of the Delegates in Congress for the States of New-York, New-Jersey, and Pennsylvania, of the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania, the Committee of Inspection and Observation for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, and the Field-Officers of the five Battalions of the said city, &c., at the State House in Philadelphia, on the 5th day of July, 1776, in pursuance of the follow- ing Resolution of Congress, to wit: ‘© In Congress, July 4, 1776. “ Resolved, That the Delegates of New- York, New-Jersey, and Pennsylvania, be a Committee to confer with the Com- mittee of Safety of Pennsylvania, the Committee of Inspec- tion of the City and Liberties of Phzladelphia, and the Field Officers of the Battalions of the said City and Liberties, on the best means of defending the Colonies of New-Jersey and Pennsylvania, and that they be empowered to send expresses yhere necessary. : : an y Joun Hancock, President.” 15 Tromas McKean in the Chair. Resolved, That it appears to the conferees that all the associated Militia of Pennsylvania, (excepting the Counties of Westmoreland, Bedford, and Northampton,) who can be furnished with arms and accoutrements, should be forthwith requested to march with the utmost expedition to Trenton, (except the Militia for Northampton County, who are to march directly to New-Brunswick,) in New-Jersey, and that the said Militia continue in service until the Flying-Camp of ten thousand men can be collected to relieve them, unless they shall be sooner discharged by Congress. Resolved, That the Militia march by Companies to the place of rendezvous. Resolved, That the said Militia be taken into Continental pay, and receive the same pay, allowances, and rations, with the Continental troops, from the time they begin their march until they return to their respective homes. Resolved, That those of the three Battalions of the Penn- sylvania Troops, now remaining in the Province, be ordered to march immediately for New-Brunswick, in New-Jersey. Resolved, That the Committee of Safety of this Colony provide as many Tents as they can for the said Militia. Resolved, That the Committee of Inspection, &c., in the several Counties furnish a good Kettle to every six men, and give all the assistance in their power; that the said Militia be well armed and equipped, and march with the greatest expedition. Tuomas McKean, Chairman. In Congress, July 5, 1776. Resolved, That the Committees of Inspection for the several Counties in the Colony of Pennsylvania be directed to order such Troops as they may raise for the Flying-Camp to be marched to Trenton, the resolve of yesterday to march them to Philadelphia notwithstanding. Resolved, That this Congress highly approve of the fore- going resolutions, and recommend it to the good people of Pennsylvania to carry the same into execution with the same laudable readiness which they have hitherto manifested in supporting the injured rights of their country. By order of Congress : Joun Hancock, President. TRANSLATION OF A LETTER WRITTEN BY A FRENCH OFFICER NOW IN THE STATES OF AMERICA, TO A FRENCH NOBLEMAN IN PARIS. Philadelphia, July 5, 1776. My Lorn: After the permission you were pleased to grant me to come to this country, I am at last arrived; not without many dangers and great expense. I found here a happy people, averse to oppression, without any spirit- of sedition, active and laborious, with all the necessary qualifi- cations required to the foundation of a powerful Republick, able to support itself without the assistance of Europe. This immense country possesses all advantages, and its true riches consist in the produce of its soil. It is, as yet, in its infancy; but still it is a vigorous child, that, in reality, has no more need of its mother nor its neighbours, provided it never meddle with the balance of Europe. Perhaps, my Lord, you will not consider these things in the light I do; but this country might be the greatest market for our manu- factures, could we once give those people a taste for those which we have in great abundance, and with which Great Britain used to furnish them, to the amount of immense sums. I found the people generally inclined for absolute independency, and willing to support it with their lives and fortunes. I was surprised to see their troops exercise and manceuvre as well as they do; and were they not animated by the love of liberty, they would be an unparalleled prodigy; but when that takes place, all wonder ceases. _I visited many of their fortifications, which have been raised with an amazing celerity. I never knew so many, and such good works, per- formed in so short a time. I was accompanied in this tour by several General Officers, particularly by Majors General Putnam and Gates, and a Member of the Congress. _ I told them my opinion of those works, and I have been desired to raise some necessary ones here where they are required. This Government, its form, its liberty, are so similar to that of the ancient and once happy people of Bretagne, (the country of my nativity,) that Lam delighted with it, And, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 16 if I can be useful to the United States, I intend to end my days in them. JI shall regard my original country and its subjects as my family; and if I can be useful to them, and anything advantageous to the American States, and equally agreeable to France, could be proposed here, I would under- take to offer it with the greatest pleasure, without requiring from the King of France either honours, pecuniary rewards, or any other mark of gratitude. All my satisfaction would consist in the inward feelings of my soul if I could once, by my endeavours, set on foot a commercial correspondence— equally beneficial to my former country and that which I now adopt. You will imagine, my Lord, that I am too hasty; but permit me to assure you, that after mature deliberation, and positive information of the strength of America, I am convinced they are able to resist against all their enemies. If the Americans have not the greatest knowledge in the art of war, they have great advantages from the situation of their country, undaunted courage, determined resolution, and the best and most glorious cause. Nothing will be able to divide them. Every precaution is taken against their interior ene- mies, whose number is insignificant. Such a solemn and well supported resolution gives me the highest opinion of these privileged souls, who defend their nghts without ostentation or faction, and who desire only liberty and independency. They already feel that such a state is not a chimera, as too generally thought in Europe, Switzerland excepted. I have the honour, my Lord, to enclose you the Declara- tion of Independency, published yesterday by the honourable the Congress of the United American States, and to prevent the danger of iny letter miscarrying, shall send it by dupli- cate. é I have the honour to be, with respect, my Lord, your most humble and most obedient servant. % SAMUEL TUCKER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS, In Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, Trenton, July 5, 1776. R Sir: Before we received your letter of yesterday, relative to the late Governour Franklin, this Congress had taken new order in that business. ‘The view of one of our members in applying to Mr. P. Livingston was, to prevent the success of an application we heard Mr. Franklin’s friends were about making to the Continental Congress for leave yet to stay in this Colony upon a parole of his own framing. We have been greatly deceived in the Captain of the Morristown Lighthorse, to whom we had confided the charge of this business. We have cited him to answer for his conduct, which we fear will be found highly culpable, as he never even acquainted us with his delay in executing his orders. We have further sent an officer, in whom we can confide, to take charge of Mr. Franklin for the remainder of the journey. We are heartily chagrined at the accident ; but were obliged to change the guards from time to time, as Colonel Heard, to whom he was first committed, was ad- vanced to the rank of Brigadier General, and all the Militia who had him in charge were engaged for the service at New- York, except the Lighthorse, who we considered would be of less use there. By the enclosed copy of a letter from Mr. Dennis, Chair- man of the Committee of New-Brunswick, the Congress will see, we hope, the necessity of relieving us from the care of the prisoners of war in this Colony. The story of the negroes may be depended upon, so far at least as to their arming and attempting to form themselves, particularly in Somerset County. Our Militia are gone off in such numbers that we have hardly men or arms left in those parts which are best affected to the cause. We shall be highly pleased to receive the speediest advice from Congress upon this head, as we cannot but add that the behaviour of these gentlemen has not been such as we could wish since the arrival of the troops. We are, sir, your most humble servants. By order of Congress: Samue. Tucker, President. Honourable President Hancock. Brunswick, July 4, 1776. Sir: The powder directed to my care came safe to hand this morning. 1 provided wagons, and sent it immediately to the several eastern Counties, agreeable to. the proportions handed me. 17 In my last I acquainted the honourable Congress of the necessity of removing the officers and other prisoners of war, from this and other publick situations in the Province where they are at present; but no directions coming, am induced to trouble you once more, by saying that our apprehensions increase daily. From incontestable evidence it appears the soldiers have been continually forming, with numbers of our negroes; that they have discouraged persons listing in the present service; they have impudently ridiculed the Con- gress, and despised the American Army. On which I im- mediately committed them to Somerset jail, as a place more remote and secure than Brunswick. Captain Hescoat re- moves from this to Burlington to-morrow, with his family, so that we have but one officer in town; but he is a very bad one. ‘There is a number at Princeton; two vile ones at Boundbrook, and some at Elizabethtown. 'The directions of Congress, how they shall be disposed of, shall be punctu- ally executed by, sir, your obedient servant, Joun Dennis. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL LIVINGSTON. Head Quarters, July 5, 1776. Sie: Your favour of the 4th came safely to hand. The situation of New-Jersey is such, and the apprehensions of the inhabitants so justly excited, that I have concluded to discharge the Militia from this place, except those from Mor- ris County, whose internal situation is such as to leave them nothing to fear from the enemy. ‘These I have posted in Bergen, in order to prevent any communication, and to give the enemy obstruction, in case they should attempt to land in that quarter, which, with the assistance of the Continental troops posted there, I hope they will be able effectually to do. ‘The remainder of the Militia I have dismissed, as I have reason to believe the enemy is waiting for the Euro- pean fleet, and will not make a general attack until it arrives; but we have not yet one man from Connecticut. You will observe I have dismissed the Militia from hence, but have not discharged them, as I am of opinion a part of them may be usefully employed in the immediate defence of the Province. In this view they fall properly under your com- mand; and I would suggest to you the propriety of stationing them in proper places along the shore, opposite to Staten Island, so as to relieve the inhabitants from the apprehen- sions they are under of being plundered, as well as preventing any communication with the enemy. ‘There are a number of people in Amboy who will undoubtedly open a corre- spondence with them immediately, and endeavour to excite disaffection through the Province, now they feel themselves under some kind of protection. If it is practicable, in the present situation of things, I am of opinion those officers of Government, and the notoriously disaffected there, should be removed with all expedition to less dangerous places; that the cattle and sheep and horses on the shores contiguous to Staten-Island should be immediately driven back ; the ferries carefully attended to, and all boats watched that pass, or attempt so to do. The number of men necessary for these services you will be able to ascertain better than I can, but in such emergency it is better to exceed than fall short. As to provision for the men, I presume, while the Militia are employed in the immediate defence of the Province, the expense, at least in the first instance, will fall upon the Colony. How far the Continent will reimburse the Pro- vince I cannot determine. But the necessity of some sup- plies being collected is so evident, that 1 make no doubt the Convention will immediately go into it. In the mean time, I should think no person could run any risk in doing what is immediately necessary, under your appointment. I have been the more induced to dismiss the Militia, that the new levies (or six months’ men) may be forwarded as soon as possible; and I must request your exertions for this purpose, as it is my intention to have them here without delay. Since this letter was begun, another of your favours came to my hands, informing me that the enemy have thrown up two small breastworks on the causeway from the point. You also request some experienced officers to be sent over ; which I would gladly comply with, ifin my power; but I have few of that character, and those are so necessarily engaged here, that for the present I must refer you to General Mercer, whose judgment and experience may be depended on. I have written him that I should endeavour to send over an Firtu Sertes.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 18 engineer as soon as possible. From all accounts we re- ceive, I cannot think they have any serious intentions at present, beyond making themselves masters of Staten-Island, guarding against any attack from us, and collecting what stock they can; but, at the same time, it is highly prudent for you to be in the best posture of defence you can. I am, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Grorce WasHINGTON To Brigadier-General Livingston. GENERAL LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 5, 1776. May ir pLEeAsE your Excetuency: I forwarded the enclosed early this morning, but, through a mistake of the express, it was this moment returned to me; since which I am honoured with your Excellency’s letter of this day, part of which is answered by the enclosed letter. Everything in my power shall be carefully attended to for the publick good. We have plenty of provision, and am informed it will con- tinue. I forgot to mention in my last, that, on examining a person who was taken by one of the tenders in the Kills, I found that Captain Williams, of the tender, has a wife and children in New-York: he married Benjamin Stout’s daugh- ter,in the Bowery. I mention this circumstance, as it may lead to discover a correspondence between them. ‘The ex- aminant said that Captain Williams expressed his desire of leaving the service, and getting to New-York. General Mercer having returned yesterday, I send back the letter directed to him. Colonel Drake, of the second Morris battalion, has not been able to come down with his men till this day. He has about two hundred and fifty men, who will be here this evening, and I shall forward them to New-York to-morrow morning, without delay, unless your Excellency shall give other orders. I have the honour to be your Excellency’s most humble and most obedient servant, Wixuram Livineston. GENERAL W. LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 5, 1776. May IT PLEASE your Exce.uency: Since my last, I have received so many applications from the inhabitants along the Sound, Woodbridge, and Amboy, relating to the defenceless state of their borders, the whole Militia being sent to New- York, that, to allay their fears, (with the approbation of General Mercer, who had stopped them at Newark Ferry, where they were ordered to assist General Heard,) I ordered Major Duyckinck, with six hundred Middlesex Militia, to Am- boy, leaving one hundred men at the Blazing-Star Ferry. This morning, I received an application from the three companies of the Woodbridge Militia, now at your city, re- questing my interest with your Excellency, to let them return to defend that quarter ; but perhaps when they are informed of the above disposition, it may make them easy. I have this moment received an express, with a piece of information, which I trouble you with, only from the advan- tage that may arise from your having intelligence of every kind, that the whole may be compared together; and, to prevent mistakes, I beg leave to transcribe the letter. “Sir: A relation of Mr. Dississoway stole away from Staten-Island last night in a small canoe, with James Fitz Randolph, (both of whom are returned again;) they are staunch friends, and say, that if Disstssoway does not return by to-morrow, his estate shall be forfeited. Randolph says he is much insulted for being a Whig by the lowest sort, but must return to save his family from being hostages. He heard the Major with other officers declare, at about four o’clock yesterday, there should be three thousand men landed at Amboy this day, before that time; and from what he could gather, that they intended to push matters in the Jerseys. We are in such a situation at this time, that with difficulty we raise a small guard, and many begin to talk of being afraid we are sold; and ifthe clamour is not soon stopped, God only knows what soon will be the consequence in this place, as some in- tend to go over, themselves and families, and not return.” This letter was written this morning, and is signed Daniel Moores, who is a principal man in that neighbourhood. No- thing material happened here last night, except that being informed of a large parcel of fat cattle being pastured on the neck along the Sound, I have ordered a party to drive off 19 all cattle and sheep to a place of safety. The enemy are throwing up breastworks at every avenue to the Island, but do not appear otherwise very busy. I have just been informed that the West-Jersey Militia are on their way to this place, and I shall forward them to New- York, unless [ receive contre orders from your Excellency. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most humble servant, WiuuraMm Livineston. To His Excellency General Washington. MAJOR DUYCKINCK TO GENERAL LIVINGSTON. Head-Quarters, Perth Amboy, July 5, 1776. Sir: This day at eleven o’clock I arrived here, with the battalion under my command, save only the troops left at the Old and New Blazing-Star. The number with me is about four hundred and fifty men. As to the appearance of the enemy, I can at present give you but an imperfect account of their situation, but can plainly discover a number of men with wagons; also, some horsemen driving off cattle. It is here reported that they have been frequently seen parading under arms,.and that they have intrenched a small distance above the ferry on the opposite side of the river. ‘The num- ber of the enemy appears to be about one thousand men, who have struck some tents in view. Shall be glad of your instructions from time to time. I am, sir, in much haste, your liumble servant, Joun Duycxincx. P.S. Sundry persons of the enemy appear in the dress of the Train. COLONEL REED TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 5, 1776. GentLemen: I am directed by the General to solicit the attention of your honourable body to the resolve of the Con- gress touching prisoners of war. By that resolve they are put wholly on the disposition of the Legislatures of the respective Colonies, who are authorized to appoint a Commissary to make provision for them, and they are to be taken to such place as shall be deemed the most secure. There are now a number of prisoners in the jail, some of them of some rank. ‘Their expenses run much higher than if in the country, and in our present situation extremely dangerous. His Excellency requests no time may be lost in removing not only those who have been taken prisoners of war, but those committed for practices against the State ; and if some direction was taken with respect to the prisoners for debt, it would be proper, as there is too much reason to fear that in case of an attack, if the doors were not opened by the jailor, the whole would rise and force them open. Any assistance that may be wanted for this purpose, the General begs leave totender. I have also in charge to men- tion to you the impropriety of suffering Burrows to continue in the care of the jail, as, from his connexions, his appoint- ment, and other circumstances, there is the utmost reason to suspect him. ‘The distance to which the Congress has removed will make it very difficult to have their advice and assistance on occa- sions which frequently present. ‘The General would suggest the propriety of their appointing a small Committee in the city, to regulate such matters of intimate concern as daily present themselves. The great hurry and engagement of the General prevents his writing personally, but he begs his respectful compliments aay be made to your honourable body. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, JosePH Reep, Adjutant General. 'To the Convention of New-York. JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 1, 1776. Honouraste Sir: I have drawn on you of this date for twenty thousand dollars, in favour of Azariah Dunham, Esq., of New-Brunswick, for the use of the gentlemen I have em- ployed:in New-Jersey to furnish the troops there with provi- sions, which I hope will be honoured with payment. The enemy are lying very quiet at the Hook, yet we don’t expect this calm will last long; a warm storm may CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 20 soon be expected—where the severest part of it will fall, is yet uncertain. We are pretty well prepared, but for men. I hope Pennsylvania will soon furnish us some. I am, most respectfully, honourable sir, your most humble ans JosEPH TRUMBULL. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Conti- nental Congress, at Philadelphia. JOSEPH TRUMBULL (COMMISSARY-GENERAL) TO GEN. GATES. New-York, July 5, 1776. I last night received a letter from Mr. Avery on the sub- ject of his department, and several others from Albany; by which I find you are in a cursed situation—your authority at an end, and commanded by a person who will be willing to have you knocked in the head, as General Montgomery was, if he can have the money-chest, &c., in his power. [ expect soon to see you and your suite back here again. I have shown Mr. Avery’s letter, and one I received from Mr. Livingston at the same time, to General Washington. He is distressed with these matters. I told him I should order Mr. Avery and Mr. Jauncey back again immediately, as a deputy of mine, who could have no money from anybody but General Schuyler, could be of no use in that part of the world, and that I would not be answerable for consequences where my authority and the chief command were both dis- puted. He said 1 was right, and that he was writing to Congress on the matter of your command. I have there- fore directed Mr. Avery to apply to you, for your leave of passport to return immediately, and I wish your favour therein. General Howe is arrived here, with about the force he left Boston with—the fleet about one hundred and thirty sail, at anchor under Staten-Island, and the troops on that Island. There they will stay till reinforced, [expect. General Mifflin” is gone to command at King’s Bridge ; the Militia come in very fast. Wishing you health and happiness more than [ think you at present enjoy, 1 am, my dear sir, your friend and humble servant, To General Gates. P.S. If you judge it best to stop Mr. Avery till you hear from Congress, do as you please. JoserH TRUMBULL. EBENEZER HAZARD TO GENERAL GATES. New-York, July 5, 1776. Dear Sir: Being in the midst of hurry, I can write but little at present. Since my last, the British fleet has arrived. About seventy sail are within the Narrows, at the watering-place, under Staten-Island shore. They have landed their men, and taken possession of Staten-Island, cattle, and Tories, and that I hope will be all they will do, Our people on the Jersey shore have severely punished a tender for her temerity in going up the Kills, but as she got on shore on Staten-Island, they could not take her. A captain and five men got into a boat, and went in quest of a boat which had drifted away. They came too near our shore; our riflemen ordered them ashore. They obeyed the summons, and are in salva cus- todia in this city. It was last night reported at the coffee-house, (and | believe the report may be depended on,) that the Congress had de- termined on a Declaration of Independence, and that the vote was unanimous, except New-York, whose Delegates, not being instructed, could not vote.- Our new Convention meets next Monday, and I think will doubtless concur with the other Colonies. ‘The Phala- delphia post is not yet come in; but I will keep my letter unsealed, that if he brings anything, I may add it. En- closed is a letter from Gordon. Please to tell Major Pierce I received the letter he wrote me from Albany, and have forwarded the enclosed, per post, which went a few hours after I received his. The Philadelphia post is come in; am so hurried, [ can’t read my letters or the papers, but send you a news- paper. Adieu, EseNEzER Hazarp. 21 JOHN ADAMS TO GENERAL GATES. Philadelphia, June 18, 1776. My pear Generat: We have ordered you to the post of honour, and made you Dictator in Canada for six months, or at least until the Ist of October. We do not choose to trust you Generals with too much power for too long time. I took my pen at this time to mention to you the name of a young gentleman, and to recommend him to your notice and favour. His name is Rice. This gentleman is the son of a worthy clergyman. He was educated at Harvard Col- lege, where he was an officer of the military company, and distinguished himself as a soldier in the manual exercises and manceuvres. After he came out of college he put himself under my care as a student of law. While he was in my office he was very useful in the neighbourhood in training the companies and Militia there. He is a modest, sensible, and well-read young man, and a very virtuous and worthy one. In my absence from home after the battle of Lexing- ton, he applied for a commission in the Army, and obtained a place, in my opinion, vastly below his real merit—I mean that of Adjutant in General Heath’s, now Colonel G'reaton’s Regiment. In this capacity he has continued from his first engagement, which was immediately after the battle of Lex- mgton, until this time, and is now in Canada with his regi- ment, and I have been informed by a variety of officers that he has behaved remarkably well. As you are going to Canada with full powers, I must beg the favour of you to think of this young gentleman, inquire into his character and conduct, and if you can, consistently with the publick service, advance him to some place more adequate to his abilities and merits and services, I should take it as a favour. I pray God to prosper you in Canada, and grant you a plentiful crop of laurels; and am your affectionate, humble servant, To General Gates. Joun Apams. ELBRIDGE GERRY TO GENERAL GATES. Philadelphia, June 25, 1776. Dear Genera: Since I had the pleasure of seeing you in this place, the affairs of Canada having been evidently suffering from want of an experienced officer to take the command, your appointment to that department is consider- ed as a happy circumstance, notwithstanding the Eastern Colonies greatly need your assistance. I hope the cam- paign will terminate with honour and happiness to yourself and country; and if any services can be rendered from this quarter, by giving you information of the measures here adopted, the causes and moving principles thereof, or by promoting in Congress such other measures as you shall find necessary for the service, it will give me pleasure to have a share therein. The Conference Committee, among other things, reported the expediency of appointing to each regiment a Paymaster, whose duty, they said, you would take an opportunity of describing and communicating to Congress. The matter has since lain on the table, and only waits your sentiments thereon, to be carried into execution. I am very fond of the measure, and it will save an infinitude of trouble, by opening a channel through which all payments to the soldiers will regularly pass, whether consisting of money paid out of the chest, clothing, arms, accoutrements, or sutling accounts ; and when anything is wanted for the comfort of the Army, an order from the General, or the Paymaster-General, for a suitable sum, in favour of the Regimental Paymaster, will enable the latter to communicate immediate assistance to each soldier, without the possibility of any loss to the Con- tinent. Further, when the Paymaster-General discharges himself, it will appear what sums the Regimental Paymas- ters have received, and these, together with the amount of clothing beforementioned, must be deducted from the pay rolls, whether paid immediately to the men or other per- sons in their behalf; and the commanding officer, without any further trouble than an occasional warrant, can always be sure of having his men punctually paid and well supplied with necessaries, which is the life of an army. I think we are in a fair way to a speedy Declaration of Independency, confederations, and other measures that depend on secrecy for success; and Congress having yester- day passed resolves for capitally punishing spies that shall CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. * 22 be found in or about any of the camps or fortifications of the United Colonies, and recommended to the Assemblies to make provision for punishing all*inhabitants and other persons receiving protection in any of the Colonies, who shall be found affording aid or comfort to the King of Great Britain, or other enemies of the United States of America, it appears to me that little will remain to be done, but an attention to the supplies, appointments, and discipline of the Army,—all of which are of the utmost importance, With respect to the first, the soldiers must be well paid, clothed, armed, and fed, or they can never be made to do their duty. And the plans on foot for securing the currency and obtain- ing large sums by loan, also for manufacturing and otherwise obtaining cannon, arms, ammunition, and clothing, together with the great ease in obtaining provisions, will, I hope, be timely and effectually carried into execution, and have a happy effect. ‘The appointments of the Army are matters of interesting consequences ; and notwithstanding every pre- caution of Congress and the Assemblies to choose good officers, yet time and experience will alone enable them to distinguish those that are qualified with conduct, virtue, and prowess, suitable for their respective places. Discipline is the last, but not the least, important object . of attention, and I shall be glad of your explicit sentiments on the same. I cannot conceive why we may not, by setting out right, soon make soldiers equal to any that the world affords. For surely men inspired with the principles of liberty, and enthusiastically engaged in its defence, afford as good materials as can anywhere be found for this purpose. And in the first place, I put it down as a settled, fixed prin- ciple, that they must be inlisted for the war, let the neces- sary encouragement be what it may, which I am happy to find the Generals agreed in, and I think most of the members of Congress. We can easily look over the statutes of Britain and other regulations relative to the Army, and find how far the same are applicable to our own forces ; and to promote the measure, the sentiments of military gentlemen must be collected, and, amongst others, I know of none that I shall more depend on than those which you shall have an opportunity to express. I intended to have troubled you with only a line or two, but being now on the second sheet, find it high time to in- form you that your friends here are well, and join in due regards to Generals Mifflin, Trumbull, and others ; with, sir, your assured friend and humble servant, Evsripce Gerry. To Major General Gates. GENERAL SCOTT TO THE NEW-YORK CONGRESS. New-York, July 5, 1776. Sir: The Continental Congress having, by their resolve, committed the disposal of the prisoners of war, taken and brought into this Colony, to our Congress, I send you, by a Lieutenant of my brigade and a guard of twenty men, the following prisoners of war, to wit: * James Auchmuty, store-keeper in the engineer depart- ment of the enemy, and brother to Doctor Auchmuty, with his wife and child. William Patterson, and his wife and child, servant to the store-keeper; *Richard Brueré, son of the Governour of Burmuda, Midshipman in the British Navy ; Samuel Cox, sloop-captain. ‘These were taken in a Bermuda sloop (one of the enemy’s fleet loaded with in- trenching tools) by Captain Rogers, in our privateer, on the back of Long-Island. * William Elder, volunteer in the Royal Highland Emi- grants; *William McDermott ; *Thomas Remington Har- ris, master’s mate; */Villiam Metcalf, Midshipman; *Jo- seph Woolcombe, Midshipman ; * John Simpson, Master ; James Wilson, seaman; John Murray, seaman; Samuel Coppin, seaman ; Jeremiah Rierdon, John Gibbins, Henry Killigrove, Francis Clemens, Michael Cowney, Caesar Free- man. These have been taken, as I understand, in the enemy’s boats. His Excellency General Washington is very uneasy at the detention of prisoners of war in this city, at this critical juncture. ‘The jail is crowded with a variety of prisoners, and they seek every opportunity of communicating with our internal and unconfined enemies. An instance of this was discovered the day before yesterday, consisting in an attempt *To the Township of Bedford, 23 of the prisoner Auchmuty to communicate with his nephew, by the agency of J. L. C. Roome, whose note for the pur- pose was found upon a*negro before it reached young Auch- muty. It was the General’s opinion that the abovementioned prisoners should be immediately sent to our Congress, to be disposed of by them, in some place of security, and charged me with the doing of it. They will be delivered to the Congress by Lieutenant Gilbert Dean and a guard of twenty men of my brigade. However inconvenient it may be to return me the guard, I must earnestly insist that it be imme- diately done. My brigade is very thin, and there is already a large guard gone out of it to New-England with the Scotch prisoners of war. I have nothing material to inform Congress of now than as follows, to wit: Independency declared last Tuesday in Congress by an unanimous voice. Our infamous brethren of Staten-Island, instead of assisting the troops in removing the stock, drove them into hiding places. Not above a hun- dred were got off. The enemy, ora part of them, are landed on Staten-Island, live in great harmony with the inhabitants, who sell them their stock for hard money, and I suppose were never so happy in their lives. An attempt was made on the Jersey shore, but upon the appearance of the Militia they retired to the Island again, and broke up the causeway ; and Richard Lawrence was the first man on that work. Brigadier Heard, of the Jersey Militia, with a party and two twelve-pounders, have destroyed one of the enemy’s tenders in the Kills. I am, sir, with great respect, your most obedient servant, Joun Morin Scorvt. To the President of the New-York Provincial Congress, at the White-Plains. Examination of Joun Simpson. White-Plains, in Westchester County, July 6, 1776. John Simpson, of the County of Northumberland, in England, aged about thirty-eight, about five feet ten inches, light eyes, and brown hair, being examined, says, that he sailed from London in the ship Saville, himself master, bound for Boston, with a cargo of provisions for the Ministerial Navy, where he arrived in November last, and was detained at Boston until the Army under General Howe left that place for Halifax. That he sailed from Halifax with General Howe’s fleet, and on their arrival at the Narrows one of his boats went adrift, on which he, with three of his sailors, took another boat and went in quest of her, and on their coming near Long-Island shore were taken prisoners, and brought up to New-York, from whence he was sent to this place. Parole of Joun Simpson. I, John Simpson, master of the ship Saville, a victualling transport, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gen- tleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Province of New-York, being the place of my destination and residence, and there, or six miles thereof, to remain during the present war between Great Britain and the said United Colonies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise ; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the said United Colonies, or do or say anything in oppo- sition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and proceedings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present trou- bles, or until I am duly exchanged or discharged. Given under my hand, this sixth day of July, A. D. 1776. JOHN SIMPSON, Master of the Saville Victualler. Examination of Samurt Cox. Samuel Cox, a native of the Island of Bermuda, master of the sloop Charlotte, about five feet ten inches high, brown complexion, light eyes, brown hair, about twenty-five years of age, being examined, says he sailed from Halifax as master of the said sloop on the tenth of June last, with a cargo of intrenching tools, &c., for the use of the Ministerial Army, and bound to Sandy-Hook ; that he was taken in the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 24 said sloop on the 28th of Jast month, by Captain Rogers, in an American armed sloop, and carried into Fire-Island In- let, on the south side of Long-Island, from whence he was brought prisoner to this place. ght p I Samuet Cox. Parole of Samuret Cox. I, Samuel Cox, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do pro- mise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Province of New- York, being the place of my destination and residence; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain during the pre- sent war between Great Britain and the said United Colo- nies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say anything in opposition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and pro- ceedings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until I am duly exchanged or dis- charged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. SamuEu Cox, Master of the Sloop Charlotte Transport. Examination of Witiiam Exper. William Elder, a North Briton, about five feet eight inches in height, aged twenty-five, light eyes, fair complex- ion, and dark brown hair, being examined, says he came from Scotland via Falmouth, in the packet last spring was a year; that he came out as a volunteer with Colonel Allan Maclean, who, on his arrival, went to Boston; that the ex- aminant received a letter from Major Small, informing this examinant that Colonel Maclean had recommended him and requested him to come to Boston; that the examinant took passage in the ship Sally, bound to Boston; that on the 6th of March last, the said ship was cast away on the south side of Long-Island, and he taken prisoner and brought to New- York, where he remained a prisoner till yesterday, when he was sent to this place. Peenrenn hain Parole of Wiuu1am Exper. I, Wiliam Elder, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the town of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Province of New- York, being the place of my destination and residence; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain during the pre- sent war between Great Britain and the said United Colo- nies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatso- ever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say any- thing in opposition to, or in prejudice of, any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until 1 am duly exchanged or discharged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. Wituiam Exper, Volunteer. Examination of Witu1am McDermott. William McDermott, an Hibernian, aged twenty-two, about five feet six inches high, fair complexion, light eyes, and light brown hair, being examined, says, that on his pas- sage from New- York (he having been for some time on board the Asia) he was cast away on board the ship Sadly, on the south side of Long-Island, taken and sent prisoner to New- York, where he remained a prisoner till yesterday, when he is place. was sent to this plac Wituram McDermorr. Parole of Wittiam McDerwnorr. I, William McDermott, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the 25 faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Province of New- York, being the place of my destination and residence ; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain during the pre- sent war with Great Britain and the said United Colonies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention, or Committee, or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say anything in opposition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and proceed- ings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until I am duly exchanged or discharged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. Wititram McDermorr. — Examination of James Aucumuty. White-Plains, in Westchester County, July 6, 1776. James Auchmuty, Esq., of Boston, being examined, saith: That he, together with his wife and child, sailed from Hali- fax on the 10th of June last, in a transport sloop called the Charlotte, whereof Samuel Cox was master, bound for New- York; that, on Friday last, the said sloop was taken by Captain Rogers, in an American armed sloop called the Montgomery, and carried into Fire-Island Inlet, on the south side of Long-Island, and from thence, with his said wife and child, were sent prisoners to this place; that this examinant was appointed by General Howe storekeeper to the engi- neers, and that the pay allowed him was four shillings ster- ling per day, with the promise of its being augmented to five ; that the fleet, of which the Charlotte transport was one, amounted to about one hundred and thirty sail; that the army on board the said fleet consisted of near ten thousand men, exclusive of marines, as he (the examinant) understood ; that it was reported at Halifax that Lord Howe, with the Ger- man troops, were intended for New-York ; that it was said eleven thousand regular troops went with General Burgoyne to Quebeck ; that the said sloop Charlotte was laden with intrenching tools, some spikes, Chevaux-de-Frise, and some mantelets. James AUCHMUTY. Parole of James Aucumoury. I, James Auchmuty, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in the Province of New- York, being the place of my destination and residence; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain during the present war between Great Britain and the said United Colonies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise ; and that [ will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say anything in opposition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and proceedings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until I am duly exchanged or discharged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. James Aucumuty, Storekeeper of the Engincer’s Department. Examination of Tuomas Remineron Harris. Thomas Remington Harris, an inhabitant of the city of London, master’s mate on board the Savage sloop of war, being examined, saith: That he was taken prisoner on Sta- ten-Island by a party of riflemen on the 7th of April last, and brought to the city of New-York, where he was con- fined in Jail till yesterday, when he was sent to this place a risoner. Pp Tuomas Reminetron Harris. Parole of Tuomas Remineron Harris. I, Thomas Remington Harris, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word of honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Pro- vince of New-York, being the place of my destination and residence; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c. JULY, 1776. 26 during the present war with Great Britain and the said United Colonies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention or Committee, or Council of Safety, of the said Colony, shall order otherwise ; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say anything in opposition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and proceedings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until 1 am duly exchanged or dis- charged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. Tuomas Remineton Harris, Mate of the Savage Sloop. Examination of Witu1am Mercaure. William Metcalfe, born near Bristol, in Old England, of the age of twenty, about five feet two inches high, well set, light eyes, fair complexion and brown hair, and a cast in his right eye, somewhat pitted with the small-pox, being ex- amined, says, that he was a Midshipman on board the Savage sloop of war; being of a party sent on shore at Staten-Island, was taken prisoner on the 7th of April last, brought to New- York, and now sent to this place. Witiuam Mercatre. Examination of JoserpH Wooicomse. Joseph Woolcombe, a native of Topsham, in Devonshire, in Old England, being examined, says he was formerly mate on board the ship Blue Mountain Valley, a transport ship ; was cast away in the ship Sally on the south side of Long- Island, (bound to Boston,) taken prisoner and sent to New- York, and from thence to this place; he is about five feet eight inches in height, light eyes and complexion, light brown hair, and well set. JosepH WooLcomBE. Parole of Joserpu WooucomsBe. I, Joseph Woolcombe, being made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Province of New- York, being the place of my destination and residence ; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain during the pre- sent war between Great Britain and the said United Colo- nies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the Assembly, Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say anything in opposition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and proceed- ings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until I am duly exchanged or discharged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. JosepH WooLcoMBE, Chief Mate of the Ship Blue Mountain Valley. ° . / Examination of RicHarp Brurre. Richard Brueré, second son of Governour Brueré of the Island of Bermuda, being examined, saith: That he is at present a Midshipman of the Navy of Great Britain; that he was to be made an acting lieutenant on board the Merlin sloop of war; that he sailed from Halkfax about the 10th of June last in one of the engineer’s sloops, of which he was part owner, bound to Sandy-Hook ; that the said sloop was taken on Friday or Saturday last on the south side of Long- Island, by Captain Rogers of an American armed sloop, and carried into Fire-Island Inlet, and from thence was sent prisoner to this place. Ricuarp Bruere. Parole of R. Bruert. I Richard Brueré, beg made a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies in North America, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to the township of Bedford, in Westchester County, in the Province of New- York, being the place of my destination and residence ; and there, or within six miles thereof, to remain during the pre- sent war between Great Britain and the said United Colo- nies, or until the Congress of the said United Colonies, or the 27 Assembly, Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety of the said Colony, shall order otherwise; and that I will not, directly or indirectly, give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say any- thing in opposition to, or in prejudice of, the measures and proceedings of any Congress for the said Colonies during the present troubles, or until I am duly exchanged or dis- charged. Given under my hand this 6th day of July, A. D. 1776. R. Bruert, Midshipman, &c. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 5, 1776. Dear Genera: I beg leave to recommend to your con- sideration the establishing a certain guard at Red Hook. It is undoubtedly a post of vast importance. Detached guards never defend a place equal to troops stationed at a particular post. Both officers and men contract an affection for a post after being there some time; they will be more industrious to have everything in readiness, and obstinate in defence. The little baggage that each private has is of consequence to him, and will influence his conduct in time of action, if it is at stake. The officers also will have new motives: they, knowing a post to be committed to their trust, and that the whole disgrace will fall upon them if any misconduct happens, will be much more likely to take every necessary precaution to avoid so great an evil. But an officer that commands a detachment thinks little more than how to pass away his time during his tour of duty, it being uncertain whether he shall ever command there again. I sent to General Scott this morning four persons taken at the Narrows last night. The following is a copy of their examination. ‘They were taken separately, and agreed in their account in everything, except the number of men. The Captain’s account was the least, and, I believe, the nearest right, and I apprehend not much from the truth. The fleet sailed from Halifax the 10th of June, and ar- rived the 29th. ‘The fleet consists of one hundred and twenty sail of topsail vessels, and they have on board ten thousand troops received at Halifax, besides some of the Scotch brigade that have joined the fleet on the passage. The troops from the West Indies joined the army at Hali- fax, and were there received by them. List of the Generals: Howe, Pigot, Percy, Grant, Jones. A list of the ships of force: Asia, 64; Centurion, 50 ; Chatham, 50; Phenix, 40; Greyhound, 30; Rose, 20; Swan, 16; Senegal, 16. Four days before the fleet sailed from Halifax a packet arrived from England, that brought an account of Admiral Howe’s sailing with a fleet of one hundred and fifty sail, on board of which were twenty thousand troops. The fleet sailed a few days before the packet: they are expected in here every day. General Carleton’s regiment went from Halifax to Que- beck. The Niger ship, that went from Halifax in April to Canada, met Burgoyne going up the river with thirty-six transports, and six thousand troops on board. General Carleton’s son went into Quebeck painted like an Indian. The people of Staten-Island went on board the fleet as they lay at the Hook, several boat loads of them. Our people are firing with the nine-pounders at the Nar- rows, but have not heard where they have done any execu- tion. ‘There was a smart fire heard at the west end of Staten-Island about four this morning. It is supposed to be an attack upon Fort Smith, in the south part of Staten- Island. Nothing further has happened since yesterday. Believe me to be, with the greatest respect, your Excel- lency’s most obedient humble servant, NaTHANAEL GREENE. GENERAL MIFFLIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp at Mount Washington, July 5, 1776. My pear Generar: I find the works well advanced, but not in a state of defence. The teams allotted to them have been taken off: some of them sent to town for mate- rials, and there detained; others necessarily employed in hauling up the powder (which is now stored in the best place I could find) and provisions from the landing. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 28 From the Colonels’ reports the men’s arms are in a most alarming situation. Colonel Magaw has not more than one hundred and twenty-five in his regiment fit for service ; Colonel Shee about three hundred, including all the carbines which they received lately by your order. If the enemy pay us a visit we will do our best, and endeavour to make up in zeal what we want in appointment. Should sufficient reinforcements arrive at New-York, may we not expect a share? You are best acquainted with the importance of this post, my dear General, and I flatter myself will put it into our power to do something more than mere defensive work within our lines. I think the enemy may divert our attention to the heights above King’s Bridge ; if So, is it expected that we can detach a party to oppose them ? I shall be happy in your orders how to act if a landing should be attempted above or below us, at the same time that we may have reason to believe our present post to be one of their objects. Were the works in good order, and the men well equipped ; I could easily determine these points, but circumstanced as we are, I do not see how we can per- mit even a small party to leave the environs of this camp, without exposing it to imminent danger, and yet I might be tempted to try it. I propose to exercise with the artillery, if the works will admit of it, two companies who are not armed. Our prin- cipal business within the works must be with artillery. We have many arms which might soon be put in order if Colonel Moylan will favour us with four armourers and some tools. Captain Bacon promised it several days past, but still neglects us. I am, my dear General, your obedient servant and friend, Tuomas Mrireriin, B. G. His Excellency Gen. Washington, Camp at New-York. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] Lebanon, July 5, 1776. Sir: In my last, of the 10th of June, I informed you I had called the General Assembly to meet at Hartford, on the 14th then current, to take into consideration the requisitions of Congress of the Ist and 3d of June, for re- inforcements to the armies at New-York and in Canada. They accordingly met, and cheerfully granted the reinforce- ments required, including one regiment ordered to be raised in May last, and not particularly destined. ‘They consist of nine battalions—two for the Northern Department, and seven for New-York. David Waterbury, Jun., Esq., is appointed Brigadier-General for the Northern Department, and James Wadsworth, Jun., Esq., for New-York. As at this season of the year the pressure of country busi- ness was such as to engage the attention ofthe people in general, and was not to be left without great difficulty, and the small-pox in Canada naturally would deter those from engaging in the service who had never passed through that distemper, it was thought necessary by the Assembly to encourage men to inlist, by offering them a bounty; and accordingly six pounds as a bounty to each able-bodied man that should inlist into the battalions destined for Canada, and three pounds for those destined to New- York. In the rest of the session, after officers were appointed, proper measures were consulted for arming and equipping the troops to be raised, and furnishing them with other necessaries, agreeably to the resolves of Congress. The Assembly, apprehending that the bounty granted to the battalions of Militia might retard the raising the Conti- nental regiment ordered to be raised in this Colony in May last, thought it necessary and did grant a bounty of forty shillings to each able-bodied man that should inlist into that regiment. . The battalions of Militia are now filling up as fast as may be, though the prevalence of the small-pox in the Northern Army intimidates our men, and retards the inlist- ments. Proper orders have been given to the Brigadiers General, and by them to the Colonels, to hasten the raising, equipping, and marching the troops. Many have marched for New-York, and the rest will soon follow; in the mean- time, lest the want of these battalions should be felt at New- York, three regiments of horse of our Militia are ordered to join the army at New-York, and, if wanted, to continue there till the battalions of foot arrive. © 29 During the session, and soon after the rising of the As- sembly, your favours of the 11th, 14th, and 19th of June came to hand. The exportation of salted beef and pork was prohibited by act of Assembly, and all the salted pork in the stores of merchants and others, except provisions for the use of families, ordered to be purchased on the Colony’s account, antecedent to the receipt of the resolve of Congress on that subject. As an extraordinary bounty is given to the two battalions raising for the Northern Department, it would be attended with difficulty to exchange their destination, and send the battalion ordered to be raised in May last that way instead of one of them. Indeed, I suppose the largest part of that battalion are now on their way to New-York. The Con- tinental, or Colonel Ward’s regiment, is not filled. 'To alter its first destination may create uneasiness. Will it not be best that the Militia desired to be sent to Boston in their room be forwarded to New-York, and a battalion ordered from thence of such as have passed through the small-pox ? Not one in twenty of our soldiers have had it. This, I trust, will be considered as complying fully with the spirit and intention of the resolves of Congress of the 19th and 25th of June last. The small-pox is a more terrible enemy than the British troops, and strikes a greater dread into our men who have never had it. Might not some of our troops be sent to New- York, and serve there, instead of the York or Jersey bat- talions, which have generally passed through that distemper? Such an exchange would be*very agreeable, and greatly facilitate the filling up our regiments. Our intelligence from Crown-Point shows the infection to be very great in our returning army. I have received information by several persons that the inhabitants on the New-Hampshire Grants, on the northern frontier of the Province of New-York, are in the highest con- sternation on the retreat of the Army from Canada, from an apprehended attack of the savages. Some of their settlements are breaking up, and all are in danger of being soon deserted. Should they fall back on the older plantations, the enemy would derive great advantages from their improvements and buildings, to fall on and distress the frontiers; and the incon- venience they may bring with them, and the terror they will spread, may produce the most unhappy consequences. May I not venture to suggest the expediency of raising a batta- lion of troops, in the pay of the Continent, upon those Grants? The inhabitants, inured to hardship, and acquainted with the country, may rival the Indians in their own mode of making war, will support that frontier, and leave the more interior settlements at liberty to assist in the general defence of the Colonies. If they are not put under pay, their poverty is such they can hire no labourers to carry on their farming business in their absence. Should they go out as Militia without pay, the failure of one crop would effectually break up their settlements. As to your requisition respecting a regiment of Militia for the Northern Department, if you mean it in addition to the two battalions now raising by us for that destination, the one for Boston, and seven for New-York, I am constrained to say, although we wish to comply with every requisition of your wise and honourable body, and to make every exer- tion for the salvation of the United Colonies in our power, it seems impossible to comply, as we have now more than fourteen thousand men from this Colony in Continental and Colonial service, by sea and land, and especially in this ex- treme busy season, when the fields languish for want of labourers, and inevitable famine and nakedness will be the consequence of stripping them any more. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JONATHAN TRUMBULL. To the Honourable President Hancock. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, July 5, 1776. Dear Sir: The bearer, Captain Winslow, is one of the head carpenters I mentioned in my last, and now waits on you with his party to enter into your service. You will find him a man of integrity, and well calculated for your pur- pose. I find by him that his men are doubtful whether, in case of sickness, they are to receive hospital allowance, as customary for sick soldiers. ‘They would think it so hard to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 30 be deprived of that allowance, that he would be obliged to release them all at Albany if it should appear to be your intention not to make it. I must earnestly recommend it to you to make them every allowance of that kind which you can think consistent with honour and justice. Captain Lester’s company are in the same circumstances, and will merit to be treated in the same manner. I am, sir, with great esteem and regard, your most obe- dient humble servant, JoNaTHAN TRUMBULL. To the Honourable Philip Schuyler, Esq. COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO WALTER SPOONER. Watertown, July 5, 1776. Sir: Whereas Captain Welden, commander of the brig Rising Empire, has received orders from the Board, dated the 27th ultimo, directing him, when properly armed, to proceed to Boston to take his complement of provisions, &c., the Board request you will direct Captain Welden, when he is ready to proceed for Boston, to take under his convoy all such vessels as are ready for sailing by the 20th instant, and them convoy into latitude 38° 30’ north, and longitude 67° west from London; after which he is to proceed as directed by his instructions, dated the 27th of last month. In the name and by order of the Council. To the Honourable Walter Spooner, Esq. PROCEEDINGS AT HANOVER, NEW-HAMPSHIRE. At a meeting of several adjacent ‘Towns at the College Hall, on Friday, the 5th day of July, 1776, viz: Lyme, Hanover, Lebanon, Thredford, Norwich, and Hartford: Chosen, Amos Robinson, Clerk. Chosen, Deacon Nehemiah Estabrook, Moderator. Voted, 'To have fifty men, exclusive of officers, to repair to Royalton, to fortify in that town, and scout from thence to Onion River and Newbury. Voted, 'To appoint one Captain and two Subalterns. Voted, To appoint Mr. David Woodward Captain. Voted, To appoint Mr. Joshua Hazen 1st Lieutenant. Voted, To appoint Mr. Abel Lyman 2d Lieutenant. Voted, 'To appoint a Committee of three men to direct the building of the Fort at Royalton, and furnish said Fort with all necessary supplies. Chosen, Esquire Joel Marsh, Mr. Isaac Morgan, and Major John Slapp, to be said Committee. Voted, To raise two hundred and fifty men, exclusive of officers, to go to Newbury, to fortify, scout, and guard there for three months, unless sooner discharged. Voted, 'To appoint Captain Abner Seely Major of the last mentioned department. Voted, To divide said two hundred and fifty men into four Companies. , Voted, To appoint Mr. Levi Willard, Mr. Oliver Ashley, and Mr, Samuel Paine, to be Captains. Voted, That the Captains appoint their Subalterns. Voted, To appoint a Committee of three men to direct and order the affairs of the Newbury department. Voted, That Colonel Bailey, Colonel Johnson, and Col. Olcott be said Committee. Voted, ‘That this Committee engage that the Officers and Soldiers in both the aforementioned departments be honour- ably paid for their services. Voted, ‘To dismiss this meeting. It is accordingly dismissed. A true copy, taken from the Minutes. Attest per me: Amos Rosrnson, Clerk. ARTHUR LEE TO CHARLES W. F. DUMAS. London, July 6, 1776. Dear Sir: This will be delivered to you by Mr. Ellis, a friend of Dr. Franklin, of liberty, and of America. He isa philosopher, very well instructed on the subject of America, and, I trust, will be both an agreeable and useful acquaint- ance while he remains near you. I thank you for your favour of the 21st of last month. By the last advices from America, General Howe was prepared to sail for Halifax, and, it is imagined, to land at New-York, where he will certainly be strongly opposed. He numbers ten thousand regulars, and it will be fortunate for us if he 31 makes his attempt before he is joined by the Germans, who sailed the 6th of May. ji The Americans have taken post upon the river Richelieu and the Lakes, so that Montreal, not being tenable, is evacu- ated. General Lee is in Virginia, with ten thousand men, expecting Lord Cornwallis and General Clinton. General Washington commands at New-York, and General Ward in Boston. The strange timidity de la Cour Francaise requires great patience and management; but I think it will at last be brought to act an avowed and decided part. When that happens, Angleterre must submit to whatever terms they please to impose, for she is totally incapable of sustaining a war with France. Adieu, Arruur LEE. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM PARIS, DATED JULY 6, 1776. We hear that the Court of Great Britain have lately pre- sented a memorial to our Court, and also to that of Spain, strongly complaining of the trade which is so industriously carried on by the French and Spanish merchants with the rebellious Colonies of North America; and at the same time inquiring the reason of the great armament carrying on in both these Kingdoms, supposed to be against the States of Africa, whilst the latter sit quiet and inactive, as if they had nothing to fear. ‘The answer given by both the above Courts is publickly spoken to be this: That with regard to the complaints of trading with the Rebels, it isa mere smug- gling and illicit trade, which, notwithstanding the risk of being confiscated, according to law, merchants of every ma- ritime country will always venture, and act contrary to the positive commands of the Legislature. But with regard to the armament, both France and Spain find themselves highly necessitated to send strong forces to their Colonies of South America and the West-Indies, in order to prevent a rebellion there, to which they might be induced by the seeming suc- cess of the British Colonies in North America. Feasible, however, as this answer may appear, yet it is certain, that our squadron, lately sailed from Brest and Toulon, met and united themselves with a Spanish squadron near the Cape of St. Vincent; and there are authentick advices of the latest date, mentioning that the Spanish fleet destined for Cuba was observed steering towards Jamaica. BENJAMIN HARRISON, JR., TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Williamsburgh, July 6, 1776. Hownovurasce Sir: By direction of Brigadier General Lewis, I do myself the honour to transmit you an account of the state of my office, from 22d of June to this day; andI have it in orders from the General to say that an immediate sup- ply of money is wanted. I have the honour to be, honourable sir, your very obedi- ent servant, Bens. Harrison, Jun. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. MATTHEW TILGHMAN TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Annapolis, July 6, 1776. Sir: Very fortunately, your letters, with the several reso- lutions of Congress, came just time enough to be offered to the Convention before their rising. ‘They were immediately taken into consideration, and the enclosed resolves were very speedily and unanimously passed, and directed to be transmitted to you, to be laid before the Congress; which, in obedience to the order of Convention, I have now the honour to do; and am, sir, respectfully, your most obedient servant, Mar. Titenman, President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress, at Philadelphia. In Convention, Annapolis, July 6, 1776. The President laid before the Convention several Letters from the Honourable the President of Congress, of the 25th and 29th of June, and the 4th instant, and sundry Resolu- tions of that respectable body, which were taken into con- sideration ; and thereupon, Ordered, That Colonel Smallwood immediately proceed with his Battalion to the City of Philadelphia, and put him- self under the Continental officer commanding there, and be subject to the further orders of the Congress. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 32 Ordered, That the Independent Companies stationed in Talbot, Kent, Queen Anne, and St. Mary’s Counties, imme- diately proceed to Philadelphia, and put themselves under the command of Colonel Smallwood, subject to the further order of the Congress. Resolved, That the said Battalion and Independent Com- panies be deducted from the number of the Militia required by Congress of this Colony, to compose the Flying-Camp. Resolved, That this Province will raise two Companies of Riflemen, and four Companies of Germans, according to the requisition of Congress in their Resolutions of the 27th day of June last. That one of the said Companies of Riflemen be raised in Harford County, two of the said Companies of Germans be raised in Baltimore County, and one of the Companies of Riflemen and two of the Companies of Germans be raised in Frederick County. That each of the Companies of Germans consist of one Captain, two Lieutenants, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drummer, one Fifer, and seventy-six Pri- vates; and each of the Rifle Companies of one Captain, three Lieutenants, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drum- mer, one Fifer, and seventy-six Privates ; and that the Offi- cers be approved by appointment and certified to the Con- gress by the Council of Safety. Extract from the minutes : G. Duvauu, Clerk. Resolved, That it be recommended to the Commanding Officer of the Flying-Camp to keep the corps of Regular Forces and Militia distinct and separate, if possible, to pre- vent any discontent about rank. Extract from the minutes : G. Duvaxt, Clerk. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Sir: The Congress, for some time past, have had their attention occupied by one of the most interesting and im- portant 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 nevertheless a duty we owe our- selves and posterity, in all our publick counsels, to decide in the best manner we are able, and to leave the event to that Being who controls both causes and events to bring about his own determinations. Impressed with this sentiment, and at the same time fully convinced that our affairs may take a more favourable turn, the Congress have judged it necessary to dissolve the con- nexion between Great Britain and the American Colonies, and to declare them free and independent States, as you will perceive by the enclosed Declaration, which I am di- rected by Congress 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. Agreeable to the request of Congress, the Committee of Safety of this Colony have forwarded to you ten thousand flints, and the flints at RAode-Island are ordered to be sent to you immediately. It is with great pleasure I inform you that the Militia of this Colony, of Delaware Government, and Maryland, are, and will be every day, in motion to form the Flying-Camp, and that all the Militia of this Colony will soon be in the Jerseys, ready to receive such orders as you shall please to give them. I have written to Governour Cooke to engage immediately, and send forward as fast as possible, fifty ship-carpenters to General Schuyler, for the purpose of building vessels on the Lakes. Fifty have already gone from hence on that busi- ness. The Congress having directed the arms taken on board the Scotch transports to be sent to you, I have written to the agents in Rhode-Island and Massachusetts-Bay to for- ward them immediately. The enclosed copy of a letter from Mr. Greene I am directed to forward by Congress, with a request that you will order such parts of the stores therein mentioned to New- York as you shall judge proper. I have the honour to be, sir, with perfect esteem, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. 33 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Sm: Should this be presented to you by Captain Thomas Cardrop, you will please to understand that he, with fifty ship-carpenters under his command, are engaged in the Con- tinental service, with orders to proceed, with the utmost expedition, for Albany, there to put themselves under the direction of Major-General Philip Schuyler, in order to per- form the very essential service of building galleys, floating- batteries, &c., for the defence of the Lakes. And the pre- sent situation of the Ministerial Army on Staten-Island having rendered it necessary to leave the route of this corps to the judgment and discretion of Captain Cardrop, it is uncertain whether your Excellency will see him or not; therefore these lines are given to him merely to procure the necessary assistance and despatch, if he should find it safe and convenient to call at New-York in order to procure water conveyance. I have the honour to remain your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, Joun Hancock. To His Excellency Geerge Washington, Esq. BOARD OF WAR TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. War-Office, Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Sir: [am directed by the Board of War and Ordnance to request that you would be pleased to inform them whether any and what provision has been made in the Continental Army for sergeant-majors, drum and fife-majors, and quar- termaster-sergeants ; and if none has heretofore been made, whether any and what pay or allowance ought to be made them. I have the honour to be your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, EE GE > e To His Excellency General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION, ETC. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. HonovuraBie Gentiemen: Although it is not possible to foresee the consequences of human actions, yet it is never- theless a duty we owe ourselves and posterity, in all our publick councils, to decide in the best manner we are able, and to trust the event to that Being who controls both causes and events so as to bring about his own determina- tions. Impressed with this sentiment, and at the same time fully convinced that our affairs may take a more favourable turn, the Congress have judged it necessary to dissolve all con- nexion between G'reat Britain and the American Colonies, and to declare them free and independent States, as you will perceive by the enclosed Declaration, which I am directed by Congress to transmit to you, and to request you will have it proclaimed in your Colony, in the way you shall think most proper. The important consequences to the American States from this Declaration of Independence, considered as the ground and foundation of a future Government, will naturally sug- gest the propriety of proclaiming it in such a manner that the people may be universally informed of it. I have the honour to be, with great respect, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Honourable Convention of New-York. [Same to the Honourable Assembly of Massachusetts- Bay, Governour Trumbull, Governour Cooke, and Assembly of New-Hampshire.] P. S. to the Letter to New-Hampshire :—Major Rogers, of your Colony, is now here. The Congress have ordered that he be sent to New-Hampshire, to be disposed of as that Government shall judge best. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO COMMISSARY MEASE. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Str: You are hereby required to pay to Captain William Kilsay, commanding a company of ‘Satpal Militia, one month’s pay, in the following proportions, the said Captain Kilsay to be accountable, agreeably to a resolve of Con- gress of this day, viz: ‘To one Captain, two Lieutenants, Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 34 one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, fifty-one Pri- vates—to each of these gentlemen one month’s advance pay agreeable to the established pay. By order of Congress : Joun Hancock, President. To Mr. Commissary and Paymaster Mease. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WARD. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Sir: The enclosed Declaration of Independence I am directed to transmit to you, with a request that you will have it proclaimed at the head of the troops under your command, in the way you shall think most proper. I have only time to add, that the importance of it will naturally suggest the propriety of proclaiming it in such a manner as that the whole Army may be fully apprized of it. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Ward, or Officer commanding the Continental Troops at Boston. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO JOHN BRADFORD. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Sir: As I purpose writing you fully on the subject of ma- rine affairs some time in the course of next week, I shall only enclose at present a resolve of Congress, directing you to send the arms taken out of the Scotch transports to General Washington at New- York ; and indeed this is all I have time to do now, being in great haste. Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Mr. John Bradford, Agent in Massachusetts-Bay. [Same to Mr. Daniel Tillinghast, Agent in Rhode- Island.] War-Office, Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. All persons in the United American States who are able to inform the Congress of any quantities of flint-stone, or of any persons who are skilled in the manufacture of flints, are requested to apply in person, or by letter, to the Board of War and Ordnance, at the War-Office in Market Street, near the corner of Fourth Street. All printers of news- papers in the several States are desired to insert this adver- tisement. Ricuarp Perers, Jun., Secretary. JACOB RUSH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 6, 1776. Sir: I beg leave to acquaint you, at the desire of Mr. Hancock, that your letter of the 4th and 5th instant was this day received and read in Congress. As the despatches which are at this time preparing for you cannot be got ready for the post, and Mr. Hancock does not incline to detain him, I am to inform you that he will send them by express as soon as possible after Congress rises. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, you most obedient and very humble servant, Jacos Rusu. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN PHILADEL- PHIA TO HIS FRIEND AT ANNAPOLIS, DATED JULY 6, 1776, SATURDAY MORNING. General Howe has landed a great body of troops on Sta- ten-Island. His force cannot be ascertained. General Washington and his troops are in high spirits. ‘The strength of our Army at New-York cannot be ascertained, the Militia pour in so fast that it is impracticable. ‘The Jersey Militia, amounting to three thousand five hundred, have acquired great honour in forming and marching with such alacrity and ex- pedition. They have for some time past got over to New- York. The battalions of this city (every one of them) are marching to Trenton and Brunswick, in the Jerseys. ‘The rifle battalion in the pay of this Province, marched yester- day for the same places. The Militia in the Counties are also ordered to march. Out of these bodies they mean to form their quota of the Flying-Camp, to be posted in the Jer- seys, and to be at the command of General Washington. It is expected that the Lower Counties and Maryland will 30 immediately march their quotas of Militia, to compose the Flying-Camp, to this city, to defend it in the absence of its own battalions. Your hour of trial is come; your plighted faith, your pub- Jick honour, the love of your country, and its dearest liber- ties, in this moment of imminent danger, demand that you instantly fly to the assistance of a sister Colony. Saturday noon.—An express is just arrived from General Washington. Howe’s Army consists of ten thousand men. Admiral Howe is not yet arrived, but hourly expected, with one hundred and fifty sail, having on board twenty thousand troops. ‘The enemy’s grand army will consist of thirty thou- sand. The whole Militia of this Province are ordered to the Jerseys. We are in anxious expectation to hear from Maryland, nor can we for a moment entertain a fear that our brethren will desert us in the day of our distress. The farmers here have left their harvest, and cast away the scythe for the musket. I should rejoice to hear you have imitated so laudable, so glorious an example. GEORGE ROSS TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS, In Committee, Lancaster, July 6, 1776. Sir: [have the honour to inform you of the receipt of yours of the 3d instant, before which, the Committee received letters of the 4th instant, from a Committee of Congress, and from the Committee of Inspection of the City and Liber- ties of Philadelphia. The Conference here had broken up before either came to hand, and the members had returned to their respective homes. We immediately took into con- sideration the very important matters recommended; and how they have proceeded, you will be best informed by the enclosed resolves ; and we have despatched orders to all the Colonels of this County, and shall continue to exert every nerve to carry the resolves of Congress into execution. I am, sir, your most obliged and obedient servant, Gro. Ross, Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. GEORGE ROSS TO COLONEL GALBRAITH. In Committee, Lancaster, July 6, 1776. Sir: We yesterday enclosed you our resolves respect- ing the companies agreed to be furnished by the battalions in this County towards the six thousand men required to form the Flying-Camp. We this day received the enclosed resolves of the Con- gress as to the Independency of the United States of Ame- rica, which we forward to you for the regulation of your conduct in the present alarming situation of our affairs. The battalions in this town were this day drawn out, and unani- mously agreed to march. We doubt not but that you will exert yourself to carry the resolves of Congress and the con- ference of Committees into execution; and are, sir, your most obedient servants. ; By order of the Committee: G. Ross, Chairman. ROBERT FRAILL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 8, 1776.] Easton, July 6, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 3d instant, by express, came to hand this forenoon about half after nine o’clock. There being but one of the meinbers of our Committee at present in this town, orders are'sent off for a meeting of the Com- mittee to attend here next Monday, as also the several Colonels of this County to attend at the same time, in order to consider on the contents of your letter. In the mean time, I am desired to acquaint you, that the utmost despatch will be made to forward the request of Congress for the defence of the liberties of the United Co- lonies. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Rosert Frat, Clerk to the Committee of Northampton County. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. HENRY HALLER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 8, 1776.] Reading, July 6, 1776. _ Sir: Last night the messenger arrived with your letter to the Committee of Berks County, requesting us to use CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 36 the utmost despatch in sending off the troops to be raised here for the defence of the middle Colonies. It will be unnecessary at this time to acquaint you of the measures pursued by us for the more speedy raising of the men, as the Congress are already informed of them by our letters. We have only to add, that you may depend upon our utmost diligence in completing the companies, and marching them without loss of time, wherein we apprehend no other difficulty than what may arise from the want of muskets, of which we have directed the Captains to purchase as many as possible, and should be glad to be informed by what means the men are to be supplied with the remainder. By order of the Committee. I am, your most obedient and very humble servant, Henry Hauer, Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. CONFERENCE WITH INDIANS AT FORT PITT. Fort Pitt, July 6, 1776. At a Meeting held this day at this place, present: Kiashuta, a Mingo Chief, just returned from the treaty at Niagara ; Captain Pipe, a Delaware Chief; the Shade, a Shawnees Chief, with several others, Shawnees and Delawares ; likewise Major Trent, Major Ward, Captain Nevill, his officers, and a number of the inhabitants. After being seated, Kiashuta made the following speech: “Brorners: Three months ago, I left this place to attend a treaty at Niagara, to be held between the com- manding officer at that place, and Six Nations, Shawnees, Delawares, &c.; but I was stopped near a month at Caugh- nawaga, as the commanding officer had sent word to the Indians not to assemble until he should hear from Detroit. While I was at Caughnawaga, eight hundred Indians of the Six Nations, hearing of my intention of going to the treaty, came to meet and go with me. Just as we arrived ata small village beyond Caughnawaga, they received a message from the commanding officer, acquainting them that the treaty was over; but they, notwithstanding, persisted in going. I received a message at the same time, inviting me. to come, and assuring me that the Council fire was not en- tirely extinguished. Upon my arrival with the rest of the Indians, 1 informed the commanding officer that I had come a great distance to hear what he had to say, and desired that he would inform me; but he told me that he was not yet prepared to speak with me, which ended our con- ference.” Kiashuta then produced a belt of the wampum which was to be sent from the Six Nations to the Shawnees, Delawares, Wyandots, and Western Indians, acquainting them that they were determined to take no part in the pre- sent war between Great Britain and America, and desiring them to do the same. N. B.—Kiashuta has the belt, and is ordered by the Sir Nations to send it through the Indzan country. He then addressed himself to the Virginians and Penn- sylvanians in the following manner : “Brorners: We will not suffer either the English or the Americans to march an army through our country. Should either attempt it, we shall forewarn them three times from proceeding; but should they then persist, they must abide by the consequences. I am appointed by the Sex Nations to the care of this country, that is, to the care of the Indians on the west side of the River Ohio; and I desire you will not think of an expedition against Detroit, for (I repeat it to you again) we will not suffer an army to march through our country.” —A String. Kiashuta again rose, and spoke as follows: ‘ Brotuers: Should any mischief chance to be com- mitted by any of our people, you must not blame the Na- tions, nor think it was done by the approbation of the Chiefs ; for the Stx Nations have strictly forbidden any of their young men or tributaries to molest any people on their waters ; but if they are determined to go to war, let them go to Canada, and fight there.’”—A String. Kiashuta then addressed himself to Captain Pipe, a Delaware Chief, desiring him to inform his Nation of what he had heard, and to request them to be strong, and join with the other Nations in keeping peace in his country.— A String. 37 He also recommended to the Shade, a Shawnees Chief, to do the same. He then desired the foregoing speech might be distributed through the country, to quiet the minds of the people, and convince them that the Sex Nations and their adherents did not desire to live at variance with them. To which Captain Nevill returned the following answer: “ Brorner Krasnuta: Lam much obliged to you for your good speech on the present occasion. You may de- pend we shall not attempt to march an army through your country, without first acquainting you with it, unless we hear of a British army coming this course; in such case, we must make all possible speed to march and endeavour to stop them.” To which Kiashuta replied, there was not the least dan- ger of that, as they should make it their business to prevent either an English or an American army from passing through their country. SAMUEL TUCKER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 8, 1776.]} Trenton, July 6, 1776. Sir: Your letter of the 5th was delivered me this mo- ment, and shall lay the enclosed before our Convention this afternoon. The resolution respecting the officers and sol- diers prisoners in this Colony has relieved me from any more anxious thoughts on account of these gentry. The enclosed will inform you of particulars. I hope Congress will attend particularly to the Flying-Camp and establishing a magazine of powder, &c., in the eastern part of this Colony. Our Convention removed yesterday morning from Burlington to this place, in order to be more in the way of intelligence and out of the way of the officers pri- soners, &c. I have the honour to be, your most obedient humble ser- vant, SamMuEL Tucker. To the Honourable John Hancock. In Provincial Congress, New Jersey, Trenton, July 6, 1776. Sir: As the eastern part of our Colony is now unhappily exposed to the ravages of the enemy, a large army being in possession of Staten-Island, which is divided from us by a narrow river only, we must beg the attention of the Conti- nental Congress to our present situation. Although in this Congress we repose the utmost confi- dence in your wisdom and care, and doubt not you will provide fully for the defence of every part of the Continent, yet we are sorry to find that the people are alarmed and uneasy. Their being sent to New-York in such numbers, and the Flying-Camp being so slow in taking their place, is one cause of dissatisfaction; but, above all, the people wish to see a sufficient supply of ammunition. We hope that General Mercer's camp will be fully provided; but some visible source from whence our Militia could depend upon being furnished on occasion, would give great pleasure. The two tons of powder lately received was distributed to the counties from Burlington eastward, on account of their vicinity to New-York, and some of them were wholly des- titute. It is said to be insufficient under the present circum- stances, of which we hope you will take notice and take care for a sufficient quantity there. Of the western Coun- ties, Salem and Cumberland are still unprovided with am- munition; and as, in the present season, it is absolutely necessary that all the Militia should have some small supply, we request that Congress would grant us half a ton of pow- der, on account of the Colony, for the use of those two counties. We are, sir, your most humble servants. By order of Congress : Samuen Tucker, President. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. P. S. Colonel Brearley is just now arrived from Allen- town, which is in the neighbourhood of the Monmouth in- surgents. He supposes that not more than one hundred have been over together; they had confederated under oath, at least part of them; about thirty are flying on board the enemy’s fleet, our Militia in pursuit, and numbers of the lesser offenders coming back to their duty, upon encourage- ment we have thought proper to give to such as shall appear to have been deluded. ‘The leaders, if they can be appre- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. *% 38 hended, will be punished; if they escape, some of them have left estates. The Colonel at Shrewsbury has offered to resign, making great complaints of the backwardness, “to say no worse,” as he expresses himself, of his people; “so few of whom,” he tells us, “are ready to turn out (hiding themselves and deserting their homes) whenever he marches to defend the shores,” that he is discouraged. As we hope the Rifle battalion will have little remaining to detain them in the upper end of the County, we have ven- tured to encourage him with the expectation of their assist- ing him at the lower end. ‘The Freehold and Middletown people, who form one large battalion, are, we believe, very hearty, and will assist as much as possible, both at Shrews- bury and the neighbourhood of Sandy-Hook. GENERAL LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 6, 1776. May ir PLease your Exceitency: This moment an express arrived from Major Duyckinck, a copy of whose letter I enclose, to save time. I should be glad of some immediate directions what to do with the prisoners, as in the mean time I am obliged to keep them under guard. I am acquainted with but one of them, John Smyth, Esq., who is a man of’so great integrity that I think great faith may be given to his word. If they are to remain in this Pro- vince, I know of nothing that can be done with them so conveniently as to forward them on to the Convention, who can provide for their safe-keeping. ‘The internal Counties are now so destitute of men that [ should think it dangerous to trust these prisoners there; nor do I know in whom in | those parts to put sufficient confidence to intrust their safe- keeping. I am under the greatest difficulty with regard to ammu- nition. The whole back militia being unprovided with ammunition, | am prevented from sending such detachments to particular places as I think necessary, for want of powder and ball. Since writing the above, Captain Kennedy and Mr. Cuy- ler are sent in prisoners from Newark. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most humble servant, Wivuiam Livineston. To His Excellency General Washington. P. S. In consequence of Major Duyckinck’s letter, I have detached two hundred and fifty men to him from the Hunterdon and Morris Militia. MAJOR DUYCKINCK TO GENERAL LIVINGSTON. Head-Quarters, Perth Amboy, July 6, 1776. Str: In pursuance of an order received last night from General Heard, have taken into custody the following per- sons: John Smyth, Esq., Philip Kearney, Michael Kear- ney, William Hick, Thomas Skinner, Dr. John Lawrence, Captain Turnbull, Johnstone Fairholme, and Isaac Bunnel, whom | now convey to you. We last night received intelligence per General Heard, about twelve o'clock, that he had, by two different persons who made their escape from the Island, received such strong assurances that we were last night to be attacked by a strong body, that he ordered us immediately to leave the town, and repair to some proper ground out of town; which we ac- cordingly did, and am sorry to say with much precipitation, as the troops were greatly alarmed by the sudden and un- expected orders. We kept a good look-out for the remain- der of the night, and this morning early returned again to town. The enemy appear much in the same situation as men- tioned in my last, only the plain appearance of artillery, which they have mounted opposite the town. We can’t help thinking our situation precarious with the few troops here, and could wish a reinforcement as soon as may be convenient. In haste, remain your humble servant, Joun Duycxinck. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL LIVINGSTON, Head-Quarters, New-York, July 6, 1776, Five o’clock, P. M. Sir: Your favour of this date, enclosing Major Duyck- inck’s letter, was this moment received. The known dis- 39 affection of the people of Amboy, and the treachery of those of Staten-Island, who, after the fairest professions, have shown themselves our inveterate enemies, 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. ‘To this end, General Heard had direc- tions to apprehend such persons as, from their conduct, had shown themselves inimical, or whose situations, connexions, or offices, give just cause of suspicion. I have no know- ledge of the persons apprehended, but suppose General Heard lad good reason for taking 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, and sending the others to Provincial Congress for their disposal; 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 them. I would show them all possible humanity and kindness consistent with our own safety ; but matters are now too far advanced to sacri- fice anything to punctilios. I have given direction to forward you a supply of ammu- nition, but must beg you to inculcate the vtmost frugality and care of it, as we have no superfluity. This supply consists of cartridges, some loose powder, and lead. If you have any occasion for ammunition for field-pieces which the Jatter will not supply, T will endeavour to assist you; but I would wish you to make no more draughts than are abso- Jutely necessary. General Mercer has just set off for Jersey. In his expe- rience and judgment you may repose great confidence. 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 assist- ance and attention from, sir, your most, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. Brig. General Livingston, Elizabethtown, New-Jersey. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL SILLIMAN. New-York, July 6, 1776. Sir: Governour Trumbull having informed me, in a letter of the 3d instant, that he had ordered three regiments of the Militia Lighthorse to march to the defence of this place, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Seymour, lest the other troops from your Colony should not arrive in time for succour, and at the same time requesting, if their service is unnecessary, or can be dispensed with, that I would sig- nify it to you, I must take this opportunity to acquaint you that the intelligence we have received from three or four prisoners that have fallen into our hands within a few days past, leads me to conclude, that no force that can be col- lected will be too great to ward off the blow that our ene- mies mean to strike in a little time. The prisoners say that General Howe has already ten thousand men here, being joined by some regiments from the West-Indies, and part of the Highland troops in his passage, and that he is in daily expectation of the arrival of Admiral Howe with a large fleet of one hundred and fifty sail, with troops on board; that before he left Halifax, a packet had arrived there, giving intelligence that he would be met here by this fleet in a very little time, and that the expectation of them is the only reason why the enemy have not begun their operations. From these accounts, you will readily conceive the neces- sity of our most vigorous and spirited exertions, and that there is occasion here for all the men that can be possibly got. But what to do with the horses of this regiment I am at a loss to determine: it will be impossible to support them; and if it could be done, the expense would be enormous. I cannot think myself at liberty to consent to the horses coming; at the same time, I must request your exertions to prevail on the men. They may have it in their power to dismiss their horses, perhaps after bringing them almost here. The exigency of our affairs calls aloud for their assistance, and more especially as there is almost a moral certainty that the battalions which are intended for this place will be some time before they all arrive, and when they do, will not be more than half complete. Recommending to your and their notice what I have said, and the alarming consequences that may result from not CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 40 having sufficient and timely succours to repel the enemy, I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasuHINncTON. To Colonel Gold Selleck Silliman, Fairfield. JOHN JAY TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 6, 1776. Sir: The enclosed memorial was yesterday given me by Mr. Bill, with a request that I would transmit it to Con- gress. He appears much hurt in being omitted in the arrangements of officers intended for the regiment lately ordered to be raised in this Colony; and I sincerely wish he had less reason to think himself neglected. He is a fine, spirited young gentleman, of one or two and twenty, of an ancient and once opulent family in this Colony. His con- nexions are extensive in the County, and he seems to possess that generous kind of ambition so essential to the character of a good officer. What renders his case the more unfortunate is, that he is almost the only one of his family who has discovered any great degree of ardour in the American cause. His promotion would have contributed as much to increase their zeal as his being laid aside may tend to diminish it. Nor is this the only instance in which that arrangement has given disgust: among others, Mr. Cortlandt, whose family is not only very numerous, but also respectable and wealthy, entered the service last year as Lieutenant-Colonel ; he has done the like this year. Mr. Dubois entered the service last year as a Captain, and this year Captain Dubois is made to command Lieutenant-Co- lonel Cortlandt. Appointments like these pay ill eompli- ments to those who are thus (as they think unjustly) super- seded, and therefore have an unhappy tendeney to drive them into a sullen indifference about Congressional mea- sures. I am, sir, with great respect, the Congress’s and your most obedient servant, To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. JoHN Jay. JOHN JAY TO EDWARD RUTLEDGE. New-York, July 6, 1776. Dear Ruttepee: Your friendly letter found me so en- gaged by plots, conspiracies, and chimeras dire, that, though I thanked you for it in my heart, I had not time to tell you so, either in person or by letter. Your ideas of men and things {to speak mathematically) run, for the most part, pa- rallel with my own; and I wish Governour Tryon and the devil had not prevented my joining you on the occasion you mentioned. How long I may be detained here is uncertain ; but I see little prospect of returning to you for a month or two yet to come. We have a Government, you know, to form; and God only knows what it will resemble. Our politicians, like some guests at a feast, are perplexed and undetermined which dish to prefer. Our affairs in Canada have lately become much the subject of animadversion ; and the miscarriages in that country are, with little reserve, im- puted to the inattention of the Congress. Indeed, there is reason to believe that certain military gentlemen who reaped no laurels there, are among the patrons of that doctrine. It is to me amazing that a strict inquiry has not been made into the behaviour of those under whose direction we have met with nothing but repeated losses m that country. Nor is the publick silent with respect to the mactivity of the fleet ; and reports have gone abroad that the Admiral has refused to comply with. the orders of Congress relative to the can- non taken at Providence. Ill tell you a pretty story of Wooster. While he was smoking his pipe in the suburbs of Quebeck, he took it into bis head that he might do won- ders with a fire-ship; and, with an imagination warmed by the blaze of the enemy’s vessels, sent for a New-York cap- tain, who, it seems, understood the business of fire-ship build- ing. Under the strongest injunctions of secrecy, he com- municated to him the important plan, and ordered him to get the ship in readiness with all the despatch and privacy in his power, wisely observing, that if the enemy should get any intelligence of his design, they would carry their vessels out of the way of his fire-ship. The captain accordingly set about preparing the materials, &c., necessary for the ex- ploit which was to heroize his General. Some short time after, Wooster was informed that the time for which the Al York troops were inlisted would expire in a day or two. He issued orders for them to parade at a certain time and place, and informed them that he would then and there make a speech to them, and a Ciceronean speech it was. “ My lads,” says he, “I find your time is almost out, and may be some of you think on going; but surely you won’t leave me now; you must try and stay a little longer Don’t think that Iam laying here doing nothing. No, no; you shall see a fine sight soon. I am busy building a fire-ship ; and as soon as she is ready, we'll burn all their vessels up.” Cetera desunt. The York troops, allured by the promise of a feu de joie, staid, and were disappointed. Some renegade Frenchmen remembered the speech, and told it as a secret to Governour Carleton. ‘The vessels were put out of harm’s way, and the Connecticut Alexander lost his passage in a fire-ship to the temple of fame. My compliments to Messrs. Braxton, Eynch, and such others as I esteem, of which number rank yourself, my dear Ned, among the first. Believe me to be sincerely yours, Joun Jay. COLONEL WEISSENFELS TO LORD STIRLING. July 6, 1776. My Lorn: Captain Hutchins has refused to assist me in quelling the mutiny in his company. I have frequently ad- vised him not to put himself on the level with his men ; but he continues to do so, which is the cause of his not exer- cising authority in a becoming manner. He is guilty of many things which I wish to waive, and hope he will behave in a respectful manner to your Lordship, so as to entitle him to your favour. With great respect, your most obedient servant, Freperick WEISSENFELS. New-York, July 6, 1776. Captain Maston, late of the snow Dickinson, belonging to Philadelphia, arrived there the 2d instant, from Bristol, but last from the West-Indies. He sailed from that place last February, bound for Nantz ; but the mate, assisted by the crew, seized and confined the Captain on the coast of Portugal, and then altered their course for London. The southerly winds driving them into Bristol Channel, they arrived at Bristol, the Sth of April, when the mate pro- posed to set off immediately for London, with all the letters and papers on board, for the inspection of Government. The vessel was detained at Bristol, till the determination of Government concerning her should be known. .A large number of Tories in Monmouth County, New- Jersey, having taken up arms on purpose to assist the Ministerial Army on their arrival in that Province, have en- camped in a cedar swamp near that place. A detachment of Colonel Miles’s battalion are ordered to disperse and disarm them. Yesterday afternoon arrived the first division of the Con- necticut forces, commanded by the Honourable Brigadier- Generals Waterbury and Wadsworth, and this day the re- mainder are expected to arrive, being in the whole five thou- sand, well equipped and disciplined. The fleet from Halifax arrived at Sandy-Hook on Satur- day, June 29, to the amount of one hundred and thirteen sail. It is difficult, from their situation, to ascertain their number ; but we suppose it does not exceed one hundred and thirty sail. Monday it came up into Yakes’s Bay, below the Narrows ; Tuesday, several ships came to at the Water- ing Place; Wednesday, more followed; and by Thursday noon, the whole fleet was at anchor in a line from Kill Van Kull to Simonson’s Ferry, on the east side of Staten-Island. The Asva brought up the rear of the fleet, and in the Nar- rows was fired at from a small battery on Long-Island, which compliment was returned by about forty 24-pounders, one of which lodged in the wall of the house of Mr. Bennet, but did no hurt to the family; and three shot had near done much mischief to the house and family of Mr. Denyse’ Denyse, one of them narrowly missing the kitchen, wherein was a num- ber of the family; a second struck the barn, and the third destroyed much of the fence of the garden opposite the front door of the mansion-house. ; Part of the.army is now encamped on Staten-Island, and we have not the least reason to doubt, will endeavour to secure CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 42 the north side thereof by intrenchments, whilst the shipping protects the other parts of it. As soon as the troops landed, they paraded the north shore, and on Wednesday morning made their appearance near Elizabethtown Point; but the country being soon alarmed, they retreated, took up the floor of the drawbridge in the Salt Meadows, and immediately threw up some works. Their near approach to Elizabethtown Point greatly alarmed the inhabitants of Essex County, and particularly the people of Elizabethtown and Newark ; but they are now in a condition to receive them whenever they may think proper to approach. Two young men from Elizabethtown crossed the river in a canoe last Thursday, and fired upon the Regulars; but a number of them rushed out of the woods, and they were obliged to retreat and cross the river again. We hear two men-of-war now lie near Amboy, in order, it is supposed, to stop all navigation that way. Yesterday, seven seamen, belonging to the Killingsworth transport, of seven hundred tons, was brought to town from Long-Island, having deserted the ship the night before. They say the number of soldiers with the fleet is about eight thousand five hundred, who are all encamped; and that many of the seamen intended to desert the fleet when an opportunity presented. Last Wednesday night, the Captain of a transport, and four of his men, were taken at the Narrows, and brought to town. ‘They were looking for a boat that had gone adrift ; and going too near the shore, were taken by the riflemen. H. GLEN TO COLONEL DAYTON. Schenectady, July 6, 1776. Sir: By Captains Lansing and Wolcott you will receive a quantity of stores for engineers, directed to Mr. Hubbell, and the ordnance, under the care of a party of the-train. I have yesterday sent off sixty barrels of pork in fifteen wagons, as I am apprehensive you will want it sooner than I will be able to send it by boats. I am as yet scant of them, hoping it may be with you sooner than this can. I have given the Captains of the batteau-men directions to follow your further orders, and to be punctual in obeying them as such. You will please send them back here, or as many as you can spare, as here is a quantity of provisions more to go up. I have written to Major Fonda to send six batteau loads of flour to you, as [ had no more boats here to forward. I am, sir, your humble servant, He Gudik To Colonel Dayton, commanding German Flats. H. GLEN TO MAJOR FONDA. Schenectady, July 6, 1776. Dear Sir: As I have no more batteaus here at present than are wanted to forward the stores I was to send first, and am confident Colonel Dayton will want flour, I must beg you will forward to him six batteau loads, or as many bat- taus as you can, should you not have six. Let the men that go up be engaged to go as far as Stanwix, should Colonel Dayton want them that far. I shall pay you for all ex- penses for boats, hire, and men, that may accrue. General Schuyler expected that I would have been able to have empty boats from here for flour, but I have scarcely enough for what was intended first to be sent. Let me hear from you if you can send the boats, as by your silence I shall expect you sent them. I am, dear sir, yours, Xc., Hoctro To Major Fonda, Caughnawaga. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] Lebanon, July 6, 1776. Sir: Your letters, enclosing the resolves of Congress of the 17th, 19th, 24th, and 25th of June last, have been duly received since the recess of the General Assembly. The ancient laws of this Colony enable the Colonels of the respective regiments of Militia to call out their regiments upon any alarm, invasion, or appearance of an enemy, by sea or land, giving notice to the Captain, General, or Com- mander-in-Chief for the time being, of the occasion thereof. This, with a general order to the Colonels of the Militia 43 regiments to call out their regiments upon notice of any invasion by sea or land from General Washington, or the Commander-in-Chief for the time being, and to march to his assistance, may supersede the necessity of any new regu- lation in respect to the Militia: at least until the next meeting of the Assembly. It is very inconvenient for them to come together at this busy season. The resolve of the 19th of June, providing for clothing the troops in future, will be carefully attended to, and timely intelligence given of the quantities that may be obtained. There has been nothing done towards inlisting the Mohe- gan Indians into Continental service ; and, in obedience to the resolve of Congress, of the 24th of June, that measure will be laid aside entirely. An act passed the General Assembly in December last, for restraining and punishing persons inimical to the liberties of this and the rest of the United Colonies, in which the trea- sons mentioned in the resolve of Congress of the 24th of June, are provided against; the real estate of persons that have or shall fly to, and put themselves under the protection of, the British fleet or army, are made liable to seizure; and by another act of the Assembly in June last, the personal estates of such refugees are ordered to be seized, sold, and the avails paid into the publick treasury; and several other regulations are established to prevent mischief and danger from persons inimical. The laws of this Colony subject every person who shall counterfeit or alter any bills of publick credit current in this Colony, to imprisonment in our prison in the copper mines at Symsbury, at the discretion of the Superior Court, not exceeding the term of ten years. ‘The Continental bills have been current in this Colony. One person was tried upon an indictment for altering some of those bills before the Supe- rior Court in March last, and, upon conviction, was sentenced to be imprisoned in Newgate; since which, the General Assembly, in May last, enacted that the Continental bills should be current in all payments at the treasury of this Colony; so that they are now placed, in every respect, on an equal footing with the bills of publick credit of this Colony. The battalions of Militia now are marching to join the Army at New-York, and in the Northern Department will provide themselves with suitable clothes; camp equipage is ordered to be provided for them by the General Assembly; tents we shall endeavour to provide, but fear they will be procured with great difficulty, if at all. I am, with sincerity and regard, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JonaTHAN TRUMBULL. To the Honourable President Hancock. P.S. I have sent orders to the Colonels of Militia to- wards New-York, to attend the call and order of General Washington, and give him notice of it. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] Lebanon, July 6, 1776. sir: I received your favour of the 30th of April ultimo, enclosing the resolve of Congress of the 29th of April, re- questing that a sum of hard money might be collected and sent to General Schuyler ; which was immediately attended * to, and the sum of eighteen hundred pounds procured and sent to the Paymaster-General for the Northern Department. The expense of transporting the same to Albany amounts to the sum of twenty-four pounds two shillings and six pence, as you will see by an account thereof which will be laid before you by the Delegates for this Colony. I have drawn on you for the money procured, and the charges of transporting to Albany, in favour of Roger Sher- man and Samuel Huntington, Esqs., two of our Delegates in Congress, which, I make no doubt, will be duly honoured. { am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, JONATHAN 'T’RUMBULL. To the Honourable President Hancock. The Thirteen United Eneutsu Colonies in America to the Colony of Connecticut, Dr. 1776—June 19. To cash for eighteen hundred pounds in hard money paid to the Paymaster-General of the North- ern Department at Albany, - - - - £1800 00 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 44 To Captain John Chenevard’s bill for trans- porting the same from Hartford to Albany, £24 2 6 £1824 26 1776—July 6. Errors excepted. JONATHAN TRUMBULL, G'overnour. Lebanon, July 6, 1776. Sir: Pay to Roger Sherman and Samuel Huntington, Esgqs., the sum of eighteen hundred and twenty-four pounds two shillings and six pence, lawful money, for eighteen hun- dred pounds hard mouey procured by the Colony of Con- necticut, and paid to the Paymaster-General for the Northern Department at Albany, agreeably to a resolve of Congress of the 29th of April ultimo, and charges of transporting the same to Albany, and their receipt shall discharge the United Colonies from any demand of the Colony of Connecticut on account for said hard money supplied as aforesaid. In behalf of the Colony of Connecticut, I am, sir, your obedient humble servant, JONATHAN TRUMBULL. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. Philadelphia, July 12, A. D. 1776. Received of President Hancock his order of this date, drawn on the Continental Treasurers for six thousand and eighty dollars and five-twelfths of a dollar, on account and in full of the within order. SamueL Huntineton, for self and Rocer SHERMAN. The Colony of Connecticut, for transporting £1800 in specie from Treasurer's Office to JonatHan TRuMBULL, Jun., Esq., in AvBany, to Joun Cuenevarn, Dr. 1776.—June 17. To two yards of bagging To oats, &c., twenty miles this side Albany, To dinners, &c., eight miles ditto,- - - - To ferriages, &c., taking care of wagon, &c., June 21. To Mr. Vernon’s bill while at -Al- Dani, lees he ee te Rees ore To Mr. Valken, dinners, &c., - - - - - June 22. To Guy Sharp’s bill,- - - - - To Wiliam Jackson's bill, - - - - -. - To Mr. Younglove, - - - - - - - - To Mr. Dewey, stop in the rain, --- - - June 23. 'To Captain Watson,- - - - - To Mri Rockwell 2 = = a er To Dudley Case,- -.- - - - - - - To John Chenevard’s time, eight days, at 6s., To ditto for his horse one hundred miles, at 4s., To William Nichols’s time, seven days, at 6s., To ditto for his horse one hundred miles, at 4s., To Joseph Flagg’s time, seven days, at 6s., - To ditto for his horse one hundred miles, at 4s., To Daniel Olcott’s time, seven days, at 6s., - To ditto for his horse one hundred miles, at 4s., cloth, at 2s.3d. - - £ 6 To paid making ditto into bags, - - - - 0 June 19, paid Dudley Case per bill, - - - 10 To John Wright, per bill, - - - - - - 2 June 18. To Captain Titus Watson, - - - 0 To Captain Whitney, - - - - - - - 4 To Mr. Younglove, - - - - - - - - 3 To Mr. McKinstry, - -°- - - - - - 3 June 19. To Guy Sharp, - - - - - 12 3 4 5 0 — alrornononoavnrSsS6oSooar — —_ DOL WNWAWANWWwWNWWOWWUMOOURWOOMD OAK nwonante ALP —_ mor wornwnornwnoooecoocococw ceoococoeoococeso — £24 Errors Excepted. Joun CHENEVARD. Received, Albany, June 19, A. D. 1776, from the Trea- surer of the Colony of Connecticut, per hands of Captain John Chenevard, eighteen hundred pounds lawful money of Connecticut, in specie; forwarded from said Colony agree- able to desire from the honourable Continental Congress for the use of the Continental Army in Canada; which sum I promise to apply to said purpose and account accordingly, having signed duplicate therefor. Received per JonatHan TruMBULL, Jun., Northern Department. 45 GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] Lebanon, July 6, 1776. Sin: Yesterday I received your favour of the 29th June, ultimo, with the enclosed copy of the resolve of Congress, to which I shall attend, and will send as soon as can be obtained an account of the cannon left at New-London by Commodore Hopkins, their number, size, bore, and weight ; and also an account of the other cannon there. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your obedient hum- ble servant, JonaTHaNn TRUMBULL. To the Honourable President Hancock. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] Lebanon, July 6, 1776. Sir: I received your letter of the 24th June, ultimo, enclosing the resolution of Congress with respect to Govern- our Franklin. He has given his parole in writing. I have thought proper to assign Wallingford to be the place for his residence. I am, most respectfully, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JonaTHaN ‘TRUMBULL. To the Honourable President Hancock. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Lebanon, July 6, 1776. Sir: I this day wrote to the Continental Congress, “that the ancient laws of this Colony enable the Colonels of the Militia to call out their respective regiments upon any alarm, invasion, or appearance of an enemy, by sea or land, giving notice to the Captain-General or Commander-in- Chief for the time being, of the occasion thereof. ‘This, with a general order to them to call out their regiments upon notice from General Washington, or the Commander-in- Chief for the time being, to march to his assistance, may supersede the necessity of any new regulation in respect to the Militia, at least until the next Assembly, as it is very inconvenient for them to come together at this busy season.” By this post general orders are accordingly given to Colonel Jonathan Fitch, of New-Haven, commander of the Second regiment of Militia; to Ichabod Lewis, of Stratford, Lieuten- ant-Colonel of the Fourth, Colonel Stliiman being absent in the service at New-York; to John Mead, of Greenwich or Horseneck, Lieutenant-Colonel of the Ninth, Colonel Webb being with you; to Benjamin Hinman, of Woodbury, Col- onel of the Thirteenth; and to Joseph Plat Cooke, of Dan- bury, Colonel of the Sixteenth. These are the field officers present in the several regiments next towards New- York, on whom you may call when needful. Our battalions are raising with all possible diligence, and will soon march to the places of their several destinations. Many have marched for New-York, and the rest will soon follow. And the three regiments of Lighthorse mentioned in my last, I hear are moving on fast. An extraordinary bounty is given to the two battalions raising for the Northern Department ; it will be attended with difficulty to alter their destination. ‘The Continental bat- talion destined to Boston, under Colonel Ward, and the other battalion, raised in May last, for the defence of this and the neighbouring Colonies, it will be hard to send to the northward, which hath lately been moved to me from Congress; this last is probably now at your camp at New- York. Will it not be best to send in their room a battalion who have had the small-pox, and to order Colonel Ward to Boston, as destined at first, instead of sending thither any other of our battalions, who have already begun their march for New-York? Probably not one in twenty of our men have ever had that distemper, when the New- York, Jersey, and Pennsylvania men have generally passed through it. Our intelligence from Crown-Point is, that the infection is very great in our retreating army. ‘This distemper strikes a greater dread in our men who have not had it, than the British troops. Cannot measures be taken to cleanse the army, and, in the mean time, keep the infected from those who are not? I have provided two companies of ship car- penters, twenty-five in each company, who will march next week, and carry their tools with them, to go to that work at Crown-Point ; but few of them have ever passed through that distemper. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 46 I hear from Captain Niles, that there are four thousand head of neat cattle on Montauk-Point, on Long-Island, great part of them good beef cattle, fit for slaughter. We have ordered the stock of cattle, sheep, and swine, from Fisher’s Island. Many of both cattle and sheep are fit for the use of the Army, and ordered accordingly. Is it not best that you procure those at Montauk likewise, and prevent their being used to feed the enemy ? I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JONATHAN TRUMBULL. To His Excellency General Washington. COMMITTEE ON PRISONERS. Hartford, July 6, 1776. Colony of Connecricut, ss: In Committee for ordering Prisoners stationed in this Co- lony, it is Resolved and Ordered, That no Prisoner under the care of this Committee, not enlarged on parole, may go out of the Parish wherein such Prisoner is stationed, without a per- mit in writing, under the hand of one or more of this Com- mittee, or the person under whose care he is or shall be placed, and not exceed the limits prescribed in such permit, on pain of imprisonment. And itis further Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, it will be improper and unsafe to employ said Prisoners in making Firearms, Gunpowder, casting Can- non, Cannonball, or in erecting Fortifications. And it is recommended to all the Towns in this Colony, in which Prisoners are stationed, to set a watch to guard the avenues into and out of their respective Towns, said watch to be set at or before nine of the clock in the evening, and to continue through the night, for the purpose of preserving peace and order in such Towns, and for preventing the con- veying intelligence prejudicial to the liberties of America. Per order of the Committee: Jesse Root, Chairman. Boston, July 6, 1776. We learn from Halifax, by a person who left that place this day three weeks, that the troops General Howe left there were supposed to be about fifteen hundred, mostly Ma- rines, and the Regiment of Lighthorse (which lately were wantonly tutored in a house of God in this town) was at Windsor, waiting for General Howe to get foothold at New- York, when they were to follow, and march (or gallop) through this Continent; that they were busily employed in fortifying Citadel-Hill and other places, being under appre- hension of an attack; that Brigadier Ruggles and son from Hardwick, William Tyng, formerly High-Sheriff, John Hicks, and John Howe, Printers, were gone volunteers with General Howe, and a number of others, which our informant could not recollect. We also learn from Halifax, that when the New- York Tories arrived there, they applied to General Efowe for sub- sistence; but were informed that, unless they took up arms in defence of Government, they could have no relief; when some of them voluntarily entered the service, and others, through necessity, were obliged to; and that the fourth day after their inlistment, they, together with the Baston Tories, were ordered to dig in the Coal Mines at Nova-Scotia, where we hope they may remain during life—a proper shelter for all the Tories in America. NEHEMIAH ESTABROOK TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE ASSEMBLY. Province of New-Hampshire, Lebanon, July 6, 1776. May 17 PLease your Honours: The necessitous and alarming circumstances the inhabitants are under in these infant and frontier towns, since the Army have retreated to Crown Point, out of the Province of Canada, leaving a large extent of our frontiers open to the ravages of the savage Indians, being almost destitute of arms and ammuni- tion, and many of our inhabitants leaving their houses and fields a prey to our enemies, we humbly trust your Honours will compassionate and afford us such relief as you in your wisdom shall judge necessary, from time to time, especially at this present time. We would inform your Honours that the Committees of several of the adjacent towns met together 47 and agreed to raise three hundred men, to build garrisons, and scout for our defence, as you will see by a copy of the proceedings of said Committee, which I send you here en- closed. But as we are destitute of arms, ammunition, and money, we are fearful it will in a great measure prove abor- tive, and this only alternative left us: either to make our escape into the lower towns, or fall a sacrifice to our enemies. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE. Wednesday, June 5, 1776. Present: the Honourable Meshech Weare, Matthew Thorn- ton, Nathaniel Folsom, Ebenezer Thompson, Jonathan Blanchard, and Benjamin Giles, Esquires. Adjourned till to-morrow, at nine o’clock, A. M. Thursday, June 6, 1776. Present as yesterday, with the addition of Wyseman Cla- gett, Esq.; and Samuel Ashley, Esq., who this day first took his seat at the Board. Mr. Clough brought from the House a Vote appointing a Committee to join a Committee of the Board to consult what business is necessary immediately to be entered on ; which was read and concurred; and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, and the Secretary, added by the Board. Mr. Cutts brought up a Vote for a Committee to join a Committee, to consider the Petition of Richard Emms and others, which was concurred, and Mr. Blanchard, Mr. Giles, and Mr. Ashley, added by the Board. Captain Long brought up a Vote for allowing Richard Emms, a prisoner here, £20 for his subsistence, and also for his liberty to take passage for the West-Indies ; which was read and concurred. Also a Vote for giving John Brazee and James Taylor, two prisoners, leave to take passage for the West-Indies ; which was read and concurred. A Vote brought up for paying the Roll of Captain Eb- enezer Dearing, amounting to £99 1s. 74d., which was read and concurred. Mr. Clough brought up a Vote for paying the Account of Captain John Calfe for countersigning money, amounting to £2 11s. 11d.; which was read and concurred. A Vote paying two Rolls of Captain Titus Salter’s Company, from the 17th of March to the 17th of May, amounting to £773 15s. 1d., brought up, read and concur- red. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Friday, June 7, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Colonel David Gilman brought up a Vote directing Quartermaster Gaznes to supply him, the said Colonel Gl- man, with Powder to blow the rocks out of the fort building at New-Castle, which was read and concurred. Mr. Clough brought up a Vote for one John Griffith, a soldier, to receive wages out of the Treasury from the time he was rendered incapable of doing his duty until the time of his discharge, which was read and concurred. Resolved, That Nicholas Gilman, Esq., Treasurer and Receiver-General of this Colony, be, and hereby is, fully authorized and empowered to receive and take in all those paper Bills of Credit, emitted on the credit of said Colony, bearing interest, and so pay such interest to the time of such exchange, and charge the amount of said interest in his ac- count with said Colony ; and that said ‘Treasurer give notice of this order as soon as may be. Sent down for concurrence ; which was brought up concurred. A Vote was brought up appointing George Gains and Wilham Treferrin a Committee to procure and transport Cannon, Powder, &c., from Boston; which was read and concurred. Vote for George Gains to receive out of the Treasury £400, to be by him accounted for, brought up, read and concurred. Vote for Samuel Roby to receive out of the Treasury £1 10s. 8d., for wages in Captain William Prescott’s Com- pany, being omitted in said Prescott’s Roll by mistake, brought up, read, and concurred. NEW-HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, JUNE, 1776. 48 We therefore pray your Honours would afford us immediate relief in the premises, as it is of the utmost importance to us all. And we shall, as in duty bound, ever pray. In behalf of the Committee: Neuemran Estasroox, Chairman. To the Honourable Assembly of the Province of New- Hampshire. Vote appointing a Committee to procure Gold and Silver to send to Canada for the use of the ‘Troops, then brought up, read and concurred, and Mr. Thornton and Mr. Folsom added by the Board. Vote for allowing and paying to John Hunter £4 13s., for so much Paper Money belonging to him casually de- stroyed, brought up, read and concurred. A Vote appointing a Committee to examine into the cause or ground of a complaint exhibited to the Court by several soldiers against Captain John Parker, brought up, read and concurred. Mr. Folsom and Mr. Blanchard added. Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o’clock, A. M.. . Saturday, June 8, 1776. Met according to adjournment. A Vote to build a Bridge at New-Castle, and appointing a Committee to report the most proper place for erecting the same, brought up, read and concurred, with this amend- ment, ‘That Mr. Ashley and Mr. Giles be joined to the Com- mittee of the House, to repair to New-Castle and view all the proposed places for erecting a bridge there, and also the old bridge there, and report their opinion relative to the whole matter as soon as may be. Upon reading the Petition of Hugh Tollant, Voted, That the Committee of the Town of Pelham be directed forthwith to use their utmost endeavours to protect the said Hugh Tollant from the violence of any or every person, on his body or estate, until there can be an oppor- tunity for some civil Magistrate to take cognizance of his complaint. And also whenever any process may issue from a civil authority, that they use their endeavours to apprehend any persons accused, that there may be an impartial inquiry and justice done; and that in this day of publick calamity and distress, they would assist their brethren in the Colony to keep peace and good order in the same. Vote appointing a Committee to name persons to be ap- pointed Field-Officers for the Continental Battalion to be raised here, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thorn- ton, Mr. Folsom, and the Secretary, joined. Vote appointing a Committee to draw a plan for carrying into execution the Report of the Committee on the com- plaint against Captain John Parker, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton and Mr. Giles added. Adjourned till Monday next, three o’clock, P. M. at Monday, June 10, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Several of the Members being on Committees, adjourned ull to-morrow morning, eight o’clock, A. M. Tuesday, June 11, 1776. Met according to adjournment. A Vote appointing Mr. Walker, Mr. Prescott, and Mr. Lovewell, with such as the Board should join, a Committee to examine all Accounts laid in against the Colony, and report thereon; which was read, and Mr. Hurd, Mr. Joseph Gilman, and Mr. John Taylor Gilman, added by the Board after concurrence. Vote for paying Dr. Isaac Thom £3 5s. 10d., for Medi- cines, and attendance on John Simpson and John Foster, soldiers wounded in Bunker-Hill battle, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing Mr. Walker, Mr. Patten, and Mr. Smith, a Committee to frame and present to the House sundry Bills, brought up, read and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Clagett, and Mr. Giles, added. Vote for paying James Aiken 60s. for a coat lost by him in the Bunker-Hill battle, brought up; which was read and concurred. 49 Vote for paying Joseph Greeley £6 2s. for nursing his son wounded in Bunker-Hill battle, brought up, read and concurred. Form of a Commission for the Chief-Justice of this Colo- ny, brought up, read, and concurred. A Vote appointing Samuel Cutts, Timothy Walker, and John Dudley, a Committee, with such as the Board should join, to make a draught ofa Declaration of the General Assem- bly for Independence of the United Colonies on Great Bri- tain, brought up, read, and concurred, with this amendment, that the Committee prepare a draught, setting forth the sen- timents and opinions of the Council and Assembly of this Colony relative to the United Colonies forming themselves into independent States, in order that, when passed, the same may be transmitted to our Delegates at the Continental Congress ; and that Messrs. Hurd, Clagett, and the Secre- tary, be added to the Committee. Voted, That John Taylor Gilman be joined to the Com- mittee for examining and adjusting Accounts for and against this Colony, in the room of Captain John Emery, who is gone out of the Colony. The President made out an Order for Samuel Ashley, Esq., to receive out of the Treasury £3 5s., for thirteen days’ ser- vice in Committee of Safety, before the 17th of November, 1775. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Wednesday, June 12, 1776. Met according to adjournment. A Vote brought up, appointing James Hackett Lieuten- ant-Colonel and David Copp Major, of the Continental Battalion to be raised here ; which was read and concurred, with this amendment, that James Hackett, Esq., Thomas Tash, Esq., and David Copp, Esq., be nominated to the honourable Continental Congress as the persons recom- mended by this Colony to be appointed Colonel and Major of the Continental Battalion ordered to be raised here. The President made out an Order in favour of Colonel Bartlett for £6 5s., for twenty-five days’ service in Com- mittee of Safety, before the 17th of November, 1775. A Vote appointing a Committee to confer upon the mode of raising the Battalion lately ordered to be raised in this State, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. Folsom, Mr. Blanchard, Mr. Ashley, and the Secretary, added. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. ; : Thursday, June 13, 1776. Met according to adjournment. A Vote for raising a Battalion in pursuance of a Resolu- tion of the Continental Congress, brought up, read, and con- curred. Vote for a Committee to join such as the Board should appoint to nominate sixteen persons, eight of whom to have orders to raise men for the Continental Battalion, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, Mr. Blanchard, Mr. Clagett, Mr. Giles, Mr. Ashley, and the Secretary, added by the Board. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Friday, June 14, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote for a Committee to join a Committee of the Board to nominate Officers for a Regiment to be raised to march into Canada, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. eben: Mr. Folsom, Mr. Blanchard, and the Secretary, added. The remainder of this day spent in a Committee of both Houses. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Saturday, June 15, 1776. Voted, That a Bounty of 40s., lawful money, over and above the £3 voted the 12th of January last, as a price for Guns, be now given for all good new Firearms manufactured in this Colony and delivered within one month from this date; 30s. Bounty for a second month, commencing at the expiration of the first month; and 20s. for a third month, being of the size, dimensions, and delivered agreeable to the Firtu Series.—Vot. I. NEW-HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, JUNE, 1776. 4 50 aforesaid vote of the 12th of January last; the said Bounty to be paid as the price is therein directed to be paid. Sent down for concurrence ; and was sent back from the House non-concurred. Adjourned till Monday next, three o’clock, P. M. 4 . Monday, June 17, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote for paying the Account of Daniel Fowle, for Print- ing for the Colony, amounting to £5 14s., brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for a Committee to consider the expediency of letting the ‘Town of Chesterfield have Powder out of the Publick Magazine, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Blanch- ard, Mr. Ashley, and Mr. Giles, added. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. : , Tuesday, June 18, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote for the Selectmen of Chesterfield to have out of the publick store half a barrel of Gunpowder, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for reconsidering a vote for raising two Battalions immediately in this Colony, passed the 15th instant, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing James Hackett Colonel, Joseph Senter Lieutenant-Colonel, and Stephen Peabody Major, of the Regiment to be raised for Canada, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing a Committee to join such as the Board should appoint, to consult about a proper method of sending to General Schuyler the hard money requested by Congress to be sent to him, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Wentworth, and Mr. Thompson, added. Vote appointing John Drew, James Hadlock, William Harper, Joseph Dearborn, James Shepard, Augustus Blanchard, Samuel Weatherbee, and Joseph Parker, Cap- tains to command the eight Companies for the Canada Expedition, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for paying Jonathan Dearborn 12s. for going express on publick business from Chester to Concord, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote appointing John Dudley and Pierce Long and John Smith a Committee to join such as the Board should join, to give out Inlisting Orders to the several persons appointed to raise men in the Canada Regiment, make out their com- missions, and equip them for their march, brought up, read, and concurred. Mr. Hurd, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Blanchard, added. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Wednesday, June 19, 1776. Vote appointing the following persons Muster and Pay- masters, viz: Colonel Walker for Captain Shepard’s Com- pany, Colonel Baker for Captain Drew’s Company, Cap- tain Worthen for Captain Hadlock’s Company, John Dud- ley, Esq., for Captain Dearborn’s Company, Deacon Nahum Baldwin for Captain Blanchard’s Company, Mr. Elyah Grant for Captain Weatherbee’s Company, brought up, read, and concurred. . Vote for Beryamin Giles, Esq., and James Betton, Esq., to receive out of the Treasury £30 to pay their expenses to Albany, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for the Colonel and other Officers of the Militia to be aiding and assisting the Officers appointed to raise the Regiment for Canada, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote to pay the Account, as balanced, of Major John Bellows, amounting to £19 7s. 7d., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote appointing Benjamin Giles and James Betton, Esqs., a Committee to carry money to General Schuyler, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for paying the Roll of Captain Eliphalet Daniel, amounting to £154 12s., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. 51 Thursday, June 20, 1776. Vote appointing a Committee to consult about providing Provisions for the Canada Expedition, and several other matters, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. Thorn- ton, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Thompson, added by the Board. Vote on the Complaints of several Committees against Leonard Whiting, Benjamin Whiting, Samuel Cummings, and Thomas Cummings, viz: that said Complaints were not supported, and that said persons should be acquitted ; brought up, read, and concurred. Vote to pay Benjamin Giles, Esq., and others, a Com- mittee to view New-Castle Bridge, their expenses, being £3 13s. 10d., brought up, read, and concurred, and war- rant made out. Vote appointing a Committee to consult upon the expe- diency of sending Money to Canada, by persons employed by Colonel Langdon, on business for him, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Ashley, added by the Board. Vote for paying the Account of Otis Baker, amounting to 20s., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote of the House brought up, setting forth that Peti- tions had been preferred against Colonel John Hale, and the other Field-Officers of his Regiment, praying they might be dismissed, and that, after a full hearing, it appeared to ‘the House that Colonel John Hale had exerted himself in the cause of his country; and no evidence appearing against the other Field-Officers, voted, that the Petitions be dis- missed ; which was read and concurred. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. ; : Friday, June 21, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote for Otis Baker, Esq., and others, the Mustermas- ters appointed for the Canada Regiment, each to receive out of the Treasury £780, to enable them to pay the offi- cers and men, according to their direction, for which they are respectively to be accountable, brought up, read, and concurred. Warrants made out for each. Vote for Jacob Willson, to be paid 28s., for boarding and nursing James Winn, a sick soldier, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for Benjamin Giles and James Betton, Esquires, to receive out of the Treasury £20, to be accounted for by them, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for the Field-Officers and Staff-Officers of the Canada Regiment to have two months’ wages advanced them, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for Samuel Cutts, Esq., to receive out of the Trea- sury £600, to be by him accounted for, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for appointing Daniel Colburn Second Major in ‘Colonel Thornton's Regiment, brought up, read, and con- curred. Vote for paying Colonel Thornton £3 19s., for sending Expresses on publick business, brought up, read, and con- curred, and warrant made out. Vote for Colonel John Hurd to receive out of the Trea- ssury £350, to make provision at Cohos for the soldiers, he to be accountable therefor, brought up, read, and concurred, and.warrant made out. Vote for Captain Prentice to receive out of the Treasury £116, to make provision for the Troops, for which he is to be accountable ; brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for Colonel Hurd to receive 300 pounds of Gun- powder, 750 pounds of Bullets, and 1200 Flints, for the use of the Army destined for Canada. Captain Prentice 100 pounds of Gunpowder, 250 pounds of Bullets, and 400 Flints. Brought up, read, and concurred ; with this amend- ment: that they each receive half the abovementioned quantities. Sent down for concurrence, and brought back non-concurred ; and then the first vote concurred by the Board. NEW-HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, JUNE, 1776. 52 Vote for paying the Account of Nicholas Nicolle, amount- ing to £3 Os. 7d., brought up, read, and concurred, and war- rant made out. Vote appointing a Committee to consider of the expedi- ency of erecting a Bridge at New- Castle, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr, Folsom, Mr. Ashley, and Mr. Hurd, joined by the Board. . Vote appointing Colonel Hurd and Captain Prentice a Committee to fix off the Canada Regiment, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for a Committee to consider the Petition of Peter Neveau, and report thereon, brought up, read, and concur red, and Mr. Thornton and Mr. Blanchard added. Vote for paying Noah Emery, Esq., Clerk of the House, £4 16s., for his service in March last, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Saturday, June 22, 1776. Vote for paying the Account of John Moulton, Esq., amounting to £33 Os. 6d., for Blacksmith’s work for the Cavalry; brought up, read, and concurred, with this amend- ment: that £25 10s. be paid, instead of the above sum ; and sent back for concurrence. Vote for paying Major Thomas Bartlett £2 9s., for haul- ing Cannon from Nottengham to Durham, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote to pay John Shirley £2 8s., for loss sustained at Bunker-Hill battle, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. ' Vote for paying Alexander Shirley £12 11s., brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Vote fixing the Rendezvous of the Canada Regiment at Cohos, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for paying the Committee of Greenland £13 8s., for Pine Rafts, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Adjourned till Monday next, at three o’clock, P. M. 2 Monday, June 24, 1776. Met according to adjournment, a number of the Members, but not enough to make a quorum. Tuesday, June 25, 1776. Vote fora Committee to examine the Account of Captain John Moulton, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Folsom, Mr. Ashley, and Mr. Thompson, joined. Vote appointing a Committee to consult upon the expe- diency of procuring Boats for the use of the Troops at New- Castle, to be used in case of an alarm, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Ashley and Mr. Hurd added by the Board. Vote for a Committee to consult upon the most proper method of procuring Casks to head up the Saltpetre bought by the State, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Clagett and Mr. Thornton added. Vote brought up for paying Jonathan Blanchard, Esq., £1 14s. for sending an Express to Walpole on publick business, read and concurred, and an order made out. Vote for paying Ebenezer Collins 14s., Daniel Murray 19s., Wilkam Stimpson £1 8s., Aaron Quimby £1 5s. 9d., for Stoppages on their Wages, unjustly made by Captain John Parker, brought up, read, and concurred, and war- rant made out. Vote for paying the Roll of Captain Ebenezer Dearing, amounting to £100 14s. 4d., from the 22d of May last to the 22d of June current, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Vote for John Langdon, Esq., to raise a Company of men, to consist of forty rank and file, to be styled Light- Infantry, he to command them, with the rank of Colonel, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for Deacon Baldwin to receive out of the Treasury £60, to pay for Guns for the Colony, he to be accountable therefor, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. 53 Vote for paying the Roll of Captain Titus Salter, amounting to £199 14s. 7d., brought up, read, and con- curred, and warrant made out. Vote for Lydia McCrellis to receive out of the ‘Treasury £6 13s. 6d., to pay the Doctor’s Bill in the last sickness of her late husband, who was a soldier, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o’clock. Wednesday, June 26, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, Mr. Hurd, and Mr. Thompson, be a Committee to examine the Account of Captain Titus Salter against the Colony, together with such as the House shall join. Sent down for concurrence. Vote for a Committee to consider and report their opin- jon on the Petition of Joseph Leigh, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Wentworth, and Mr. Ashley, added by the Board. Vote for a Committee to consider of the request of Colo- nel Hurd to have a Company of Rangers raised for a guard on Connecticut River, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Wentworth, and Mr. Folsom, added. Vote for Captain Titus Salter to receive out of the Treasury £89 3s. 93d., in full of his Account against the Colony, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Whereas one Mr. John Odin, just arrived from the Con- tinental Congress, has presented to the Council ten thousand Dollars, sent by the Congress for the use of this Colony: Voted, That Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Hurd, with such as the House shall join, be a Committee to re- ceive said Money, deliver it to the Treasurer, and take his receipt therefor. ‘Sent down for concurrence. Vote to pay Joseph Leigh £6 3s., for three months’ ser- vice as a soldier in Captain Salter’s Company, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for paying John Odin £4 12s., for bringing Money from Boston to Exeter for the Colony, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Thursday, June 27, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote brought up for a Committee to endeavour to ex- change a ton of Saltpetre for Gunpowder, read and con- curred, and Mr. Folsom, Mr. Ashley, and Mr. Hurd, added by the Board. Vote for paying Robert Light £2 2s., for Axes for the Colony, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for paying the Account of Mr. John Pickering, for drawing Bills for the General Assembly, amounting to £5, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for a Committee to consider the expediency of emitting a quantity of Bills for small change, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr, Wentworth and Mr. Hurd joined by the Board. Vote appointing a Committee to consider of and report what business they think is necessary to be done by the General Assembly this session, and what wages shall be paid the Members of both Houses, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Thomp- son, added. Vote for allowing 6s. per day to the Members of the Council and of the House of Representatives for their ser- vices in the General Assembly; also 6s. per day to the Secretary, and 6s. per day to the Clerk of the House, and 3s. per day to the Assistant Clerk, over and above their pay as Members, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote to pay Richard Champney £1 4s., for time and expenses to Newbury on publick business, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for sending to Colonel Samuel Folsom £300, to enable him to go on with erecting a Powder-Mill, brought up, read, and concurred. NEW-HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, JUNE, 1776. 54 Vote appointing a Committee to consult the propriety of inlisting men out of the standing troops at New-Castle, brought up, read, and concurred. Mr. Folsom, Mr. Went- worth, and Mr. Hurd, added. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Friday, June 28, 1776. Met according to adjournment. An Act entitled “An Act to remove any doubts that- have or may arise concerning the legality of any Taxes granted by the late Congress of this Colony, and to enforce payment of Taxes for the future,” having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act entitled “An Act to abolish the Court of Appeals in this Colony, and to empower the Superior Court of Judi- cature to sustain and determine all matters pending in said Court of Appeals, and to prevent the absurd practice of granting appeals to the King of Great Britain in Council from the judgment of any Courts in this Colony in future,” having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. A Vote appointing a Committee to consult upon the best and most effectual method of supplying this Colony with Firearms, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thorn- ton, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Wentworth, added. Vote of the House for paying the Roll of Captain Eli- phalet Daniel, for five Privates not mustered, £10 12s. i1d., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. A Vote of the House appointing a large number of Civil Officers in the several Counties, brought up, read, and con- curred. Vote for paying the Account of Nathaniel Sartel Prentice, amounting to £7 2s., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote allowing the Recruiting Officers for Canada to inlist men from those stationed at Portsmouth and New-Castle, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote directing the several Mustermasters to muster all the men inlisted, and make return by next Wednesday night, brought up, read, and concurred. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Saturday, June 29, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Mr. Folsom, Mr. Thornton, and Mr. Thomp- son, be a Committee to join with such as the House shall appoint, to report their opinion on the state of Colonel Mo- rey’s Account with the Colony, and particularly concerning goods and stores in his hands, whether the Colony had better receive them or not; and thereby determine the expe- diency of his having an order on the Treasury or not. Sent down for concurrence. Vote empowering the Mustermasters assigned for par- ticular Companies to muster other Companies, brought up, read, and concurred. An Act entitled “ An Act for the better regulating High- ways,” read a third time, and voted to be enacted. Vote for Jonathan Hale, Esq., to receive out of the Treasury £200, to buy Firearms for the Towns of Haver- hill and Bath, he to give security to replace the same, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for Jonathan Hale, Esq., to receive two barrels of Gunpowder for the use of Haverhill and Bath ; which was read and concurred, with this amendment, that said Hale receive said Powder for the use of Haverhill, Bath, and the Towns above, in this Colony. Sent down for concurrence ; brought up, concurred, and order made out. Vote for the Non-Commissioned Officers and Private Sol- diers who will engage in the Canada Expedition, to have 38s. bounty given them, in addition to what has been already voted, brought up, read, and concurred. The Council, taking into consideration the complaint of Samuel Penhallow, Esq., that he had, as a Civil Magistrate of this Colony, on a complaint made to him in said capacity, issued a warrant against a soldier in Colonel David Gilman’s Regiment, for a flagrant breach of the peace, and applied to said Gilman for assistance to bring the offender to justice, 55 and that said Colonel Gilman had replied, that the soldiers under his command were subject to martial law, and were not subject to the Civil Magistrate for any offence, or to any effect : Voted, It is the opinion of this Board that said Colonel David Gilman is ignorant of the laws and received rules and regulations always practised in the English Constitu- tion; and that the military power setting up an authority uncontrollable by the civil power, is subversive of the laws, rights, and privileges of Englishmen ; and what our invete- rate enemies never attempted. And that said Colonel David Gilman be summoned to appear before the General Assembly forthwith, to answer for his conduct. Sent down for concurrence, and was brought back con- curred. A Vote for Richard Champney to receive £200, to buy Arms for the Colony, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Samuel Penhallow, Esq., applied to the Board for the payment of a Note signed by Andrew McClary and Henry Dearborn for £16 4s. for blanketing for the Army, as he says; but the matter being uncertain, by reason of Mc- Clary’s death and Dearborn’s captivity, it is now left for consideration. N. B. Mr. Penhallow had made application for the same last February. Vote appointing Richard Champney to go express to General Ward, and the General Court of the Massachusetts- Bay, and for him to receive out of the Treasury £200, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Adjourned till Monday next, three o’clock, P. M. Monday, July 1, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote appointing Captain Worthen, with such other as the Board should appoint, to be a Committee to purchase materials and erect a Bridge at New-Castle, brought up, read, and concurred, and James Hackett, Esq., joined by the Board. Vote for Colonel Henry Gerrish to receive one hundred pounds Gunpowder out of the Colony store, to pay part of six hundred pounds borrowed of the Committee of Newbury, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Tuesday, July 2, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, 'That the whole Council resolve themselves into a Committee to confer with the House, on the measures necessary to be taken on the present alarming state of our affairs in Canada, &c. Sent down for concurrence; brought back concurred. Vote for the Committees of Plymouth, Compton, and Thornton, to have out of the Treasury £250, for procuring Firearms, Powder, Lead, and Filints, they giving security to the Treasury to repay said sum; brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Vote brought up for delivering Captain Benjamin Hitch- cock two hundred pounds of Gunpowder, in consequence of an order from the Committee of Newburyport, for so much due from us to them; read and concurred, and order made out. Vote for a Committee to consider of supplying the Towns of Piermont, Orford, Alewandria, Wentworth, Warren, Lyme, New-Chester, Rumney, and Salisbury, with Ammuni- tion, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. Wentworth, Mr. Ashley, and the Secretary, added. Vote for raising fifteen hundred men, instead of seven hundred and fifty voted before, to reinforce the Northern Army, and for a Committee to proportion them among the several Regiments of Militia to be raised by them, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, Mr. Ashley, Mr. Blanchard, and Mr. Thompson, joined by the Board. Vote for Gunpowder, to be delivered as follows, viz: to the Town of Wentworth, 9 pounds; Wurren, 9 pounds ; Lyme, 30 pounds; New- Chester, 30 pounds; Rumney, 30 pounds; Piermont, 30 pounds; Orford, 15 pounds ; Alex- andria, 22 pounds; Salisbury, 25 pounds ; Colonel Bel- lows, for his Regiment, 200 pounds; Colonel Ashley, for NEW-HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, JULY, 1776. 56 his Regiment, 100 pounds: amounting in the whole to 500 pounds ; brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for the following sums, to be delivered out of the Treasury, to buy Ammunition, viz: to Israel Morey, for Orford, £50; Alexander Craige and Michael Dwyer, for Rumney, £75; Jonathan Chandler, for Piermont, £50; they to give security for repaying the same. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. Wednesday, July 3, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote for the Officers stationed at New-Castle, to receive reasonable expenses for recruiting men to fill up the vacan- cies in their Companies, made by the inlistment for Canada, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for a Committee to confer on what sum of money is necessary to supply the Treasury, and report a plan, brought up, read, and concurred; and Mr. Blanchard, Mr. Thornton, and Mr. Folsom, joined by the Board. Vote brought up for Abner Fellows and Eliphalet Gale to receive out of the Treasury, £4 6s., to purchase Ammu- nition, they giving security for paying the same, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Vote for paying the Account of Thomas Hart, amounting to £8 10s. 6d., for superintending the buildings at Piscata- quay Harbour, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for General Folsom to deliver Samuel Curry twen- ty-five pounds of Gunpowder for the Town of Holderness, to be accounted for, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Vote for Samuel Curry to receive £5 out of the Treas- ury, to buy Ammunition for the Town of Holderness, brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. An Act to invest the Overseers of the Poor with power more effectually to employ them, and to provide for bring- ing up their children more usefully, having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act to establish an equitable method of making Rates and Taxes, and determining who shall be Legal Voters, in Town and Parish affairs, having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act for opening Sluices in the Dams across Piscata- quay River, &c., having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act for empowering Committees to cause Sluices to be made in all the Dams across Beaver-Brook, &c., having been read a third time, : Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act for establishing the style of Commissions which hereafter shall be issued, &c., having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act to prevent the forging and altering Bills of Credit, &c., having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. An Act for encouraging the fixing out of Armed Vessels, to defend the sea-coast, &c., having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. Vote for paying the abstract of Captain Clement’s Roll, for soldiers inlisted out of his Company for Canada, amounting to £51 18s. ld., and ditto for Captain Brown’s, amounting to £16 7s. 5d., brought up, read, and concurred, and order made out. Vote for Major Jonathan Child to receive out of the Treasury £50, to buy Ammunition, he to give security therefor, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made . out. An Act for regulating Marriages, &c., having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. Vote for Colonel Nicholas Gilman to keep a Guard at the Powder-House in Exeter, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote proportioning the 1500 men to be raised for Canada in the following manner, viz: Colonel Whzpple’s Regiment 115, Colonel Evans’s 150, Colonel Moulton’s 88, Colonel Gilman’s 163, Colonel Ashley’s 100, Colonel Bellows’s 73, - 57 late Colonel John Hale’s 157, Colonel Bartlett’s 111, Colo- nel Thornton’s 66, Colonel Enoch Hale’s 107, Colonel Webster's 55, Colonel More’s 126, Colonel Stickney’s 116, Colonel Badger’s 73 ; and for General Folsom to give out orders accordingly; brought up, read, and concurred. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. v Thursday, July 4, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That two hundred Handbills be immediately print- ed and distributed in this Colony, in the following words : “ To the Selectmen and Committees of Safety, and all Civil Officers in the several Towns in this Colony: « You, and each of you, are now called upon, in behalf of yourselves and your distressed country, to exert every nerve in forwarding the inlisting and making up the quotas of men in the respective places you belong to, that they may march forward and join their brethren under General Sullivan, and enable him to repel the Army coming against us from Canada.” Vote for a Committee to consider the expediency of ad- journing, and to what time, and of the propriety of choosing a large Committee of Safety, brought up, read, and concur- red, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, Mr. Wentworth, and Mr. Ashley, added. Vote for paying the Staff Roll of Colonel David Gilman, amounting to £83 1s., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote appointing Moses Kelley Lieutenant-Colonel of the Ninth Regiment of Militia, in the room of David Gilman, who has resigned, Samuel Page First Major, and James Hurd Second Major of said Regiment, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for Colonel Weare and Dr. Dearborn to receive £20 to buy Paper to print Bills of Credit on, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote to pay the Roll of Captain John Calfe, amounting to £325 9s. 10d., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote to pay the Roll of Captain Caleb Hodgdon, amount- ing to £329 12s. 3d., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote appointing a Committee to get two hundred and fifty copies of each of the Acts passed this Session printed, brought up, read, and concurred, and General Folsom added by the Board. Vote for emitting £20,160 in Bills of Credit, for the use of the Colony, and for Dr. Levt Dearborn, with such as the Board should join, to get the same printed, and for Philip White, Esq., John Smith, and Josiah Moulton, Jun., to be a Committee to sign said Bills, brought up, read, and con- curred, and Meshech Weare, Esq., joined with Dr. Dearborn, to superintend the press. Vote appointing Joshua Wingate Colonel, James Hacket Lieutenant-Colonel, and Samuel Connor Major, of one of the Regiments to be raised for Canada, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing Captain Pierce Long to provide all necessaries for equipping and fixing off the Reinforcements for Canada, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing eight Mustermasters and Paymasters for the last Regiment voted to be raised for Canada, viz: Major Bartlett, Colonel Sherburne, John Bell, Major Philbrick, Colonel Kelley, Deacon Knowles, Asa Davis, and Colonel Ashley, brought up, read, and concurred. » Vote for the Mustermasters of the last Regiment voted to be raised to receive each out of the Treasury £940, to pay off the advance pay, &c., and the Mustermasters appointed for the First Regiment each £171, brought up, read, and concurred. Orders made out for all those who were to receive the £940, and to Baldwin Hale, Ezekiel Worthen, and John Dudley, for the £171. Adjourned till to-morrow, eight o’clock, A. M. — : ; Friday, July 5, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Vote for a Committtee to examine into the grounds of a complaint against Captain George March, as an enemy to his NEW-HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, JULY, 1776. 58 country, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, and Mr. Wentworth, added by the Board. Vote appointing a Committee to give out Inlisting Orders, blank Commissions to the Officers, and Instructions to the Mustermasters of the two Regiments destined for Canada, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Folsom, Mr. Cla- gett,and Mr. Blanchard, added by the Board. Vote for a Committee to nominate persons out of whom to be appointed a Maritime Officer and a Naval Officer, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Clagett, and Mr. Thompson, joined. An Act for establishing Courts of Law, &c., in this Colo- ny, having been read a third time, Voted, That the same be enacted. Vote for appointing Noah Emery, Jun., Paymaster to the first Regiment of Recruits for the Canada Army, brought up, read, and concurred. The Board having heard Colonel David Gilman’s defence on the complaint of Samuel Penhallow, Esquire, respecting Colonel Gilmam’s asserting that the soldiers under his com- mand were subject to martial law only, are of opinion that the sentiments conveyed in Colonel Gz/man’s letter plainly and in express words denied the right of the civil power to control the military, and thereby gave just reason for Mr. Penhallow to be alarmed at such a doctrine, especially from the commanding military officer of the standing troops in this Colony. And the Board do return Mr. Penhallow their sincere thanks for his attachment to, and care of, so essential and fundamental a principle of the Constitution and rights of a free people. Nevertheless do believe that the senti- ments conveyed in the aforesaid letter escaped from Colonel Gilman through inattention or ruffle of his mind, and con- veyed ideas different from his real sentiments. Vote for a Committee to name a person for a Maritime Officer, and one or more for a Notary Publick or Notary Publicks, brought up, read, and concurred, and Mr. Clagett, Mr. Thornton, and Mr. Thompson, added by the Board. Vote appointing Eleazer Russell, Esq., Maritime Officer for the Port of Piscataquog, and Wyseman Clagett and John Pickering, Esqs., Notary Publicks, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing Samuel Penhallow, Esq., one of the Justices of the Inferior Court for the County of Rocking- ham, in the room of George King, Esq., who declines accept- ing thereof, brought up, read, and concurred. Also appoint- ing William Kmght, Esq., a special Justice of said Court ; which was also concurred. Vote appointing a Committee to nominate proper persons to serve as a Committee of Safety in recess of the General Assembly, brought up, read, and concurred, and Colonel Thornton added. A Vote appointing Captain Joseph Chandler to command one of the Companies in the First Canada Regiment, in the room of Mr. Hadlock, who has resigned, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for Samuel Jones, of Canaan, and Elisha Bingham, of Enfield, to have twenty-five pounds of Gunpowder and £5 in Money, to buy Lead for said ‘Towns, to be accounted for by them, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for paying the Roll of Captain Timothy Clements, amounting to £238 15s., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote for paying the Roll of Captain Nathan Brown, amounting to £267 4s. 7d., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Saturday, July 6, 1776. Resolve for George March, of Stratham, to confine him- self to his farm in said Stratham, on pain of imprisonment; and that he recognise in the sum of £100, with two suffi- cient sureties in £50 each, to the Government and People of this Colony, to be of good behaviour until further order of the Court, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote appointing fifteen persons to act as a Committee of Safety during the recess of the General Assembly, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for paying Deacon Isaac Williams 20s. for the use of his room for Committees this Session, brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. 59 Vote for a Committee to confer upon the appointment of Mr. Connor and Mr. Baker, to be Lieutenant-Colonel and Major of Colonel Wingate’s Regiment, brought up, read, and concurred, with this amendment, That the Committee name persons for Lieutenant-Colonel and Major of said Regiment ; and Mr. Thornton, Mr. Folsom, Mr. Wentworth, Mr. Blanch- ard, and Mr. Thompson, added by the Board. Sent down for concurrence. Vote for Colonel Jonathan Chase to receive out of the Colony store five barrels of Gunpowder, brought up, read, and concurred, with this amendment, That Colonel Chase receive three barrels, instead of five barrels. Sent down for concurrence, and brought back concurred. Vote appointing Samuel Connor Lieutenant-Colonel, and NEW-HAMPSHIRE -HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 60 Moses Baker Major, of Colonel Wingate’s Regiment, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for the Treasurer to hire £5,000 for the use of the Colony, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote establishing Fees to be taken in the Maritime Court, brought up, read, and concurred. Vote for paying the Account of Richard Champney, amounting to £22 6s., brought up, read, and concurred, and warrant made out. Vote promising a bounty of six per cent. upon all bar Lead, and ten Dollars per cent. upon all Sulphur manufac- tured in this Colony for a certain time, brought up, read, and concurred. Adjourned till the first Wednesday in September next. — NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Wednesday, June 5, 1776 At three o’clock, P. M., the House met at Exeter, ac- cording to adjournment. Read sundry Letters for Philadelphia. Voted, That John Dudley and Samuel Cutts, Esquires, be a Committee to examine how much Silver and Gold coin there is in the Treasury, and make report as soon as may be. Which Committee made report, that there is now in the Treasury, in silver and gold coin, £859 12s., lawful money. Voted, That Dr. Dearborn, Captain Prentice, and Mr. Jacob Abbot, be a Committee of this House to join a Com- mittee of the honourable Board, to draught a Vote concerning the procuring Firearms for the use of this Colony, and pre- sent the same to this House as soon as may be. Adjourned till to-morrow morning, at eight o’clock. Thursday, June 6, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That a Committee be chosen in this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult what business is most necessary to be entered upon immediately, and to make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Captain Prentice, Colonel Walker, James Betton, Esq., Richard Downing, Esq., and John Dudley, Esq., be the Committee of this House for that purpose. — Which Committee, being joined by a Committee of the honourable Board, made the following Report, viz: The Committee of both Houses appointed to consider what business is necessary to be done this session, recommend the following things, viz: A Table of Fees to be completed. A determination about opening the Courts of Law. The Civil List to be filled up, and Commissions for the several Courts to be made out. An Act to enforce the payment of the Colony Taxes andothers. An Act to prevent the alteration and counterfeiting the Bills of Credit of this and the neigh- bouring Colonies, and to make the Bills of Credit of said Colonies a legal tender. An Act to regulate Taxation, and the sum to be raised for this year. An Act to regulate the Militia. An Act for abolishing the Court of Appeals in this Colony, and for determining how Appeal shall be made, and heard, from decrees of the Judges of Probate, for the future. ‘That the persons who have laid out the Colony’s money may be compelled to render accounts thereof; that the sending our accounts to Philadelphia be no longer de- layed; and that attested accounts of the number of the People be procured immediately. Necessary orders to be made out for raising the Continental Battalion. Some direc- tions about Saltpetre to be given. Directions in what name Writs, &c., shall issue. A Resolve that all persons shall be prosecuted, who, after the sitting of the Courts of Sessions in the respective Counties, shall sell liquors without license; and that no person be licensed without procuring a certifi- eate that they have paid their Excise for the year 1775. An Act for the better observation of the Lord’s Day. An Act imposing a Fine on all Justices of the Peace and Minis- ters, for joining persons in wedlock without a Certificate from the Clerk or Clerks of the Towns where the persons married live, that they have been lawfully published. To revive the late Highway Act. To make the Courts of Pro- bate circular. Some further directions about Firearms. An Act for making Captures on the Sea, &c., and for con- demning them ; and to commission the Judge and Register of the Admiralty. M. Tuornton, Chairman. Voted, To choose a-Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consider the Peti- tions of Richard Emms, John Frazier, and James Taylor, and to make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Samuel Cutts, Esq., Captain Long, and Major Tash, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to examine all Accounts against this Colony, and report thereon to this House as soon as may be; and that Colonel Walker, Henry Prescott, Esq., and Jonathan Lovewell, Esq., be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Ebenezer Dearing, amounting to £99 17s. 14d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury ; and that the President of the Council give order of payment accordingly. Voted, That Deacon Nahum Baldwin be Mustermaster to the Forces raised and to be raised in this Colony for the current year, until further order of this Colony. Voted, That Captain Richard Emms, now a prisoner in this Colony, receive out of the Treasury £20 for and towards his subsistence ; and that the President of the Council give order of payment accordingly ; and that said Emms have leave to depart this Colony for any Foreign Port in the West-Indies, as passenger only. Voted, That Captain John Frazier and Mr. James Tay- lor have liberty to depart from this Colony, separately, in any vessel bound to the Foreign West-India Islands, as passengers. Voted, That the Account of Captain John Calfe, amount- ing to £2 11s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury ; and that the President of the Council give order of payment. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Titus Salter’s Com- pany, from March 17th to April 16th, 1776, amounting to £246 Os. 1d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury ; and that the President of the Council give order of payment. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Titus Salter’s Company, from April 16th to May 17th, 1776, amounting to £197 15s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President of the Council give order of payment. Upon reading the Petition of John Griffith, Voted, That he be paid wages as a soldier in Captain Ebenezer Dearing’s Company from the time of his inlistment until the time of his discharge. . Adjourned to half past two o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Upon reading the Petition of a number of persons, pray- ing that several Petitions against Lieutenant-Colonel Folsom may be dismissed, Voted, That the Petition now presented and read, be dismissed. Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o’clock. Friday, June 7, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Quartermaster Gains furnish Colonel David Gilman with what Powder shall be necessary to clear the rocks out of the Fort now building at Great-Island. Voted, That George Gains, Esq., and Captain William Trefethen be a Committee of this House to repair to Boston, and other parts of Massachusetts-Bay, to search for, inquire 61 after, and receive of the Commanding Officer, or any other person or persons, who may have in their care or possession any Cannon belonging to this Colony, according to the Resolve of Continental Congress; and also to receive the Powder lent by this Colony to the Continental Army, and to transport the said Cannon to Portsmouth in this Colony, and the Powder to Eveter, on the most reasonable terms, as soon as may be. Voted, That George Gains, Esq., have and receive out of the Treasury £400, to be by him accounted for ; and that the President of the Council give order of payment accord- ingly. Voted, That Samuel Robey, a soldier in Captain William Prescott’s Company, (who was left out of the roll,) be allowed and paid out of the Treasury £1 8s. Sd., in full for twenty- three days’ service in said Company; and that the President of the Council give order of payment. Upon hearing the complaint of Aaron Quimby, Ebenezer Collins, and Daniel Murray, against Captain John Parker, for wronging them in making up his Muster Roll, &c., Voted, That Colonel Badger, Captain Prentice, Captain Worthen, Major Tash, and Major Kelley, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to éxamine into the Roll of said Parker, and his accounts and vouchers, and make report to this House as soon as may be. Upon reading and considering the Petition of John Hun- ter, concerning his losing Paper Money, to the value of fif- teen Dollars and a half: Voted, That the said John Hunter have and receive out of the Treasury £4 13s. for his said loss, and that the Pre- sident give order of payment. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Colonel Samuel Sherburne, Richard Down- ing, Esq., Colonel Stephen Evans, Captain Josiah Moulton, Samuel Dudley, Esq., Captain Pierce Long, and Major Tash, be a Committee of this House, who, with a Commit- tee of the honourable Board, are desired and empowered to exchange Paper Currency for Gold and Silver, for the use of this Colony, and report what sums they do or can ex- change as soon as may be. The following Vote of Council was brought from the Board, viz: ** Colony of New-Hampshire, in Council, ; June 7, 1776. “ Resolved, That Nicholas Gilman, Esq., Treasurer and Receiver-General of this Colony, be, and is hereby, fully authorized and empowered to receive and take in all those Paper Bills of Credit emitted on the credit of said Colony, bearing interest, and to pay such interest to the time of such exchange, and charge the amount of said interest in his account with said Colony; and that the Treasurer give notice of this Order as soon as may be.” The above Vote or Resolve of Congress being read, Voted, That the same be concurred. Read sundry Petitions, &c. Voted, To build a Bridge from the westerly end of New- Castle to Ward’s Island, and from thence to Adams’s Island, so called, or somewhere across the water, so as to secure a retreat for our forces to be stationed at New-Castle in case of a defeat; and that Mr. Baldwin, Major Downing, and Colonel Walker, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to look out and dis- cover the best place where, and the manner how, the said Bridge shall be built, and to make report thereon to this Court as soon as may be. Voted, That Colonel Walker, Major Downing, Major Kelley, Mr. John Smith, third, Captain Long, Major Bel- lows, Captain Wilson, Mr. Emerson, and Mr. Knowles, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the hon- ourable Board, to nominate to this House three persons for Colonel, three for Lieutenant-Colonel, and three for Major, of the Regiment now to be raised in this Colony on the Con- tinental establishment; for this House to nominate one of each three for the said Offices. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 62 Saturday, June 8, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Upon information from the Committee of Safety or Cor- respondence of the Towns of Ipswich and Rindge, against Jonathan Parker, for altering and uttering Paper Bills of Credit of this Colony contrary to law, Voted, That Jonathan Lovewell, Esq., Ichabod Rollins, Esq., John Dudley, Esq., James Betton, Esq., Matthew Patten, Esq., Samuel Sherburne, Esq., and Colonels Stephen Ewans, Hale, and Baker, be a Committee of this House to examine into the matter informed of, and make report to this House as soon as may be. The Committee of both Houses to examine Captain Parker’s Roll, &c., made report, as on file; which being read and considered, Voted, 'That the same be received, accepted, and filed. And further Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult in what manner and how the said John Parker shall be pro- ceeded against, concerning the premises; and that Major Bellows, Ichabod Rollins, Esq., Matthew Patten, Esq., Colonel Sherburne, and Colonel Hale, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Samuel Cutts, Esq., Commissary, have, and receive out of the Treasury, to be by him accounted for, £600, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Theophilus Dame be appointed First Colo- nel of the Battalion now to be raised in this Colony, to be on the Continental establishment, and that Colonel David Gilman be Lieutenant-Colonel, and Major James Hackett be Major of said Battalion. Voted, That James Arkin be allowed and paid out of the Treasury £3 for his boat, lost at Bunker Hill fight, and that the President give order of payment. Adjourned till Monday, the 10th instant, at three of the clock, afternoon. Monday, June 10, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That the price of good merchantable Saltpetre, that shall be manufactured in this Colony, and brought in to Doctor Jostah Gilman, or the Receiver thereof for this Colony for the time being, for the space of one year from and after the 8th day of June instant, shall be four shillings per pound, to be paid out of the Treasury upon the said Re- ceiver’s certificate, the manufacturer or producers of the said Saltpetre to be under oath that the same was manufac- tured in this Colony. Voted, That the Account of Samuel Greeley, amounting to £6 Os. 2d., for doctoring, billeting, and nursing his son Joseph, (being wounded at Bunker-Hill fight,) be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. , Voted, To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to frame, draw up, and present to this House, the following Acts for Laws for this Colony, viz: Ist. An Act for establishing the Table of Fees for the several Officers in this Colony. 2d. An Order or Resolve for opening the Courts of Justice. 3d. An Act to enforce the payinent of Taxes in this Colony. 4th. An Act to prevent the alteration and counterfeiting the Bills of Credit for this and the neighbouring Colonies, and to make the said Bills of Credit a legal tender. 5th. An Act to regulate Taxation, and to ascertain the sum to be raised as a Colony Tax, for the current year. 6th. An Act for regulating the Militia. 7th. An Act for abolishing the Court of Appeals in this Colony, and for determining how and by whom appeals shall be made and heard from decrees of the Judges of Probate in this Colony, in future. Sth. An Act or Resolve in what name, and in what form, Writs and Processes shall be issued in future. 9th. An Act for the better observation of the Lord’s Day. 10th. An Act to impose a Fine on all Justices of the Peace and Ministers of the Gospel, who shall presume to join persons in Matrimony without a Certificate from the Clerk or Clerks of Towns or places where the persons so married live that they have been lawfully published. 63 11th. An Act to revive the late Highway Act. 12, An Act to make the Courts of Probate circular. 13th. An Act for making Captures on the Seas, and for condemning them, and to regulate the Trials of said Captures. 14th. An Act to prevent the stopping or obstructing the course or passage of Fish into the several rivers, brooks, and ponds in this Colony, where Fish usually passed. And that Timothy Walker, Matthew Patten, Esq., and Mr. John Smith, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Adjourned iill eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Tuesday, June 11, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Read the form of the Commission for the Chief Justice of the Superior Court, and voted that the same be trans- eribed, sealed with the Colony seal, and delivered to the Honourable Meshech Weare, Esq. Voted, That Samuel Cutts, Timothy Walker, and John Dudley, Esquires, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to make a draught of a Declaration of this General Assembly for Independence of the United Colonies on Great Britain. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That the Account of the Committee of Safety of Greenland, amounting to £13 8s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of pay- ment. Voted, That the Vote of the Sth June instant, for choosing Field-Officers of the Battalion now to be raised in this Colo- ny, to be on the Continental establishment, according to the Resolution of the Continental Congress, exclusive of the Regiment now on duty at New-Castle and at or near Pis- cataqua Harbour, be reconsidered. Voted, That John Taylor Gilman be joined to the Com- mittee for examining and adjusting Accounts for and against this Colony, in the room of Captain John Emery, who has gone out of the country. This Vote having passed in Council this day and sent down, is concurred by the House. Voted, That Major James Hackett be the first officer of the Battalion now to be raised in this Colony on the Continental establishment, that Major Thomas Tash be the second officer, and Major David Copp the third officer of said Battalion. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Wednesday, June 12, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That Matthew Patten, Henry Prescott, and Jona- than Lovewell, Esquires, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to examine into the matter of the Petition of the Honourable William Parker, Esquire, for his last year’s salary, and to see if there is any moneys due him from the Colony, and make report thereon as soon as may be. Voted, That a Committee of five Members of this House be chosen, to confer with a Committee of the honourable Board, upon the mode of raising the Battalion now to be raised in this Colony on the Continental establishment, and to make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Colonel Badger, Colonel Morey, Colonel Sherburne, Jona- than Lovewell, Esquire, and Colonel Hale, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That the Amendment of the honourable Council on the Vote for appointing Officers for the new Battalion, &c., be concurred. Voted, That John Dudley, Esquire, Captain Harriman, and Major Bartlett, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the Board, to consult upon the expediency of delivering out Powder from the Colony stores to the several Colonels or Captains or Selectmen of the several Towns, and if expedient, then how, and in what manner, and on what conditions the same shall be delivered out, and to make report to this House as soon as may be. Adjourned to three o’clock, afternoon. NEW-HAMPSHIRE. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 7 64 Met according to adjournment. Upon reading the Petition of Maurice Lynch, John Dun- can, and Samuel Moore, a Committee of part of the Society Lands, praying to be incorporated by the following bounds, viz: “ Beginning at the northeast corner of said ‘Township, which is the northwest corner of Deering, and running southerly according to the course of Contoocook River, which river is the west line of Deering, so as to make five miles in a straight line; thence westerly, on the north line of No. 3 in the original plan of said Society, to the east line of Parkersfield ; thence northerly, on said Parkersfield and Stoddard, to Cammell’s Gore and Hillsborough, to the bounds first mentioned :” And considering the same, Voted, 'That the same lie for consideration. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Thursday, June 13; 1776. The House met according to adjournment. The Committee of both Houses appointed to confer upon a mode of raising the Battalion ordered by the Continental Congress, made report: That they would recommend the appointment of eight persons most likely to inlist the men and perform the services, and give out orders for each to inlist a Company, with liberty for them to name Subalterns to serve under them, to be commissioned if they raise the Companies. M. Tuornton, Chairman. Which Report being read and considered, Voted, That the same be received and accepted. Voted, To choose a Committee of sixteen persons of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to nominate to this House sixteen persons, eight of whom to inlist the men for the Battalion to be raised by order of the Continental Congress, and to make the said nomination as soon as may be; and that Colonel Sherburne, Colonel Evens, Captain Worthen, Samuel Dudley, Esq., Samuel Kimboll, Esq., Doctor Nichols, Mr. John Bell, John Dudley, Esq., Matthew Patten, Esq., Colonel Badger, Colonel Walker, Major Ellis, Mr. Shattuck, Mr. Grout, Mr. Emerson, and Colonel Morey, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Upon considering the motion of Captain Benjamin Connor, that he may receive the bounty of £50, heretofore voted for the greatest quantity of Saltpetre to be manufactured in this Colony, and brought in by the 8th day of June instant ; the question was put, whether the partnership between said Conner and Mr. Call was in fact dissolved, in the opinion of this House; and a vote thereon being put, It passed in the negative. Voted, That Doctor Levit Dearborn, Colonel Baker, Ebenezer Smith, Esq., Doctor Nichols, and Mr. Grout, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer together, and make report to this House what person is entitled to the £50 bounty voted by the late Congress to be given to such inhabitants of this Colony as should manufacture in this Colony, and bring in, the greatest quantity of Saltpetre by the 8th day of June instant. Voted, That all Bonds, Recognisances, and Securities, for Moneys, or any other Forfeitures heretofore usually given to the King, shall henceforward be given and taken to the present Speaker of the House of Representatives, or the Speaker for the time being, for the use of this Colony; and where the matter relates to any particular County, upon non-performance of the condition, that the penalty shall and may be sued for and recovered in the name of the said Speaker, for the use of said County. Adjourned to three o’clock, afternoon. — Met according to adjournment. Voted, Not to recommend any other persons than those already recommended by this Court to the Continental Congress, for Field-Officers to command the Battalion or- dered to be raised on the Continental establishment. Voted, That Mark Wiggin, of Stratham, John Brews- ter, of Rochester, Moses Leavitt, of Northampton, James Hill, of New-Market, Joseph Dearborn, of Chester, Stephen Peabody, of Amherst, John Calfe, of Kingston, and Ebe- nezer Webster, of Salisbury, be appointed Captains in the 65 Battalion now to be raised in this Colony, on the Continen- tal establishment. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Friday, June 14, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, To raise £5,000 for the Colony Tax for the cur- rent year, to be assessed on the polls and estates within this Colony, and to be collected and paid into the Treasury on or before the Ist day of March next. ~ Received a, Letter from the Honourable John Hancock, Esgq., enclosing the Resolves and Requisitions of the Conti- nental Congress, about raising the Militia, &c., to send to Canada, and sent the same up to the Board by Mr. Cutts. Adjourned to three o’clock, afternoon. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That this House resolve themselves into a Com- mittee of the Whole House to join the Council, or such of their Members as they shall appoint, to converse together concerning the requisition of the Continental Congress for a Battalion to be raised and sent from this Colony to Canada, and other matters concerning raising and equipping the said Battalion. Which Committee of the Whole House being joined by a Committee of the Whole Board, the Honourable Meshech Weare, Esq., in the chair, and conferring on the premises, came to the following Resolution, viz: That there be forthwith raised and equipped in this Co- lony a Regiment of seven hundred and fifty men, including Officers; and that each Non-Commissioned Officer and Sol- dier receive a bounty of £6. And the question being put, whether the Troops now on duty at or near New- Castle, &c., shall have leave to inlist into the said Regiment, or into the Continental Battalion, and a vote being put thereon, it passed in the negative. Also, Resolved, That the Officers and Soldiers have the same Wages as the Continental Troops have. Voted, To choose a Committee of sixteen Members of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer together and nominate to this House proper persons for Field-Officers, and for Captains of Regiments now to be raised for Canada, and how and in what manner the said Regiment shall be inlisted and equipped, and to make re- port thereon to this House as soon as may be; and that Major Barker, Colonel Baker, Captain Moulton, Mr. Wheel- er, Robert Willson, Esq., James Betton, Esq., Major Phil- brick, Mr. Abbott, Major Kelley, Colonel Hale, Mr. Robin- son, Colonel Gerrish, Colonel Smith, Major Bellows, Colonel Morey, and Mr. Brainard, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Saturday, June 15, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. An Act for establishing the style of Commissions, and altering the style of Writs and Law Processes, &c., read a first time. An Act to prevent the forging and altering Bills of Pub- lick Credit, &c., read a first time. The Committee of both Houses appointed to prepare a Draught setting forth the sentiments and opinion of the Coun- cil and Assembly of this Colony, relative to the United Colo- nies setting up an independent State, made Report as on file. Which Report being read and considered, Voted unanimously, That the Report of said Committee be received and accepted, and that the Draught by them brought in be sent to our Delegates at the Continental Con- gress forthwith, as the sense of this House. Voted, To raise and equip forthwith in this Colony a Regiment of seven hundred and fifty men, including Offi- cers, to be sent immediately to Canada, to reinforce our Army there; and that each Non-Commissioned Officer and Soldier receive a bounty of £6 on their being mustered and enrolled, and to receive the same Wages as the Continental Troops have, and that the Officers and Soldiers receive one month’s advance wages upon their being ready to march, and to continue in the service until the first day of December next, unless sooner discharged by the Continental Congress. Firrn Series.— Vor. I. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 66 And that Isaac Wyman, Esq., be Colonel of the said Regi- ment, and Joseph Senter, Esq., be Lieutenant-Colonel, and Edward Sherburne, Esq., be Major of said Regiment; that John Drew, of Barrington, Henry Elkins, of Hampton, William Harper, of Brintwood, Daniel Reynolds, of Lon- donderry, James Shepard, of Canterbury, Augustus Blanch- ard, of Merrimack, Samuel Wetherbee, of Charlestown, and Joseph Parker, of New-Ipswich, be Captains in the said Regiment. Voted, That the Account of Daniel Fowle, Esq., amount- ing to £5 14s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. The Draught made by the Committee of both Houses, relating to Independency, and voted as the sense of this House as in the preceding page, is as follows, viz: Whereas it now appears an undoubted fact, that notwith- standing all the dutiful Petitions and decent Remonstrances from the American Colonies, and the utmost exertions of their best friends in England on their behalf, the Bretesh Ministry, arbitrary and vindictive, are yet determined to reduce, by fire and sword, our bleeding country to their absolute obedience; and for this purpose, in addition to their own forces, have engaged great numbers of foreign merce- naries, who may now be on their passage here, accompanied by a formidable Fleet, to ravage and plunder the sea-coast ; from all which we may expect the most dismal scenes of distress the ensuing year, unless we exert ourselves by every means and precaution possible: And whereas we, of this Colony of New-Hampshire, have the example of the most respectable of our sister Colonies before us for entering upon that most important step of a disunion from Great Britain, and declaring ourselves free and independent of the Crown thereof, being impelled thereto by the most violent and inju- rious treatment, and it appearing most necessary in this most critical juncture of our publick affairs, that the honourable the Continental Congress, who have this most important object under their immediate consideration, should be also informed of our Resolution thereon without loss of time: We do hereby declare, that it is the opinion of our Assembly that our Delegates at the Continental Congress should be instructed, and they are hereby instructed, to join with the other Colonies in declaring the Thirteen United Colonies a free and independent State, solemnly pledging our faith and honour that we will, on our parts, support the measure with our lives and fortunes; and that in consequence thereof, they, the Continental Congress, on whose wisdom, fidelity, and integrity, we rely, may enter into and form such alliances as they may judge most conducive to the present safety and future advantage of these American Colonies, provided the regulation of our internal police be under the direction of our own Assembly. Entered according to the original. Attest: Noau Emery, Clerk. Voted, That Deacon Nahum Baldwin, Captain Pren- tice, Matthew Patten, Esq., Colonel Hale, and Mr. Grout, be a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to give out Inlisting Orders to the several Officers of the Regiment now to be raised for Canada; and to commissionate the Officers, and make all necessary prepa- rations for, and equip the said Regiment as soon as possible. Adjourned to Monday next, at ten o’clock, forenoon. Monday, June 17, 1776. Met according to adjournment; and there being but a thin House, adjourned to three o’clock, afternoon. Then met according to adjournment. An Act concerning Taxes, and for ascertaining who are Legal Voters in Town and Parish Meetings ; read a first time. An Act preventing the Altering, Forging, &c., of the Bills of Credit, &c.; read a second time. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House to confer with a Committee from the honourable Board, on the expe- diency of furnishing the Town of Chesterfield with Powder to defend themselves against the attempts and assaults of all persons who appear by their conduct inimical to this country, and to make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Captain Prentice, Major Bellows, and Dr. Dearborn, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. 67 Tuesday, June 18, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That a half-barrel of Gunpowder be delivered out of the Powder-House in Exeter to the Selectmen of Chesterfield, or their order, for the use of said Town of Chesterfield, and that the said Selectmen of Chesterfield, or some person, give a receipt therefor, and promise to account with the Treasurer of this Colony for the same. Voted, That Major James Hackett be First Colonel of the Regiment now to be raised for Canada, and that Joseph Senter be Lieutenant-Colonel, and Colonel Stephen Pea- body be Major of said Regiment. Adjourned to half-past two, P. M. ~ Met according to adjournment. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer together, and nominate to this House certain persons to take the hard Money now collected in this Colony, and carry the same to General Schuyler at Ticonderoga, or wherever he may be found, for the support and supply of our Troops in Canada, and to make report as soon as may be; and that Major Bartlett, Captain Long, and Deacon Baldwin, be the Com- mittee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That John Drew of Barrington, James Hadlock of Southampton, William Harper of Brintwood, Joseph Dearborn of Chester, James Shephard of Canterbury, Au- gustus Blanchard of Merrumack, Samuel Wetherbee of Charlestown, and Joseph Parker of New-Ipswich, be Cap- tains in the Regiment now to be raised and sent to Canada. Voted, That Benjamin Giles, Esq., of the Council, and Matthew Patten, Esq., and Nahum Baldwin, Esq., of this House, be a Committee to receive what Gold and Silver Coin is now in the Treasury, and to carry the same to the Hon. General Schuyler at Ticonderoga, or Albany, or where- ever he may be, for the necessary supply of our Troops at Canada, and take his receipt for the same on account of this Colony. Voted, That the Account of Jonathan Dearborn, amount- ing to 12s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to give out Inlisting Orders to the several Officers of the Regiment now to be raised and sent into Canada, and to commissionate the Offi- cers, and make all necessary preparations for, and equip the said Regiment as soon as possible; and that John Dudley, Esq., Captain Pierce Long, and Mr. John Smith, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Wednesday, June 19, 1776. The House met according to adjournment, and the Speaker being absent, the House made choice of Samuel Cutts, Esq., for their Speaker, pro tempore, who took the Chair accord- ingly ; soon after which, the Speaker came in, and resumed the Chair. Voted, That it be, and hereby is, recommended to all Colonels, and other Officers of the Militia in this Colony, to be aiding and assisting to the several Officers appointed to inlist Soldiers for the Regiment to be sent into Canada, by all good means in their power, that the said Regiment may be raised with all convenient speed. Voted, That Mr. Baldwin and. Matthew Patten, Esq., be excused from going to Canada, to carry the hard Money now in the ‘Treasury to General Schuyler. Voted, That James Betton, Esq., be joined to the Hon. Benjamin Giles, Esq., as a Committee to receive out of the Colony Treasury, and convey to General Schuyler, or to the Commanding Officer of the Continental Forces in Canada, all the hard Money in the Treasury, for the support of our said Forces, and to take his receipt for the same on account of this Colony. Voted, That Benjamin Giles, Esq., and James Betton, Esq., receive out of the Treasury £30, lawful money, to be by them accounted for, and that the President give order of payment accordingly, NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 68 Voted, That the balance of the Account of Major John Bellows, amounting to £19 7s. 7d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the several Mustermasters, hereafter named, receive out of the Treasury sufficient Moneys to pay off the Troops going to Canada, for their bounty and their month’s advance wages; and that they pay them in their several departments, upon their being mustered and enrolled; and that Colonel Timothy Walker be Mustermaster of Captain Shepard’s Company, Colonel Otis Baker of Captain Drew’s Company, Captain Ezekiel Worthen of Captain Hadlock’s Company, Samuel Dudley, Esq., of Captain Harper’s Com- pany, John Dudley, Esq., of Captain Dearborn’s Company, Deacon Nahum Baldwin of Captain Blanchard’s Company, Mr. Elijah Grout of Captain Wetherbee’s Company, and Colonel Enoch Hale of Captain Parker's Company. “The Committee of both Houses beg leave to recommend the reconsidering of two Votes lately passed, viz: one for raising a Battalion agreeable to a Resolve of the Continental Congress, probably to be stationed at Portsmouth, and nomi- nating Field and other Officers for the same, and a Vote appointing Officers for a Battalion to be sent into Canada. And they further recommend the six gentlemen voted for Field-Officers for the two above mentioned Battalions, with others who may be named, in lieu of those who decline the service, stand nominated to appoint-eight of them for the second Canada service. _,, 8 ee HEL remy e ] e Voted and Resolved, That the Vote of this House of the 11th instant, appointing Major Hackett, Major Tash, and Major Copp, to the command of the Battalion to be raised agreeable to a Resolve of the Continental Congress, to be stationed at Portsmouth; and the Vote of this House of the same day, for raising and equipping the said Battalion; and also a Vote of this House, of the 15th instant, appointing Officers for a Regiment to be sent into Canada, &c. ;—that each and every of said Votes be, and hereby are, reconsidered and made null and void. Voted, That Mr. Thomas Clough go to Moultonborough and Canterbury, and carry a Letter to Colonel Senter and a Letter to Captain Shepard, and to return and report his doings as soon as may be. The following Letter was presented to the House, viz: “To the Honourable House of Representatives for the Co- lony of New-HampsHire: “‘Acreeable to the request of the late Congress of the Colony aforesaid to the Committees of Safety of the several Towns of the Colony, the Committees of the Towns of Dunstable, Hollis, Merrimack, and Litchfield, in said Co- lony, herewith return the names of Captain Leonard Whi- ting, Benjamin Whiting, and Samuel Cummings, Esqs., and Thomas Cummings, of Hollis, suspected persons of being unfriendly or inimical to the liberties and rights of the Uni- ted Colonies, together with the evidences of such suspicion ; which is humbly submitted to the examination and decision of the said honourable House of Assembly, agreeable to the handbills. “Dated at Dunstable, 15th of June, 1776. “Reusen Dow, Chairman of Committee. Whereas the Committees of Safety for the Towns of Dun- stable, Hollis, Merrimack, and Litchfield, have returned the names of Leonard Whiting, Benjamin Whiting, Samuel Cummings, Esqrs., and Thomas Cummings, as persons sus- pected of being unfriendly or inimical to the liberties of the United Colonies, together with the evidences of such suspi- cion; which having been heard and fully considered, and also the said Leonard Whiting, Benjamin Whiting, Samuel Cummings, and Thomas Cummings, being heard by counsel upon their petition before both Houses, it appears to this House that the said suspicion is not sufficiently supported, and that the said Leonard Whiting, Benjamin Whiting, Samuel Cummings, and Thomas Cummings, be acquitted, and fully discharged. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Ekphalet Daniel, for his Company of Matrosses, from the 17th of May, 1776, to the 17th of June instant, amounting to £154 12s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the Presi- dent give order of payment. 69 Voted, That Noah Emery, Esq., Clerk of this House, receive out of the Treasury 6s. per day for his services as Clerk of this House, over and above his wages as Member of the House during the last session of this House in March last, amounting to £4 16s., and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Colonel Isaac Wyman be appointed: First Colonel of the Regiment now to be raised and sent into Ca- nada, in the room and stead of Major James Hackett, who was appointed, and has resigned. Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o’clock. Thursday, June 20, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, To choose a Committee of three Members of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to con- fer and consult upon the best method of procuring Provisions and other necessaries for the Regiment going into Canada, and to make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Captain Prentice, Colonel Walker, and Captain Long, be the Committee of this House for that purpose; and also to consult upon the best method of getting Shots and Balls belonging to this Colony, now in store at Mystick, and to write to General Washington for an order to receive the Powder loaned by this Colony for the supply of the Conti- nental Army ; and also to try and borrow some Cannon from the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay. Voted, That Mr. Samuel Moore be a Monitor to this House. Voted, That the Account of Samuel Ashley, Benjamin Giles, Timothy Walker, Junior, Nahum Baldwin, and Rich- ard Downing, Esqrs., (for their expenses as a Committee to Portsmouth to look out a proper place for a Bridge to New-Castle,) amounting to £3 13s. 10}d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Adjourned to half-past two o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Upon reading sundry Petitions of the Officers and Soldiers of the Sixth Regiment of the Militia, praying that Colonel John Hale and the other Field-Officers appointed for said Regiment may be discharged and dismissed from their said appointment, and some others appointed in their room, the Petitioners and the said Field-Officers being heard upon their evidence before both Houses, it appears to this House that the said John Hale, Esq., has carried and behaved himself as a good friend to the cause of liberty, and has in many cases exerted himself for the good of the American cause, now contending for; and no evidence appearing against the other Field-Officers of said Regiment, it is therefore voted and resolved by this House that the said Petitions be, and hereby are, dismissed. Voted, 'To have a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult upon the matter of sending what hard Money we have to Canada, by the same guard Captain Langdon proposes to send what he has collected by, or in what manner the same shall be sent, and to make report thereon to this House as soon as may be; and that John Dudley, Esq., Captain Josiah Moul- ton, and Colonel Samuel Sherburne, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That the balance of the Account of Colonel Otis Baker, amounting to 20s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President of the Council give order of payment. Voted, ‘That Jacob Wilson receive out of the ‘Treasury 28s., in full for boarding and nursing James Winn, a sick soldier, and for his watchers, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Field-Officers and the Staff-Officers of the Regiment destined for Canada be paid out of the Trea- sury, each two months’ advance pay, instead of the one month’s advance pay heretofore voted them, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Colonel Otis Baker, Mr. Elijah Grout, Colonel Timothy Walker, Samuel Dudley, Esq., John Dud- *€ NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 70 ley, Esq., Deacon Nahum Baldwin, Colonel Enoch Hale, and Captain Ezekiel Worthen, the several Mustermasters appointed to pay off the Troops destined for Canada, re- ceive, each of them, out of the Treasury £780, to pay off the Soldiers (by them severally to be mustered) their bounty of $20 each, and their one month’s advance pay, and to pay off the Captains and Subaltern Officers of said Troops two months’ advance pay, instead of the one month’s pay heretofore voted them; and that the said Mustermasters be severally accountable for said sum, and that the President give order of payment accordingly. The Committee appointed to report their opinion of the necessaries to fix off the Canada Regiment, agree to report, that Colonel Hurd be appointed to fix off all the Companies from Cohos, with ten days’ provisions—except Captain Par- ker’s and Captain Wetherbee’s Companies, who we would recommend to be fixed off by Captain Prentice, at Charles- town, with ten days’ provisions—to proceed by way of Crown Point; and that the persons appointed Mustermasters deliver each Company a day’s provision for every twenty miles’ travel, from the place they march from, until they come to Cohos or Charlestown—otherwise pay to each man 1d. per mile for said distance; and that said Hurd and Prentice deliver each man a quart of rum, and that six dozen of axes be immediately provided at Exeter, and sent forward. M. TxHornton, Chairman. Which Report being read, Voted, That the same be received and accepted, and that orders issue from the honourable the President accord- ingly. John Hale, Esq., Colonel of the Sixth Regiment of Militia in this Colony, together with Robert Reid, Esq., his Lieutenant-Colonel, and Wilkam McQuieston, Esq., his Major, came into the House and desired leave to resign their respective commissions appointing them to the command of said Regiment. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Friday, June 21, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. The form of Orders for the Mustermasters was presented, read, and accepted. Voted, That Benjamin Giles, Esq., and James Betton, Esq., receive out of the Treasury £20, to.be by them ac- counted for, and that the President give order of payment. ‘Voted, That Colonel Baker, Mustermaster for Captain Drew’s Company, receive out of the Treasury £20; and that Captain Worthen, Mustermaster of Captain Hadlock’s Company, receive out of the ‘Treasury £30; and that John Dudley, Esq., Mustermaster of Captain Dearborn’s Com- pany, receive out of the Treasury £30; and that Samuel Dudley, Esq., Mustermaster of Captain Harper’s Company, receive out of the Treasury £30; and that Colonel Walker, Mustermaster of Captain Shepard’s Company, receive out of the Treasury £20; and that Deacon Nahum Baldwin, Mustermaster of Captain Parker's Company, receive out of the Treasury £20: in addition to the sums before voted for them, to pay off the Officers and Soldiers destined for Canada; and that the honourable President give orders of payment accordingly. Voted, That Captain Daniel Colburn, of Pelham, be Sec- ond Major of Colonel Thornton’s Regiment, in the room and stead of James McGregore, who refuses to accept that office. Upon a motion made in the House for appointing a Sec- ond Major to the First Regiment in this Colony, in the room of Ephraim Pickering, who was lately appointed to that office, Voted, That Lieutenant-Colonel Joshua Wentworth and the said Ephraim Pickering be desired to appear before this House on Wednesday next, to show cause why the said Regiment is not yet settled, and why the said motion may not be granted. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consider of a method to carry into execution the vote of this House for building a ~ Bridge at New-Castle; and that Major Downing, Deacon Nahum Baldwin, and Colonel Samuel Sherburne, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. 71 Voted, That the Account of Nicholas Nicolle, amount- ing to £3 5s. 7d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Captain Prentice receive out of the Trea- sury £116, to provide and fix off the Troops destined for Canada, and that he be accountable for the same, and that the President give order of payment accordingly. ‘Voted, That Colonel Hurd receive out of the Treasury £350, to provide for and fix off the Troops destined for Canada, to be by him accounted for, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Account of Colonel Matthew Thornton, Esq., amounting to £3 19s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Captain Prentice receive of the Quarter- master 100 pounds of Powder, and 250 pounds of Bullets, and 400 Flints, for the use of the Troops destined for Canada, and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That Colonel Hurd receive of the Quartermaster 300 pounds Powder, 750 pounds Bullets, and 1200 F'lints, for the use of the Troops destined for Canada, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, To choose a Committee of three persons of this House, to joina Committee of the honourable Board, to con- sult about constituting a Court to sustain Appeals from the sentences or decrees of the Judges of Probate in this Colony, or to point out what Court shall sustain such Appeals, and whether the parties shall be sustained by a Jury; and to make report as soon as may be; and that Jonathan Love- well, Esq., John Dudley, Esq., and Colonel Walker, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Colonel Walker, Colonel Sherburne, and Major Downing, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to examine into the complaints and grievances of Peter Neveau, a poor French- man, now inhabiting within this Colony, and to make report to this House as soon as may be. Voted, That the Account of Captain John Moulton, amounting to £33 Os. 6d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Adjourned till eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. : Saturday, June 22, 1776. The House met according to adjournment, and made a collection in the House for Peter Neveau, a poor Frenchman, _and delivered the same, being £2 14s. 9d., into the hands of Deacon James Knowles, for the use of said Peter Neveau. The House having taken into their serious consideration the distressed and unhappy situation of Peter Neveau and his family, do hereby recommend to the Committee of Safety of Wakefield, that they, together with Deacon Knowles and Mr. Balch, inquire into the circumstances of the said Ne- veau and family, and see that he is not injured by his neigh- bours, or any person whatsoever. Voted, That there be but one place of Rendezvous in this Colony for the Troops destined for Canada, and that it be at Haverhill, on Connecticut River. Voted, 'That Alexander Shirley receive out of the Trea- sury £2 11s., in full for his coat and knapsack, lost at Bunker-Hill fight, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That John Shirley receive out of the Treasury £2 8s., in full for his coat and jacket, lost at Bunker-Hill ficht, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Colonel Morey receive out of the Treasury £150, to be by him accounted for, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Account of the Committee of Safety of Greenland, amounting to £13 Qs., (for Fire Raft,) be allowed, and paid out of the Treasury; and that the Presi- dent give order of payment. Adjourned to Monday next, at three o’clock, P. M. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 72 Monday, June 24, 1776. ° The House met according to adjournment. An Act for altering the style of Commissions and Law Processes, was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. An Act to prevent the counterfeiting or altering the Bills of Credit of the United Colonies, or either of them, and for preventing the depreciation thereof, was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. An Act for assessing Taxes, &c., and for ascertaining who are Legal Voters in Town and Parish Meetings, was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. Voted, That Aaron Quimby receive out of the Treasury £1 5s. 9d., being a stoppage against his wages on the roll of Captain John Parker, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Ebenezer Collins receive out of the Trea- sury 14s., being a stoppage out of his wages on the roll of Captain John Parker, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Daniel Murray receive out of the Treasury 19s., being a stoppage out of his wages on the roll of Cap- tain John Parker, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That William Simpson receive out of the Trea- sury £1 8s, 1d., being a stoppage out of his wages on the roll of Captain John Parker, and that the President give order of payment. The Petition of John Colby being read, Voted, That he be heard thereon on the first Tuesday of the next session of this Assembly. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Tuesday, June 25, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, To choose a Committee of three of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult upon the expediency of procuring and securing a number of Boats for the transporting reinforcements to our ‘Troops at New- Castle, in case of necessity, and to make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Deacon Baldwin, Cap- tain Worthen, and Major Downing, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Mr. Balch, Captain Prentice, and Captain Simonds, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult upon the matter and manner of procuring Casks for the Saltpetre now procured, and that hereafter may be procured, in this Colony, and also for Powder, and make report thereon as soon as may be. “The Committee of the Council and Assembly appointed to consult upon the matter and manner of procuring Casks for the Saltpetre now procured, &c., have maturely con- sidered the same, and do humbly report, that one hundred and twenty new Barrels be provided for the purposes in the Resolve set forth, each Barrel to contain sixteen gallons, which, they think, will be sufficient at present. “ M. Tuornton, Chairman.” Voted, That Major Tash, Colonel Morey, and Captain Prentice, be a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer together upon the Account of Captain John Moulton against this Colony, and make report as soon as may be. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer upon the expediency of seizing and securing Major Robert Rogers, in consequence of sundry informations against him, as inimi- cal to the rights and liberties of this country, and to make report thereon to this House as soon as may be; and that Captain Harriman, Major Philbrick, and Mr. Bell, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Ebenezer Dear- ing, from May 22 to June 22, 1776, amounting to £100 14s. 43d., be allowed, and paid out of the ‘Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. The Maritime Act was read a second time. An Act to enforce the payment of Taxes, &c., read a first time. An Act to abolish the Court of Appeals, &c., read a first time. Adjourned to half-past two o’clock, P. M. 73 Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Deacon Nahum Baldwin receive out of the Treasury £60, lawful money, towards procuring Firearms, to be by him accounted for, and that the President give order of payment. An Act for abolishing the Court of Appeals, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. ‘ Voted, That the Muster-Roll of Captain Titus Salter, from the 17th of May to the 16th of June, 1776, amount- ing to £199 14s. 7d., be allowed, and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment accordingly. Voted, That Captain John Langdon, of Portsmouth, be Captain of a Company of Light-Infantry in Portsmouth, and that he be commissioned therefor, with the rank of Colonel; that his Lieutenant (by him to be nominated) be commissioned, with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel ; and that his Ensign be commissioned, with the rank of Major; and that the said Company consist_of forty men, rank and file, and that the President give out Commissions accord- ingly. ‘The said Company to be under the command of the General Officer of the Militia for this Colony. “'The Committee appointed to consider of a method to carry into execution the Vote of this House for building a Bridge at New-Castle, recommend that a Committee be chosen to purchase materials suitable to build said Bridge or Bridges in the places recommended by the Committee, of fourteen feet width in the clear, in a substantial manner, according to their best skill and judgment, and with all the expedition that may be; and also that it be recommended to the commanding officer of the Troops in the District of Portsmouth to furnish forty able and suitable men to assist in this business, the men to be allowed one pistareen per day more than common wages, and excusable from other duties. J. Hurp, for the Committee. ‘s Exeter, June 25, 1776.”’ The above Report being read and considered, Voted, That Captain Worthen, together with one to be appointed from the honourable Council, be a Committee to purchase materials suitable to build a Bridge of fourteen feet width in the clear, in the place mentioned in the report of a Committee sent to view the best place for building a Bridge from the main land to New-Castle, in a substantial manner, according to their best skill and judgment, and with all the expedition that may be, and also to oversee the said work while building said Bridge ; and that they employ four good Carpenters on the said work, and as many of the Troops at New-Castle as occasion may require, which Troops shall receive one gill of rum each per day whilst on the said work, beside their rations and wages as soldiers. Voted, That there be procured, at the charge of this Colony, one hundred and twenty new, good, tight oak Casks, to con- tain sixteen gallons each, for the purpose of securing in them the Saltpetre already procured and hereafter to be procured for the use of this Colony, and also to secure Powder in, as this Colony may have occasion ; and that Doctor Josiah Gil- man and Mr. Nathaniel be a Committee to procure the said Casks. Voted, That John McClary, Esquire, and Mr. Bell bea Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honour- able Board, to consider the Petition of Joseph Leigh, this day presented to this House, and to make report thereon as soon as may be. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Wednesday, June 26, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That Captain Titus Salter be allowed and paid out of the Treasury £89 3s. 93d., in full for his Account, and that the President give order of payment accordingly. Voted, 'That the Vote of the honourable Council, sent to this House this day, appointing Colonel Thornton, General Folsom, Colonel Hurd, and Ebenezer Thompson, Esquire, a Committee to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to examine the Account of Captain Titus Salter, and confer together on an allowance thereof, and make report thereon, be concurred, and Captain Prentice, Ichabod Rollins, Esq., Richard Downing, Esq., Colonel Walker, and Colonel March, be joined on the part of this House, NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 74 An Act for establishing a Court Maritime, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of three of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consider a Petition of Colonel Ashley, Colonel Hurd, Major Bellows, Benjamin Giles, Esq., and Colonel Morey, for a Company of Rangers, &c., and make report to this House as soon as may be; and that Captain Prentice, John McClary, Esq., and Jonathan Lovewell, Esq., be the Committee of this House for that purpose. The following Vote of Council was brought down from the honourable Board, viz: “Colony of New-Hampshire, in Council, June 26, 1776. “Whereas, one Mr. John Odlin has just arrived and pre- sented to the Council $10,000 from the honourable Conti- nental Congress for the use of this Colony: “Voted, That Colonel Thornton, General Folsom, and Colonel Hurd, be a Committee, to join with such as the honourable Board shall appoint, to receive and tell over said Money and deliver it to the ‘Treasurer, and take his receipt therefor. «Sent down for concurrence. “EK. Tuompson, Secretary.” The above Vote of Council read and concurred, and Captain Simonds, John Dudley, Esq., and Captain Pren- tice, are added on the part of the House. Adjourned to half-past two o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. An Act concerning Marriages, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. Voted, That a Committee of five persons of this House join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer to- gether upon the expediency of purchasing or borrowing a quantity of Powder, or of exchanging of Saltpetre in the Massachusetts Colony for Powder, and in what manner the exchange shall be made, and make report thereon as soon as may be; and that Colonel Morey, Ichabod Rollins, Esq., Doctor Dearborn, Captain Prentice, and Captain Moulton, be the Committee of this House for that purpose; and also to consider the expediency of supplying the frontier ‘Towns in this Colony with Powder, and also what 'Towns shall be supplied, and with how much. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of three Members of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to inquire into the cause why the First Regiment in this Colo- ny is not settled, according to the order of this House; and why Major Ephraim Pickering is objected to by some part of said Regiment as Second Major thereof, and to make report thereof to this House as soon as may be; and that Jonathan Lovewell, Esq., Daniel Brainard, Esq., and Captain Har- riman, be a Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Joseph Leigh receive out of the Treasury £6 3s., in full for his service to this Colony as a soldier under the command of Captain Salter, and that the Presi- dent give order of payment. Voted, 'That the Account of Mr. John Odin, amounting to £4 12s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Ensign of Colonel Sherburne’s Company of Cadets have the same rank as the Ensign of Colonel Langdon’s Company of Light-Infantry. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Thursday, June 27, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult upon the expediency of emitting a quantity of Small Bills for the benefit of change, and to make report how much, and in what manner, the same shall be emitted, and that Doctor Dearborn, Captain Long, and John McClary, Esq., be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Which Committee being joined by a Committee of the honourable Board, made report, as on file. Whereupon it is voted, that there be forthwith emitted, on the credit of 75 this Colony, the sum of £3,400, in manner following, VIZ: 6,000 bills, at 3d.each,is- - - - - £75 6,000 bills, at 4dd.each,is- - - - - 100 6,000 bills, at 5d. each,is- - - - - 125 6,000 bills, at 7d.each,is- - - - - 175 6,000 bills, at 8d.each,is- - - - - 200 6,000 bills, at 10d. each, is - - - - 250 6,000 bills, at ls. each,is- - - - - 300 6,000 bills, at 1s. 3d. each, is - - + 9375 6,000 bills, at 2s. each,is- - - - - 600 6,000 bills, at 4s. each,is- - - - = 1,200 3,400 Whereof £1,700 to be received by a tax on the Polls and Estates of the rateable inhabitants of this Colony by the 26th day of January, 1787, and the remaining £1,700 by the 26th day of January, 1788, and that the said bills be emitted in the following form: “ Colony of New-Hampsuire, June 28, 1776. pence. No. ; pence. “ The possessor of this bill shall be paid by the Treasurer of this Colony , by the 26th day of January, 1778. And this bill shall be received for the aforesaid sum in all payments. By order of the Council and Assembly. Committee. pence. pence.” And that Doctor Dearborn, together with such of the Council as shall be appointed by the honourable Board, be a Committee to procure the materials and inspect the print- ing of said Bills; and when so done, to deliver the same to the Treasurer, and take his receipt therefor; and that six persons of this House, with such as the honourable Board shall appoint, be a Committee to sign the said Bills; and that one signer to each of said Bills shall be sufficient ; and that Noah Emery, Esq., Captain Pierce Long, Mr. John Smith, Philips White, Esq., Major Samuel Philbrick, and Major Benjamin Barker, be the Committee of this House for the purpose aforesaid. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult together and to make report what business is most necessary to be done at this session ; and at what time and to what time the General Assembly shall be adjourned ; and also to consult in what manner and how the Members of both Houses shall receive their pay; and that Jonathan Lovewell, Esq., John Dudley, Esq., and Captain Prentice, be the Committee of the House for the purposes aforesaid. Which Committee being joined by a Committee of the Council, made report as follows, viz: “The Committee of both Houses agree to report that they think it necessary a vote should pass, directing the Secre- tary that he should make out commissions of the peace for each County, agreeable to the Acts, Votes, and Resolves of the General Assembly; and for the President to sign them. That the several Acts under consideration be finished and passed. And considering the necessity of raising the Ca- nada Regiment, and uncertainty of recruiting officers raising the men, think it absolutely necessary for the Court to set next week. That the Judge of Maritime Affairs be com- missioned without delay. M. 'THornron, Chairman.” Voted, That the wages of the several Members of the honourable Council and of this House be 6s. per day for their attendance during the current year; and that the Secretary and the Clerk of this House receive for their services, as Secretary and Clerk, 6s. per day each, over and above their wages as Members; and that Mr. John Smith receive, for his services in this House as Assistant Clerk, 3s. per day over and above his wages as a Member of this House. An Act for the better regulating Highways, was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. Voted, That the Account of Robert Leight, for Axes, amounting to £2 Qs. be allowed and paid out of the Trea- sury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Account of John Pickering, Esq., for drawing Acts, &c., amounting to £5, be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JUNE, 1776. 76 Voted, That the Account of Richard Champney, amount- ing to 24s. 6d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Samuel Folsom, Esq., have the loan of £300 out of the Treasury, for the term of one year, to enable him to prosecute the building a Powder-Mill in Exeter, he giving bond, with sufficient sureties, to the Treasurer of this Colony for the repayment of said sum at the end of said term, and that the President give order accordingly. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Friday, June 28, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, 'l'o choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board to take into considera- tion the matter of Colonel Bayley’s Letter received this day, and make report thereon as soon as may be; and that Cap- tain Long, John Dudley, Esq., Colonel Morey, and Captain — Moulton, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. An Act to empower sundry Committees to open Sluices on Beaver-Brook, was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. An Act for opening Sluices in each Dam across Piscata- qua River, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. A Petition of Samuel Gutterson, in behalf of the Inhabi- tants of the One-Mile Slip and Duxbury Farm, lying in the County of Hillsborough, praying to be empowered to manage the prudential affairs of their District in a legal way, with good order and safety, being read and considered, Voted, That the prayer thereof be granted, and that the Petitioner ihereof have leave to bring in a Bill accordingly. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult upon the best and most effectual method of supplying this Colony with Firearms, and to make report as soon as may be; and that Colonel Sherburne, Colonel Baker, Dr. Nichols, Cap- tain Prentice, and Colonel Morey, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That the Account of Captain Nathaniel Sartel Prentice, amounting to £7 2s. 4d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of pay- ment. An Act for the more strict observation of the Lord’s Day in this Colony was read a third time, and passed to be en- acted. Voted, That the Treasurer of this Colony receive into the Treasury, in exchange for the Paper Bills of this Colony, any quantity of Copper Coin, made in this Colony, of the weight of five pennyweight and ten grains each, to the amount of any sum not exceeding £1,000, lawful money; three of which Coppers shall be received and paid for two pence, lawful money, in all payments; which Coppers shall have the following device, viz: A pine tree, with the word Ame- rican liberty on one side, and a harp and the figures 1776 on the other side. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. An Act against counterfeiting Bills of Credit, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. An Act to regulate Taxation, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. “The Committee of both Houses agree to report that they advise the raising two hundred men to guard the Western frontiers, and that inlisting orders be delivered to persons to raise four Companies, of fifty men each; which Companies, when raised, to choose a Captain, Lieutenant, and Ensign, to each Company. And that they would advise that the raising the men be attempted on Pemigewasset River and across the middle of the Colony, to be inlisted for five months; Officers and Soldiers to have the same wages as the other Colonial Troops, and 40s. bounty—one month’s wages to be advanced; that Colonel Ashley, Colonel Con- 77 nor, Samuel Emerson, Esq., and Colonel Hurd, be recom- mended to inlist the Companies, muster, pay them, and deliver Commissions to the persons chosen Officers by the Soldiers. And it is further recommended that Colonel Hurd be appointed to give orders to the several Companies, from time to time, about their scouting route, &c. “M, Weare, Chairman.” The following Vote of Council.was brought down from the honourable Board, viz: “In Council, June 28, 1776. “Voted, That General Nathaniel Folsom, Colonel Mat- thew Thornton, and Ebenezer Thompson, Esq., be a Com- mittee, to join a Committee of the honourable House, to report their opinion on the state of Colonel Morey’s Account, and in particular concerning goods and stores in his hands— whether the Colony had best receive them or not, and thereby determine the expediency of his having an order on the Treasury for money.” The above Vote of Council read and concurred, and Captain Prentice, Captain Harriman, Captain Moulton, Captain Simonds, and Colonel Evans, are added on the part of the House. Voted, That the Officers appointed to inlist the Regi- ment now destined for Canada, have liberty to inlist such men, now in the service of this Colony at New-Castle, as see fit to inlist in said Regiment destined for Canada; and that Colonel David Gilman, commander of said Regiment at New- Castle, be forthwith informed of this Vote, and that he, and his Officers under him, have leave to recruit such number of Soldiers as shall so inlist out of said Regiment. Adjourned for ten minutes. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That the several Mustermasters appointed to muster the several Companies destined for Canada, imme- diately repair to their several places of destination, and muster whatever Troops are inlisted by the several Recruiting Offi- cers, and return to this House a Roll of such Soldiers so in- listed, and to what Regiment they respectively belong, on or before Wednesday night next week. Voted, That if any or either of the several Recruiting Officers appointed to inlist the Soldiers destined for Canada, shall represent to any or either of the Mustermasters appointed to muster their respective Companies, and resign their re- spective claim to the command of such Company respec- tively ; and any other respectable man shall raise such Com- pany, and cause them to be mustered by such Mustermaster, that then the said Mustermaster may proceed _to pay off such Soldiers, in the same manner as if inlisted by such Inlisting Officer. , Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. ' Saturday, June 29, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That Mr. Richard Champney be sent express to General Ward, in Boston, and make application to him to replace to this Colony the quantity of Powder furnished and lent to General Washington last year, for the use of the Continental Army; and in failure of that, that he be em- powered to borrow, for this Colony, thirty or forty barrels of Powder, for the present urgent necessity; and if that cannot be obtained, either from General Ward or the Massachusetts Assembly, that he propose an exchange of Saltpetre, as much as can be spared from our present stock, for Powder, on the best terms he can; and also to purchase Powder from any private hands, if to be procured; and that he be directed to inquire for, and purchase a number of Firearms in Massachusetts, if any can be had, and immediately to forward the same to Exeter, as soon as may be. Voted, That Jonathan Hale, Esq., of Haverhill, in this Colony, have and receive out of the ‘Treasury £200, for the purchasing Firearms for the use of the inhabitants of the Towns of Haverhill and Bath, at Cohos, he giving security to the Treasurer to replace the said sum in the Treasury when called for; and that the President give order accord- ingly. Voted, That Jonathan Hale, Esq., of Haverhill, in this Colony, have and receive out of the Colony stores, two barrels of Powder for the use of the inhabitants of Haverhill NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 78 and Bath, to be by him accounted for; and that the Presi- dent give order accordingly. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to take under consider- ation the several Petitions of the Towns of Plymouth, Camp- ton, Thornton, Haverhill and Bath, concerning Arms and Ammunition, and to make report thereon as soon as may be ; and that Captain Caleb Page, Daniel Brainard, Esq., and Captain Harriman, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer upon the expediency of raising or adding to the Bounty of the Non- Commissioned Officers and Soldiers of this Colony for Cane ada, and to report thereon as soon as may be; and that Doctor Dearborn, Captain Moulton, and Colonel Evans, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Which Committee, being joined by a Committee of the Council, reported as their opinion, that an addition of 38s. is necessary on this occasion. Voted, That there be added to the Bounty already given to the Non-Commissioned Officers and Soldiers of this Co- lony destined for Canada, the sum of 38s. each. Vote to give £3 for all good new Firearms, agreeable to a former Vote, for one year from this time. Voted, That Mr. Stephen Seavey have and receive out of the Treasury £10, to be by him accounted for; and that the President give order of payment. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. The Speaker being absent, Voted, That Nathaniel Sartel Prentice be Speaker pro tempore. Voted, 'That Mr. Richard Champney receive out of the Treasury £200, for the purpose of purchasing Firearms and Powder, and to be by him accounted for; and that the Pre- sident give order for payment accordingly. An Act concerning Marriages, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. An Act to regulate Taxation was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. An Act empowering Selectmen, &c., to bind out poor persons, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. The following Vote was sent down from the honourable Board, viz: 1 *« Colony of New-Hampshire, in Council, ; ; ; f ; June 29, 1776. «The Council having taken into consideration the com- plaint of Samuel Penhallow, Esq., that he had, as a Civil Magistrate of this Colony, on a complaint made to him in said capacity, issued a warrant against a soldier in Colonel David Gilman’s Regiment, for a flagrant breach of the peace, applied to said Colonel Gilman for assistance, to bring the offender to justice ; and that said Colonel Gilman had replied that the soldiers under his command were sub- ject to martial law, and were not subject to the Civil Magistrate for any offence, or to that effect : “Voted, That it is the opinion of the Board that the said Colonel David Gilman is ignorant of the laws and received rules and regulations always practised in the English Consti- tution ; and the military power setting up an authority uncon- trollable by the Civil Magistrate, is subversive of the laws, rights, and privileges of Englshmen, and what our present inveterate enemies never attempted ; and that Colonel David Gilman be summoned to appear before the General Assem- bly forthwith, to answer for his conduct.” The above Vote of Council being read and considered, Voted, That the same be concurred. Adjourned to Monday next, at three o’clock, P. M. —_— Monday, July 1, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. An Act for establishing the style of Commissions, and for altering the style of Writs, &c., was read a second time. Voted, That General Nathaniel Folsom be directed to deliver to Colonel Henry Gerrish one hundred pounds weight of Powder out of the Colony stores, and take his 79 receipt for the same, agreeable to the request of George Gaines, Esq., by order from the Committee of Newburyport; and that the President give directions accordingly. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult and examine into the expediency of delivering Powder to the inhabitants of Piermont, Orford, and Alexandria, and in what quantity, and on what condition the same shall be delivered to each of said Towns, and to make report thereon as soon as may be; and that Captain Moulton, Deacon Knowles, and Mr. Wheeler, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. An Act for establishing the style of Commissions, and for altering the style of Writs, &c., was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. Voted, That Captain Prentice, Doctor Dearborn, and Major Philbrick, be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to try and see how cheap they can get two hundred and fifty copies of each of the Acts and Laws passed in this present session, printed, and to get them printed in the cheapest manner they can, as soon as may be, at the charge of this Colony. Adjourned to to-morrow morning, eight o’clock. Tuesday, July 2, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That the Committees of Plymouth, Campton, and Thornton, have and receive out of the Treasury £250, for the purpose of purchasing Firearms, Powder, Lead, and .Flints, for the use of said Towns; they giving security to the Treasurer to repay said sum when required; and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That General Folsom deliver to Captain Bena- min Hickocks two hundred pounds weight of Powder out of the Colony stores, according to the desire of the Committee of Portsmouth, in consequence of an order from the Com- mittee of Newburyport, and that the President give order accordingly. The whole Council and House being resolved into a Com- mittee of both Houses, to confer on the necessary measures to be immediately pursued in the present alarming circum- stances of our Canada affairs, &c.: _ Having met in the Town-House, at Exeter, the Honour- able Meshech Weare, Esgq., in the chair, after conferring upon the said measures ; _ Voted, That the General Court proportion to each Co- lonel or Commanding-Officer of each Regiment in_ this Colony, how many men shall be raised in each Regiment forthwith, to reinforce our Army in Canada; and that the said Colonels and Commanding Officers shall be directed to proportion the said men among the several Companies in their respective Regiments, including the Alarm List; and that the number of men to be raised shall be fifteen hundred, including the seven hundred and fifty men already voted to be raised for that service; and that they remain in the ser- vice till the lst day of December next, and have the same allowance, pay, and bounty, as those heretofore appointed to be raised for Canada. ~ The above Vote being read, Voted, That the same be made a Resolve of this House. Also, Voted, That Captain Long, Mr. Abbot, and Cap- tain Moore, be a Committee of this House, to join a Com- mittee of the honourable Board, to make a proportion of what number of men shall be raised in each Regiment in this Colony for a reinforcement of our Army in Canada. Voted, That there be paid by the Treasurer, for all such good Firearms as shall be manufactured in this Colony, and brought to the Treasurer, agreeable to a former vote of this House, within one year from this time, 10s. each, in addition to the £3 heretofore voted. Voted, To choose a Committee of three of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult and examine into the expediency of delivering Powder to the inhabitants of Walpole, Westmoreland, New-Chester, Rum- ney, Wentworth, Warren, Lyme, and Salisbury, and what quantity and on what condition the same shall be delivered to each of said Towns, and make report thereon as soon as may be; and that Captain Moulton, Deacon Knowles, and Mr. Wheeler, be the Committee of this House for that pur- pose. Adjourned to three o’clock, afternoon. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 80 Met according to adjournment. Voted, That there be delivered to the Towns hereafter named, and to the several Colonels hereafter named, the several quantities of Powder hereafter mentioned, (they being accountable for the same,) viz: To the Town of Wentworth, 9 pounds weight ; to the Town of Warren, 9 pounds weight ; to the Town of Lyme, 30 pounds weight ; to the Town of New- Chester, 30 pounds weight ; to the Town of Rumney, 30 pounds weight ; to the Town of Piermont, thirty pounds weight; to the Town of Orford, 15 pounds weight ; to the Town of Alexandria, 20 pounds weight; to the Town of Salisbury, 25 pounds weight ; to Colonel Benjamin Bellows, for his Regiment, to be divided between them in due pro- portion, 200 pounds weight ; and to Colonel Samuel Ashley, for his Regiment, to be divided between them in due pro- portion, 100 pounds weight ; amounting in the whole to 500 pounds weight, to be accounted for as aforesaid ; and that the President give orders accordingly. Voted, That Major Alewander Craige and Michael Dwyer have and receive out of the Treasury £45, for the purpose of purchasing Firearms, Lead, and F'lints, for the use of the Town of Rumney, in this Colony ; they giving good security to the ‘Treasurer for the repayment of said sum into the Treasury when required ; and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That Captain Jonathan Chandler have and re- ceive out of the ‘Treasury £50, for the purpose of purcha- sing Firearms, Lead, and Flints, for the use of the Town of Piermont, in this Colony, he giving good security to the Treasurer for the repayment of said sum when required, and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That Colonel Israel Morey have and receive out of the Treasury £50, for the purpose of- purchasing Fire- arms, Lead, and F'lints, for the use of the Town of Orford, in this Colony, he giving good security to the Treasurer for the repayment of said sum into the Treasury when required, and that the President give order accordingly. Whereas it is strongly suspected that Major Robert Rogers, and one Samuel Dyer are inimical to the rights and liberties of Americans: Therefore, Voted, That it be, and hereby is, strongly recommended to the several Committees of Safety and of Correspondence in this Colony, or either or any of them, that they take effectual care to seize the bodies of the said Samuel Dyer and Robert Rogers, whenever or wherever found in this Colony, and to secure them, or either of them, under a proper guard; and convey them or either of them to this House, or Committee of Safety of this Colony, as soon as may be, for examination. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Wednesday, July 3, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That the following numbers of men be raised in the several Regiments hereunder mentioned, for the rein- forcement of our Army in Canada, viz: Colonel Whipple’s Regiment, 115; Colonel Evans’s Regiment, 150; Colonel Moulton’s Regiment, 88 ; Colonel Gilman’s Regiment, 163 ; Colonel Ashley’s Regiment, 100; Colonel Bellows’s Regi- ment, 73; late Colonel John Hale’s Regiment, 157 ; Colonel Bartlett’s Regiment, 111; Colonel Thornton’s Regiment, 66; Colonel Enoch Hale’s Regiment, 107; Colonel Weé- ster’s Regiment, 55; Colonel Moore’s Regiment, 126; Colonel Stickney’s Regiment, 116 ; Colonel Badger’s Regi- ment, 73—1,500. And that General Folsom give orders to the several Co- lonels or Commanding Officers of said Regiments accord- ingly. “The Committee on Colonel Morey’s Account agree to report that the goods Colonel Morey has on hand, for which he charges £100, ought to remain as his own property, and the charge against the Colony taken off. And the state of the Account being such that they cannot at present enter into an examination thereof, they would recommend that no money be paid thereon until a proper settlement can be made. M. Tuornton, Chairman.” Which Report being read: Voted, That the same be received and entered as a resolve of this House. 8i Voted, That Captain Nathaniel Sartel Prentice have and receive out of the Treasury the sum of £200, for the pur- ose of purchasing Firearms, Lead, and F'lints, for the use of Colonel Bellows’s Regiment, he giving good security for the repayment of said sum when required ; and that the Pre- sident give order accordingly. Whereas sundry Soldiers have inlisted out of the Regiment under command of Colonel David Gilman, at New- Castle, into the Regiment now going to Canada: It is hereby Voted and Ordered, That the reasonable expenses of such of the Officers in said Gilman’s Regiment as shall recruit Soldiers to fill up said Regiment, shall be paid by the Colony. Voted, To choose a Committee of three Members of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to con- fer together and nominate to this House a number of persons for Field-Officers for the new Regiment now to be raised to reinforce our Army in Canada; and to make report thereon ; and that John McClarey, Esq., Major Barker, Colonel Evans, Deacon Baldwin, Captain Moore, Mr. Rounsival, and Deacon Knowles, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Captain Worthen be appointed Mustermas- ter of the Soldiers inlisted for the Canada reinforcement, now at New-Castle, and that he pay them off their Bounty and one month’s advance wages, and that he return a Roll thereof to this House as soon as may be. Voted, That Abner Fellows and Eliphalet Gale have and receive out of the Treasury £4 6s., for the purpose of pur- chasing Firearms, Lead, and F'lints, for the use of the Towns of New-Chester and Alexandria, they giving good security to the Treasurer for the repayment of said sum into the Treasury, and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That Samuel Curry have and receive out of the Treasury £5, for the purpose of purchasing Firearms, Lead, and Flints, for the use of the inhabitants of New-Holderness, he giving good security for repayment of said sum into the Treasury when required, and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That General Nathaniel Folsom deliver to Sam- uel Curry, for the use of the inhabitants of New-Holder- ‘ness, 25 pounds of Powder, out of the Colony stores, to be by them accounted for, and that the President give order accordingly. Adjourned to three o’clock, P. M. Met according to adjournment. Voted, That Colonel Nicholas Gilman be desired and directed to keep a Guard of two men every night, and one man every day, about the Powder-House in Eveter, in order to secure it from being destroyed, and that he give orders to said Guard daily for their conduct in that affair, until further order of the Court or of the Committee of Safety, and that the charge of said Guards be paid by the Colony. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to receive the Returns of the Mustermasters appointed to muster Troops destined to Canada, and to make report to this House thereon, and from time to time to report when any sufficient number of said Troops are ready to march; and that Captain Harri- man, Captain Moulton, and Captain Prentice, be the Com- * mittee of this House for that purpose. Colonel David Gilman appearing before both Houses to answer the complaint of Samuel Penhallow, Esq., as on file, &c., and being fully heard, and the matter duly considered, it is Voted and Resolved, That the said complaint be dis- missed. Voted, That the extract from Captain Timothy Clements’s Roll, amounting to £51 18s, 1d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of pay- ment. Voted, That the extract from Captain Nathan Brown’s Roll, amounting to £16 7s. 5d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the balance of the Account of Daniel War- ner, Esq., amounting to £26 19s. 53d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Firrn Series.—Vot. I. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 6 82 Voted, That Major Jonathan Childs have and receive out of the Treasury £50, for the purpose of purchasing F'ire- arms, Lead, and F'lints, for the use of the Town of Lyme, he giving good security to the Treasurer for the repayment of the said sum into the Treasury when required, and that the President give order of payment. Voted and Resolved, That there be emitted £20,160, lawful money, upon the credit of this Colony, for the use and service thereof, in Bills of the following denominations, viz: 3,200 bills of six dollars, is - - - - - £5,760 3,200 bills of five dollars, is - - - - - 4,800 3,200 bills of four dollars, is - - - - - 3,840 3,200 bills of three dollars,is - - - - 2,880 3,200 bills of two dollars, is - - - - - 1,920 3,200 bills of one dollar,is - - - - - 960 In the whole, - - - - - £20,160 And that the same be redeemed by a tax on the Polls and Estates of the rateable inhabitants of this Colony, in the following manner, viz: £5,000 by the 26th of January, 1789; £5,000 by the 26th of January, 1790; £5,000 by the 26th of January, 1791; £5,160 by the 26th of Janu- ary, 1792. And that the said bills be of the same form as those emitted by vote of this Assembly of the 26th of Janu- ary last past; and that Dr. Levt Dearborn, together with such Member of the honourable Board as they shall appoint, be a Committee to procure the materials and superintend the press while the said Bills are printing, and to deliver the same to the Treasurer of this Colony, (for the time being,) and take his receipt therefor; all which Bills, after their redemption, shall be burnt to ashes in the presence of the Council and Assembly; and that Phzlips White, Esq., Mr. John Smith, and Mr. Jostah Moulton, the third, or any two of them, be a Committee to sign the said Bills. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Thursday, July 4, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Voted, That the Staff-Roll of Colonel David Gilman, up to the 30th of June, inclusive, amounting to £83 1s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the Presi- dent give order of payment. A Message came down from the honourable Board, by Colonel Thornton and General Folsom, advising that the General be directed to send out orders to the several Colonels and Commanding Officers of each Regiment, to raise, at pre- sent, their several quotas of only seven hundred and fifty men for the Canada expedition, instead of the fifteen hundred men voted to be raised for that expedition ; which Message being considered, Voted, That this House adhere to the same. And, in about half an hour afterwards, a new requisition for more men being laid before the House, Voted, That the last mentioned vote of adherence to the said advice of Council be, and hereby is, reconsidered and made null and void. Voted, To choose a Committee to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer upon the expediency of choosing a large Committee of this House, to be joined toa Committee of the honourable Board, as a Committee of Safety, to transact the business of both Houses in the recess of the Court, and to consult what time the General Assem- bly shall be adjourned from, and also to what time, and make report as soon as may be; and that Ichabod Rollins, Esq., Colonel Walker, John McClary, Esq., Mr. Abbot, and Deacon Baldwin, be the Committee of this House for the purpose aforesaid. The Committee of both Houses appointed to confer about choosing a Committee and an adjournment, beg leave to report their opinion, as follows, viz: ‘That the Committee of Safety consist of twelve persons; and that the General Assembly be adjourned this week, as soon as the publick busi- ness will permit, to the first Wednesday in September next. M. Txornton, Chairman. Voted, That Captain Pierce Long be appointed to pro- vide all necessaries for equipping and fixing off the reinforce- ments for the Canada expedition. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain John Calfe, 83 amounting to £325 9s. 10d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Caleb Hodgdon, amounting to £329 12s. 3d., be allowed. Voted, That Major Moses Kelley, Lieutenant-Colonel of the Ninth Regiment of Militia in this Colony, be Colonel, in the room of Colonel David Gilman, (who is advanced,) and that Major Samuel Page be First Major, and Captain James Head be the Second Major, of said Regiment. Voted, That three hundred Handbills be immediately print- ed and distributed in this Colony, in the following words, viz: “Colony of New-Hampsuire to the Selectmen and Commit- tees of Safety and of Correspondence, and to all Officers, civil and military, in the several Towns in this Colony: “You, and each of you, are now called upon, in behalf of yourselves and your distressed country, to exert every nerve in forwarding the inlisting and making up the quotas of men in the respective places you belong to, that they may march forward and join their brethren under General Sullivan, and enable him to repel the Army coming against us from Canada.” Voted, That eight Mustermasters be appointed for the eight Companies of Militia last voted to be raised for the reinforcement of our Army in Canada, viz: one for each of said Companies, who shall be empowered to muster the said respective Companies, pay them off, and see them fixed for marching, and give them marching orders; and also, that they receive blank commissions for the Captains and sub- altern officers of their respective Companies; and when said officers shall be chosen by the soldiers, then to fill up said commissions and deliver them to the said respective officers, that they may march immediately; and that the said Mus- termasters have power to preside at the meeting of the sol- diers, to see a fair choice of the respective officers; and that Major Bartlett, Colonel Samuel Sherburne, Mr. John Bell, Major Samuel Philbrick, Colonel Moses Kelley, Deacon James Knowles, Mr. Asa Davis, and Colonel Samuel Ashley, be the Mustermasters of the said Companies. Voted, That the Honourable Colonel Weare and Doctor Dearborn have and receive out of the Treasury £20, for the purpose of purchasing Paper, &c., for printing the Bills of Credit, and the Laws of this Colony, to be by them ac- counted for; and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That Colonel Joshua Wingate be appointed First Colonel of the Second Regiment now raising in this Colony for a reinforcement to our Army in Canada, and that Major James Hackett be Lieutenant-Colonel, and that Lieutenant- Colonel Samuel Connor be Major of said Regiment. Voted, 'To choose a Committee, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer upon the expediency of appointing a Paymaster or Paymasters to the two Regi- ments now destined for Canada, and to make report as soon as may be; and that Captain Long, John Dudley, Esq., and Colonel Walker, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Which Committee, being joined by a Committee of the Council, made the following Report, viz: “The Committee of both Houses, appointed to consult on the expediency of appointing Paymasters for the two Battalions to be raised to join the Northern Army, are of opinion that they ought to be immediately appointed. “July 4, 1776.” “M. Tuornron, Chairman. Voted, That Captain Joseph Chandler have inlisting orders to inlist a Company of Soldiers for the Canada expe- dition, in the room of Captain Hadlock, who resigns. Voted, That the several Mustermasters and Paymasters of the several Companies of the last Regiment destined for Canada have and receive out of the Treasury £940 each, for the purpose of paying off the several Companies their bounty and advance wages, and to be by them severally accounted for; and that the Mustermasters and Paymasters of the First Regiment destined for Canada, and now raising for that purpose, have and receive out of the Treasury £171 each, for the purpose of paying off the additional bounty voted to the Non-Commissioned Officers and Soldiers of the said First Regiment; and that the President give orders accordingly. Adjourned till to-morrow morning, eight o’clock. NEW-HAMPSHIRE. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 84 : Friday, July 5, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. Upon the information of the Committee of Safety of Stratham against Captain George March, as a person being inimical to the liberties of this country, &c., Voted, To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to examine into the matter of their complaint and information, and to report thereon as soon as may be; and that Captain Prentice, Captain Harriman, and Matthew Patten, Esq., Mr. Samuel Moore, and Doctor Nichols, be the Committee for that pur- pose. Which Committee, being joined by a Committee of the honourable Council, made report, that upon questioning said George March, and after reading sundry testimonies, they are of opinion that said March is inimical to his coun- try, and that he ought to be taken care of in such manner as the said Houses shall judge proper. M. 'THornton, Chairman. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to give out inlisting orders. blank commissions, and instructions, to the Muster- masters and Paymasters of the two Regiments now destined for Canada ; and that Colonel Evans, Captain Long, and Mr. Gibson, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Major Joseph Bass, of Portsmouth, be ap- pointed Paymaster to the Second Regiment, now to be raised in this Colony, and destined for Canada, he giving bond in a respectable sum, with sufficient sureties, for the faithful discharge of his said trust. Voted, That Noah Emery, Jun., of Exeter, be appoint- ed Paymaster to the First Regiment, now to be raised in this Colony, destined for Canada, he to give bond, with two sufficient sureties, in a respectable sum, for the faithful dis- charge of his said trust. Voted, 'To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to nominate a proper person for a Maritime Officer, and also a proper person or persons for a Notary Publick or Notaries Publick, for this Colony; and that Mr. Cutts, Colonel Walker, and John Dudley, Esq., be the Committee of this House for that pur- pose. An Act for establishing Courts of Law for the adminis- tration of justice within this Colony, was read a third time, and passed to be enacted. Voted and Resolved, That the several Courts of Law within this Colony be, and hereby are, prohibited from trying any civil actions until the next Session of this Assembly ; and that they proceed as usual to hear and try all capital crimes, misdemeanors, trovers, trespasses, assaults, batteries, robberies, thefts, and other breaches of the peace, committed within their respective jurisdictions; and that the fees to be taken or taxed in the several Courts shall be taken accord- ing to the last Table of Fees established in this Colony, until the last of the next session of this Assembly, or until other- wise ordered by the General Assembly, and no longer. Voted, That the Constable of Exeter be directed to seize the body of George March, and safely keep him till called for by this House, to be examined and tried on suspicion of his being inimical to the liberties of this Colony; and that the Clerk make out a warrant accordingly, and send out summons for witnesses by Major Barker. Voted, 'To choose a Committee, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to consult and nominate a proper person, or proper persons, out of whom this House shall appoint one, to be a Justice of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas in the County of Rockingham, in the room and stead of George King, Esq., who refused to accept that office ; and also to nominate some proper person to be a Special Justice of said Court, in case of the death or incapacity of either of the standing Justices, and to make report as soon as may be; and that Major Downing, Captain Long, and Captain Worthen, be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Eleazer Russell, Esq., of Portsmouth, be appointed Maritime Officer of the Port of Piscataqua ; and that the Honourable Wyseman Clagett, Esq., and John Pickering, Esq., be appointed Notaries Publick and Tabel- lions for this Colony. . 85 Voted; That Samuel Penhallow, Esq., of Portsmouth, be appointed a Justice of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas for the County of Rockingham, in the room and stead of George King, Esq., who refuses to accept that office. Voted, That William Knight, Esq., be appointed a Special Justice of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas for the County of Rockingham, in case of the death or inca- pacity of either of the standing Justices. Adjourned to three o’clock, afternoon. Met according to adjournment. Voted, To choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to nominate fifteen persons of the Council and of this House, to be a Com- mittee of Safety for this Colony, to transact the business of both Houses in the recess of the General Court; and that Colonel Walker, Colonel Baker, Captain Prentice, Mr. Brainard, Mr. Bell, and John Mc Clary, Esq., be the Com- mittee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That Simeon Dearborn, Esq., and Mr. Nathaniel Balch, have and receive out of the Colony stock, thirty ounds of Powder, for the use of the inhabitants of the Tain of Wakefield, to be by them accounted for, and that the President give order accordingly. Voted, That Samuel Jones, of Canaan, and Elisha Bingham, of Enfield, receive out of the Colony stock seventy - five pounds of Powder, for the use of the inhabitants of the said Towns of Canaan and Enfield, and to be by them accounted for; and that the President give order accord- ingly. Voted, That Samuel Jones, of Canaan, and Elisha Bingham, of Enfield, have and receive out of the Treasury £5, for the purpose of purchasing Lead and F'lints for the use of the inhabitants of said Towns, they giving good security to the Treasurer for the repayment of said sum when requested ; and that the President give order accord- ingly. The Council and House, taking into consideration the accusations laid against Captain George March, of Strat- ham, as being inimical to the liberties of this country, and a full hearing being had thereon before both Houses, and sundry witnesses being sworn and examined, it appears to this Court that the said George March has uttered many things against the liberties and privileges of this country: It is therefore Voted and Resolved, That the said George March confine himself to the limits of the farm which he now improves in Stratham, on pain of imprisonment, and that he recognise to the Government and People of the Colony of New-Hampshire, in the sum of £100, with two sureties in £50 each, for his good behaviour, until further order of this Court, and that, in the mean time, he be dis- armed by the Committee of Safety of Stratham. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Nathan Brown, up to July 1st, 1776, amounting to £267 4s. 7d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the Presi- dent give order of payment. Voted, That the Pay-Roll of Captain Timothy Clement, up to July Ist, 1776, amounting to £238 15s., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That the Honourable Meshech Weare, Esq., Matthew Thornton, Nathaniel Folsom, Ebenezer Thompson, and Wyseman Clagett, Esquires, of the Council, and the Honourable Philips White, Esq., John Dudley, Timothy Walker, Matthew Patten, Otis Baker, Josiah Moulton, Benjamin Parker, Nathaniel Sartel Prentice, and Pierce Long, Esquires, of this House, be a Committee of Safety for this Colony, to transact all the business of both Houses in the recess of the General Court ; with all the power and authority that any Committee of Safety of this Colony, before chosen or appointed, have had and exercised, and to appoint and commission officers, in case of the death or refusal of those that are already appointed; and on any - emergency, to call the Council and House together, as occasion may require; and that any eight of said Committee be a quorum to do business. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 86 Saturday, July 6, 1776. The House met according to adjournment. An Act for forming and regulating the Militia was read a third time, and passed to be enacted; also, the Articles of War, &c. The Bill of Fees for the Court Maritime* was read a third time and passed. Voted, 'That the Committee of Safety have and receive out of the Treasury 6s. per day each, for the time they sit in Committee, and also pay for their travel as the Members of the General Assembly are paid. Voted, That Nicholas Gilman, Esq., Treasurer of this Colony, be desired to borrow, on the credit of this Colony, £5,000, lawful money, for the supply of the Treasury. Voted, That Deacon Isaac Williams have and receive out of the Treasury 20s., for the use of his room this ses- sion for Committees, &c., and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Colonel Jonathan Chase receive out of the Colony stock three barrels of Powder, for the use of his Regi- ment and the Frontiers adjacent, and that the President give orders accordingly. Voted, To choose a Committee of five Members of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to confer together upon the choice of Lieutenant-Colonel Con- nor and Captain Baker, as Field-Officers of Colonel Win- gate’s Regiment, and to make report as soon as may be; and that Major Tash, Colonel Evans, Major Kelley, Icha- bod Rollins, Esq., and Captain Harriman, be the Commit- tee of this House for that purpose. Voted, That the Account of Joshua Wiggin, Doorkeeper and Bellringer for the House, amounting to £4 18s., be allowed, and paid out of the Treasury, and that the Presi- dent give order of payment. Voted, 'To raise four Companies of Rangers, of fifty men in a Company, three commissioned officers included, to range on the frontiers of this Colony, to guard the said frontiers against the incursions of the enemy, and to be paid the same wages the Colony Troops had last year, and also * Cotony or New-HampsuHire, In the House of Representatives, July 6, 1776. Resolved, That the within Bill of Fees for the Court Maritime in this Colony, and for the several officers of said Court, be a rule for the said officers as to taking their fees in all cases maritime in said Court, until further order of the General Assembly. Sent up for concurrence. In Council, eodem die, read and concurred. E. Tuompson, Secretary. P. Waite, Speaker. Court Maritime Fees. s. d. To the Attorney or Advocate-General for drawing a libel...... 6 0 To the Judge for allowing the same...-..eesseceeeee Stolele:c cialers 3 0 To the Register for filing .........-. os erccce stoke olen set ecyl sraiea 2 0 For a citation for appearance, seal and service, viz: 2s. to the Judge, 2s. to the Register, and to the Marshal, 3s........... ia20 For a summons for witnesses, and seal, viz: to the Judge, Is., and to the Register, 1s.......... bee nvisceveccemness scouts 2 0 For filing papers and taxing costs, viz: to the Judge, 1s., and to the Register, Is.c...2 20.0 fal archelelacteteleaicie esi etelaieleetc sniStsasc. a} AY For an interlocutory decree, and recording, viz: to the Judge, 4s., to the Register, ls., and to the Marshal, 3s...........0202+65 8 O To the Crier, 1s., and to the Register for enactment, Is....... - 2 6 For a decree definitive, and recording, viz: to the Judge, 10s., tothe Registers Gs.visre is e009 sie's asidisiec wisiew esse td de coecees 16: 0 To the Marshal for witness summoned within a mile, 6d.; if above, 3d. per Mile... ..cesscccscsces Seve sipeewe bl cvntide & - O 6 To the Marshal for bail-bond paid by the person bailed....... 0 9 For levying execution, the same as Sheriff; and for travel, as in Sheriff’s fees. For executing a warrant for debtors deserted, &c., On board a ship at wharf...cccccocccrcccccrcccorsscces 4 At New-Castle, or up the river above Portsmouth........ 8 For taking a vessel into custody, upon an arrest for wages..... 6 For taking every evidence in Court, and summoning, viz: to the Judge, 6d., to the Register, 6d., and to the Marshal, 6d...... For the Advocate’s fees. ....0..2cces eee breve vcrcenccroeces To the Register for copy of a libel......... selene To copy of information........ Pe aerenseescsacene ees aees eee To copy of defence..........4. © 00s ele eave cee ee so caee eeccece For a retraxit, viz: to the Judge, 4s., to the Register, 1s. 6d., Marshal, 1s., Doorkeeper, Gd... cccoccccccssscccessocwene 17 For a warrant of appraisement or inventory for debtors or deserters, viz: to the Judge, 2s., to the Register, 4s.......... 6 For sailors’ wages, 1s. to each man to the Register for adjusting their accounts..... Sele ciaia belie © Bicale\bie 6e0m e,/6.c5 s/ale cansenee 1 To the Register for entering a motion of ae a sistema sites st 4 To the Judge for allowing or disallowing the same. . 8 For copies of every case, as the Clerk of the Supreme Court. To the Register for every adjournment. ..secccsccssccscessee O 1 0 eee tresses To the Marshal for summoning appraisers, each Is........... To the Doorkeeper and bell......... To jurors, and officers who summon them, same ourt. Pom 2F0° fF FF ONOSSOR occSo Supreme 87 a blanket to each non-commissioned officer and soldier, and to remain in the said service till the first day of December next, unless sooner discharged; and that the several Com- panies be raised in the several Regiments of Colonel Morey, Colonel Hobart, and Colonel Chace, and that they receive their orders, directions, and commissions, from the Commit- tee of Safety, in the recess of this Court. Voted, That Captain Prentice, Colonel Evans, John Dudley, Esq., Matthew Patten, Esq., Ichabod Rollins, Esq., Captain Moulton, Major Tash, Colonel Sherburne, and Daniel Brainard, Esq., be a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of the honourable Board, to nominate to this House sundry proper persons for Lieutenant-Colonel and Major of Colonel Wingate’s Regiment, destined for Canada, and to make report as soon as may be; and also to nominate to this House proper persons for Field-Officers for Continental Battalions to be destined to New- Castle and Piscataqua Harbour. Voted, That the Account of Richard Champney, amount- ing to £22 6s. 2d., be allowed and paid out of the Treasury, and that the President give order of payment. Voted, That Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Connor be ap- pointed the Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment destined for Canada under the command of Colonel Wingate, and that Captain Moses Baker be appointed the Major of the said Regiment. Adjourned for one hour, and then met. Voted, That any person who shall manufacture in this Colony good Sulphur, and bring in the same to Dr. Josiah Gilman, at Exeter, within six months next ensuing, shall receive out of the Treasury at and after the rate of $10 for every hundred weight, upon certificate of the said Dr. Josiah Gilman that he has received the same of such person for the use of this Colony, such person being under oath that the same was manufactured in this Colony; and that any per- son who shall manufacture in this Colony good Bar-Lead within six months next ensuing, and deliver the same to Nicholas Gilman, Esq., Receiver-General, (who is to put such person on oath that the same was manufactured in this Colony,) shall be entitled to £6 per hundred weight therefor out of the Treasury. Voted, 'That the Committee of Safety be directed to remonstrate to the Continental Congress against allowing any person or persons extravagant commissions for transact- ing the publick business in this distressing day. Voted, 'That the Members of the honourable Council and of this House be paid out of the Treasury 6s. per day each for each day’s attendance in this Session, and 2d. per mile travel to and from their respective homes, and that the con- sideration of the method how the same shall be replaced in the Treasury be postponed to a future day, and that the Secretary and the Clerk of the House make out the Pay- Rolls accordingly. The House adjourned to the first Wednesday in September next, at three of the clock, afternoon, then to meet at the Court-House in Exeter. ACTS PASSED BY THE ASSEMBLY OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE. An Act for establishing the style of Commissions, which shall hereafter be rssued, and for altering the style of Writs, Processes, and all Law Proceedings within this Colony; and for directing how Recognisances to the use of this Colony shall in future be taken and prosecuted. Whereas the hostile and vindictive proceedings of the British Administration against the United Colonies have obtained the sanction of the King of Great Britain, not- withstanding the frequent and dutiful Remonstrances of these Colonies against such cruel measures; and by his command a powerful Navy and Army are come and coming, with avowed purposes of spreading slaughter and desolation through this Continent, by which the good people of this Colony have been necessitated to have recourse to arms to repel such force, and to protect their lives and fortunes: And whereas, under such circumstances, the absurdity of issuing Commis- sions, Writs, Processes, or other proceedings in law and in Courts of Justice within this Colony, in the name and style of the King of Great Britain, is very apparent, and tends to keep up ideas inconsistent with the form and safety of NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 88 this Government, and to give the people of this Colony great uneasiness: Be it therefore enacted by the Council and House of Re- presentatives in General Court assembled, and by the autho- rity of the same, That all Civil Commissions, Writs, and Precepts, for convening the General Court or Assembly, which hereafter shall be made out in this Colony, shall be in the style and name of the Government and People of the Colony of New-Hampshire ; and all Commissions, both civil and military, shall be dated in the year of the Christian era, and shall not bear the date of the year of the reign of any King or Queen of Great Britain. And that all Writs, Processes, and Proceedings in Law, and in any of the Courts of Justice in this Colony, which have been used or accustomed, or by any laws of this Co- lony, are required to be issued, used, or practised in law, and in any of the Courts of Justice in this Colony, in the name and style of the King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c., or in any other words implying or intending the same, shall, from and after the passing this Act, be made, issued, used, and practised in the name and style of the Government and People of the Colony of New-Hampshire, and no other, and shall bear the date of the year of the Christian era, and shall not bear the date of the year of the reign of any King or Queen of Great Bri- tain, until some accommodation of the American Congress, or Act, Order, or Resolve, of a General American Legisla- ture, or of the Legislature of this Colony, shall be made and passed, otherwise directing and prescribing. And be tt enacted, That all Commissions, civil and mili- tary, which have been issued by the Congress or General Assembly of this Colony before the passing of this act, shall have the same force and effect as if this act had never been made, the style and date therein notwithstanding. And be it further enacted, That all Recognisances that heretofore have been used and accustomed to be taken to the King of Great Britain, by the style and title of our sovereign Lord the King, shall, from and after the date hereof, be taken to the Government and people of the Co- lony of New-Hampshire ; and when scire facias, or other legal process, shall be issued thereon against the recognisor or recognisors, they shall be in the name and behalf of the said Government and people; and when judgment shall be rendered thereon, the money recovered and levied, shall be paid into the ‘Treasury of this Colony for the use of the same. And be it further enacted, That all suits upon Recogni- sances which have been taken heretofore, within this Colony, to the King of Great Britain, or otherwise, under any name, character, or form of words whatsoever, that have been, or that may be hereafter forfeited, (if any suits should be brought thereon,) shall, from and after the passing of this Act, be commenced and prosecuted in the name and behalf of the Government and people of the Colony of New-Hampshire, and not in the name of the said King; and the money re- covered and levied on such suits, shall be likewise paid into the Treasury of this Colony, for the use and benefit of the said people. An Act to prevent the forging and altering Bills of Pub- lick Credit, and for preventing the depreciation thereof ; and for making the Bills of Credit of the United Colo- nies, and the Bills of this Colony, a tender in all pay- ments. Whereas, by reason of the unjustifiable attacks committed against the United Colonies of America by the Troops of Great Britain, and the difficulty of collecting Money, Plate, and Bullion, to support the charges of their necessary de- fence, the Congress of said Colonies have thought fit, for the carrying on the publick affairs, and answering the present demands of soldiers and seamen employed by them, to order the imprinting and signing a certain number of Bills of Pub- lick Credit of several sums, by Commissioners thereunto duly appointed and authorized: And whereas the Congress and General Assembly of this Colony have also, for the payment of seamen and soldiers employed in defence of the same, ordered that a certain number of Notes and Bills of Credit of several sums should be imprinted, and signed by Com- missioners thereunto duly authorized and appointed: And whereas several of the United Colonies have, by their Gov- 89 ernments, severally ordered the imprinting and signing a certain number of Bills of Publick Credit, for answering the demands of soldiers and seamen by them severally employed for their necessary defence; all which Bills have obtained a good currency, and have very much facilitated the carrying on the present war: nevertheless, some wicked persons, intending to defraud the inhabitants of the Colonies afore- said, and for the sake of base and unlawful gain, have forged, altered, and uttered several Counterfeit Notes and Bills of the same, in imitation of the true Notes and Bills of this Colony, thereby imposing a vile cheat on unwary and less discerning persons: For the prevention of which evils in future, Be it enacted by the Council and House of Representa- tives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, That whosoever shall presume to forge or coun- terfeit any Note or Notes, Bill or Bills, of the tenor, or in imitation of the Bills of Credit of the United Colonies, estab- lished by any resolve of the American Congress, or the Convention, Congress, or Government of this, or any of the United Colonies of America, heretofore emitted, or that may hereafter be emitted, or that shall utter any such counterfeit and forged Notes or Bills, knowing them to be such, or that shall counsel, advise, assist in, or procure the forging, coun- terfeiting, imprinting, or signing of any such false Notes or Bills, or engrave any plate, or make any instrument to be used in forging and counterfeiting such Notes or Bills, every person so offending, and being thereof convicted before the Superior Court of Judicature, Court of Assize, and General Jail Delivery for said Colony, shall be punished by being set on the gallows for the space of one hour, with a rope round the neck, and pay a fine for the use of this Colony not exceeding fifty pounds, and suffer six months imprison- ment, and be publickly whipped, not exceeding thirty-nine stripes, and be incapable of holding any office under the Government of this Colony, or shall suffer all or any of the foregoing punishments in the discretion of the Court before whom the trial shall be, according to the nature and circum- stances of the offence, and shall pay to the person or persons that shall be defrauded by such forgery, treble damages. And if such offender or offenders shall not be able to pay the charges of his or their imprisonment, the Court before whom the conviction is, shall order that, at the expiration of said term of imprisonment, such person or persons shall be sold in service a time sufficient to pay the same. And it is also enacted by the authority aforesaid, That whosoever shall make discovery and give information of such vile and wicked practice of making or knowingly putting off any false and counterfeit Note or Bill, as aforesaid, so that the person or persons guilty thereof may be rendered to justice and convicted, every such informer shall have and receive, as a reward for his good services, on every such conviction, the sum of ten pounds, to be ordered out of the publick Treasury of this Colony by the President of the Council for the time being, on a certificate from the Court before whom the conviction shall be, that such person did inform of such offence according to this act. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That every person convicted of altering or increasing the sum or figures set and expressed in the Notes or Bills of Credit of the said United Colonies, or either of them, or of forging or counterfeiting any hand, name, or stamps, or other private mark, that shall be or has been made, or set thereon, shall be, for either of said offences, punished in the same manner as is provided by this act against those who shall forge or counterfeit such Notes or Bills. __ And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That if any person or persons shall, directly or indirectly, receive or pay any of the Bills aforesaid for a less sum than is in them expressed, such person shall be incapable ever after of holding any civil or military office in this Colony; and for every such offence pay a fine of fifty pounds, to be recovered before any court of record in the County where the same offence may be committed, by bill, plaint, or indictment ; one moiety whereof shall be to the use of the person who shall sue or inform for the same, and the other moiety to the use of this Colony. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That if any person or persons shall set, or offer his, her, or their goods, wares, or merchandise, at a smaller or less price in gold or silver than what they are by him, her, or them, set at in the paper currency of the United Colonies, or either NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 90 of them, he, she, or they, shall pay a fine of fifty pounds ; one moiety thereof to the use of the person who shall sue for and recover the same, and the other moiety to the use of the town where the offence is committed. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That the Bills of Credit of the United Colonies that are or shall be established by the American Congress, and the Bills of this Government, that are or shall be emitted, shall be received in all payments within this Colony, and a tender of the same may be pleaded in bar to any action brought for the recovery of any money, or species of money, due by deed or simple contract, or in any way and manner whatever. And all Justices, Sheriffs, Grand Jurors, and Tithingmen, are hereby strictly commanded to bring to justice all persons offending against this act, or any part of it. An Act to abolish the Court of Appeals in this Colony, and to empower the Superior Court of Judicature to sustain and determine all matters pending in said Court of Ap- peals, and to prevent the absurd practice of granting appeals to the King of Great Briratn in Council from judgments of any Courts in this Colony in future. Whereas the granting such a multiplicity of appeals from Court to Court and trials consequent thereupon as hath been heretofore practised within this Colony hath been found to promote litigation, protract suits, and increase the charges thereof, rather than to serve the ends of justice in this Colo- ny: And whereas the allowance of appeals in any cases to said Court of Appeals or to the King of Great Britain is depriving the people of this Colony of their great, inestima- ble, and inherent right of trial by jury, and opening a door for arbitrary decisions of their property, even in the causes of the greatest moment: Therefore, Be it enacted by the Council and House of Representa- tives for said Colony, in General Court assembled, ‘That the said Court of Appeals heretofore held in this Colony shall be, and hereby is, totally abolished, and that no appeal heretofore granted by the laws of this Colony to the said Court of Appeals or to the King of Great Britain in Coun- cil from the judgment or sentence of any Court whatever in this Colony shall be granted ; and that all appeals from any sentence of any Judge of Probate for any County in this Colony, which heretofore might by the laws thereof be granted to said Court of Appeals, shall for the future be granted only to the Superior Court of Judicature next to be holden for the same County wherein the same appeal may be granted, which said Superior Court shall hear and finally determine all causes and matters as may be brought before them by appeals from any Court of Probate within this Colohy. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That all appeals heretofore granted to, and matters now pending in, said Court of Appeals, may and shall be sus- tained, heard, and determined by the said Superior Court in the County where the action or appeal originated. All causes and matters now pending before said Court of Ap- peals by appeals from the Superior Court heretofore held in this Colony, may be brought before the Superior Court of Judicature established in this Colony, by writ of review, any time within three years from the passing of this act; and all causes or matters now pending in said Court of Ap- peals by appeal from any Court of Probate in this Colony may, and shall be, brought before the last-mentioned Supe- rior Court, by entering the appeal there any time within two years, in the same manner as if it had been first granted to that Court. An Act for encouraging the fixing out of Armed Vessels to defend the sea-coast of America, and to cruise on the enemies of the United Colonies, as also for erecting a Court to try and condemn all Ships and other Vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and all goods, wares, and merchandises belonging to any inhabitant or inhabi- tants of Great Brrrain taken on the high seas. Whereas it has been expressly resolved by the Grand Congress of America, «That each Colony, at their own expense, make such provision by armed vessels, or other- wise, as their respective Assemblies, Conventions, or Com- mittees of Safety shall judge expedient and suitable to their circumstances and situations, for the protection of their har- 91 bours and navigation on the sea-coast against all unlawful invasions, attacks, and depredations, from cutters and ships of war;”’ and also that it should be lawful for the inhabi- tants of the United Colonies to fit out armed vessels to cruise on the enemies thereof, and that all ships and other vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and all goods, wares, and merchandise, belonging to any inhabitant or inhabitants of Great Britain, taken on the high seas, or between high- water and low-water mark, should be deemed and adjudged a lawful prize, (excepting such vessels as may be taken in bringing any settlers, arms, ammunition, or warlike stores, to and for the use of the United Colonies, or any of the inhabi- tants thereof who are friends to the American cause, and warlike stores and effects of such settlers:) Therefore, for the more effectually carrying into execution the purposes aforesaid, Be it enacted by the Council and House of Representa- tives, in General Court assembled, That all armed and other vessels that have at any time since the nineteenth day of April, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-five, been engaged in making unlawful invasions, attacks, or depreda- tions, on the sea-coasts of America or the navigation thereof, or used in supplying the fleet or army which have been, or shall at any time be, employed against the United Colo- nies, or employed by the enemy in any respect whatsoever ; and those vessels which have been carrying supplies of any kind to the enemy, or whose masters or supercargoes shall have designs of carrying supplies of any kind to the enemy, or that shall be returning from the enemy after having car- ried such supplies, and shall be found hereafter on the high seas, and shall be brought into the harbour of Piscataqua, or any other place within this Colony, or found within the same, and be convicted of any of the offences aforesaid, such vessel or vessels, with their appurtenances and cargoes, shall be deemed forfeited, and shall be condemned and disposed of as by this act is hereafter ordered and directed. And in pursuance of a resolve of the American Congress: Be it further enacted, That all ships and other vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and all goods, wares, and merchandises, belonging to any inhabitant or inhabi- tants of Great Britain, taken on the high seas, or between high-water and low-water mark, and being brought into, or lying within, the Colony aforesaid, since the date aforesaid, shall be deemed and adjudged lawful prize ; and the Judge of the Court Maritime, hereafter mentioned, shall be, and is hereby, empowered to proceed upon, try, adjudge, and con- demn, all such vessels, with their cargoes and appurtenances, and all such British merchandises and property as shall be taken as aforesaid. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That the Council of this Colony, or the major part of them, shall be fully empowered to commission with letters of marque and reprisal any person or persons within this Co- lony, who shall, at his, or their own, or at the Colony’s expense, fit out and equip for the defence of America, any vessel, as also any person who shall, by the owner of such vessel, be recommended therefor ; and that all such persons, so commissioned as aforesaid, shall have full power, with such other persons as they shall engage to their assistance, to sail on the seas, attack, take, and bring into port in this Colony, all vessels offending or employed by, or being the property of, the enemy, as aforesaid; and also to retake and bring in as aforesaid any vessel or vessels that may be taken from any person or persons by said enemy. Provided always, and be it further enacted, That the master or owner of such vessel shall, at the time he receives such commission, enter into bond, with one sufficient surety at least, for the faithful discharge of his office, and observing the law of this Colony relating to armed vessels ; which bond shall be in the form following, viz: ‘“‘ Know all men by these presents, that we, A B and C D, are holden, and stand firmly bound and obliged, unto E F,, Treasurer and Receiver-General of the Colony aforesaid, in the full and just sum of £5,000, to be paid unto the said Treasurer and Receiver-General, or to his successor in said office. ‘To the true payment whereof, we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, and administrators, jointly and severally, firmly by these presents. “Sealed with oursealsthe day of ,A.D.,17 .” The condition of the aforewritten obligation is such, that whereas the said A B hath, on the day of the date hereof, NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 92 received a commission to command an armed vessel called , burden about tons, to make reprisal of all armed and other vessels, which shall be found infesting the sea-coast, or upon the high seas, or between high and low- water mark; such vessels being the property of, or belong- ing to, any inhabitant or inhabitants of Great Britain, (excepting such vessels as may be taken in bringing any settlers, arms, ammunition, or warlike stores, to and for the use of the United Colonies, or any of the inhabitants thereof, who are friends to the American cause, and warlike stores and effect of such settlers:) If, therefore, the said A. B. shall in and by all things well and truly observe and fulfil such instructions as he shall receive from the Council of this Colony, and shall, in all things and respects, conform him- self to the directions given in and by an act entitled “An Act for encouraging the fixing out of armed vessels to de- fend the sea-coast of America, and to cruise on the enemies of the United Colonies ; as also for erecting a court to try and condemn all ships or other vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and all goods, wares, and merchandises, belonging to the inhabitants of Great Britain, taken on the high seas,’—then the above-written obligation to be void; other- wise to remain in full force. And be it further enacted, 'That there shall be erected and constantly held in the town of Portsmouth, or some town or place adjacent, in the County of Rockingham, a Court of Justice, by the name of the Court Maritime, by such able and discreet person as shall be appointed and commissioned by the Council and Assembly for that pur- pose, whose business it shall be to take cognizance and try the justice of any capture or captures of any vessel or vessels that have been, may, or shall be, taken by any per- son or persons whomsoever, and brought into this Colony, or any the captures that have or shall be taken and brought thereinto. And be it further enacted, That any person or persons who have been or shall be concerned in the taking and bringing into this Colony any vessel or vessels employed or offending, or being the property as aforesaid, shall jointly, or either of them, by themselves, or by their attorneys or agents, within twenty days after being possessed of the same in this Colony, file before the said Judge a libel in writing, therein giving a full and ample account of the time, manner, and cause of the taking such vessel or vessels. But in case of any such vessel or vessels already brought in as aforesaid, then such libel shall be filed within twenty days next after the passing this act, and at the time of filing such libel, shall also be filed all papers on board such vessel or vessels, to the intent that the jury may have the benefit . of the evidence therefrom arising. And the Judge shall, as soon as may be, appoint a day to try by a jury the justice of the capture of such vessel or vessels, with their appur- tenances and cargoes; and he is hereby authorized and empowered to try the same. And the same Judge shall cause a notification thereof, and the name, if known, and description of the vessel so brought in, with the day set for the trial thereon, to be advertised in some newspaper printed in the said Colony, if any such paper there be, twenty days before the time of the trial ; and for want of such paper, then to cause the same notification to be affixed on the doors of the Town-House, in said Portsmouth, to the intent that the owner of such vessel, or any persons concerned, may appear, and show cause, if any they have, why such vessel, with her cargo and appurtenances, should not be condemned as aforesaid. And the said Judge shall, seven days before the day set and appointed for the trial of such vessel or vessels, issue his warrant to any Constable or Constables within the County aforesaid, commanding them, or either of them, to assemble the inhabitants of their towns respectively, and to draw out of the box, in manner provided for drawing jurors to serve at the Superior Court of Judicature, so many good and lawful men as the said Judge shall order—not less than twelve, nor exceeding twenty-four ; and the Constable or Constables shall, as soon as may be, give any person or persons so drawn to serve on the jury in said Court due notice thereof, and shall make due return of his doings therein to the said Judge at or before the day set and ap- pointed for the trial. And the said jurors shall be held to serve on the trial of all such vessels as shall have been libelled before the said Judge, and the time of their trial published at the time said jurors are drawn, unless the Judge shall see 93 cause to discharge them, or either of them, before; and if seven of the jurors shall appear, and there shall not be enough to complete the number of twelve, (which shall be a panel,) or if there shall be a legal challenge to any of them, so that there shall be seven, and not a panel, it shall and may be lawful for the Judge to order his Clerk, the Sheriff, or other proper officer attending on said Court, to fill up the jury with good and lawful men present; and the said jury, when so filled up and empannelled, shall be sworn to return a true verdict on any bill, claim, or memorial, which shall be committed to them, according to law and evidence. And if the jury shall find that any vessel or vessels, against which a bill or libel is committed to them, have been offend- ing, used, employed, or improved as aforesaid, or are the property of any inhabitants of Great Britain as aforesaid, they shall return their verdict thereof to the said Judge, and he shall thereupon condemn such vessel or vessels, with their cargoes and appurtenances, and shall order them to be dis- posed of, as by law is provided. And if the jury shall return a special verdict, therein setting forth certain facts relative to such vessel or vessels, (a bill against which is committed to them,) and it shall appear to the said Judge by said ver- dict that such vessel or vessels have been infesting the sea-coast of America, or navigation thereof, or that such vessels have been employed, used, improved, or offending, or are the property of any inhabitant or inhabitants of Great Britain, as aforesaid, he, the said Judge, shall condemn such vessel or vessels, and decree them to be sold, with their cargoes and appurtenances, at publick vendue, and shall also order the charges of said trial and condemnation to be paid out of the money such vessel and cargo, with her appurtenances, shall sell for, to the officers of the Court, according to the table of fees last established by law of this Colony, and shall order the residue thereof to be delivered to the captors, their agents or attorneys, for the use and benefit of such captors, and others concerned therein. And if two or more vessels (the commanders whereof shall be properly commissioned) shall jointly take such vessel, the money which she and her cargo shall sell for, after payment of charges as aforesaid, shall be divided between the captors, in proportion to their men. And the said Judge is hereby authorized to make out his precept, under his hand and seal, directed to the Sheriff of the County aforesaid, or, if thereto requested by the captors or agents, to any other person to be appointed by the said Judge, to sell such vessel and appur- tenances and cargo, at publick vendue, and such Sheriff, or other person, after deducting his own charges for the same, to pay and deliver the residue, according to the decree of said Judge. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That if any Constable within the said County shall neglect or refuse to obey the warrant of the Judge for returning said jurors as aforesaid, he shall pay a fine, as the said Judge shall order, not exceeding the sum of forty shillings; and if any juror so drawn, and having notice as aforesaid, shall not appear at the time and place directed in such warrant, or shall refuse, without reasonable excuse, to serve on such Jury, he shall pay such fine as the Judge shall order, not exceeding the sum of forty shillings. But before such fine shall be awarded, the Judge shall summon such juror to appear before him to show forth the reason of his neglect ; and if such reason shall not be satisfactory to the said Judge, then he shall issue his warrant of distress for such fine, if the said juror shall neglect to pay the same, and (excepting the style and test) in such manner as is directed for the recovery of fine of jurors who shall neglect or refuse to serve in the Infe- rior Court of Common Pleas. Which fines so recovered shall be paid into the Treasury of this Colony, for the use thereof. And be it enacted by the authority aforesaid, That any person or persons claiming the whole or any part or share, either as owner or captor of any such vessel or vessels, against which a libel is so filed, may jointly, or by themselves, or by their attorneys or agents, five days before the day set and appointed for the trial of such vessel or vessels, file their claim before the said Judge; which claim shall be committed to the Jury with the libel which is first filed, and the Jury shall thereupon determine and return their verdict of what part or share such claimant or claimants shall have of the capture or captures; and every person or persons who shall neglect to file his or their claim in manner as aforesaid, shall be forever barred therefrom. NEW-HAMPSHIRE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JULY, 1776. 94 And be it further enacted, That no person who shall take and bring in any vessel as aforesaid, shall use or improve such capture before condemnation; and every person who shall file the first libel against such vessel or vessels, shall be held to pay all fees established by law, in the same manner as hath been used and accustomed in the courts of common law within the Colony. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That every vessel which shall be taken and brought into this Colony by the armed vessels of any of the United Colonies of America, and shall be condemned as aforesaid, the pro- ceeds of such vessels and cargoes shall go and be, one-third part to the use of the captors, and the other two-thirds to the use of the Colony, at whose charge such armed vessel was fitted out. And where any vessel or vessels shall be taken by the Fleet and Army of the United Colonies, and brought into this Colony, and condemned as aforesaid, the said Judge shall distribute and dispose of the said vessels and cargoes according to the resolves and orders of the American Congress. And be it enacted, That the process and proceedings upon any vessel which has been or shall be retaken from the enemy by any person or persons, shall be in the same manner as herein provided for other vessels. And any vessels of any of the inhabitants of the United Colonies which have been or shall be hereafter retaken from the enemy, before condemnation thereof had, the moneys which they and their appurtenances and cargoes shall sell for, shall be disposed of as follows, viz: If they have been in the possession of the enemy less than twenty-four hours, then one-eighth part shall go to the use of the recaptors; if more than twenty-four and less than forty-eight hours, then one-fifth part shall go to the recap- tors; and if more than forty-eight and less than ninety-six hours, then one-third part; and if more than ninety-six hours, one-half shall go to the recaptors; and in every case the residue to the owner or owners, unless such vessel or vessels shall, after being so brought in, be legally condemn- ed as a prize; in which case the recaptors shall have the whole. And be it further enacted, That any person, owner, captor, or claimant, may take affidavits in any cause to be tried in the Court Maritime aforesaid, before any Justice of the Peace, under the regulation provided by the laws of this Colony for taking affidavits to be used in civil actions in any of the courts of common law. And any person on board such captures, when they surrender, may be admitted as a witness to testify to any fact in dispute between any of the captors. And the Clerk appointed by the said Judge is empowered to make out a summons to any person named as a witness by either party. And if any person served with such summons, and having the legal fees for his travel ren- dered him, shall unnecessarily refuse to appear and give evidence in such cause, he shall suffer such penalty as is provided by the laws of this Colony against witnesses who shall neglect to appear when legally summoned to give evidence in the Superior Court of Judicature. And whereas the honourable Continental Congress have recommended that, in certain cases, an appeal should be granted from the Court aforesaid : Be it therefore enacted, That from all judgments or decrees hereafter to be given in the said Court Maritime, on the capture of any vessel, appurtenances, or cargoes, where such vessel is taken, or shall be taken, by any armed vessel fitted out at the charge of the United Colonies, an appeal shall be allowed to the Continental Congress, or to such person or persons as they already have, or shall here- after appoint, for the trials of appeals: Provided, The ap- peal be demanded within five days after definitive sentence given, and such appeal shall be lodged with the Secretary of the Congress within forty days afterwards: And provided, The party appealing shall give security to prosecute said appeal with effect. And in case of the death of the Secre- tary during the recess of the Congress, the said appeal shall be lodged in Congress within twenty days after the next meeting thereof; and that from the judgment, decrees, or sentence of said Court, on the capture of any vessel or cargo which have been, or shall hereafter be, brought into this Colony, by any person or persons, (excepting those who are in the service of the United Colonies,) an appeal shall be allowed to the Superior Court of Judicature, which shall next be held in the County aforesaid. 95 And whereas, no provision has been made by any of the said resolves for an appeal from the sentence or decree of the said Judge, where the capture of any such vessel or vessels may be made by a vessel in the service of the United Colonies, and of any particular Colony or person, together: Therefore, Be it enacted by the authority aforesaid, That, in such cases, the appeal shall be allowed to the next Superior Court, as aforesaid: Provided, The appellant shall enter into bonds, with sufficient sureties, to prosecute his appeal with effect. And such Superior Court, to which the appeal shall be, shall take cognizance thereof, in the same manner, as if the appeal was from the Inferior Court of Common Pleas, and shall condemn or acquit such vessel or vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances, and in the sale and disposition of them, proceed according to this act. And the appellant shall pay the Court and Jury such fees as are allowed by law in civil actions. And be it further enacted, That when there shall be on GENERAL LEE TO EDMUND PENDLETON. Charlestown, July 7, 1776. Sir: Mr. Rutledge will inform you by this express of the outrages committed by the Cherokees, which must be con- strued as the commencement of a war. As it is now certain that a capital and favourite part of the plan laid down by our enemies is to lay waste the Provinces, burn the dwellings of the inhabitants, and mix men, women, and children, in one common carnage by the hands of the Indians ; and as this part of the plan, though a piece of inhumanity, is certainly more big with mischievous consequences than the rest, it appears to me absolutely necessary to crush the evil before it arises to any dangerous height. Indeed, if we avail our- selves of the event, it may prove a fortunate one. Perhaps we ought in policy to have wished for it. We can now, with the greatest justice, strike a blow which is necessary to intimidate the numerous tribes of Indians from falling into the measures of our enemies; and as these Cherokees are not esteemed the most formidable warriors, we can, probably, do it without much risk or loss. I think, then, sir, that without a moment’s delay, a body of your frontier riflemen should be immediately furnished, and march into the country of the Overhill Cherokees, and make a severe, lasting, and salutary example of them. ‘The Carolinians propose at the same time attacking their lower towns, and, with the codperation of Virginia, entertain no doubt of success. Clinton’s army and Parker’s squadron are pretty much in the same situation as when I wrote last. ‘They daily, indeed, make some alterations in the position of their land troops, from one island to another; perhaps for new air or water, of which, the deserters say, they are in great want. They tell us, likewise, that considerable sickness prevails in the army, and greater discontents from hard duty and bad diet. The spirit of desertion begins to show itself. Five soldiers came over these two last nights, who assure us that, were they not on an Island from which it is difficult to escape, two-thirds of their army would soon be with us. I am myself inclined to believe them. Upon the whole, when I consider the diffi- culties which the enemy’s Generals have to encounter, the temper and disposition of their troops, and the improving spirit of ours, I assure myself that the game is in our hands: God give us more grace than to shuffle it away. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Cuartes Ler. To the Hon. Edmund Pendleton, President of the Conven- tion of Virginia. GENERAL LEE TO PATRICK HENRY. Williamsburgh, May 7, 1776. Dear Sir: If I had not the highest opinion of your character and liberal way of thinking, I should not venture to address myself to you. And if I were not equally per- suaded of the great weight and influence which the transcen- dent abilities you possess must naturally confer, I should not give myself the trouble of writing, nor you the trouble of reading this long letter. Since our conversation yesterday, my thoughts have been solely employed on the great ques- tion, whether Independence ought or ought not to be imme- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 96 board such capture any goods perishable by nature, the Judge aforesaid shall be, and hereby is empowered, to give license for the sale of such goods before the trial, and after a libel is filed as aforesaid: Provided, ‘The person or persons filing said libel shall give security to the Judge for the pay- ment of such moneys, as such goods are reasonably worth, to the captor or captors thereof, if the same shall be con- demned, and if otherwise, to the owners thereof. And be it enacted by the authority aforesaid, That when any merchant ship or vessel shall be taken by virtue of any resolve aforesaid, the wages of seamen and mariners who shall be taken on board the same, shall be paid out of the proceeds of the prize, up to the time of condemnation. And be it further enacted, That the said Judge shall appoint an able Clerk, who shall keep a true and fair record of all the proceedings of the said Court, and shall be duly sworn to act in said office with truth and fidelity: And his attestations shall be received as evidence in all courts of law. diately declared. Having weighed the argument on both sides, I am clearly of the opinion that we must, as we value the liberties of America, or even her existence, without a moment’s delay declare for Independence. If my reasons appear weak, you will excuse them for the disinterestedness of the author, as I may venture to affirm, that no man on this Continent will sacrifice more than myself by the sepa- ration. But if I have the good fortune to offer any argu- ments which have escaped your understanding, and they should make the desired impression, I think I shall have rendered the greatest service to the community. The objection you made yesterday, if I understood you rightly, to an immediate Declaration, was, by many degrees, the most specious ; indeed it is the only tolerable one that I have yet heard. You say, and with great justice, that we ought previously to have felt the pulse of France and Spain. I more than believe, I am almost confident, that it has been done ; at least I can assert, upon recollection, that some of the Committee of Secrecy have assured me that the senti- ments of both these Courts, or their agents, had been sounded, and were found to be as favourable as could be wished. But, admitting that we are utter strangers to their senti- ments on the subject, and that we run some risk of this De- claration being coldly received by these Powers, such is our situation that the risk must be ventured. On one side there are the most probable chances of our success, founded on the certain advantages which must mani- fest themselves to French understandings by a treaty of alliance with America. The strength and weakness, the opulence and poverty of every State are estimated in the scale of comparison with her immediate rival. The superior commerce and marine force of England were evidently established on the monopoly of her American trade. The inferiority of France, in these two capital points, consequently had its source in the same origin. Any deduction from this monopoly must bring down her rival in proportion to this deduction. The French are, and always have been, sensible of these great truths. Your idea, that they may be diverted from a line of policy which assures them such immense and perma- nent advantages by an offer of partition from Great Britain, appears to me, if you will excuse the phrase, an absolute chimera. They must be wretched politicians, indeed, if they would prefer the uncertain acquisition, and the preca- rious, expensive possession of one or two Provinces, to the greater part of the commerce of the whole. Besides, were not the advantages from the latter so manifestly greater than those that would accrue from the imagined partition scheme, it is notorious that acquisition of territory, or even Colonial possessions, which require either men or money to retain them, are entirely repugnant to the spirit and principles of the present French Court. It is so repugnant, indeed, that it is most certain they have lately entertained thoughts of abandoning their West-India Islands. Le commerce et Peconomie are the cry, down from the King to the lowest Minister. From these considerations, 1 am convinced that they will immediately and essentially assist us if Indepen- dence is declared. But allowing that there can be no certainty, but mere 97 chances, in our favour ; I do insist upon it, that these chances render it our duty to adopt the measure, as, by procrastina- tion, our ruin is inevitable. Should it now be determined to wait the result of a previous formal negotiation with France, a whole year must pass over our heads before we can be acquainted with «the result. In the mean time we are to struggle through a campaign, without arms, ammuni- tion, or any one necessary of war. Disgrace and defeat will infallibly ensue; the soldiers and officers will become so dis- appointed that they will abandon their colours, and probably never be persuaded to make another effort. But there is another consideration still more cogent. I can assure you that the spirit of the people cries out for this Declaration; the military, in particular, men and officers, are outrageous on the subject ; and a man of your excellent discernment need not be told how dangerous it would be in our present circumstances, to dally with the spirit, or dis- appoint the expectations of the bulk of the people. May not despair, anarchy, and finally submission, be the bitter fruits? 1am firmly persuaded that they will; and, in this persuasion, I most devoutly pray that you may not merely recommend, but positively lay injunctions, on your servants in Congress to embrace a measure so necessary to our sal- vation. Yours, most sincerely, Cuarves Lee. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL LEE. New-York, May, 1776. My pear Lee: Your favour of the 5th ultimo, from Willamsburgh, the first I have received from you since you left this city, came to my hands by the last post. I thank you for your kind congratulations on our possession of Bos- ton. I thank you for your good wishes in our future opera- tions, and hope that every diabolical attempt to deprive mankind of their inherent rights and privileges, whether made in the east, west, north, or south, will be attended with disappointment and disgrace, and that the authors in the end will be brought to sach punishment as an injured people have a right to inflict. General Howe’s retreat from Boston was precipitate be- yond anything I could have conceived. The destruction of the stores at Dunbar’s camp, after Braddock’s defeat, was but a faint image of what was seen at Boston: artillery carts cut to pieces in one place, gun-carriages in another ; shells broke here, shot buried there; and everything carry- ing with it the face of disorder and confusion, as also of distress. Immediately upon their embarkation, I detached a brigade of five regiments to this city, and upon their sailing, removed with the whole Army hither, except four regiments at Bos- ton'and one at Beverly, &c., for the protection of those places, the stores and barracks there, and for erecting works for defending the harbour of the former. Immediately upon my arrival here, I detached four regiments, by order of Con- gress, to Canada, (to wit: Poor’s, Patterson's, Greaton’s, and Bond’s,) under the command of Brigadier Thompson; and since that, by the same authority, and in consequence of some unfavourable accounts from that quarter, General Sullivan and six other regiments (namely, Stark’s, Read’s, Wayne's, Irvine’s, Winds’s, and Dayton’s) have moved off for that department; the last four regiments are from Penn- sylvania and New-Jersey. The first brigade arrived at Albany on the 24th ultimo, and were moving on when accounts came from thence on the 27th. The other brigade must all be at Albany before this, as some of the regiments sailed ten days ago, and the last four and the winds very favourable. This has left us very weak at this place; whilst I have my fears that the reinforcement will scarce get to Canada in time, for want of teams to transport the troops, &c., to Fort George, and vessels to convey them’on after- wards. We have done a great deal of work at this place. Ina fortnight more, I think the city will be in a very respectable posture of defence. Governour’s Island has a large and strong work erected, and a regiment encamped there. The point below, called Red Hook, has a small, but exceedingly strong barbette battery; and several new works are con- structed, and many of them almost executed at other places. General Ward, upon the evacuation of Boston, and find- ing that there was a probability of his being removed from Firtu Serres.—Vot. I. af CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 98 the smoke of his own chimney, applied to me, and wrote to Congress, for leave to resign. A few days afterwards, some of the officers, as he says, getting uneasy at the prospect of his leaving them, he applied for his letter of resignation, which had been committed to my care ; but, behold! it had been carefully forwarded to Congress, and, as I have since learned, judged so reasonable, (want of health being the plea,) that it was instantly complied with. Brigadier Frye, previous to this, also conceiving that there was nothing enter- taining or profitable to an old man, to be marching and countermarching, desired, immediately on the evacuation of Boston, (which happened on the 17th of March,) that he might resign his commission on the 11th of April. The choice of the day became a matter of great speculation, and remained profoundly mysterious till he exhibited his account, when there appeared neither more nor less in it than the completion of three calendar months, the pay of which he received without any kind of compunction, although he had never done one tour of duty, or, I believe, had ever been out of his house from the time he entered till he quitted Cambridge. So much for two Generals. I have next to inform you, that the Paymaster-General, Colonel Warren, not finding it convenient to attend the Army, from the various employ- ments and avocations in which he was engaged, also resigned his commission, and is succeeded by your old aid, Palfrey. When I was speaking of the distressed situation of the King’s troops, and the Tories, at their evacuation of Boston, I might have gone on and added, that their misfortunes did not end here. Itseems, upon their arrival at Halifax, that many of the former were obliged to encamp, although the ground was covered deep with snow ; and the latter to pay six dollars a week for sorry upper rooms, and stow in them men, women, and children, as thick, comparatively, as the hair upon their heads. This induced many of these gentry to return and throw themselves upon the mercy and clemency of their countrymen, who were for sending them immediately back, as the most proper and severest punishment they could inflict; but death being preferred to this, they now wait in confinement any other that may be thought due to such parricides. All the ships-of-war have left this place, and gone down to the Hook, except the Asta, which lies five miles below the Narrows, and about twelve or fourteen from hence. I could have added more; but my paper will not admit of it. With compliments, therefore, to the gentlemen of my acquaintance with you, and with the most fervent wishes for your health and sucess, I remain, your most affectionate, Go. Wasuineron. To Major-General Lee. THOMAS BURKE TO GENERAL LEE. Tyaquin, North-Carolina, June 11, 1776. Sm: This moment yours of the Ist instant came to my hand. The note enclosed, directed to the commanding officer of the corps of Virginia forces intended for the station of Hillsborough, I will use my best endeavour to transmit, as soon as I can learn who he is, or for what part of Vir- ginia they are ordered; of both I am now entirely unin- formed, having heard nothing of such destination until I received your letter. If I can get no information in my neighbourhood, I will send your note to the commanding officer of Halifax, or of Mecklenburgh County, who, being stationed contiguous to this, are most likely to have received orders to march hither. I cannot say, sir, that I rejoice that the enemy have aban- doned their design on this Colony. Their force could not have effected much against us; but they may prove trouble- some to some of our southern neighbours, who are probably not so well provided for defence as we are. I beg leave, sir, to wish you all possible success in your generous efforts for the defence of the undoubted nights of mankind. Had the scene of action been where we first expected it, I intended to have put myself, as a volunteer, under your command, and to have contributed my little assistance towards that success which, I am assured, would have attended your command. Remote as the scene may be, I shall not bear absence from it with much patience, and, were it not almost ruin to my private affairs, no cam- 99 paign should pass without receiving the little assistance I could personally give; for though I am no military character, nor ambitious of such distinction, the cause in which we are now engaged, and in-which I have unremittingly struggled since the stamp act, makes me anxious to be a witness and an actor, however inconsiderable, in every scene of impor- tance, whether military or civil, which may relate to it. I have the honour to be, with singular respect, sir, your obedient servant, Tuomas Burke. To Major General Lee. GEORGE JOHNSON TO GENERAL LEE. Philadelphia, June 17, 1776. Dear Sir: [ heartily thank you for your letter, and regret that I cannot have the pleasure of meeting you. ‘The great wish of my life is to see peace between two countries I almost equally love; while it is a question whether this or an exterminating war is to take place. I meant, in words I had learned from you, to set before you the many and mutual advantages both would derive from an agreement ; and as the terms now offered are more for the interest of your favourite America than you ever hoped to obtain, I should have made no scruple to ask your good offices, and to engage my own, to remove any obstacles that might obstruct the peace. I should think it a greater honour to contribute in the smallest degree to this, than to have the greatest share in bringing about victory; these, to a think- ing man like you, who has many friends on both sides, sub- ject him to a double regret. I may not find another occasion of meeting you easily ; but I would travel far to have the pleasure of embracing you asa fellow-subject of the same empire, and a friend. You will see, by some speeches in the House of Commons, that others whom you value have the same wish. A cele- brated poem, just published, says: ‘* By virtue, captive Lee is doubly blest.” A pamphlet, written by Governour JoAnstone’s brother, is much applauded by the nation, where a spirit prevails like that between tender relations, who are more disposed to love and respect, after a quarrel has convinced both of the ad- vantage and value of friendship. I send you the pamphlet. You do Sir H. Clinton great justice in believing him to be incapable of an inhuman or illiberal measure; you may, with great confidence, assert, that he had no share in the havock that you say has imbittered people’s minds to a degree of madness. Your letter to me is the only notice he has of the burnings you mention. If any other houses besides magazines were destroyed, it must have been by the wantonness of soldiers, as the officer who formed the plan for destroying the preparations for the invasion of the island confined it to this object. The destruction of houses was no part of his project; otherwise he would have mentioned the success of it, which he has not done. I will deliver the messages you give me, and will ever seek every occa- sion to show that I am, with regard, dear sir, your most affectionate friend and humble servant, Grorce Jounson. To Major-General Lee. P.S. Sir Henry Clinton bids me thank you for your letter, and charges me to enclose one he has received for you from England. GENERAL LEE TO COLONEL THOMPSON. Charlestown, June 21, 1776. Sie: It is a certain truth that the enemy entertain a most fortunate apprehension of American riflemen. It is equally certain that nothing can diminish this apprehension so infal- libly as a frequent ineffectual fire. It is with some concern, therefore, that I have been informed that your men have been suffered to fire at a most preposterous distance. Upon this principle, I must entreat and insist, that you consider it as a standing order, that not a man under your command is to fire at a greater distance than one hundred and fifty yards, at the utmost ; in short, they must never fire without almost a moral certainty of hitting their object. Distant firmg has a doubly bad effect ; it encourages the enemy, and adds to the pernicious persuasion of the American soldiers, viz: that they are no match for their antagonists at close fighting. To speak plainly, it is almost a sure method of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. \ 100 making them cowards. Once more, I must request that a stop be put to this childish, vicious, and scandalous practice. I extend the rule to those who have the care of the field- pieces; four hundred yards is the greatest distance they should be allowed to fire at. A transgression of this rule will be considered as the effect of flurry and want of courage. Those who are accused of transgressing will be proceeded against, as acting from these principles. I have, sir, the greatest opinion of your good sense and spirit, and flatter myself that you will not only issue orders of restriction on this head, but that you will be attentive that they are rigorously put in execution. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Cuarwes Lee. To Colonel Thompson. P. S. I am likewise informed that your men pass with- out order or orders to Long-Island. Is this wise? Is it soldierlike? Is it to show the enemy where our weak- ness is? JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. , Baltimore, July 7, 1776. Sir: I have sent you three vessels at the request of Mr. Purviance, which I hope is right. He tells me that Mr. Tilghman spoke to him about the one that is to carry troops to Elk. I give you a line by each vessel, for fear that one may be before the others in getting down. ‘They are to have 17s. 6d. per day while in the service. Each vessel will carry acompany. ‘They ought to be well ballasted, as the soldiers will be a top-heavy load. ‘The skipper will hand you this from your humble servant, Jesse Hotiincsworru. To the Chairman of the Council of Safety, Annapolis. P.S. The vessels will find all they want for their own use. E. JOHNSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Lower Marlborough, July 7, 1776. GentTLemMeN: The day I fixed on, in the week before last, to search into the clifts on this river for salt, proved rainy, and thereby I was disappointed in many hands en- gaged; but, however, with what I had, I sunk a shaft, ten feet square and five feet deep, in the inside of the clifts, free from any tide that ever flowed since the Deluge, and have found since, that a few days sun thereon has brought out some appearances of saline particles ; so that I conclude that this earth will yield salt, and have ordered it to be tried, the success of which you shall know by next post. If this earth yields salt, the whole clift must also yield it, and of course the quantity is inexhaustible. Report says that the clifts both north and south of this, on the same side of the river, are impregnated with salt. I have not seen any of them, except a small bank at my own plantation, at the mouth of Hunting Creek, south of the first-discovered clift, which is very salt; and shall, as soon as my harvest is secured, make some large experiments on, and, if success- ful, set to work to make what I can. The owner of the land of the first-discovered clift will come upon no settled, fixed plan of proceeding to erect either a publick or private saltern; but says that, after harvest, he will join me in trying further experiments. ‘The expense attending my sinking the shaft, in hire of negroes, provisions, and cooking for them, cost me twenty-five shillings currency, ‘which I have paid; and if agreeable to you to charge to my saltpetre account, please to give me your order, or other- wise, as you may think proper. The time of my engage- ment, with my labour at my saltpetre manufactory, expired a few days ago, and we have not done anything since. My manager has brought in his account, and thirty-four pounds of good crude nitre, for which he demands a quarter of a dollar. Being informed that the May Convention gave him that sum, I have only paid a shilling, with promise to make it agreeable to the orders I am empowered to act by. I shall hire another labourer soon, to go on with the business, and shall continue it as long as I can find materials impreg- nated sufficiently. In a few months, the quantity of earth, &c., I have in my shed, will, I expect, yield two hundred pounds. The thirty-four pounds made at the manufac- tory, five-and-a-half pounds I bought, returned to the Con- 101 vention in my account, makes thirty-nine-and-a-half pounds in my hands. Please to give me orders what I am to do with it. 1 am, gentlemen, with all due respect, your humble ser- vant, EK. Jounson. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee, Baltimore, July 7, 1776. Gentiemen: Colonel Ware having informed us that he had drawn a plan of a fortification to be added to the works at Whetstone Point, we shall be glad to know whether you mean it should be finished, and if so, what further sum of money you will apply to that purpose; and we should be much obliged if you would favour us with the plan left with you. I am, gentlemen, on behalf of the Committee, your most obedient servant, Wiviram Lux, Vice-Chairman. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. Annapolis, July 7, 1776. GentLemen: The Convention have given no order for laying out any further sum of money on the fortifications at or near Baltimore Town. If more money had been neces- sary, application should have been made to that respectable body. We consider ourselves not at large to comply with your request in advancing a further sum, and so we have repeatedly intimated when the plan was first offered to us. We send it you enclosed; and are your most obedient ser- vants. P. S. If the money you have for erecting fortifications be not expended, you will apply it to erecting the fortification desired. COLONEL SMALLWOOD TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Sunday, July 7, 1776. The bearers, Michael Hart and Lawrence Keenan, of the Artillery Company, having been released from jail, prosecu- tion against them being withdrawn, have applied for a dis- charge, the date of which will properly commence the 7th day of May, when they were imprisoned, as I ordered them to be given up at that time to the civil power; and having no authority to discharge them, must refer them to the honourable Council of Safety for their discharges. W. Smattwoop. RICHARD TOOTELL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Annapolis, July 7, 1776. Gentiemen: As the Surgeon-Major and his assistant must march with the battalion which was stationed in this city, to which corps they belong, I presume the deficiency of that battalion will be immediately supplied with Militia. The troops stationed here for the safety of the city will stand in need of a Surgeon-Major and an assistant. I pe- tition your Honours for the office of Surgeon-Major to the abovementioned troops. J am, with great respect, your Honours’ most obedient humble servant, Ricuarp Toore.u. To the Honourable Council of Safety. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL BUCHANAN. {No. 2.] Annapolis, July 7, 1776. Sir: You will perceive by the enclosed resolve that the Convention have directed the place of the regulars that are to march from Baltimore Town to Philadelphia should be supplied by the companies of the neighbouring Militia till the Flying-Camp can be ready. We must request, therefore, that you will consider what companies of your County may with the greatest convenience be stationed at Baltimore Town, and give orders for their march to that station as soon as the regulars leave it. We are, Xe. To Brigadier-General Buchanan. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL WEEMS. [No. 3.] Annapolis, July 7, 1776. Sir: You will perceive by the enclosed resolves that the Convention have directed the place of the regulars that are CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 102 to march from hence to Philadelphia should be supplied by three companies of the neighbourigg Militia till the Militia for the Flying-Camp can be ready. We shall be glad to see you as soon as you possibly can, that we may determine what companies of your battalion may with the greatest convenience be stationed at this place. We are, &c. To Colonels Weems and Hammond, respectively. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN VEAZEY AND LIEUTENANT HARRISON. (No. 4.] Annapolis, July 7, 1776. Sir: You will perceive by the enclosed resolves that your company is to march immediately to Philadelphia. ‘The service requires the utmost despatch. We think it will be the most expeditious as well as convenient way to go to the head of Elk by water, and therefore recommend it to you to endeavour to procure a vessel for the purpose of transport- ing your troops thither. If, however, you cannot get one immediately, you will march up as speedily as possible. Wagons will be ready for you at the head of Elk to carry your baggage and a proper supply of provisions to Phila- delphia. Ifa vessel is not to be had, you will please to get the necessary carriages in Talbot for your baggage, and lay in a sufficient quantity of provision for your men until you can reach the head of Elk. Colonel Smallwood’s battalion will set off by water to-morrow or Tuesday. We are, &c. To Captain Edward Veazey and Lieutenant Harrison, respectively. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN VEAZEY. [No. 5.] Annapolis, July 7, 1776. Sir: You will perceive by the enclosed resolves that your company is to march immediately to Philadelphia. The service requires the utmost despatch. Wagons will be ready for you at the head of Elk, to carry your baggage and a pro- per supply of provisions from thence to Philadelphia. ° You will please to get the necessary carriages in Kent for your baggages, and lay in a sufficient quantity of provisions for your men until you can reach the head of Elk. Colonel Smallwood’s battalion will set off to-morrow or on Tuesday by water, and so we expect will Lieutenant, Harrison’s division of your company, as we have given him his orders. We are, &c. To Captain Edward Veazey. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO RICHARD. BUCHANAN. [No. 6.] Annapolis, July 7, 1776. Str: We are despatching the troops from hence to Phila- delphia. Including those for Baltimore, they will amount to one thousand men, and they are to go by water to the head of Elk; when they arrive there, perhaps they may be at a loss for a supply of provision for their march, which may take them up four days from thence. We therefore think it necessary that you, or Mr. Cummings, or some per- son for you, should be there, to be ready to supply them, in case they should be in want. We are, &c. To Mr. Richard Buchanan. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JOHN ADAMS, DATED PHILA- DELPHIA, JULY 7, 1776. The design of our enemy now seems to be a powerful in- vasion of New-York and New-Jersey. The Halifax fleet and army is arrived, and another fleet and army under Lord Howe is expected to join them. We are making great pre- parations to meet them, by marching the Militia of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New-Jersey, down to the scene of action, and have made large requisitions upon New-England. I hope, for the honour of New-England and the salvation of America, our people will not be backward in marching to New-York. We must maintain and defend that important post at all events. If the enemy get possession there, it will cost New-England very dear. There is no danger of the small-pox at New-York; it is carefully kept out of the city and the Army. I hope that your*brother, and mine too, will go into the service of their country at this critical period of its distress. 103 Our Army at Crown-Point is an object of wretchedness enough to fill a humane mipd with horrour ; disgraced, defeat- ed, discontented, dispinited, diseased, naked, undisciplined, eaten up with vermin; no clothes, beds, blankets; no medi- cines; no victuals, but salt pork and flour. A chaplain from that Army preached a sermon here the other day, from ‘Cursed is he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully.” I knew better than he did who the persons were who de- served these curses ; but I could not help myself, nor my poor country, any more than he. [hope that measures will be taken to cleanse the Army at Crown-Point from the small- pox, and that other measures will be taken in New-England, by tolerating and encouraging inoculation, to render that dis- temper less terrible. I am solicitous to hear what figure our new Superior Court made in their eastern circuit: what business they did ; whether the grand juries and petit juries were sworn; whe- ther they had tried any criminal, or any civil actions; how the people were affected at the appearance of courts again ; how the Judges were treated—whether with respect, or cold neglect, &c. Every Colony upon the Continent will soon be in the same situation. ‘They are erecting Governments as fast as children build cob-houses; but, I conjecture, they will hardly throw them down again so soon. The practice we have hitherto been in, of ditching round about our enemies, will not always do. We must learn to use other weapons than the pick and the spade. Our armies must be disciplined, and learn to fight. I have the satis- faction to reflect that our Massachusetts people, when they have been left to themselves, have been constantly fighting and skirmishing, and always with success. I wish the same valour, prudence, and spirit, had been discovered every- where. JOSEPH HART TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 8, 1776.] : Warminster, Bucks County, July 7, 1776. HonourasLe Sir: This day, Mr. Wynkoop delivered me your letter of the 3d instant, directed to the Committee of our County, requesting that the troops we are raising to form the Flying-Camp might be immediately sent to New- Brunswick. This I dare say our Committee will readily comply with; but they are not yet formed, and to-morrow the election must be attended. On Wednesday, however, our Committee are to meet to appoint officers; and when that is done, I am of opinion the men will turn out imme- diately, and which I believe our Committee will encourage, to the utmost of their abilities. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, JoserH Harr To the Hon. John Hancock, President. GEORGE ROSS TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Lancaster, July 7, 1776. GentLemen: The present situation of publick affairs having made it necessary that the Militia of Pennsylvania should be immediately marched to the Jerseys, to act until the Flying-Camp shall be formed, and the resolves of the Congress and Committee lately convened at Philadelphia, directing and approving of this measure, having been made known to the Associators here, they have almost to a man determined to march on this service. The Committee, con- sidering the dangerous situation of the town, exposed to the fury and ravages of near four hundred of the prisoners taken at Chambly and St. John’s, who are stationed here, and can- not be confined day or night, in the present open state of our barracks, have been under the necessity of checking the ardour of the Associators in the town, and permit but a part to leave the place; but as these will have our best arms with them, and those who remain are not in numbers equal to those prisoners, the remainder of the inhabitants and their property are, we think, rather too much exposed. Upon these prisoners first coming to Lancaster, the Committee asked the sentiments of Congress as to enclosing the barracks ground, and keeping a guard over them there. The Con- gress then thought this measure unnecessary, doubtless from a persuasion that by the prisoners mixing and working with the inhabitants, they would learn and be convinced of the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 104 justness of our cause, and become rather the friends than enemies of the rights of America. But experience evinces the contrary. By their mixing with the people, they have done much mischief. They adhere, with an extraordinary degree of firmness, to their tyrannical master and his cause, and every action and expression convinces us that they would seize every opportunity to promote it and distress us. We have lately found several of them in the dress of our riflemen, and as that dress is now become a kind of passport for those who wear it, we cannot help hinting to Congress the danger of these people carrying intelligence between our enemies in that garb, and that, as they are now placed, we cannot prevent it. Indeed, it is probable that the offi- cers from Lebanon have gone off in that disguise. We have had it hinted that some of them are travelling through the country, procuring signers to some paper, which, it is more than probable, is of bad tendency, and shall therefore en- deavour to detectthem. ‘That they have had the most early intelligence of events which have happened in Canada, we have had experience. We therefore cannot help mention- ing to Congress our opinion as to the necessity of having them in some manner secured, so as to prevent their strag- gling, carrying intelligence, or insulting or injuring the in- habitants; and that, while at liberty, they are a dangerous set of people, and beg leave to request the direction of Con- gress in the premises. As it is proposed to march part of the town Militia on Thursday next, we shall be happy in having the sentiments and directions of Congress before that time. And have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedi- ent, humble servant. By order of the Committee: Gerorce Ross, Chairman. To the Hon. John Hancock, President of the Honourable Continental Congress. DOCTOR COCHRAN TO THOMAS McKEAN. New-Brunswick, July 7, 1776. Dear Sir: The bearer, Lieutenant Woodman, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, taken prisoner at Ticonderoga last summer, has resided in this town ever since, on his parole. As far as I know, he has behaved himself with decency re- specting publick matters; nor do I find that he has ever been charged with taking part either with one side or the other. He has made a in this town, and is at present employed in repairing it. He is married to a daugh- ter of Mr. Legrange, of this place, and has a family of six children, which renders his removal from hence rather dis- tressing ; therefore, if any indulgences, consistent with the publick safety, can be allowed him, [ hope they will not be improperly bestowed. I know your readiness to do aets of humanity ; therefore leave the matter of it particularly to your own judgment and the publick security. I am, dear sir, your very obedient, humble servant, Joun Cocuran. To Thomas McKean, Esq., Philadelphia. GENERAL LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 7, 1776. May ir PLEASE your Exce.iency: By Captain Swan, of the new levies, just going off for the city, I take the liberty of enclosing a rough draught of the Sound and Jersey shore, from Elizabeth Point to Amboy, with an abstract of the different posts [ have directed along the same. Although this may not be of any essential service, yet I thought it not amiss, as it might give you an idea of what I had done, that your Excel- lency might rectify anything that was amiss in the arrange- ment. Since writing the above, a deserter is brought in to me, whose examination I have taken, and enclose it; and forward this by express, lest itshould be delayed. I have also this moment received intelligence from Philadelphia, that the Pennsylvania forces marched the 5th instant to our assistance, and that the principal part of the strength of Pennsylvania will soon be on their march, for the same beneyolent pur- _pose. I received your Excellency’s letter respecting the persons apprehended at Amboy, and I'shall send them all (except 105 Smyth, whom I think I can trust on his parole) to the Con- vention to-morrow morning. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most humble servant, Wituiam Livineston. To General Washington. GENERAL HOWE TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE. Staten-Island, July 7, 1776. My Lorp: The Mercury packet is despatched to inform your Lordship of the arrival of the Halifax fleet, on the 29th of June, at Sandy-Hook, where I arrived four days sooner in the Grayhound frigate. I met with Governour Tryon, on board of 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 nume- rous, and very advantageously posted, with strong intrench- ments 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. Having made inquiries of these gentlemen respecting the face of the country between Gravesend Bay in Long-Island, and the enemy’s works in the neighbour- hood of Brooklyn, their accounts were so satisfactory that I had determined to disembark the Army at Gravesend ; and with this intention the fleet moved up to the bay, on the Ist instant, in the evening, in order to land the troops at the break of day next morning; but being more particularly informed during the night of a strong pass upon a ridge of craggy heights covered with wood, that lay in the route the Army must have taken, only two miles distant from the front of the enemy’s encampment and seven from Gravesend, which the Rebels would undoubtedly have occupied before the King’s troops could get up to it; and from the minutest description, judging an attack upon this post, so strong by nature, and so near the front of the enemy’s works, to be too hazardous an attempt, before the arrival of the troops ‘with Commodore Hotham, daily expected, I declined the under- taking, and passing the Narrows with three ships of war and the first division of transports, landed the Grenadiers and Light-Infantry as the ships came up, to the great joy of a most loyal people, long suffering on that account under the oppres- sion of the Rebels stationed among them, who precipitately fled on the approach of the shipping. The remainder of the troops landed during the next day and night, and are now distributed in cantonments, where they have the best refreshments. In justice to Captain Reynar, of his Majesty’s ship Chat- ham, who was directed by the Admiral to make the dispo- sition of boats for landing the troops, and to Captain Curtis, commanding the Senegal sloop-of-war, who was to super- intend the execution, I must express my entire satisfaction in the conduct of those gentlemen, and the dependence to be placed upon their future services in this line. I propose waiting here for the English fleet, or the arrival of Lieutenant-General Clinton, in readiness to proceed, unless by some unexpected change of circumstances in the mean- time, it should be found expedient to act with the present force. In case Lieutenant-General Clinton’s southern ope- rations should prevent his joining the Army here, I am apprehensive the possession of Rhode-Island, though of the most important nature, must be deferred until the arrival of the second embarcation from Europe, unless General Cark- ton should penetrate early into this Province, which may enable me to spare a corps adequate to that service. But as I must esteem a previous impression upon the enemy’s principal force, collected in this quarter, to be the first object of my attention, I shall hold it steadily in view, without losing sight of those which, comparatively, may be esteemed collateral. Vice-Admiral Shuldham was joined on his voyage by six transports belonging to the Highland corps, having three companies of the Forty-Second and three of the Seventy-First on board. There is no other intelligence of this embarca- tion, excepting an account published in the New-York papers, that two transports of the fleet were taken by the enemy's privateers, and carried into Boston; that Major Menzies was killed in the engagement, and Lieutenant- Colonel Campbell, of the Seventy-First, made prisoner, with sixteen other officers, and about four hundred and fifty men. Sir W. Erskine is among those that are absent. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 106 Governour Franklin, who for a long time maintained his ground in Jersey, has been lately taken into custody at Am- boy, and is at this time detained a prisoner in Connecticut ; and the Mayor of New-York was confined a few days ago, pm a frivolous complaint of his sending intelligence to overnour Tryon, brought to trial, and condemned to suffer death ; ,but, by the last intelligence, the sentence was not carried into execution. Notwithstanding these violent proceedings, I have the satisfaction to inform your Lordship, that there is great rea- son to expect a numerous body of the inhabitants to join the Army from the Provinces of York, the Jerseys, and Connec- ticut, who, in this time of universal oppression, only wait for opportunities to give proofs of their loyalty and zeal for Go- vernment. Sixty men came over two days ago, with a few arms, from the neighbourhood of Shrewsbury, in Jersey, who are all desirous to serve; and I understand there are five hundred more in that quarter’ready to follow their example. This disposition among the people makes me impatient for the arrival of Lord Howe, concluding the powers with which he is furnished will have the best effect at this critical time ; but I am still of opinion that peace will not be restored in America until the Rebel Army is defeated. I beg leave to represent to your Lordship the inconveni- ency arising from the want of camp-equipage at this time, which may continue during the course of this rebellion, un- less sent out the year before it is to be used ; also the neces- sity of an early supply of woollens, linen, and shoes, for the Provincial troops that I may retain in pay during the winter, as these things are not to be had here on any terms, and the distress of the inhabitants in general is so great, from the want of those articles, that the friends of Government will suffer much, without assistance from Europe. Lieutenant-Colonel Blunt, of the Fourth Regiment, who has my leave to return to Britain from the particular situa- tion of his affairs, will deliver this despatch; and I have the honour to be, &c., W. Howe. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, July 7, 1776. Sir: I have been honoured with your favours of the 3d and 4th instant, and return you my sincere thanks for your kind intention to afford me every assistance in your power at this truly critical and alarming period. The situation of our affairs calls aloud for the most vigorous exertions, and nothing less will be sufficient to avert the impending blow. From four prisoners, taken the other day, we are informed that General Howe has already about ten thousand men, being joined by the regiment from the West-Indies and some of the Highland troops in his passage hither; that he is in daily expectation of the arrival of Admiral Howe; and that nothing would be attempted till he came, having come from Halifax in consequence of advices received a few days before from England, that the Admiral was ready to sail with a fleet of one hundred and fifty ships, with a large rein- forcement to join him here. ‘These armies, when united, you will readily conceive, will be extremely formidable, and such as will require a large and numerous one, on our part, to oppose them. But yet I have been under the necessity of informing Colonel St/iman that it will be impossible to subsist the horses of the three regiments ordered ; and if it could be done, the expense would be enormous, and what I do not apprehend I have authority to assent to. At the same time, knowing the important advantages that may result from their aid, I have entreated his exertions to prevail on the men to come themselves. I hope, on the one hand, they will see the propriety of my objecting to their horses, and on the other, the necessity there is of coming themselves. My anxiety leads me to request a continuance of your good offices in forwarding the battalions ordered with all possible despatch. The interest of America is now in the balance, and it behooves all attached to her sacred cause, and the rights of humanity, to hold forth their utmost and most speedy aid. I am convinced nothing will be wanting in your power to effect. The situation of the Northern Army is certainly distressing, but no relief can be afforded by me. This, I am persuaded, you will readily agree to. I should suppose, if proper pre- cautions are taken; the small-pox may be prevented from spreading. This was done at Cambridge, and I trust will 107 be continued by Generals Schuyler and G‘ates, who are well apprized of the fatal consequences that may attend its infect- ing the whole Army. But a small part of the forces here have had it; were it not the case, neither policy nor prudence would allow me to send any more from hence that have seen the least of service. ‘Too many have been already detached ; to part with more would be to put all to the hazard, The retreat of the Army from Canada, | doubt not, will occasion a general alarm to the frontier inhabitants, and our enemies, without question, will use every means they have to excite the savages against them; but I would fain hope their incursions will be prevented and repelled without much difficulty. The first opportunity I have, I will transmit a copy of your letter to Congress upon this subject, and request their attention to it. I am, sir, with sentiments of great esteem, your most obe- dient humble servant, Grorce WasHINGTON. To Governour Trumbull. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD. New-York, July 7, 1776. Sir: I received your favour of the 30th ultimo, and I doubt not but the powder claimed by the Assembly of New- Hampshire was lent the Continent. ‘The exposed situation of their frontiers renders every precaution necessary for their defence. I think it would be proper to send a quantity of it to some safe place on the communication betwixt this and Boston, there to be ready in case of accident, or if it should be wanted. I therefore wish you to lodge at Norwich (which I suppose will be as secure as any other place) from three to four hundred barrels. In my letter of the Ist, I desired you to send a quantity of the Highlanders’ muskets that were taken. I pray your attention to my request, and that they may come with all possible expedition; the deficiency here in this essential article is greatly alarming. 1 am extremely sorry that your indisposition has increased, and I hope in a little time you will be relieved. It is now before Congress to determine whether the Continental Regiments at Boston should not be ordered from thence, as there is almost a moral certainty that the enemy mean not to make an attack there, but to bend their whole force against this Province. Four prisoners that fell into our hands last week, on a separate examination, agree, that General Howe, being joined by some regiments from the West-Indies, and part of the Scotch Highlanders, on his passage hither, has now about ten thou- sand men; that a few days before they left Halifax, an express packet arrived, ordering him to come to this place, where he would be joined by Admiral Howe, with a fleet of one hundred and fifty sail, with troops on board, which was about to sail when the packet did; that they are daily ex- pected, which has been the reason nothing has been yet attempted. If Congress withdraw the regiments, you will be instantly relieved; and if they do not, I must send a Gen- eral Officer (inconvenient as it is to spare one at this critical time) to take the command. I expect to know the result of their deliberations in a day or two. It will be right to comply with the order of the Board of War and Ordnance, and a list may be transmitted of the persons you have judged most proper to fill the vacancies. I am, sir, with my best wishes for your recovery, your most obedient servant, To Major-General Ward. Grorce WasHINGTON. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO WILLIAM WATSON. New-York, July 7, 1776. Sir: [received yours of the 19th ultimo, and directed the papers you wrote for to be transmitted you, but find, upon inquiry, they are not among any in my possession now. Colonel Moylan, who used generally to receive and examine the papers appertaining to the prizes, being called upon, says that previous to his departure from Cambridge, he made up all the prize papers, and ‘put them in such a channel as he thought most likely to convey them to the different agents. He supposes these were with the rest; he cannot recollect to whom they were delivered. If they cannot be got, you must try the legality of the captures upon such evidence as you can collect from the men who were in the vessels when they were taken, and from other circumstances. If they were CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 108 going to Nova-Scotia for the purpose mentioned by the claimants, f presume it will not be difficult for.them to prove it by witnesses. I am, sir, your humble servant, Grorce WasnineTon. To William Watson, Esq., Plymouth. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL JAMES CLINTON. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 7, 1776. Sir: I received yours by Major Rensselaer, and am pleased to find you are making the necessary preparations to repel the enemy in case of an attack. I hope you will be able to get arms sufficient for the men under your command who are destitute; but if not, you are to dismiss all those whom you cannot equip, (1 mean to confine myself to the Militia wholly,) as it is equally absurd and unjust to keep men in Continental pay, who will be of no service in time of action for want of arms; it is, in fact, amusing ourselves with the appearance of strength, when at the same time we want the reality. Colonel Knox informs me he has no carriages to spare, but you can have the carriage wheels, which, with the iron, will be delivered to the care of Major Rensselaer, As to the balls for the small-arms, they should be sent if the sizes could be ascertained, so as to fit the muskets exactly; but as that cannot be done, I shall order a sufficient quantity of lead to he sent up, which you will direct to be cast into balls suitable for your purpose. You must furnish the bullet moulds in the best manner you can, as there are none here. With regard to the appointment of Doctor Tappan, I would just mention, that as it is a matter transacted between you and the Provincial Congress, in which I am quite uncon- nected, I would choose it should continue so; however, by renewing your application to the Congress, you will doubt- less receive a satisfactory answer. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Grorce WasHINGToN. To Colonel James Chnton. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. New-York, July 7, 1776. GenTLemeEn: I was yesterday honoured with your favour of the 2d instant, with the proceedings you have adopted in compliance with the requisition of Congress and my appli- cation since ; for which, and your kind wishes for my success, I beg your acceptance of my most hearty thanks; and am, gentlemen, with sentiments of the greatest respect, your most obedient servant, Gronae Wise To the Hon. the General Court of Massachusetts-Bay, at Watertown. HOSPITAL REGULATIONS. Regulations agreed upon betwixt the Director-General of the American Hospital and the Regimental Surgeons and Mates at New-York, the day of July, 1776. Rule 1. That every full Regiment or Battalion, provided with a Surgeon and Mate, or each Brigade, as the occasion may point out, ought to have some convenient quarters, to be appropriated by the proper Quartermaster, for the recep- tion of such of the sick of that corps, and entitled a Regi- mental Hospital; which sick are to be attended by their own regimental Surgeons and Mates. . 2. That it shall be the business of the Surgeons and Mates in all Regiments, to examine the soldiers in the same who are reported to be unfit for duty, and to separate from the well those who are sick, and to receive them into the Regimental Hospital. 3. That they keep a Register of those who are admitted into the Regimental Hospital, containing the patient’s name, the company he belongs to, the days.of his admission into and discharge from the Hospital, (agreeable to a form annexed.) 4. That he shall make daily returns of the sick in his Regiment to the commanding officer of the same, that it may be known who are fit for duty and who are not; and that such as are on the doctor’s list may not be included in the provision return of the Regiment. 5. That the Surgeon shall every day prescribe the diet of each sick person under his care, according to the diet tables established in the General Hospital, or other suitable tables to be agreed on, under the titles of full diet, half diet, spare diet, dry diet, milk diet, &c. 109 6. That he make out and sign the provision return every day for the sick, and draw upon the Director-General of the Hospital, agreeable to the tables of diet before mentioned ; for the regulation of which, weekly returns of the number sick (in that week) shall be made out on a stated day, so that whatever the price of diet drawn for said sick shall fall short of the rations stopped from the sick during the week, so much may be drawn for their use in other stores, as wine, rum, sugar, coffee, tea, molasses, candles, soap, &e. {If that surplus of money is not sufficient, there are no other ways to supply than either to do it by stoppages of the soldier’s pay, as in the British Army, or by its being advanced by himself, or by the Colonel or the Captain of the regiment to which he belongs, and allowed in his ab- stract; the General Hospital having nothing to do with the expenses of Regimental Hospitals, and no provision for the purpose being yet made by the Congress. ] 7. That no Regimental Surgeon shall send any sick from his Regiment or Regimental Hospital to the General Hospital, without a ticket expressing the name of the sick, his Com- pany, and the Regiment to which he belongs, signed by himself or mate, .and mentioning likewise the disorder he labours under, and the time he has been ill. 8. That he send none to the General Hospital labouring under infectious, putrid, or malignant diseases; for the intro- duction of such fevers into a general hospital will only injure the person sent, and may endanger the Surgeons’ Mates and other officers, as well as all that are sick of other diseases in the General Hospital, engender the jail or hospital fever, and ruin the Army. Such sick are to be kept separate if possible, and be taken care of by the Regimental Surgeon. 9. That whatever stores or utensils may be wanted for the use of a Regimental Hospital, whether kettles to cook victuals, blankets, &c., they ought to be got from the Quar- termaster-General’s store, or procured from the same place and in the same manner as the like articles are procured for the well soldiers of the regiment: to be provided by an order from the Colonel, the Surgeon to give his receipt for and take care of the same; for the preservation of which, he may establish such regulations as he sees fit. 10. That as the medicine chest, and a number of articles, as old linen, bandages, &c., have been supplied to regiments at the voluntary motion of the Director-General of the Ge- neral Hospital, with the approbation of the Commander- in-Chief, whenever the regiments are disbanded, all such particulars are to be returned into the General Hospital ; otherwise, when new troops are levied, under the present scarcity and difficulty to procure them, it may not be practi- cable or easy to supply the Army again with those articles for another year. 11. That for every Regimental Hospital a cook ought to be allowed, to prepare the diet of the sick agreeable to the tables, or nurses who may serve for cooks, one to every ten men: the pay the same as in the General Hospital, viz: half a dollar per week, and rations allowed, (by the regiment.) 12. That each Regimental Hospital ought to have a cor- poral’s guard, or at least three men, one of which to stand sentinel at the Hospital door, to prevent the sick from leav- ing the Hospital without permission from the Surgeon, and to keep persons from going in, without orders, to disturb the sick, or carry liquor to them. ‘The other persons, whilst relieved from standing sentinel, to serve for the time as waiters, and obey the Surgeon and his Mate, in respect to any assistance which may be reasonably required in behalf of the sick. Lastly. That in all cases not provided for by the fore- going or any future regulations that may be agreed upon, the Surgeons and Mates shall observe the customs and usages of the British Army, and shall at all times obey such orders as they shall (in the way of duty) receive from the Director-General for the treatment of the sick, or for the discharge of the duties of their station. COMMITMENT OF JOHN LEWIS. New-York, July 7, 1776. John Lewis, a resident in the city of New-York, confined in the City-Hall for his drinking healths to King George and success to his fleet, and manifesting his intention to join the said fleet or the army of the enemy, against the Continental Army, by Jos. Spencer, Brig. General. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. . 110 H. GLEN TO COLONEL FONDA. Schenectady, July 7, 1776. Dear Sir: As I am at present not able to complete as many boats as the service requires, I have sent off Ernst Van Epps with three, which are all I can as yet complete, having recommended him to you to procure four batteaus for here for two trips to the Falls, as he is then to return here, after having done that work, he having tolls complete for seven boats. You will please load him with flour, for which article I am directed by Walter Livingston, Esq., to apply to you. I believe twelve barrels will be a good load. Excuse my intruding on you for batteaus, which I should not do could I get them any other way ; but the urgency is such that [ cannot avoid it. I am yours, &c., H. Guen. To Colonel Fonda. H. GLEN TO COLONEL DAYTON. Schenectady, July 7, 1776. Sir: Since I wrote to you yesterday by Lieutenant Tur- navel, of the Artillery, | have succeeded in getting some more batteau-men, whom [ have ordered to take flour from Co- lonel Fonda’s, to bring to the carrying-place; so that I hope to be able, by the time the batteaus that take up the artil- lery, &c., can return to the Falls, to have a load of provi- sions ready for them there to take to Fort Stanwix, to which place Major Barber has informed me that, on the arrival of the artillery, you were to go; so that you will please give them directions for that purpose, not to come across the carrying- place till that business is done, but then to come down -here to this place. I am, sir, yours, &c., H. Guen. To Colonel Dayton. H. GLEN TO JOHN PETRIE. y Schenectady, July 7, 1776. Sir: As a quantity of flour will be brought to the Falls for the troops above you, I am to request of you, after the same is brought over the carrying-place, to have the same put in your barn, and that you will be so good and have a lock over it, so that it is not destroyed. ‘The stay will be but short, as the batteaus that go over are to take it away as soon as they can return; the riding and your little trouble shall be paid for by, sir, yours, &c. H. Guen. To Mr. John Petrie. COLONEL HURD TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Concord, July 7, 1776. Sir: By several persons I have met with on the road coming from Coos, and by the last intelligence I can collect, [ find the inhabitants there, especially those on and near Connecticut River, from the Upper to the Lower Coos, are much more alarmed and apprehensive of danger from the enemy than we imagined; several families are already re- moved and removing from thence; among the rest, I have found Mrs. Hurd, with part of my family, here at Concord, who was advised by the most discreet of the people to leave the place, unless she could submit to live, as they must do, crowded into a garrison, and which they were all preparing for. The particulars of this, the bearer, Colonel Bayley, who goes express on the occasion, can acquaint you of, and of the very critical situation of all that part of the country; that it is of the utmost consequence the first of the reinforce- ments which can be raised should be sent into that quarter, and that immediately. It is yet uncertain whether General Sullivan has retreated to Crown-Point. There is a person in town (one Kins- man) who informs that Messrs. Gyles and Betton (whom he heard of on the road) had altered their course, and were gone for Albany, and who were at Otter Creek this day week, within twenty miles of Crown-Point. He tells us there was then no account of Sullivan’s having crossed the lake; that he was thought still to be at Isle-aux-Noix, or not far distant; and if so, it may be best that great part of the new levies should rendezvous at Coos, as at first de- signed; they might then, by ranging the woods, give some check to the enemy, and draw off part of their forces from pursuing General Sullivan’s Army, as well as to be a pro- tection to our settlers, who must otherwise desert many of their plantations and lose the benefit of the approaching 111 harvest, that is now very promising; this may be a double loss to us. I shall proceed on my journey to-morrow for Haverhill, leaving my wife here; and if anything important occurs, I will immediately advise you, but must beg leave to repeat my request, that we may have some very speedy assistance. Why may not Captain Harper’s company, if mustered, or any other first in readiness, march off for this purpose? It can be no detriment; and little out of the way, should they afterwards be ordered to Crown-Point. Shall be glad to hear something of this sort by return of Colonel Bayley, for the quiet of our people. In the mean time remain, with great esteem and respect to you and the gentlemen of the Committee of Safety, sir, your most obedient servant, J. Hurp. To the Honourable Meshech Weare, Esq. MEMORIAL FROM CONWAY, FRYBURGH, AND BROWNFIELD. To the Honourable General Court of the Colony of New- HamPsHIrReE: The memorial of the Committee of Conway, in the Coun- ty of Grafton, and Fryburgh and Brownfield, in the County of York, and Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, united, humbly showeth: That the abovesaid new Plantations, consisting of about thirty families, are situated at a place called Pig- wacket, upon Saco River, which nearly unites with a branch of the Androscoggin River, about thirty miles northerly from other settlements, and lie greatly exposed to incur- sions from the savages, by the following natural communi- cations, as frequented by the Indians that come to those places: one from Chaudiere River into Umbagog Lake, which empties itself into Androscoggin Rwer ; another from St. Francois River, into a branch of Connecticut River, and by that into Androscoggin Rwer ; another from Ken- nebeck River, by the way of Muschamucontocock, into An- droscoggin River; that these several ways are by water, except a few short carrying places, which bring them within twenty miles of these settlements; that the greatest part of these twenty miles is water carriage; that Androscoggin Rwer runs farther to the northward than the head of Con- necticut Raver ; that a party the last year was sent out from Coos to reconnoitre the woods over to Umbramagog Lake, which empties into the St. Francois River, from thence they set out eastwardly, in order to strike Connecticut River, but headed it, and struck Androscoggin River, came down that river, and came into these settlements; that last fall three men from Colonel Arnold’s party came into these settlements by the way of Androscoggin River; four or five persons from Quebeck, last May, came in here the same way. It appears that whenever the frontiers are exposed, these settlements are in danger; that from the alarming accounts we have lately received from Canada, we think it necessary to make preparation for defence; and as it is not likely we can provide ourselves with arms and ammunition without the aid of the honourable Court, therefore the me- morialists entreat the favour of the honourable Court to the application that may be made for the above purpose and for protection, if the time should come that the frontiers are in danger. And we, as in duty bound, will ever pray, &c. Ricuarp Krupaty, Chairman of Committee. Dated at Fryburgh, this 7th day of July, 1776. N. B. Last night came in here one family from the Upper Coos, and all the rest of the inhabitants are removing as fast as possible. DEPOSITION OF JARRET WILLIAMS, Fincastle, Virginia, Monday, July 8, 1776. The Deposition of Jarret Wilkams, taken before me, An- thony Bledsoe, a Justice of the Peace for the County afore- said, being first sworn on the holy Evangelists of Almighty God, deposeth and saith: That he left the Cherokee Nation on Monday night, the 8th instant, (July ;) that the part of the nation called the Overhills, were then preparing to go to war against the frontiers of Virginia, having purchased to the amount of one thousand skins, or thereabouts, for mockasins. They were also beating flour for a march, and making other warlike preparations. Their number, from a calculation made by the Raven warriors, amounts to about six hundred warriors ; and, according to the deponent’s ideas, he thinks we may CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 112 expect a general attack every hour. They propose to take away negroes, horses, &c., and to kill all kinds of cattle, sheep, &c., for which purpose they are well stocked with bows and arrows, &c.; also to destroy all corn, burn houses, &c. And he also heard, that the valley towns were, a part of them, set off; but that they had sent a runner to stop them, till all were ready to start. He further relates, that Alew- ander Cameron informed them that he had concluded to send Captain Nathaniel Guest, William Faulin, Isaac Williams, and the deponent, with the Indians, till they came near to. Nanachukey ; then the Indians were to stop, and Guest and the other whites abovementioned were to go to see if there were any King’s men among the inhabitants ; and if they found any, they were to take them off to the Indians, or have a white signal in their hands, or otherwise, to distinguish them. When this was done, they were to fall on the inhabi- tants, and kill and drive all they possibly could. That on Saturday, the 6th instant, in the night, he heard two pri- soners were brought in about midnight; but the deponent saw only one. That the within Walliams saw one scalp brought ~ by a party of the Indians, with a prisoner; but from ac- counts, they had five scalps. He also says, that he heard the prisoner examined by Cameron, though he gave a very im- perfect account, being very much cast down. He further says, that the Cherokees had received the war-belt from the Shawanese, Mingo, Taawah, and Delaware Nations, to strike the white people; that fifteen of the said nation were lately in the Cherokee towns, and that few of the Cherokees went in company with the Shawanese,&c. ‘That they all intended to strike the settlers on Kentucky ; and that the Cherokees gave the said Shawanese, &c., fourscalpsof white men, which they carried away with them. The said Shaw- anese and Mingoes informed the Cherokees, that they then were at peace with every other nation; that the French were to supply them with ammunition, and that they wanted the Cherokees to join them to strike the white people on the frontiers, which the Cherokees have agreed to. And the deponent further saith, that before he left the nation a num- ber of the Cherokees of the lower towns were gone to fall on the frontiers of South-Carolina and Georgia ; and further ith not. saith no JaRRET WiLLIAMs. Antuony BLEpsoe. Signed before DR. C. WIESENTHALL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 8, 1776. Gentiemen: In all the troops which designed, or are taking the field, there is a necessity fora medical department abstract from that of the battalion, and which is committed to the superintendency of a physician or surgeon-general, or director-in-chief, who has the care of the hospitals, and gives the proper directions thereof, as well as to the troops in general. This was that station I meant when I accepted the service ; very well knowing, as surgeon in common, several might be had to fill that station, because during engagements, they chiefly act in dressing wounds, &c., where very little art is necessary ; but after the removal of the wounded to the hos- pital, the proper applications are made. The first surgeon of a battalion or regiment is called Surgeon-Major, and his province goes no farther than his battalion, only except he is contiguous to the hospital, and has time, then he assists his men belonging to the battalion. You were pleased, gentlemen, to give me a commission of first surgeon of Colonel Smallwood’s battalion only, which I accepted, with the promise of having it laid before the Con- vention in order to increase the salary adequate to the above- mentioned station. I have acted all along in that station according to the extent of the circumstances. I have taken and caused to be taken care of the sick of the ship Defence as often as they left the harbour. I have advised and visited them when in harbour. I have even twice furnished them with a surgeon in absence of their own. ‘The Militia when called to town made likewise application during their stay. Several instances more might be mentioned, but the above will be sufficiently convincing, and leave the method to your consideration, being, with the greatest respect, gentlemen, your most humble and most obedient servant, C. WirsenTHALL. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. 113 COL. HOLLINGSWORTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Elk, 7 o’clock, July 8, at Evening. Sir: Yours of the 7th per express is now before me. Every requisite necessary shall be provided for expediting the troops with despatch. Could wish something had been said regarding provisions, as I am now at a loss whether to provide or not ; and am, sir, your most obedient humble ser- vant, H. Hotiineswortu. To Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. COLONEL TYLER TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 8, 1776. GenTLEMEN: You have, enclosed, a list of the arms in my battalion. Iam informed by Major Williams, who ex- ‘amined the guns, that all those said to be in good order are such as the owners would choose to make use of in case of an emergency. By this return, the guns in the battalion amount to no more than three hundred and fifty-one, which I am sorry to hear are so few; however, the many good ones make amends. I have further to inform you, that for the sake of satisfy- ing the people, I allowed them to choose a second Major, who is wanting, from the resignation of Colonel Joshua Beall, and that Captain John McGill had the voice of a very great majority. 1 therefore recommend him as very worthy your -notice, and hope you will appoint him to that command. I beg you will send commissions of Mr. Williams’s, Mr. Snow- den’s, and my promotions, by Mr. Millikin, who has the care of this letter. Iam, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Rosert Tyter. JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, Sunday afternoon, July 8, 1776. Sirs: At the request of Mr. Purviance, I have sent down three vessels that will carry three companies of the soldiers to Elk, or where they may be wanted. I do this at his request, not doubting but it may be right, as he says you desire it. But please when you want anything done by me, write a line, as I could tell better how to proceed, and with greater certainty. I shall finish unloading the brigs to-mor- row ; but the delay was owing to the owners not beginning at your first request. From your friend and humble servant, Jesse HoLiineswortu. P. S. I am to pay for each of these vessels 17s. 6d. per day, and they find them in hands and provisions. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MATTHIAS HAMMOND. {No. 7.] Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Sir: Two companies of Colonel Hall’s battalion will be immediately ordered to the city of Annapolis, for its defence, agreeable to a resolution of Convention. And as it will be proper that you, as Quartermaster, should provide quarters and provision for them, we have thought fit to give you this early information of it, that you may adjust matters accord- ingly ; the service requires expedition, and that not a mo- ment should be lost in taking the necessary measures. We are, &c. To Mat. Hammond, Quartermaster. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO STEPHEN STEWART. {No. 8.} Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Sir: The Council of Safety will take Mr. Sprigg’s ves- sel if you are of opinion that she will make a fast sailer, draw little water, and suit this Province as an armed vessel, of which please to advise us in writing; and request she may be got ready with the utmost despatch. We hope and ex- pect a fortnight will complete her. When can you set off for the Eastern-Shore to examine the vessels which are offered as suitable for the purpose? We want them. You pro- mised to be with us on Friday, but we did not understand whether you could immediately go over the bay. This mat- ter requires despatch, and we beg your immediate answer. If you can go, we shall be much pleased ; if you cannot go, do you know any one who would be proper to send on that business? We are, &c. To Mr. Stephen Stewart. Firta Series.—Vot. I. 8 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 114 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL DORSEY. [No. 9.] Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Sir: You will see by the enclosed resolve that the Con- vention have directed the place of the regulars that are to march from hence to Philadelphia should be supplied by three companies of the neighbouring Militia till the Militia for the Flying-Camp can be got ready. The Council of Safety have thought proper to order a company of your bat- talion to march down here immediately, and we desire you will despatch them with the utmost expedition. We expect a sufficient number of the Militia for the Flying-Camp will be raised in a very short time to supply the place of yours, with the other companies which shall be discharged, as soon as possible. Colonels Weems and Hammond are now with us, and intend that the company they are respectively to furnish shall be composed out of the whole battalion com- panies if wholly ordered out, may be much distressed and very indifferently armed. We are, &c. To Colonel Thomas Dorsey. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THOMAS SMYTH. [No. 10.] Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Sir: The Council of Safety request you will agree with Blake for the cartridge-boxes, &c. The price of the whole is twelve shillings, but we cannot ascertain individually, not having yet been furnished with the contracts by Mr. Alez- ander, who made them. We are, &c. To Thomas Smyth, Esq. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CHARLES RIDGELY. [No. 11.] Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Str: We have immediate occasion, on account of the Pro- vince, for some swivels and small cannon, from four-pounders downwards, and shall (as we are informed your furnace is in blast) be very glad to know whether you can cast them. If you can, be pleased to let us know the terms, and by what time you can furnish us with them. We are, &c. To Messrs. Charles Ridgely and John Weston, respectively. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS. [No. 12.] Annapolis, July 8, 1776. GentLEmEN: The Convention have ordered that the sum of ten thousand pounds be appropriated to fortify the city of Annapolis, and to place obstructions in the river Severn; but as we have not, nor know of an Engineer properly qualified to carry on. the works, and your station may perhaps afford you an opportunity of assisting us with one, we beg you will make inquiry for and recommend to us some person of knowledge and experience in that science. We are anxious to comply with the resolve of Convention, as Annapolis is very unde- fensible ; and we presume, from its advantageous situation, will be an object with theenemy. We aresothronged with business that we cannot now write you fully, but will as soon as we have a little leisure. As the conveniences may not be provided for Colonel Smallwood and the troops by the time they reach Philadelphia, we request you will give him all the assistance you can. We send you, enclosed, a re- solve of our Convention, relating to our regular forces, which we desire you will communicate to the Brigadier-General of, the Flying-Camp. We are, &c. To the Deputies for Maryland in Congress. P. S. We take the liberty of recommending Captain Stricker to you, as a person fora field officer in the German. battalion, and think the service will be benefited by his ap- pointment. If he should be commissioned, the sooner it is done the better, as it will probably be a great inducement to his countrymen to inlist. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY tO ROBERT ALEXANDER. [No. 13.] Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Str: The Council of Safety are much at aloss in respect to the contracts made by you in Baltimore; they have written to you several times to transmit them, but have never had_ the pleasure to receive them or a line from you on the sub- ject. ‘There is a real necessity for their being lodged here,. 115 as some of the artificers do not comply with their contracts ; and we are subject to two inconveniences—the ignorance of the real contract, and the want of power to enforce it. We are, &c. To Robert Alexander, Esq. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee, July 8, 1776: Present: iS. Purviance, Chairman, William Lux, Vice Chairman, J. Calhoun, W. Aisquith, A. Brittain, Andrew Buchanan, B. Nicholson, Charles Ridgely of William, Z. McCubbin, T. Sollers, and J. Griest. Messrs. Selah Barbon and James Seddon applied to this Committee to be released from the fines assessed on them as Non-Enrollers, as they had now enrolled with Captain Cromwell; which was granted. On representation of Richard Taylor that he was fined £10, which he is utterly unable to pay, without greatly distressing his family of a wife and seven children, the Com- mittee, taking the same into consideration, agreed to remit £5 of said fine. An express arrived from the Council of Safety with copies of a Letter from the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., Presi- dent of the Congress, to the Convention of Maryland, dated the 4th July, advising of the arrival of General Howe, with a considerable Army, at Staten-Island, and requesting, in the most earnest manner, the march of the Militia voted by this Colony for the Flying-Camp. Also, several Resolves of the Convention of this Province, dated 6th July, among which is a resolve that two Companies of Germans be raised in this County, to consist of one Captain, two Lieutenants, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drummer, and seventy-six Privates, and that the Committee recommend the Officers of said Companies, and certify the same to the Council of Safety. Resolved, That this Committee will meet on Thursday, the 11th instant, and that publick notice be given thereof, in order that all those who are desirous of commissions may apply. Attested : Grorce Lux, Secretary., PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Sir: I do myself the honour of enclosing sundry resolves of Congress, to which I beg leave to refer your attention, and which are so explicit that I need not enlarge. In obedience to the commands of Congress, I have written to Generals Schuyler and Gates, and have recommended a mutual confidence and harmony in their military operations. Their joint labour and exertions are requisite in that quarter ; nor have I the least doubt but they will act on all occasions with the most perfect unanimity. You will please to appoint suitable places of rendezvous for the battalions raising for Canada, and communicate the same to the Assemblies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts- Bay, Connecticut, and New-York, and also to issue orders for supplying the men with rations, tents, month’s advance pay, and other necessaries. [ am so pressed for time, that I can only add that I am, most truly, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington. P. S. The enclosed please forward to General Schuyler and General Gates. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Sir: In consequence of your letter to General Washing- ton, stating that a difference of opinion had arisen between General Gates and yourself with regard to the command of the troops in the Northern Department, I am to inform you that Congress have this day taken the matter into considera- tion, and directed me to transmit the enclosed resolution. You will there perceive that it was the intention of Con- gress to give General Gates the command while the troops were in Canada, but no longer. As they think it expedient he should still continue to act with you, | am most earnestly CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 116 to recommend to you to cultivate a harmony in your military operations. ‘The Congress highly approve of your patriotism and magnanimity in not suffering any difference of opinion to hurt the publick service. A mutual confidence and good understanding are at this time so essentially necessary, that I am persuaded they will take place on all occasions between yourself and General Gates, and that by your joint exertions in the cause of free- dom, your country will receive the most essential benefits, I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Schuyler, Albany or elsewhere. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL GATES. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Sir: The Congress being informed by letter from Gene- ral Schuyler to General Washington, which was laid before . them at the request of the former, and by your own consent, that a difference of opinion had arisen between General Schuyler and yourself, with regard to the command of the . Army in the Northern Department, they immediately took the matter into consideration, and have this day come to the enclosed resolution, which I do myself the honour of trans- mitting in obedience to their commands, You will there perceive that Congress are of opinion your command was totally independent of General Schuyler while. the Army was in Canada, but no longer; and, indeed, the terms in which the resolve relative to your appointment is conceived, seem to show that this was their intention. You were expressly, by that resolve, to take the command of the troops in Canada ; words which strongly imply that they had no design to divest General Schuyler of the command while the troops were on this side Canada. I am, however, to inform you that Congress highly ap- prove your resolution and magnanimity that the publick service should receive no detriment from any difference of opinion on the occasion. It is their most earnest desire that you will go on to act in the same manner, and cultivate har- mony in all your military operations. A good understand- ing and mutual confidence are so essentially necessary .in order to give success to our measures, that I] am convinced they will take place on all occasions between you. He de- serves most of his country, and will undoubtedly meet with the greatest applause, in whatever rank or station he may be, who renders her the most useful and signal services. __ I have the honour to be, sir, with great respect and esteem, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Gates. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL ROBERDEAU. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Sir: I have it in charge from Congress to direct that you do not order Captain Peters out of this city, his service being necessary as Secretary to the War Office. Tam also to inform you that the Postmasters, while in office, are excused, by order of Congress, from all military duty. I am, sir, with respect, your most obedient and very hum- ble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Gen. Roberdeau, commanding officer in Philadelphia. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO JAMES MEASE. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Sir: I have it in charge from the Congress, to direct that you pay one month’s advance to such of the Militia as will engage to serve in the Flying-Camp ; which you will please to notice accordingly. I am, with respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Hancock, President. To James Mease, Esq., Commissary and Paymaster, Phila- delphia. ‘ PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO REV. JACOB DUCHE. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Sir: It is with the greatest pleasure I inform you that the Congress have been induced, from a consideration of your 117 piety, as well as your uniform and zealous attachment to the rights of America, to appoint you their Chaplain. — It is their request, which Lam commanded to signify to you, that you will attend on them every morning at nine o'clock. _ I have the honour to be, sir, with respect, your most obe- dient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Rev. Mr. Jacob Duché. JOSEPH HEWES TO SAMUEL JOHNSTON. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Dear Sir: I have received your favours of the 23d May, and 6th and 11th of June. The first of these came last to hand. I have not had an opportunity to forward your Jetter to Elmsly. Tryon is not to be trusted with it. I send it by some vessel bound to France or Spain. I cannot find out any other way of conveyance, and that is very precarious. [ shall endeavour to get for you a proper account of the linen manufactory here. I have been several times at it, but have not been hitherto fortunate enough to meet with any of the directors. I expect, in the course of our political convulsions with Great Britain, I shall be rendered incapa- ble of holding any share in any publick manufactory for want of stock. [I will think of it when [ get home, which I hope will be towards the end of August. I received a letter from your Committee of Secrecy, War and Intelligence, respecting the expediency of fortifying the ‘harbour of Cape-Lookout. I laid the matter before a com- mittee of Congress appointed to consider what places were proper to be fortified; but before they consider and make report thereon, it is absolutely necessary that they should have a plan or map of the harbour, with proper explanations and descriptions. These should be taken by an engineer on the spot, who should form a plan of the fortifications neces- sary to be made, and the expense that would attend the erection of them. I have written to Mr. Harnett twice on this subject; but as I have reason to believe many letters miscarry, | now mention the matter to you, in hopes you will endeavour to prevail on the Council of Safety to get the matter done as early as possible. I find a disposition in most of the Members of Congress to grant to our Province all that can be reasonably expected. It is not in their power to assist us at present with cannon; but as several forges are beginning to cast twelve and eighteen-pounders, I hope towards winter they will not only have it in their power, but be heartily disposed to assist us with some heavy pieces to put into such places as may be thought most advisable. This is all you can expect—tt is all that is done in the like cases. ‘The work must be done at your own expense, or by such Continental troops as may be in the Province for the time being. I give you this as my opinion. Perhaps they may do more for our Province: it stands high in rank and high in estimation. I wish it may be able to support its good character in future. A hellish plot has been lately discovered at New-York to murder General Washington and some other officers of the first rank, blow ap the magazine, and spike up the can- non. ‘The persons employed had it in charge, and have actually inlisted a number of men for the King’s Army. It was to have been put in execution on the first arrival of the Army from Halifax. One of General Washington’s guards has been put to death for being concerned in it. The Mayor of the city, and some others, are confined. I believe many of them are guilty. It is said the matter has been traced up to Governour Tryon. What has become of my friend Hooper? I expected to have seen him here ere now; otherwise I should have written to him respecting some of his connexions at Boston, who are like to suffer by having property in the hands of Tories who have fled from that country. My friend Penn came time enough to give his vote for Independence. I send you the Declaration of Independence enclosed. All the Colonies voted for it, except New- York. That Colony was prevented from joining in it by an old instruction. Their Convention meets this day, and it is expected they will follow the example of the other Colonies. { had the weight of North- Carolina on my shoulders within a day or two of three months. The service was too severe. I have set some days from six in the morning till five and CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 118 My health was bad; such close attention made it worse. I nevertheless obstinately persisted in doing my duty to the best of my judgment and abilities, and attended Congress the whole time, one day only excepted. ‘This I did con- trary to the repeated solicitations of my friends, some of whom I believe thought I should not be able to keep soul and body together to this time. Duty, inclination, and sel{-preserva- tion call on me now to make a little excursion into the coun- try to see my mother. ‘This is a duty which | have not allowed myself time to perform during almost nine months that I have been here. General Howe and his Army are in the neighbourhood of New- York, sometimes on shore on Staten-Island, and some- times on board the fleet. It is thought that he has not more than seven or eight thousand men with him. He is waiting for Lord Howe’s fleet to arrive, when he expects to be joined by twenty thousand men. All the regiments in Continen- tal pay, that were raised in this Province, are now at New- York and on the lakes. Six thousand Militia from this Pro- vince, and three thousand four hundred from Maryland, will march in a few days towards New-York. ‘The Jersey Mi- litia are all in motion. I fear these Colonies will suffer greatly for want of labourers to get in the harvest. Some people are of opinion that many fields of wheat will remain unreaped, and be totally lost. Our northern Army has left Canada and retreated to Ticonderoga and Crown-Point. The small-pox has made great havock among them. Seve- ral regiments had not well men enough to row the sick over the lakes. Men were drafted from other regiments to do that service. In short, that army has melted away in as little time as if the destroying angel had been sent on pur- pose to demolish them, as he did the children of Israel. We are endeavouring to get the lakes fortified in the best manner we can, to prevent Burgoyne from passing them and entering the Colonies on that side. A paper has been privately laid on the Congress table, importing that some dark designs were forming for our de- struction, and advising us to take care of ourselves. Some were for examining the cellars under the room where we sit. I was against it, and urged that we ought to treat such information with contempt, and not show any mark of fear or jealousy. I told some of them I had almost as soon be blewn up, as to discover to the world that I thought myself in danger. No notice has been taken of this piece of inform- ation, which I think is right. I enclose you a resolve of Congress, which please to for- ward to your Council of Safety. I also enclose a letter to Mr. Burke. If you can do anything for the gentlemen who subscribe it, I hope you will do it. They are my friends, and friends to America. I sent you a commission of this kind some time ago; you have not mentioned it in any of your letters. I will trespass no longer on your patience. Remember me to your family and connexions; and be assured I am, ° with affection and regard, dear sir, your most obedient ser- vant, JosepH Hewes. To Samuel Johnston, Esq. P.S. I copy no letters—take them with all their imper- fections. THOMAS JEFFERSON TO RICHARD HENRY LEE. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. Dear Sir: For news I refer you to your brother, who writes on that head. I enclose you a copy of the Declara- tion of Indeperidence, as agreed to by the House, and also as originally framed. You will judge whether it is the better or worse for the criticks. 1 shall return to Virginia after the 11th of August. I wish my successor may be certain to come before that time; in that case I shall hope to see you, and not Wythe, in Convention, that the business of Government, which is of everlasting concern, may receive your aid. Adieu, and believe me to be your friend and servant, Tuomas JEFFERSON. To Richard Henry Lee, Esq. WILLIAM WHIPPLE TO JOHN LANGDON. . Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. My pear Sir: Yours of the 24th ultimo I have received... sometimes six in the afternoon, without eating or drinking. It grieved me that the frigates cannot be got to sea, which I, * 119 am sensible they might before this, had proper attention been paid to cannon in season. I have been a long time endea- vouring to draw the attention of the Committee to the regu- lation of the Navy, but hitherto without success. The present establishment certainly needs amendment, but busi- ness is so exceedingly pressing that it is impossible to form a judgment when it will be done. In my opinion a purser is a necessary officer; but as no provision is made for a purser, I think it necessary you should appoint a steward. I submit it to you whether it would not be best to appoint a man that would do for a purser, as the wages at present are much higher than will be allowed for stewards if pursers are established. I must’refer you to the papers for news, as time just now is very precious. The Declaration will no doubt give you pleasure. It will be published next Thursday at the head of the Army at New-York. I am told it is to be published this day in form in this city. As I am obliged to catch leisure minutes to write, perhaps something may turn up between this and to-morrow morn- ing ; if so, shall give it you. Governour-Hopkins, who has the direction of matters respecting the cannon at Providence, promises me that he will order the cannon for the Raleigh to be sent from thence immediately, provided the Commit- tee there think that the furnaces will be able to cast more for those ships by the time they will be ready to receive them. So you may expect to hear from thence on this sub- ject. General Howe has landed part of his Army on Staten- Island, which you know was not in General Washington’s power to prevent; however, the Jersey and Pennsylvania Militia, with three thousand from Maryland, are now on their march, and will soon form a very formidable army on this side Hudson’s River, and General Washington has, by this time, got twenty thousand men at York, including the Militia of York and Connecticut. I cannot help flattering myself that all this, with the smiles of Providence, will en- able us to give a good account of these fellows before the campaign is over. I assure you the people here begin to feel themselves. Governour Franklin is sent to Connecticut for his good behaviour. I am, with great truth, sincerely yours, ‘ Wituiam Waieri I hope you will take care that the Declaration is properly treated. Colonel Bartlett desires his compliments, and that you will excuse his writing, as he is much engaged. Philadelphia, July 8, 1776. This day the Committee of Safety and the Committee of Inspection went in procession to the State-House, where the Declaration of the Independency of the United States of America was read to a very large number of the inhabi- tants of this City and County, which was received with gene- ral applause and heartfelt satisfaction ; and in the evening our late King’s Coat-of-Arms was brought from the Hall, in the State-House, where the said King’s Courts were formerly held, and burnt, amidst the acclamations of a crowd of ‘spectators. Easton, Northampton County, July 8, 1776. This day, the Declaration of Independency was received here, and proclaimed in the following order: 'The Colonel, and all other Field-Officers of the First Battalion, repaired to the Court-House, the Light-Infantry company marching there with drums beating, fifes playing, and the Standard, (the device for which is the Thirteen United Colonies,) which was ordered to be displayed; and after that the De- claration was read aloud to a great number of spectators, who gave their hearty assent with three loud huzzas, and cried out, “‘ May God long preserve and unite the Free and Independent States of America.” Trenton, July 8, 1776. The Declaration of Independence was this day proclaimed here, together with the new Constitution of the Colony, of late established, and the resolve of the Provincial Congress for continuing the administration of justice during the inte- rim. ‘The members of the Provincial Congress, the gentle- .men of the Committee, the officers and privates of the Militia, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 120 under arms, and a large concourse of the inhabitants attend- ed on this great and solemn occasion.. The Declaration and other proceedings were received with loud acclamations. The people are now convinced, of what we ought long sincerto have known, that our enemies have left us no mid- dle way between perfect freedom and abject slavery. In the field, we trust, as well as in council, the inhabitants of New-Jersey will be found ever ready to support the freedom and independence of America. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. . Elizabethtown, July 8, 1776. Sir: On examining Bergen-Neck I found some stock of black cattle and horses still remained there; and that some families on the point held an intercourse with the enemy. Colonel Ford assured me he would have all those removed to-day. His force amounts to no more than three hundred and fifty, and those begin to be dissatisfied at remaining on _ duty, while the Militia of the neighbourhood are dismissed. After leaving proper guards at the ferries of Hackensack and Passaick, there is not a number sufficient in this quarter to reinforce the party on Bergen-Neck to five hundred. We are informed of a body of Militia being on the march from Pennsylvania. On their arrival | shall order part of them to Bergen-Neck. I hope for instructions as to the destination of them generally. Colonel Putnam has directed some works for the defence of Elizabethtown-Ferry, and adjacent approaches to this place.. No ground from thence to Newark-Bay will serve for erecting a battery. On the Bergen shore the land is proper, but the channel is so wide that little advantage will accrue as to guarding that bay. The boats and canoes along this shore to Amboy are re- moved up the creeks, and secured under guards. One William Ash, with his wife and family, taken last Tuesday, on their way from York to Newark, came in to- day from Staten-Island, by a pass from General Howe, Their intelligence coincides with what we had formerly, that the number of the enemy amounts to nine or ten thou- sand; they lie cantoned in the farmers’ houses along the shores of the Island, slack on their guards and no intrench- ments. The frigate that lay some days’ ago in Princess- Bay was this morning under sail, making towards the town of Amboy. I intend for that place to-day. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To His Excellency General Washington. EXAMINATION OF WILLIAM ASH, FROM STATEN-ISLAND. July 8, 1776. He left New-York last Tuesday morning, in a boat bound to Paulus-Hook, commanded by Joseph Harcomb, belonging to New-York. Instead of landing him at Paulus Hook, he would go over the Bay to the Kills. When examinant saw the tender, he told the boatman it was a tender; the boatman said it was the Amboy privateer, and immediately a gun fired, when the boatman dropped sail and came to. Captain Dickinson, of the Greyhound, came aboard, and told them that all the passengers should go ashore, but the boatman was to stay. They went on shore next morning, where they were kindly treated. General Howe lives in Mr. Bancker’s house, but Mr. Bancker is sent on board a man-of-war. Their numbers were reported to be between eight and nine thou- sand men. ‘The men appeared to be hearty. They could get no provision but a little pickled pork, which cost them seven pence per pound. ‘That the Jersey people had taken off all the cattle, and there was nothing to be had. He thinks if they cannot get provisions from somewhere else they must starve. No vegetables to be had; even the Gen- eral could get none. He saw Doctor Mallet, Oliver De Lancey, Stephen De Lancey, one Prior, a carpenter, Bar- row, Cortlandt Skinner, Major Bayard, one Perry, ( Yates’s clerk,) and one Troup, with red hair; and others whom he knew. George Barnes and Richard Lawrence appeared violent against him. Governour Tryon was at Cuckold’s Town on Saturday last, inlisting men. He was to inlist thirteen hundred men from Long-Island and Staten-Island, who were to be joined by thirteen hundred regulars, who were to be left for the 121 defence of the Island. ‘They looked for the reinforcement every day. Some say they are to land on Long-Island, and others that they are to run up by New-York. His pass is signed by C. Cuyler, aid-de-camp. General Howe suffered him, with his wife and children, to come off this morning. ‘They have four field-pieces at Decker’s, and two more, with two howitzers, opposite Bergen-Point. * A boy and a Nantasket Indian were killed, and some wounded from Bergen shore; but the Captain was not killed, he having seen him since. He heard that both the boy and Indian were prisoners. The Indian had both his feet shot off. A person told him that a number of them on the Island had got together and burned forty pounds in Con- tinental money, damning the Congress, and saying that they had nothing more to do with the Congress, A man told him he was present when Governour Tryon offered one hundred dollars for Justice Mercereau, dead or alive. Richard Lawrence is made a collector, as he was told. The Governour told them, at a meeting in Cuck- old’s Town, that if they could not subdue New-York they would burn it, and never give them the liberty of building there again, but would build a city on Staten-Island; that he had liberty to go where he pleased, and found the men very thick along shore in every house, but no lines or breast- works anywhere, not even round the General’s quarters. COLONEL GALBRAITH TO LANCASTER COMMITTEE. Elizabethtown, July 8, 1776. Gentiemen: In pursuance of your resolve of the 5th instant, we do certify that Wilkam Hay was unanimously chosen (by the volunteers) Captain; Robert Clerk, First Lieutenant ; Patrick Hays, Second Lieutenant; William Patterson, Third Lieutenant ;—officers for the company draughted from our battalion to form, in part, the six thousand Militia Flying-Camp, whom we do recommend to you for their further appointment ; and are, gentlemen, your humble servants, Bartrem Garsraitu, Colonel. ALEXANDER Lowrey, Lieutenant- Colonel. James Cunnincuam, Major. To the Standing Committee of Observation and Inspection, Lancaster. LEWIS OGDEN TO JOHN JAY. Newark, July 8, 1776. GenTLEeMEN: I have just now received the order from our Congress, of which the enclosed is a copy; and inform you thereof, that we may correspond and cooperate, as the execution of the trust reposed in us may require. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Lewis Ogpen. To John Jay and Gouverneur Morris, Esquires, at New- York. GENERAL HOWE TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE. Staten-Island, July 8, 1776. My Lorn: Having yesterday submitted to the Admiral’s consideration the propriety of sending a naval force up the North River, above the town of New-York, with a view to distress the Rebels on that Island, by obstructing supplies coming down the river, and other good consequences de- pendent upon that measure, which meeting with his appro- bation, orders are given for two ships, (one of forty, and another of twenty guns,) to proceed upon that service the first favourable opportunity; and I flatter myself that these ships, more than which cannot be spared at present from the protection of the transports, will prove of sufficient force to support themselves against all attempts of the enemy from the upper river, and to answer the purposes for which they are intended. Several men have come over to this Island, and to the ships, since my letter of yesterday; and, by a newspaper of the 6th, I learn that the Continental Congress, on the Tues- day preceding, had declared the United Colonies free and independent States. ‘The same paper mentions, that thirty sail of transports, a fifty-gun ship, and several small ships- of-war, had got over Charlestown Bar, in South-Carolina, without specifying the time, or any circumstance in conse- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. f 122 quence, besides a summons for the town to surrender, which was rejected. Having no better authority for this intelli- gence than the newspaper, I decline making any observa- tions upon it; and have the honour to be, &c., W. Howe. Admiralty-Office, August 10, 1776. By a letter received this day from Vice-Admiral Lord Shuldham, dated Staten-Island, near New-York, the 8th of July last, it appears that his Lordship arrived there on the 3d of that month, with his Majesty’s ships under his com- mand, and the whole fleet of transports, victuallers, and store-ships, under his convoy, without any loss or separation ; that his Majesty’s troops, under the command of General Howe, were landed, on that day and the next, upon Staten- Island, without any opposition or interruption, the inhabitants having, immediately on the troops landing, surrendered, and put themselves under the protection of his Majesty’s arms; that two hundred of the inhabitants were imbodied ; that the whole Island had taken the oath of allegiance and fidelity to the King ; and that‘a party of sixty men, with their arms, had made their escape from the Province of New-Jersey, and joined the King’s troops. . The arrival of Lord Howe, and the reinforcement under Commodore Hotham, were daily expected at Staten-Island, Lord Shuldham having stationed his cruisers in the most proper manner to fall in with and direct them thither. GOVERNOUR TRYON TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE. Dutchess of Gordon, off Staten-Island, July 8, 1776. My Lorp: I have the satisfaction to acquaint your Lord- ship of the arrival of the fleet under the command of Ad- miral Shuldham in this port, on the 29th ultimo, and that General Howe disembarked the troops under his command on Staten-Island, the 2d instant, without opposition, on which occasion the inhabitants of the Island came down to welcome the arrival of their deliverers, and have since afforded the Army every supply and accommodation in their power. On Saturday last I received the Militia of the Island at Richmond town, where near four hundred appeared, who cheerfully, on my recommendation, took the oath of alle- giance and fidelity to his Majesty. ‘To-morrow, I am to have another muster, for the inlistment of volunteers to form a Provincial Corps for the defence of the Island, as the Ge- neral finds it an important quarter to hold against the Rebels. This testimony, given by the inhabitants of the Island, of loyalty to his Majesty, and attachment to his Government, I flatter myself will be general through the Province, as soon as the King’s Army gets the main body of the Rebels between them and the sea, which will leave all the back country open to the command of the King’s friends, and yield a plentiful resource of provisions for the Army, and place them in a better situation to cut off the Rebels’ retreat, when forced from their stronghold. In the promotion of general officers in America, I do not find it has been his Majesty’s pleasure to employ me in this country in my military character. I shall, however, do everything in my power, in my civil capacity, to promote his Majesty’s service. The fortifications in and about New-York have, I am told, undergone little change since the enclosed observations were delivered. Every matter of further information I have laid before General Howe since his arrival, as they came to my knowledge. I am, with great respect, my Lord, your Lordship’s most obedient servant, Wiis Tryon. To Lord George Germaine. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR TRYON. Whitehall, May 17, 1776. Sir: Since my letter to you of the 28th March, I have not received any of your despatches, nor have I any com- mands of his Majesty to signify to you; but I have the satis- faction to acquaint you that the embarkation of the troops destined for the reinforcement of General Howe’s Army have succeeded so happily, that the corps of Highlanders sailed from the Clyde the 29th of last month, and the first division of the Hesstans were clear of the Channel on the 10th instant, and we are in hourly expectation of the arrival at 123 ; Spithead of the remainder of that ‘body, which has been some time on board the transports in the Wesel. So large a reinforcement will, I trust, enable General Howe to open the campaign with advantage, and to strike some blow which will give spirit and vigour to the friends of Government, and incite them to take an active and resolute part in freeing themselves from that cruel oppression under which they have so long groaned. The Province of New-York will certainly be a main object of the General’s attention; and as | am not without hopes that before this letter comes to your hands you will have the satisfaction of seeing him, it is unnecessary for me to acquaint you further with the operations which are in- tended to be carried on in that Province. I shall therefore only add my most hearty wishes for their success, and that they may, in their issue, restore the blessings of peace and legal Government to his Majesty’s faithful subjects. Lam, &c., Gerorce GERMAINE. To Governour Tryon. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR TRYON. Whitehall, June 11, 1776. Sm: Your several despatches by the Swallow packet, numbered from one to nine inclusive, and two private letters dated the 17th April, were received at my office the 3d instant, and I immediately laid them before the King. The intelligence contained in the papers you transmit with these despatches is of the greatest importance ; and although you do not say what degree of credit ought to be given to it, yet, as the accounts stated to have been received at New- York of the Rebels’ having met with a second repulse at Quebeck are corroborated by many circumstances, and par- ticularly by the measures they have taken for strengthening their posts on the frontiers, we flatter ourselves that the first vessel which arrives from Quebeck will bring a confirm- ation of this good news. I will not, however, anticipate the consequences of an event which is not yet confirmed ; but if it proves to be only in part as favourable as your in- telligence represents, I shall have little doubt that our opera- tions on that side will have all the success we could wish, and that Crown Point and Ticonderoga will be restored to his Majesty’s possession before the campaign is ended. It was to have been expected that the departure of the troops from Boston would turn the attention of the Rebels to New-York; but I trust General Howe has ere this fixed his Head-Quarters in that city, and that he will soon find himself in sufficient force to drive the Rebels out of the Pro- vince, and give effectual protection to his Majesty’s loyal sub- jects; and I will hope that not only those who have adhered to their duty, but even many who have been misled into a con- currence with the Rebels in some of their measures, will be induced to take up arms and join the King’s standard, from a just sense of the dreadful consequences which they have experienced, and which must ever follow a departure from the mode of government established by the Constitution, and an opposition to lawful authority. Your influence and advice at such a time must be attended with the happiest effects, and lam commanded by the King to repeat to you his Majesty’s great satisfaction in your con- tinuance in your Government ; and that the firm and pru- dent conduct you have persevered in, notwithstanding all the difficulties you have encountered and the hazards to which you have been exposed, is very much approved by the King, The facility with which Lieutenants Campbell and Grant have inlisted men at New-York is a very pleasing proof of the good disposition of the people to return to their duty, if they were assured they might do it with safety; and I doubt not General Howe will reward the diligence of those officers, by continding them in the command of the companies they have raised. But I must acquaint you, that in this instance, as well as in all others which may occur, the officers who are appointed to command corps raised in America, are to be on the same footing in respect to rank as the Provincial troops employed in the last war; and that they are neither to expect rank in the army after their reduction, in conse- quence of such commissions, or to be entitled to half-pay. I should be very glad to show every attention to your recom- mendation, but, from what I have told you in respect to the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 124 Lieutenants Campbell and Grant, you will readily perceive the difficulties which oppose themselves in the way of Cap- tain Stevenson’s request. Two hundred copies of the pamphlet you mentioned in your letter of the 6th April, will be sent to you with this despatch by the packet; and I shall order five thousand - more to be put on board the first ships that sail from hence for New-York. Iam, &c., Geo. Germaine. To Governour Tryon. P. S. When I was closing my letter Major Caldwell arrived express from Quebeck, with the account of the raising the siege, which you will see in the enclosed Gazette Extra- ordinary; and although it shows our former intelligence to have had no foundation, it happily agrees with it in the event, on which I most heartily congratulate you. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 8, 1776. Sir: Congress having resolved to raise a regiment of Germans, to counteract the designs of our enemies, I must beg leave to recommend to their notice John David Wilpert, now a First Lieutenant in Colonel Shea’s battalion, to the office of Captain in said regiment. I am personally acquaint- ed with him, and know that he joined the Virginia forces under my command, in the year 1754, and continued in ser- vice the whole war, during which he conducted himself as an active, vigilant, and brave officer. He is a German, and his merit as a soldier entitles him much to the office he wishes for. I have the honour to be, with great esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. j New-York, July 8, 1776. Gentiemen: At the request of an old officer of mine, and who at present is a First Lieutenant in Colonel Shea’s bat- talion, 1 am induced to recommend him to your honourable Committee as a fit person to command a company in the German battalion directed by a resolution of Congress to be raised in your Province. John David Wilpert, late of your city, is the person I mean. He is a German by birth; was a soldier in his own country; served many years as an officer in the regiment I had the honour to command in the Vir- ginia service ; always supported the character of a diligent and brave officer; and, as far as I know and believe, is a man of good character. If, therefore, he could be appoint- ed to the command of a company in the above regiment, I would, from my knowledge of the man, pledge myself for his good behaviour and meriting of it. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To the Committee of Safety for the City of Philadelphia. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL SEYMOUR. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 8, 1776. Sir: By a letter from his Honour Governour Trumbull, received on the 5th instant, I was informed he had ordered three regiments of Horse on to this place, (under your com- mand,) with all possible despatch, and was desired, in case they were not wanted, to inform Colonel Silliman thereof. Accordingly, 1 wrote Colonel Silliman, acquainting him it was my desire the men might come on, provided they could leave or send back their horses, which letter did not go for- ward as soon as I intended. Major Starr this morning waited on me, informing of his arrival with fifty of the troop, and that the rest were on their march. I have ordered him to find some pasture for his horses this day, and immediately ride forward and acquaint you that there is not more forage on hand, or to be had, than is absolutely necessary for the use of our working and artillery horses ; and that it is my desire your men may be halted some way in the rear of this place, and their horses sent back: otherwise the men can only bea moth and a check to the service, as they cannot act as horse- men in case of action, or if they could, forage could not be found to support them. I think it absolutely necessary the 125 men should be here till the new levies all arrive ; but for the above reasons shall be necessitated to order their return, un- less they can be persuaded to come on without their horses. I would not be supposed, by this, to discourage the troops of horse from being in constant readiness in the different States, as Iam fully persuaded they will be much more useful than the militia to throw in succours to a place in an emergency. I am pleased to see with what cheerfulness and alacrity the troops from your Province step forward to the assistance of their countrymen, whenever called, and doubt not it will continue. Major Starr will be able to inform you fully, from what I have mentioned to him, the absolute necessity for the men, and the utter impossibility of keeping the horses. Baggage- wagons may be hired to bring on baggage for your men, from any place they leave their horses. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To Colonel Seymour. PROCEEDINGS OF A CONFERENCE OF GENERAL OFFICERS. At a conference of General Officers and others, at Head- Quarters, July 8th, 1776: Present, His Excellency General Washington; Major- General Putnam; Brigadiers-General Heath, Spencer, Greene, Scott,and Wadsworth ; Colonel McDougall; and Messrs. Randolph, Green, Dennis, and Duer. A proposition having been made to the General to sink hulks in the North River, at Tappan Bay, in order to stop the enemy’s progress, it was fully discussed, and agreed that the same be carried into execution: Captain Grenell to sound the channel, and fix the buoys; Captain Dennis to take up the vessels; Captains Lawrence and Tudor to have them sunk ina proper manner; Captain Grrenell to take notice of the commanding ground, so that, if works should be hereafter erected, they may be made in the most proper manner. The General proposed to the General Officers, what should be done with the troop of Horse from Connecticut? Agreed, That the men be detained until the new levies arrive, but the horses be sent home as soon as possible. The Congress having referred to the General’s determi- nation the propriety of marching three Regiments of the Continental troops from Boston to the Northern Army, and, in case of need, substituting the Militia in their place, Unanimously agreed, ‘That the said three Regiments be immediately despatched to join the Northern Army. _ GENERAL GREENE TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Camp on Long-Island, July 8, 1776. Sir: The bearer, Doctor Sentor, by whom this will be handed you, is a gentleman from Quebeck. He was sur- geon of Colonel Church’s regiment last year, and went from Boston to Canada in General Arnold’s detachment. His merit and services render him worthy your notice; as such, I beg leave to recommend him to your acquaintance. Believe me to be, with the greatest respect, your most obedient humble servant, NaTHANAEL GREENE. ULSTER COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE TO PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. ‘ Committee Chamber, Kingston, July 8, 1776. Gentiemen: We beg leave once more to trouble you with a complaint which has now become general, which is, that notwithstanding our frequent applications, we are yet left destitute of powder. And, gentlemen, we have reason to believe that this is not owing to a scarcity of that neces- sary article, neither do we believe it to be a neglect of your honourable Board, as we have been informed that an order has been issued from thence for that purpose. But, gentle- men, whatever may be the reason, it is unknown to us. It is, however, a matter of fact, that we have received none as yet. It is also well known that our town has, for a long time, been crowded, and is yet, with a set of ministerial cut-throats, recular officers and soldiers, sent here as pri- soners. A detachment of our Militia has been lately sent down to New-York ; and although strictly’ charged to come with arms and ammunition, they were obliged to go without CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. , powder. 126 powder, for we had none. The southern and northern Ministerial armies are drawing near. Above all, the savages threaten slavery, death, and destruction, for us ; and for aught we can see, it is likely that the whole Militia will be called upon to defend the dearest rights and liberties of our country. Considering these circumstances, how unac- countable is it that we, who stand foremost in defence of our invaded liberties, should be left destitute of the only means by which we can defend ourselves. This being the case, we most earnestly beg the favour of you to take this matter into your most serious consideration, and grant us such timely relief as you, in your wisdom, may think proper. We are, gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble servants. By order of the Committee : Jowannes SLeGutT, Chairman. To the President of the Provincial Congress of New- York. P.S. We just now received a letter from a member of the Committee of Rochester, an extract whereof is .in the words following: “T yesterday spoke with Silas Bowker, from Papaconk. He informs me that an old savage (a friend of his) has ad- vised him to abandon the place, without delay, with his family, to prevent their destruction. Alas! if they attempt, we are undone. We must fall piecemeal, without revenge, as the tenth man among us cannot produce a charge of If the Congress can pass this unnoticed, then adieu America!” JOHANNES HARDENBURGH TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Rosendall, Ulster County, July 8, 1776. GentvLemMen: I think it my duty to lay the following before your honourable Board, by way of complaint against the proteedings of the County Committee, held at the house of Mrs. Ann Dubois, on or about the 13th day of June last, when there was laid before the Committee the order from your honourable Board for me to give my reasons why I had signed and delivered two credentials to our Delegates, dated on one and the same day: IJ happening to be there that day, to deliver some papers to that Committee, which were in my hands as chairman of the former County Com: mittee, which I conceived necessary to be delivered to them— when I was there, in the latter part of the day, [ was in- formed by the chairman of said Committee that there was an order from your honourable Board for me to give my reason why I had signed two credentials, on one and the same day ; on which notice to me, I desired of the said Com- mittee some days’ time,-to draw up and give in my reasons at their next meeting, which I was denied ; but ordered to give my reasons on the next day, at eleven or twelve o’clock ; which I thought impossible for me to do, being then twelve miles from home; and having none of my papers with me, was obliged to ride home that night, where I ‘came at one o'clock in the morning, when I examined the proceedings of the County Committee of the 16th and 25th of April, as also of the 13th of May, and then drew my reasons, which I conceived would be satisfactory to your honourable Board, in the best manner the time I was allowed would admit of. What follows the extraordinary proceeding of that admi- rable County Committee? On the 29th of June, I received a letter from the chairman, dated the 28th of June, to attend the said Committee on the 4th of July next, to account for the money in my hands, which I had received by an order of the former County Committee from your Treasurer, Mr. Van B. Livingston, in the presence of two of your mem- bers, (whereof, I think, Mr. Van Zandt was one,) and then to deliver the remainder to such a person as they appointed to receive it ; on which notice I attended on the Committee, and accounted for the money then in my hands. The balance then in my hands was two hundred and sixty-seven pounds, which balance I conceived I could not give out of my hands, as I stand accountable for the said sum of three hundred and sixty pounds at any time to the honourable Congress, when they, or any of them, shall be pleased to call me to account, or to answer such contingencies of the County as they shall think a proper County charge, or such allowances as have been made a contingent County charge. Gentlemen, whereas I was, on the 13th day of May last, empowered by the then County Committee to receive the before-mentioned sum of money, to pay the contingencies 127 of the County to such persons as had a just right thereto ; and on the 28th of June, by a new County Committee, ordered to deliver the sum then in my hands, on the 4th of July, to such person as they directed me,—I conceive those proceedings to be such a reflection on my character, that I must either be guilty of some malpractice, or of not perform- ing my duty in the payment of the money intrusted to my hands: with neither of which I can charge myself, and defy any person to charge me with any misconduct in the pay- ment of that money. I therefore thought it my duty to lay the same before your honourable Board, and shall be ready, at any time, to obey your orders in the payment thereof, or such others as have a right to dispose thereof, pursuant to the directions of your honourable Board. Gentlemen, as I have had the trouble to get the money brought from New-York here, I expect to have the paying thereof to such persons as have a just right to the same; but in case your honourable Board should be of opinion to order me to pay it to any one person, I shall think myself entitled to the same fees as if I had paid it to many. Gentlemen, the confidence I put in the Provincial Con- gress, from which I expect the clearest streams of justice will flow to every person that may come before your honour- able Board, has induced me to lay this before the honour- able Congress; and remain, gentlemen, with esteem, your most obedient, humble servant, Jouannes HarpENBURGH. To the Honourable the Provincial Congress for the Province of New-York. ADDRESS TO GENERAL SULLIVAN. To the Hon. Joun SORLItAN, Esquire, Brigadier-General, lately commanding the Army of the United Colonies in CanapDa: The humble Address of the Field-Offcers, lately under his command : We, the Field-Officers of the several Regiments now com- posing the Army of the United Colonies, in the Northern Department, having been informed of your Honour’s intended departure from hence, esteem it would be unpardonable in us, should we forego this opportunity of tendering the hom- age due to him who, upon the late most trying occasion, has comforted, supported, and protected the shattered remains of a debilitated army, and, with unwearied care, watchfulness, and attention, has landed the publick stores, of every kind, without almost the least dimmution, safe at this place. It is to you, sir, the publick are indebted for the preservation of their property in Canada. It is to you we owe our safety thus far. Your humanity will call forth the silent tear and grateful ejaculation of the sick; your universal impartiality will force the applause of the wearied soldier. Permit us, then, worthy sir, to take our leave, wishing you every hap- piness and success your most sanguine inclinations can sug- gest, or our most fervent prayers procure. John Moore, Matthew Ogden, Moses Hazen, Seth Reed, Edward Antil, Joseph Vose, Joseph Celty, Nathan Fuller, John McDuffee, John Stark, Thomas Poor, John Patterson, Enoch Poor, William Bond, J. Alden, James Read, Charles Burrel, Ar. St. Clair, Crown-Point, 8th July, 1776. William De Haas, John Greaton, Israel Shreve, William Maxwell, David Rhea, Jotham Loring, Elisha Porter, Abner Morgan, Anthony Wayne. To the Ficid-Officers of the several Regiments composing the Northern Army. GentLemen: Your polite and friendly Address, presented at this hour of my departure from thé Army, demands my most cordial thanks. ‘The favourable opinion you are pleased to entertain of my exertions, in protecting and supporting our distressed Army in Canada, gives me the highest satis- faction. If the publick are in any measure indebted to me for the preservation of their property in Canada, or the Army for its safety thus far, your generosity in voluntarily giving your testimony thereto, at this time, evinces that generous spirit which I have ever found you to possess. The debilitated state of our Army rendered'the task of saving it extremely arduous; and had not your zeal and activity so strongly CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 128 seconded my endeavours, it must have been impossible. Duty to my country demanded that humanity to the sick, and impartiality to the soldiers, which you are pleased so politely to mention; it gives me the most sensible pleasure to find my conduct in this respect meets with the approbation of officers so truly deserving. Gentlemen, I deeply deplore the necessity I am under of quitting this department; and most sincerely wish that I could, with honour, have remained to share with you the fortune ofthe campaign; yet, give me leave to assure you, that wherever fortune may place me in future—whether the alarm of war may summon me again to the field, or domestick affairs call me to private life—your safety and success I shall deem inseparable from my own. That an indulgent Heaven may grant you success equal to your merits, reward your toil with the conquest of your unnatural enemies, and in due time return you, crowned with laurels, to your respective families, shall be my most earnest prayer. Joun. SULLIVAN. Crown-Point, 8th July, 1776. COMMITTEE OF OBSERVATION, SKENESBOROUGH, CHARLOTTE COUNTY, NEW-YORK. The Committee for this town having had due process against Lieutenant Daniel Brundage of this town, according to the Association of the Continental Congress, and finding him obstinately unfriendly, in full opposition to the spirit of said Association, hereby give notice to the publick, that he may be treated with all that neglect and contempt which is so justly his due, for his incorrigible enmity to the rights of American Liberty. By order of the Committee: Garret Keratine, Chairman. Attest, James Burroveus, Clerk. July 8, 1776. CHARLES CUSHING TO HIS BROTHER. Camp at Crown-Point, July 8, 1776. Dear Frienp anp Broruer: After my love to you and my sister, I will endeavour to relate to you a true state of facts with regard to the Army in Canada, (as well as my own private concerns,) which I believe you have never yet had, being very much imposed upon by publick prints and letters from some gentlemen in high office, inserted in the papers. After our arrival at Albany, our regiment was the first that marched for Canada. Three regiments more of the same brigade followed as fast as they could, one after another. We were forced on in the greatest hurry, passing through great difficulty and fatigue, being told by all who came from that country that there was no doubt but Quebeck would be surrendered by the time we could get there, or soon after, as there were several batteries opened and play- ing upon the city. And we went on with good spirits and in good health till we came to the mouth of the river Sorel, where, to our great surprise, we heard of the retreat of the army from Quebeck. Here we first made a stand, and being soon joined by something of an army, erected considerable fortifications. We had here a considerable number of can- non and several row galleys; but we were in a most pitiful situation. We had never drawn any provision from the time we left Albany but pork and flour, and the inhabitants would not take paper money, and we had no other. We were now at a great distance from our own country, and the pork and flour came in so slowly that the store was almost exhausted, especially the flour. In some days we could get none, or not more than half the allowance. Although there was flour in the country, yet, such was the disposition of the peo- ple, that we were obliged to take it with fixed bayonets ; and the most of the flour expended in Canada since our arrival was taken in that manner. The inhabitants about Sorel seemed more friendly, but they had no provisions to spare. The retreating army from Quebeck began to scatter into Sorel soon after our arrival, having the small-pox among them, and boat loads sick with it were landed among us, so that there seemed no possibility of escaping it, and it was contrary to general orders to inoculate. Although our situ- ation was unhappy, that of the army at Quebeck was much moreso. They had but three pieces of small cannon mount- ed, and no shot suitable for them. They had one small 129 mortar, which they kept in play to no purpose. The enemy kept up a heavy cannonade from the city, and once in a while would throw outa shell filled with molasses, or open a port and fire a pistol, by way of contempt. Our army had no breastwork or fortification but what was built with snow. ‘Their lines extended near thirty miles distant, and a great part of them sick with the small-pox, having lost a great number. As I was credibly informed, no less than thirty captains died with it, and not more than one in three lived through it that took it the natural way. They had gone through every hardship and fatigue that men could possibly live through, the winter past. ‘The weather was most inclement, and the men almost starved, for sometimes they had no bread, and sometimes no meat. On the arrival of General Thomas, he found the army in such a situation that a speedy retreat was necessary, which, by a-council of war, was agreed to. ‘Their lines being so extensive and their army so scattered, it could not suddenly be effected; and the enemy getting intelligence of it from an officer who deserted, immediately pursued them. In that situation, one may easily imagine the confusion they were in, every one making his escape as well as he could, leaving the sick to the mercy of the enemy. Yet many of them who had the small-pox out thick on them came off, and went through the greatest fatigue, and were exposed to wet and cold, without blankets or anything to cover them, and I afterwards saw them at Sorel. What ordnance stores they had were taken, and much of their baggage. The first stop they made was at Pownt de Chambly, forty-five miles from Quebeck. 'The General then sent an express to Sorel for provisions, boats, and assistance, to bring off what sick they had there, for-they were continually taken down with the small-pox. Captain Bent and my first lieutenant, with two hundred and fifty men, were sent off with boats to their assistance. They then retreated to the Three Rivers, forty- five miles from that place, and from thence to Sorel. _ The New-England forces now began to be very uneasy about the small-pox spreading among them, as but few of them had hadit. It was death for any doctor who attempted inocu- lation. However, it was practised secretly, as they were willing to run any hazard-rather than take it the natural way. Some inoculated themselves, and several officers and myself began it in our regiment at Sorel. We had been at Sorel but ten days, when our regiment was ordered up to Mon- treal, forty-five miles above, on the river St. Lawrence. Colonel Paterson’s regiment, which arrived at S¢. John’s in two days after ours, was directly ordered from thence to Montreal, by land, about twenty-seven miles across; and soon after Major Sherburne, with one hundred and twenty men, was detached to The Cedars, to the assistance of Colo- nel Bedel’s party, and another party was left as a guard to La Prairie. Colonel Paterson’s regiment was now so re- duced by detachments, that it was expected the inhabitants of Montreal would rise, as it was easily perceived they were making preparations. Our regiment was now under the necessity of getting there as fast as possible. We rowed till after dark, when, it coming on to rain very hard, we went on shore. Some pitched their tents, and some got into a small house and barn where we landed. I got into the barn, which was shattered almost to pieces, and being much fatigued, I slept very well. I was now under a mercurial preparation for the small-pox. In the morning we set off for Montreal, the current running very strong. We were not like to get there that day, and about four o’clock P. M., we landed on the point of the Island. At five P. M., the regiment marched for the city, leaving myself and a suffi- cient number of men to carry up the boats and baggage. About eleven at night they arrived there, having marched fifteen miles. During this fatigue we had nothing to eat but fiour and water, and lake water to drink, as we had no other since we came into Canada. As soon as they came into the city they were so fatigued as to lie immediately down under the walls to sleep, and some lay there until morning, it being impossible to move them. But happily they arrived as they did, for that night was appointed for the Tories to take pos- session of the place. Here we tarried about ten days, and soon after our arrival the regiment in general were inoculated for the small-pox. General Sullivan’s brigade beginning to come in, and a detachment sent up from Sorel, our regiment was ordered over to St. John’s, to have the small-pox. Ac- cordingly, we set off for La Pratrie about four P. M., May Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 9 130 31, the current+very strong, and in some places the falls being so great that we were obliged to unload the batteaus and haul them over by land. About dark we got up to Nun’s Island, where we tarried all night. The next morning went over to La Pratrie, the weather being very rainy all day, the men much exposed to it, most of them beginning to feel the effects of the disorder. ‘The next day we marched to St. John’s, eighteen miles. ‘The small-pox was then turning on those who were first inoculated. When we came to St. John’s, the most of us went into tents, except some of the worst, who went into a large house and a barn. Here we could get nothing to nourish us without hard money, except the allowance of flour and pork and a little molasses, which we drew for the use of the sick. ‘The inhabitants would exchange milk for pork, but at the rate of two or three pounds for one quart. I must now return to the Army below. General Thomas took the small-pox the natural way, came up to Chambly, and there died on Sunday, the 2d of June. His death was much lamented by the New-England troops. General Sullivan, with .his brigade, is now at Sorel, and he takes command at that place. Immediately after his arrival there, he sent General Thompson, with two thousand men, towards the Three-Rivers; but before they got there, they were attacked by a large body of the enemy, who defeated them, and took the General, Colonel Irvine, and a large number of officers and men, prisoners; and it is supposed that two hundred more perished in the woods, as they retreated in the greatest confusion, the officers without men, and the men without officers. But it gives me pleasure to acquaint you, that none of the “damn’d Yankees” were there, as the southern troops are pleased to term us. We had been at St. John’s but ten days, when we had orders for as many of the regiment as were able to go to Sorel. Accordingly, there was a petty surgeon’s mate sent to examine the men, (not trusting to our own doctor, who was a good physician,) who reported two hundred, who had been off duty but ten days for the small-pox, fit for the ser- vice. Although they had the disorder light, no one could think them fit to go through so much fatigue. We were reduced very low by dieting, and had nothing to recruit with afterwards. June 13. We set off for Sorel with heavy hearts, none of us expecting to come back again, for General Burgoyne and all his troops were come in, our Army but small in com- parison to his, and if we were defeated, there would be no retreat. We got to Chambly the first day, and the next morning set off for Sorel, and before mght met Colonel Greaton about twenty-three miles from the mouth of the river, who came directly from there. He infornied us the Army were retreating as fast as possible, that the enemy’s fleet was.just below them, and he ordered us to go on shore and cook some victuals, and then return back to Chambly as fast as possible. After refreshing ourselves a little, we set off about dark, and rowed all night very hard, the cur- rentrunning rapidly. In the morning, about seven o'clock, we got up to Chambly, when, after refreshing ourselves with. a little breakfast, we were obliged to assist in getting the batteaus, cannon, and other stores, above the lower Rapids ; and then it is as much as twenty men can do to towa loaded batteau up the river in many places. After our party had drawn over two batteaus, two pieces of cannon, and all their tents and baggage, and put them on board, we set off with three or four boats up the river. In some places, the men were obliged to wade up to their middie. At dark, having got about half-way up to St. John’s, we pitched our tents, and lay down to rest. In the morning, we proceeded to St. John’s. During this fatigue, the men had but little to eat but pork and flour, and lake water to drink. The Army at Sored brought off*all their artillery and other stores, and arrived safe at Chambly; and in eight hours after their departure, the enemy had come up with their fleet, and taken possession of Sorel. At Chambly, General Sullivan made.all the despatch possible in getting over the artillery, stores, and boats, there being a large quantity of them, and not less than a hundred batteaus. We lost one or two pieces of cannon by staving the boats, and one or two more were left. The row galleys were burnt, and I think we left but little else, except four schooners that we burnt in. the river. ‘Our Army, consisting of about six thousand men, were 131 now all retreated safely to St. John’s, and the enemy at Montreal and Chambly. We then sent the sick and some of the stores to the Isle-aux-Noix, the Isle-au-Motte, and Point-au-Fer, not having boats to carry the whole Army and stores at once; and as soon as the boats came back, the whole Army embarked and went to the IJsle-aux-Notz. Here, what boats could be spared were sent-to Crown- Point with sick and stores, as a great part of the Army were sick, many with the small-pox, and many of those who had had it were sick with the flux. Here we were obliged to wait for boats eight days, where we could get nothing but pork and flour. The island being small, not more than one mile in length, and a quarter of a mile in width, the land low, the days hot, and at night great dews, and such a num- ber of men on so small a spot, and many of them sick— the place stunk enough to breed an infection. At length the boats returned from Crown-Point. We were ordered to strike our tents, and put all our baggage on board, and the invalids who were not able to march by land. Those of our regiment who were well, and about a thousand more, were set over to the west side, to go by land to Point-au-Fer, about twenty-six miles. During our stay at the Isle-aux-Noix, there went a number of officers about a mile below to a house to drink spruce beer; but unfortunately were beset by a party of Indzans, who killed and scalped one ensign, one captain, and two privates, and took several prisoners. We heard the guns, and saw the fire. A party was immediately sent to their assistance; but the enemy were gone,.and had left the dead stripped all to their shirts. They were brought to the Isle-aux-Noix, and decently buried. They all belonged to the rifle regiment. The Indians attacked several boats on the lake, that went above after some flour, killed two or three men, and wounded six more; the others escaped. About noon, we marched for Point-au-Fer, and soon came where there was only an Indian path, and a wet swamp, which was for a great distance almost up to our knees in mud and water. Besides this, it rained very hard all the afternoon. At dark, we came out against a bay in the lake, within about six miles of Point-au-Fer. We bad now nothing but the ground to lie on, and the heavens to cover us; and what with the rain, sweat, and mud, we had but little about us that was dry. We soon built fires, and dried ourselves as well as we could, and then lay down to rest with our feet to the fire. I slept very well, and got up in the morning refreshed. The weather cleared off pleasant; we got some breakfast ; and about nine o’clock, there came boats enough to take us all off. The remainder of the Army came in batteaus from the Isle-aux-Noix, and all arrived at the Isle-au-Motte that night. Wr soon had boats enough to carry the whole Army to Crown-Point, and, I think, nothing remarkable ha p- pened till we arrived there. Iam afraid that the retreat from Canada will make a great noise in the country, and many reflections be thrown out by inconsiderate and ill-minded persons ; but I am sure that any person of sense, when he comes to know the truth, must be satisfied. Some scandalous reflections have been thrown out upon General Thomas for his proceedings ; but I am sorry the character of so worthy a gentleman as he was should suffer by men who are striving for places they are not worthy of. There is one thing I have omitted, which is this: that a great part of the Army at Quebeck inlisted for no longer than the Ist of April, and, as soon as their time was out, would stay no longer. J am very sure that the state of the Army in Canada has never been rightly represented. They have been shamefully neglected and imposed upon through the means of some persons who were appointed to provide for them. You will find, in the New-England Chronicle of the 27th of June, a passage in a letter from General r, where he says that the Army in Canada has been well provided for, that the inhabitagits were very kind to them, and sup- plied them with everything necessary, &c.; the whole of which is false; for we had never yet drawn any allowance but pork and flour or bread, except once a few peas at Sorel, and what I have before mentioned; and had we the money for what the vegetables and other things allowed us by the * resolve of Congress have fallen short, it would now amount to more than two thousand dollars in our regiment. It is not the money I mind, but it is what we have suffered for want .of those necessaries. I will now endeavour to give you some description of the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 132 country. It is full of navigable rivers. ‘The land is very good on them, but the buildings are but mean. The land a little back of the rivers is unsettled, and appears to be very poor. The river St. Lawrence is sufficient for a large fleet of ships to come up to Montreal, one hundred and eighty miles from Quebeck. 'The river Sorel is navigable up to Chambly; besides many others which empty into the St. Lawrence. ‘Till we have a fleet sufficient to come, into the mouth of the river, it will be impossible for us to do any- thing in Canada. Had we taken Quebeck, we could not have kept. it, as the enemy could come in with their fleet, and cut off all communication; and nothing has hurt our cause so much as coming to Canada, where, in my opinion, we had nothing to promise ourselves. Our Army have very much imposed upon the inhabitants, and promised them what they could never perform, which will set them against us ; whereas, if we had never concerned ourselves with them, they would at least have remained neuter; and if, instead of spending our time, lives, and health, in Canada, we had been fortifying our own frontiers, we should now have been able to repel any force they could send. We have lost a vast number of men with the small-pox, it being very mortal to those who took it the natural way; but our regiment has been remarkably preserved, and my com- pany in particular. We have lost ten or eleven in the regi- ment, and those took the disease in the natural way. I led a company of seventy-six men into Canada, and brought them all out, seventy-four of whom had the small-pox while we remained there. One lad, belonging to the Cape, who thought he had had it before, took it the natural way, and died here at Crown-Point. July 10. We have now been at Crown-Point eight days, and the sick considerably longer; and since their arrival, We have buried great numbers—some days not less than fifteen or twenty; but few have died, except with the small-pox. Some regiments which did not inoculate have lost many; and Colonel Read, in particular, says that, by the time it has gone through his regiment, he shall lose one-third of them. When we first came to this place, our men were very feeble. Besides all their fatigue, they were followed with severe fluxes. But they recruit very fast, having good ground to encamp upon, and good water to drink, and some fresh provisions; but have not yet had any vegetables of any kind. Here are likewise sutlers who have spirits of all kinds— wines, sugar, chocolate, &c., to sell, though at a very dear rate—sugar three shillings, lawful money, per pound, &c. These are only the outlines; to relate every particular, would fill a volume; but I fear I have tired your patience already. Your sincere friend and brother, Cuas. Cusnine. P.S. Please to give my regards to Colonel Lincoln, Mr. Andrews, Mr. Norton, and all friends, and let as many of them see this letter as have a mind to; for I have nothing against any one seeing it but the irregularity with which it is put together. Hartford, July 8, 1776. Last Wednesday passed through this place Governour Franklin, of New-Jersey, on his way to Governour Trum- bull, at Lebanon; and last Saturday he returned from Leba- non to Walling ford, where he is stationed. Friday \ast, a pack of 'Tory prisoners, forty-nine in num- ber, taken some time since at Johnstown, were brought to this town, under a guard, from Albany, and delivered to the Committee for the disposition of prisoners in this Colony. We hear a number more of the same clan are on their way to this place. Several regiments of Foot, ordered to be raised in this Colony, together with three regiments of the troop of Light- horse, have marched for New- York, to assist in the defence of the capital of that invaded Province. Last week, twenty-two prisoners, taken from on board a barge belonging to the Brotzsh fleet, as they were sounding the channel below New- York, arrived safe at Farmington. ELISHA CORNISH TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Symsbury, July 8, 1776. May iT PLEASE your Honour: The Committee of In- spection of this town, in conjunction with sundry of the 133 thembers of the Committees of the towns of Farmington and New-Hartford, convened at said Symsbury, to consult upon matters of importance, that fall under their cognizance, taking into consideration the present situation of Newgate prison, beg leave to represent to your Honour, that, since sundry persons have been sentenced by the Superior Court of this Colony to said prison, as enemies to their country, who, it is generally apprehended, are not in safe custody; and since said present keeper has repeatedly manifested to said Committee and to others an uneasiness under the burden ef his office, which uneasiness is not peculiar to him, but pervades ‘the body of the people in these towns; in our opinion, some effectual measures should be taken to prevent the consequences which we apprehend may soon take place, to the detriment of the cause we are endeavouring to defend. Permit us to suggest to your Honour, whether it is not necessary, under the present situation, to secure said prison with a sufficient guard, under the conduct of such person or persons.as your Honour shall think fit to appoint. Further, we entertain the most sanguine hopes, that in some future time, as speedily as may be, your Honour, in conjunction with the General Assembly, will cause an addition to be made to said prison-house, wherein a prison-keeper, to be appointed, may dwell. Such a step, we imagine, will be a mean of retrenching much unnecessary expense. ‘The ap- prehensions of imminent dahger have compelled us to take this measure. Any impropriety in it, your Honour will benevolently impute not to our arrogance, but to the love we bear our country. We have the honour to be, your Honour’s most obedient and most humble servants. Per order of the Committee : . Exisua Cornisu, Chairman. BENJAMIN PAYNE TO JAMES WARREN. Hartford, July 8, 1776. By direction of the Committee for superintending prisoners of war in this Colony, I have to inform you that a certain John Graves, of Pittsfield, in your Province, was sent here by order of the Committee of said Pittsfield, some time in May last, he bging accused of aiding and assisting Captain McKay, a pris6ner stationed here, in making his escape, in direct violation of his parole. And said Graves being examined touching the matter, it evidently appeared, by his confession and other evidence, that he had made two jour- neys to Hartford in the course of the last Spring, the last of which was about the 17th of May, the time when said McKay escaped; that he (said Graves) was not only con- cerned in concerting measures for effecting said McKay’s escape, but actually undertook and acted as his pilot, and when they had got as far as Prttsfeld, furnished him (this man) with fresh horses. On which he was committed to the jail in this town, where he hath remained ever since in close confinement. He appears to be a low-spirited, insidious fellow, ‘and to have entertained strong prejudices against the liberties of America, and no doubt ought to be brought to trial for his aforesaid offence ; but as he is a subject of your Government, it is doubtless most proper that he should be brought to trial there, notwithstanding he so far perpetra- ted his crime here as to bring him within the jurisdiction of our Court; yet his estate, if he hath any, lieth in your Province, and the evidence (in case he should not on trial confess the matter) would most likely be more full and clear against him, not only to this particular crime, but with respect to his general character. Besides, to take up the subjects of one Government and carry thein into another for trial, which might, with as great propriety, be had in the Colony where such offender belonged, may prove, on occa- sion of a misunderstanding between Colonies, of dangerous consequence at all times, but more especially at the present day; which on all occasions ought to be carefully avoided. It is therefore expected that your Assembly will take the affair into consideration, and give orders for his removal from hence to such place as they shall think proper, in your Province, in order to take his trial for his aforementioned offence. ‘ I have the honour to be, sir, your most humble servant, Bensamin Payne. To the Honourable James Warren, Esq. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776, 134 COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO JERATHMEEL BOWERS. Watertown, July 8, 1776. Sir: As it is ofimportance that the Colony vessels should be immediately equipped and fixed for sea, the Board have ordered me to desire you to use your utmost endeavours to have the two vessels (built under your directions for the use of the Colony) completely equipped and fixed as soon as may be. IL am, sir, your humble servant, Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. To Jerathmeel Bowers, Esq. SAMUEL ELLIOT TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Boston, July 8, 1776. Honovurep Sir: Some days past I did myself the honour of informing you (very briefly) of Captain Harding’s en- gagement. I purpose forwarding the particulars as they appear upon trial, which is appointed to be on the 23d of this month. I am now just setting out for Reading, to ob- tain Colonel Campbell’s deposition, which, with the other evidences, shall be duly handed you. TI shall esteem it a favour in your Honour to inform Captain Harding (who will doubtless be with you by the time this reaches you) the trial is to be on the 23d, not 26th, as he was informed; as it is absolutely necessary that two intelligent persons who were on board the brig should attend the trial. ‘Three days will make an amazing difference. ‘There are many claimants ; but my counsel affirms that half the ship George and brig Annabella will be adjudged to the Colony brigantine. Cap- tain Harding will assign the particular reasons for leaving this port. It was the opinion of all his friends that he could not justify himself in staying while the small-pox was so prevalent in this place, and so many on board the brig liable to take the infection, We parted with regret. His polite and genteel carriage and easy deportment has gained the esteem of all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. I must request the favour of particular directions respect- ing those who had the misfortune to be wounded in the engagement. ‘They have had the best attendance. I have discharged their bills, with the Captain’s consent. If any allowance is made to them, it ought (I think) to be deducted. Captain Harding mentioned that an allowance of about thirty or forty pounds was to be made for the loss of a limb, but could not tell with respect to the others. I should be glad for it to be ascertained, as it should be taken out before there is any division. ; I must beg your Honour’s pardon for thus troubling you ; but I thought it my duty to mention every (although some may be trivial) circumstance that I am in doubt of. With pleasure I would acquaint your Honour the prize brig Anna- bella is brought up, and laid along side Hancock’s wharf. She is damaged, but not so much as I expected. There may be some directions necessary for regulating my conduct : your Honour may depend upon my strict observance and punctual fulfilment of any you shall at any time think ne- cessary to favour me with. J remain your Honour’s most obedient and dutiful servant, SamueL Enxnior, Jun., Agent to Captain Harding. P.S. Yesterday Captain Johnson, in a sloop of ten car- riage guns, carried into Cape-Ann a large three-deck Jamat- caman, with near six hundred hogsheads best sugar, some rum, &c.; also, a brig loaded with ram from Antigua, both bound for London. She had been cruising about six weeks. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AMSTERDAM TO A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON, DATED JULY 9, 1776. There is not a maritime nation in Europe but which, pri- vately carries on a trade with the British Colonies of North America: France and Spain in particular, who have the best opportunity for it. Witness, that commerce never flourished so much throughout all Europe as it has actually done since the beginning of the present American war. Thus Great Britain, formerly the provider of the whole globe, now suffers foreign nations to enrich themselves by trafficking with her own Colonies, while she is contending with them for power and vain superiority. The’ armament of France and Spain, which of late has so much taken up ,the notice of Europe, we now find to be for the following, ¥ 135 purpose: It is far from the intention of either of those two Powers to interrupt Great Britain whilst she is engaged in the present contest, but their views merely are, to carry on an open trade (warlike stores excepted) with the Colonies of North America. They argue thus: As the Colonies were kept in subjection by the mother country, the latter prevented other nations from dealing with them, and the former, through filial affection and mutual interest, submitted their trade to be monopolized by the mother country; but now, the ties being dissolved, the Colonies being declared as enemies, the monopoly ceases from itself, and every nation may go to market according to their interest. Tt was in the power of Great Britain to prohibit her Colonies to trade with foreigners, but it is not in her power to prescribe laws to other nations prohibiting them from trading with America; nor does it consist with the laws of nations; just as if Russza, as long as she was at war with the Ottoman Porte, would have prohibited all Europe from trading to Turkey. Butif Great Britain should insist upon it that she has a right to prevent other nations from trafficking with North America, both France and Spain are determined to oppose her by force of arms; to which purpose a strong, united force of . these two nations is cruising in the sea, merely to act in their own defence ; and as it is impossible for Great Britain to submit to this, nothing is more sure than open hostilities, to be soon commenced at sea, which cannot fail of involving all Europe in a most horrid war. THOMAS OLIVER TO DAVID FHIPS. London, July 9, 1776. Dear Sir: This day I received your kind letter of the 9th of June. It gives me great pleasure, as it seems to carry with ita degree of satisfaction and contentment with your present situation. Happy [am that you did not leave Hali- fav, to encounter the expenses of this extravagant place. Every article of expense is increased fourfold since you knew it. What the many poor people will do who have steered their course this way, [ cannot tell. Government, however disposed to relieve their necessities, will not be able to answer their numerous claims. Every Province of America affords its petitioners, and I apprehend the number of them will pre- vent the gratification of any. : I think it my duty, in point of friendship, to give you this hint; but keep it to yourself, lest it may be construed to a kind of reflection which 1 do not mean. . Upon the score of secrecy, let me hint to you, that your friend General Gage is entirely in the private walk of life; he could not serve you ; therefore, my good friend, you must be content to wait with patience the event of things. If any opening occurs, I will not fail to advise you of it. I found Mrs. Oliver well, and settled in a little snug house at-.Bromton, in the neighbourhood of London. But I shall continue here no longer than | am able to find an economical retreat. Ihave not had time to look about me yet; some cheaper part of England must be the object of my inquiry. Colonel Vassall is at present in our neighbourhood, but he means to take a house in London, at the court end of the town, and enjoy the comforts of a plentiful fortune, at least for one winter. We received the account of our successes in Canada about ten days before the arrival of your letters. It would have given me great pleasure to have received first from you. You know it would have given me an opportunity to have shown them to your advantase—“a word to the wise.” If anything occurs which you think important, let me have it by the first opportunity. Direct to Lieutenant-Goyernour - Oliver, London; it will be sufficient. ~ I hope this will find you, Mrs. P., and family, well, and ‘as happy as your circumstances will admit; in which I shall -ever take the part of a sincere friend and well-wisher. Tuo. Oxtver. Lo David Phips, Esq., Halifax. COLONEL DORSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Elk-Ridge, July 9, 1776. ‘GentLEemeN: I received yours of yesterday, in conse- quence of which, have ordered the Elk-Ridge battalion to meet immediately, and will send the number of men required CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 136 a company of the Flying-Camp might be sent, if they were made up. On inquiry, I find that there is no company near full, though perhaps on the day the battalion meets they may make up their number ; if so, they will inpe diately march down ; otherwise will find a company of Militia, which I imagine will be with you on Saturday. By a letter I have just received from Mr. Paca, I find the Congress have passed aresolve that the Militia of Maryland march to Philadelphia. I shall be glad to hear from your Honours on that head as soon as possible, I am, with respect, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, . Tuomas Dorsey. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. STEPHEN STEWART TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 9, 1776. GenTLeMEN: I have yours of yesterday, with a list of ves- sels. .There are many people that have vessels who would be - glad to get your money for them, whether they were suitable g get y Af yi for your use or not. Will have as fine a vessel of our own as almost any in this bay, and goes pretty fast; I want to sell her very much, but am afraid she would not answer the end you want her for. Mr. Sprigg’s snow goes fast, and is well calculated to be lengthened, by putting ten feet inher. She will draw but little water, and 1 think will go very fast; but I may be mistaken in her sailing, though she certainly sails fast now. I will be off on Friday, and go to Baltimore for you, or the Eastern-Shore; though your business requires my being in the yard, I will do what you think most advan- tageous for the Province. I think to get Captain Kilty to go to the Eastern-\Shore, and will get him to come up with me for that purpose. I think the most of those vessels you send a list of, must be in Nanticoke and Wicomico. As these two rivers are blocked up, how are you to get them out, if they should suit your purpose? John Ball has applied to me to get the building of one of the row-galleys; which I have no objection to, if you think well of it. ‘The more of them that are building in our yard, the more hands will be employed; therefore we shall be better able to protect them from the enemy; though I should be glad Mr. Ball and every honest man should have part of the Province business. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, hungble servant, STEPHEN STEWART. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO JOSEPH TRUMBULL. Philadelphia, July 9, 1776. Str: lam so engaged im the execution of the resolves of Congress, that I have only time to transmit you the en- closed resolutions respecting your department; and, indeed, they are so explicit as not to require any addition. I wish you happy, and am, with sentiments of esteem, sir, our very humble servant : y y ~~? Joun Hancock, President. To Joseph Trumbull, Esq., Commissary-General. JOSIAH BARTLETT TO MESHECH WEARE. Philadelphia, July 9, 1776. Sir: Your highly esteemed favour of the 18th ultimo, enclosing the instructions to join with the other Colonies in declaring these United Colonies free and independent States, came very seasonably to hand. As we were so happy as to agree in sentiment with our constituents, it gave us the greater pleasure to concur with the Delegates of the other Colonies in the enclosed Declaration, which was yesterday published in form in this city, and is to be published at the head of the Army at New-York next Thursday. A plan of Confederation is now forming, which, when finished, will be transmitted to each Colony for their approbation. Major Rogers (whose conduct, it seems, was suspicious) was taken up some time since by order of General Wash- ington, and sent under guard to this city. He requested leave to go to England, by way of the West-Indies; but Congress, not thinking it proper, have directed him to be sent to New-Hampshire, to be disposed of as the authority there shall think best. We have the honour to be, with great respect, your most obedient servants, JostaH Bartvett, Wituram Wuippte. ito Annapolis. Colonel John Dorsey tells me that you desire , To Colonel Weare. 137 LEWIS GORDON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. In Committee, Easton, July 9, 1776. Honouraste Sir: This Committee acknowledges the receipt of your letter of the 3d instant, by express ; and being truly sensible of the critical and alarming state of our publick affairs, will most cordially comply with every resolve of the Continental Congress to sustain and promote the cause of liberty in America. This Committee, however, are entirely at a loss how to send any troops immediately out of this country, as no measures have hitherto been taken to raise men for forming a Flying-Camp; neither had we had the least intimation of such a requisition before we received your letter. To remedy this defect as well as possible, we propose instantly to take out of our four battalions a proportional number, so as in the whole to compose a body of three hundred and forty-six men, which appears by General Roberdeaw’s letter of the 6th instant to be our quota of Associators' allotted by the late conference of Committees for this County; but we are at the same time utterly unpro- vided with money, nor have we so much gunpowder nor lead as to carry the men to New-Brunswick. As to the article of tin for kettles, we are told there is none in the country; and we pray that some proper steps may be taken to furnish us immediately with those articles, to avoid delay as much as possible. By order of the Committee : Lewis Gorpon, Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. P. S. Wecould not avoid detaining the express till this moment, being eleven o’clock in the forenoon. COMMODORE HOPKINS TO CAPTAIN HACKER. Philadelphia, July 9, 1776. Sir: I received yours of the 5th instant, and think you are pretty well hemmed in. I think it best you should keep your vessel in the best posture of defence you can, and assist the common cause all in your power with youf sloop; but should it so happen that you can’t help falling into the enemy’s hands, you are to destroy the sloop, rather than let them get her. You will continue thereabouts, and do what service you can until further orders. You may draw for any supplies you may want. I am, sir, your friend, &c., E. Hopkins. To Hoysted Hacker, Esq., Commander of the Fly, at Brunswick or Amboy. ADVICES FROM THE INDIANS BY GEORGE MORGAN. Philadelphia, August 15, 1776. George Morgan, Esq., arrived in Philadelphia from the westward on Saturday, the 10th of August. On the 9th of July, whilst at one of the Shawanese towns on the Scioto, he received intelligence of three Stx-Nation warriors having passed by there with two prisoners they had taken, sixteen days before, from Virginia. Mr. Morgan followed, and got to their own town before them, prevented the usual punish- ment of the prisoners on their entry, and insisted on their being immediately delivered up to them, unless they intended this breach of the peace as an open declaration of war. All the headmen of the Six-Nations, Shawanese, and Dela- wares, who were called together on this occasion, behaved in a very friendly manner, and joined with Mr. Morgan in his demand made to the warriors, who soon complied there- with, and were promised forgiveness, on condition of future good behaviour. These warriors told Mr. Morgan they had done no other damage, except they killed a young man they ‘shot at when they took these prisoners; but he made his escape, though they believed the ball entered his breast. Theeprisoners are twin sons of Andrew Mc Connel, late of Pennsylvania, who removed last winter to Leestown, on Kentucky River, and were taken within a few hundred yards of the town. Mr. Morgan brought them to Pittsburgh, and delivered them to their uncle in Westmoreland County, in this Province. Since then, a small party of Shawanese, in returning from the Cherokee country, killed and scalped two per- sons near the Big Bone Lick, They were pursued by a few Of the neighbours, who killed and scalped two of the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 138 Indians ; the others escaped. This breach is also likely to be settled to the satisfaction of all parties, as the headmen had expressed great concern at the conduct of their foolish young people, and promise to do all in their power to pre- serve our friendship. A treaty is to be held at Pittsburgh with the western Indians the beginning of October, when it is hoped they will listen to and follow their true interest, as they have promised to do. The chiefs of the Six-Nations met in council at Onon- daga, on the 18th, 19th, and 20th days of last June, pro- mised Mr. Morgan to call all their warriors from Canada, and to listen to the Thirteen United States of America, being convinced that their advice was for’their true interest, as they have no business to join either side in the present war between Great Britain and America. 'They accord- ingly sent off a party for the above purpose the 22d of June, and another party to Magara, to insist on Colonel Butler’s bringing all their people safe back immediately. They like- , wise sent off two large belts to the Lake and other western Indians, to inform them of their determination, and to desire they will also sit still. CAPTAIN CRAWFORD (PRISONER) TO JASPER YEATES. Reading, July 9, 1776. Sir: Mr. Nesbitt, of Philadelphia, was so kind as to give me the enclosed letter, which, if I could have got a passport from the Congress, should have delivered myself when I had the pleasure of seeing you at Lancaster. You will see by the contents it is to assist me in procuring money for the soldiers of the T'wenty-Sixth Regiment who are prisoners at your town. I beg, therefore, if Captain Strong, of said regiment, should be in want some time hence, on account of my not being able to get over, that you will be so obliging as to assist him, whose orders on me shall be punctually repaid at Messrs. Conynham & Nesbitt’s, as I shall advise them. Being unknown to you, sir, 1 must beg your pardon most particularly for this intrusion; and remain, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, Joun Crawrorp, Captain and Paymaster to Twenty-Sicth Regiment. To Jasper Yeates, Esq., Lancaster. SAMUEL TUCKER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] In Provincial Congress, Trenton, July 9, 1776. Sir: By a letter this day received from General Living- ston, enclosing a copy of one from General Washington, we seem to be called upon to make provision for the entire de- fence of our own shores against the British forces at Staten- Island. As our funds are very inadequate to this purpose, it be- comes absolutely necessary that we know immediately what we are to depend upon in this very important article, that we may set about providing money, provisions, and ammu- nition. We had thought that Congress would provide for the defence of every part of the continent; that for this end our brigade was to be formed for the defence of New-York in part ; that the Flying-Camp was to protect such parts of the Middle Department as was on this side of the North River. And when we heard that General Mercer was ap- pointed to the command in New-Jersey, we hoped provision would be made by the Continental Congress for the neces- sary supplies of the Army in this Colony, as well as for their ay. Our Militia from the eastern Counties have turned out in great numbers, but they are very destitute, General Living- ston informs us, of everything except provisions. When their place shall be filled, as we hope it will be, by the Mili- tia of Pennsylvania and the Flying-Camp, and our people discharged to attend their business at home, which is very pressing at this season, they will expect pay. Must we pay. them ourselves? Must we supply them with ammunition, &c.? We have no other resources but an application to the Continental Congress for the latter and as to money. They are in the place of the F'lying-Camp—we contribute to the general defence of the continent, to the defence of New-York, of Boston, of Virginia, of the Carolinas. When we are pressed by the stroke of war in our turn, are we alone 139 to sustain the burden? The continent we apprehend should defend the continent. We are loath to strike more money. Taxes to any very great amount would be highly imprudent at this time. ° What are we to do?—what to expect? You will forgive us if we beg you to be explicit and speedy in your answer, as the exigency admits of no delay. Colonel Broadhead, by our advice, has marched forward to Amboy, the Tories in Monmouth having been already crushed by our Militia. His presence at Amboy will not be unseasonable. We are, sir, your most humble servants. By order of Congress: ' Samue.t Tucker, President. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. P. S. We omitted to mention that General Washington has dismissed a great part of our Militia from New - York, with orders to put themselves under General Lavingston’s direction in New-Jersey. JOSEPH BARTON TO HENRY WISNER. Newton, Sussex County, Jersey, July 9, 1776. Dear Sir: I received your favour of the 5th instant, relating to flint-stones. I have sent a sample of the flint our country abounds in. If there can be any way of manufac- turing that sort of flint to any advantage, there is enough of it; besides, there are two other sorts—a red flint (which is found about Menesint, which far exceeds any flint imported from Europe) anda green. The green flint which I have sent you is better than the common sort of flint used. It is harder, and will fire oftener without sharpening. Besides these men- tioned, there is a black flint, commonly found incorporated with limestone. Our country abounds in great plenty of this sort. Ihave often made use of it for gun-flints, but don’t think they are equal to the other sorts. Another sort we sometimes use, which we call the crystal flint, resem- bling the diamond amongst us. They are commonly small, but at Membacas, near Esopus, they are very large. Could they be manufactured, would far exceed any imported. But, sir, we want none of the flint here: you may have them all, for we have no powder, which gives great uneasiness to the people in general, as we expect an Indian war, should our forces fail to the northward. For my own part, could I procure powder at forty shillings, should embrace the oppor- tunity. As to lead, there is a good lead-mine at Nepenoh. I have used the lead oftentimes: we could help ourselves to that article. I pray, if in your power, you would order powder, if it were but a quarter of a pound, each man. I should rest much easier for my part, and think we could defend ourselves, if attacked by our enemies, in some measure; but now we have nothing but our axes or sticks to fight with, should we be attacked. As to the lead mine, I could wish it might be worked in; I should be glad to un- dertake that matter, and would give considerable towards it myself. I have sent three different sorts of flint stone—the black is the limestone flint. Sir, it gives a great turn to the minds of our people de- claring our independence. Now we know what to depend on. For my part, I have been at a great stand: I could hardly own the King, and fight against him at the same time; but now these matters are cleared up. Heart and hand shall move together. I don’t think there will be five Tories in our part of the country in ten days after matters are well known. We have had great numbers who would do nothing until we were declared a free State, who now are ready to spend their lives and fortunes in defence of our country. I must, my dear friend, bid you farewell. May the Supreme Judge of all things sit at the head of our affairs, and give that great and august body, the Congress, wisdom to govern us, and by their wisdom make this continent a great and happy empire. I expect a great turn one way or the other before I see you again. I an, sir, your loving and affectionate cousin, Joseru Barton. To Henry Wisner, Esq. N. B. I believe, sir, could the gentlemen see one Island in the drowned land near Jacobus Ducker’s, called Flint- Island, they would think we could supply all Europe with gun-flints, besides our own country. J.B CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c.; JULY, 1776, 140 IBBETSON HAMER (PRISONER OF WAR) TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Kingsberry, near Trenton, July 9, 1776. Sir: I have some reason to believe that you have done me the favour to answer a former letter written you, which I have not been so fortunate as to receive. ‘The reason of this my second application, is on account of a jate order of the Continental Congress for removing the officers to the interior part of Pennsylvania; and as I suppose the order mareetes the leave you was so kind as to give me to reside near Princeton, I now take the liberty to acquaint you, that on my application to Mr. Tucker, he recommended it to me to make this application to you for leave to remain in the same quarter for some time longer, with permission to come as far as Trenton. I should not have made this application, but for some circumstances which have happened, and which make it of the utmost consequence to my future happiness. Doctor Bryant, with whom 1 am now, is the bearer of this, and returns in a day or two, by whom I hope to be favoured with your answer. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and humble servant, Issetson Hamer. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., at Philadelphia. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Amboy, July 9, 1776. Sir: Nothing extraordinary has happened here. The frigate that appeared yesterday under sail, standing towards the town, is now- out of view—supposed to be in Prince’s Bay. At this post and the Blazing-Star, are posted about one thousand of the New-Jersey Militia. 'They begin to be so anxious to return to their harvest, under the apprehension of their families’ being without support, if they continue longer, that I have permitted a draught from each com- pany to be discharged—about two hundred in all, and have assured the others they shall be relieved when the Penn- sylvania Militia arrive. . . Ten or twelve days hence the harvest, I am told, will be secured ; when it is so, the Militia will return on duty with pleasure, and in the mean time will assemble at the first summons. Some troops from Pennsylvania are now at Brunswick ; bat whether they are composed of the Militia, or those intended to form the F'lying-Camp, I have not yet been informed. The enemy on the point, in view of town, appear to be but few—works of defence thrown up—two pieces of field artillery only. We have found a convenient and strong situation for fixing an encampment within a mile of Amboy; but if the body of men intended to encamp here are to cover not only this Province, but Philadelphia, or occasionally march to New- York, I should think Brunswick, as being most centrical to all those, would be the most proper place to rendezvous: It seems to me most eligible to relieve the Jersey Militia with whatever troops come immediately from Pennsylvania ; and about twelve days after, when their harvest is secured, to call them in to guard their own coast, or go upon any other necessary service. ‘This, I am persuaded, they will do with the utmost celerity. . The present situation of the enemy discovers no intention of their attacking us; it rather points out an attempt on their quarters, which being made at once at different places, would probably succeed. The contractors for the Army here (Colonels Denham ‘and Lowrey) tell me they have a good stock of pickled pork—upwards of eighty thousand pounds. Any quantity of live-stock and flour necessary for our supplies, may be at once procured. Colonel Putnam will give his senti- ments as to the practicability of defending this town. I fear it will require more cannon and ammunition than can be spared at present. As soon as I can procure returns of the ammunition and artillery in this Province, I shall com- municate them. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, H. Mercer. To General Washington. ; 14] CAPTAIN CREGIER TO THOMAS RANDALL. Shrewsburytown, July 9, 1776. Wonrrny Sir: After my due respects to you and your honourable House, I am to inform you what has brought me to this place. You must, in the first place, know my busi- ness here is to draw on you for some cash, which Mr. John Murray bas supplied me with—sixteen pounds sixteen shil- lings—on account of your schooner General Putnam, for which I have given a bill payable at three days’ sight, which I hope will meet with honour. I should not have come this far, but I understood at Squam Inlet, where I left my vessel this morning, that there was a letter here for me; but it has been intercepted. Sir, on the 5th of this instant, being about nine miles distant to the southeast of Egg-Harbour, I saw two sail standing to the northward; I then gave them chase, the wind being light; I got out my oars, and rowed until three o’clock in the afternoon, when the wind came to thesouthwest. After eleven hours’ chase, I drew near them. I then shortened sail, and got all clear for action. At four in the afternoon, I got within one hundred and seventy yards of the sternmost ship, in order to board her; but she, putting her helm hard a starboard, hauled up her ports, and gave me her whole broadside of ten guns. She proved to be a Ministerial pirate of twenty guns. I hauled my wind in for the shore; she did the same, and continued firing without intermission. When I was within four hundred yards of the shore, | made a small tack, but being very near her, I re- ceived her whole broadside, at which I hove about, and ran ashore about forty yards from Sqguam Inlet. I then got all my arms and ammunition on the beach, and the ship came to anchor about a quarter of a mile from us, and began a heavy firing upon us, and continued their fire for near half an hour, when at last she hoisted out two barges and manned them with about fifty men; but as they approached the shore, we handled them so roughly that they were obliged to make a scandalous retreat. She continued her fire until dark, when she weighed, expending upward of four hundred pounds of powder. I had seventeen large holes in my mainsail, and some shot in my hull. When the tide made, I got my vessel into this inlet, where I will repair as soon as possible, and hope to pay the pirates for this usage. Iam, sir, your humble servant, THomas Creeier. To Thomas Randall, Esquire, Member of the Provincial Congress, or in his absence, Jacobus Van Zandt, Esquire, Member as aforesaid. P. S. They were both ships. ‘The money I have taken up of Mr. Murray is to defray some expenses I am at for the vessel, and to purchase a little spirits for my people, who (some of them) are sick drinking the bad water that is on this coast. If you have any further orders for me, direct for me at Jumes Randall's, at Cranberry. There has not been any: vessel arrived in any of the inlets these six weeks past, which much surprises me. Please to deliver the enclosed letter. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR COOKE. Head-Quarters, ee July 9, 1776. _ Sir: By a letter received by Congress from Mr. Thomas Green, copy of which they did me the honour to enclose, I have the pleasure to hear of the arrival of Captain, Chase, with a valuable cargo, at Providence. And as that honour- able body have been pleased to order the flints at Rhode- Island belonging to the Continent, to be sent to me here, (as per their resolution enclosed,) I would therefore request you would cause it to be done without the smallest delay, together with the small-arms which came in the vessel. As to the duck, if it is of the kind suitable for tents, either the whole or part, I should be greatly obliged to you if you would order them made up as fast as possible, and for- warded to Norwich ; but if it is coarse and stubborn, and of a quality unfit for the above purpose, it will be unnecessary to give yourself any trouble about the matter. ] am very sorry I cannot spare you a General Officer, agreeable to your desire, to take command of the forces belonging to Rhode-Island, but in the present critical junc- ture it is utterly out of my power to comply with your request. General Mercer is the only officer who has no brigade assigned him; and at a time when we are in con- stant expectation of some important movement of the enemy, his presence is so necessary here that it cannot possibly be CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 142 dispensed with. The best expedient that can be fallen upon, | presume, would be to give the command to the senior officer of the troops till a Brigadier is appointed. I have only to add, that I am, with much respect, sir, our most obedient servant y , Go. WasHINGTON, | To the Honourable Nicholas Cooke, Esq. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 9, 1776. Srr: Yours of the — instant~is safely come to hand. Colonel Seymour arrived yesterday with a few of his men, when I sent for and acquainted him it would be impossible for me to have his horses remain here. Forage is not to be procured ; and if it could, it would only be 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 that may be relied on, of Lord Howe being on his passage for this place, with a large fleet and about fifteen thousand men, and is hourly expected. By several deserters from Staten-Island and the ships of war, whose accounts all agree, we learn that 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, attack this city. ‘To oppose this force, in which the Ministry put so much confidence, I think it necessary to exert our every nerve, and, by defeating their views this campaign, be enabled to meet them with double advantage the next. Should they think proper to pursue their unwarrantable measures, 1 hope the good people 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 on the Islands in the neigh- bourhood of New-London, viz: 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 might all be removed quite out of reach of the enemy. ‘The east end of Long-Island, 1 am told, is not less exposed than the others. I think effectual steps will be taken in regard to that, as I have had a confer- ence with the Convention of this Province, and an order has gone out for driving all the stock from the sea-coasts. In the conference of a full board of General Officers yester- day, it was recommended that I should apply to your Honour 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 are what will be much wanted here; and if you find it consistent, 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 the Horse, that I think their coming for- ward a wrong step. I think it a step which was highly advisable, and am much pleased to see with what cheerful- ness and despatch your orders were executed. This body of Horse, provided they are well armed with good muskets, must always be of greater service, on sudden emergencies to throw in succours when called for, than the Militia. I have the honour to be, with esteem, sir, your most obe- dient humble servant, OW janice To Governour Trumbull, of the State of Connecticut. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD. New-York, July 9, 1776. Str: The enclosed Declaration will show you that Con- gress, at length impelled by necessity, have dissolved the connexion between the American Colonies and Great Bri- tain, and declared them free and independent States; and in compliance with their order, I am to request you will cause this Declaration to be immediately proclaimed at the head of the Continental Regiments 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 143 penetrate 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 do 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 put them- 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 here. The President informs me that he has written to the agents respecting them; but as I presume they are in your posses- sion, or in some of the stores by 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 alteration in the establishment of Chaplains, and advanced their pay, as they have that of the Regimental Surgeons, as you will see by their pro- ceedings, copies of which in these instances are also trans- mitted. ; You will be particularly attentive to hastening the march of the three regiments, and give proper orders for their route, and to the Commissary and Quartermaster, that everything 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 regiments 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 reco- very 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, your obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To Major-General Ward. P.S. I would have you consult with proper persons, and some of the members of the General Court, respecting the route of the three regiments to be detached to the North- ern Army. And if they shall be of opinion, that they may probably arrive there as soon if they come to Norwich and embark from thence for Albany, I should think that would be most preferable, for two reasons: First, it will ease the troops of much fatigue; and, secondly, they might, if there was a necessity for it, afford succour here as they passed. I do not mean to give any direction in the matter; nor do I wish this mode to be adopted, unless there appears to be a probability of their arriving where they are intended to be sent by Congress, as early as if they pursued their march by land and across the country. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. New-York, July 9, 1776. GentLemen: You will perceive by the enclosed Decla- ration, which I have the honour to transmit to you, that Congress of late have been employed in deliberating on matters of the utmost importance. Impelled by necessity and a repetition of injuries insufferable, without the most distant prospect of relief, they have asserted the claims of the American Colonies to the rights of humanity, and de- clared them free and independent States. Judging, from a variety of circumstances, that the British arms are meant to be directed this campaign against the State of New-York to effect its reduction, Congress have empowered me to order the three fullest regiments of their troops in the Massachusetts-Bay to reinforce our Northern Army, as you will see by a copy of their resolve, which I have enclosed. I have accordingly, by the advice of my General Officers, requested General Ward to detach. them with all possible expedition to jom that Army, and prevent the fatal and alarming consequences that would result from the enemy’s passing the Lakes and making an impression on our frontiers. Iam almost morally certain that no attempts will be made on the Massachusetts-Bay; and if there should, they must prove abortive and ineffectual—the Militia, inde- pendent of other troops, being more than competent to all the purposes of defensive war. However, should it be deemed expedient by your honourable body, Congress have autho CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 144 rized you to embody and take into pay a number of Militia equal to the regiments to be detached. _ I have the honour to be, with great respect, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, Go. Wasuineron. To the Hon. General Court of Massachusetts-Bay. Resolve for sending three Regiments from Massacuvusetts-Bay, to rein-* force the Northern Army. ’ In Congress, July 4, 1776. Resolved, That General Washington be empowered, if he shall judge it advisable, to order three of the fullest Regi- ments stationed in Massachusetts-Bay to be immediately marched to Ticonderoga, and that an equal number of the Militia of that State be taken into pay, and imbodied for its defence, if the Government of Massachusetts-Bay judge it necessary. Rosert H. Harrison. New-York, July 11, 1776. The fourth instant was rendered remarkable by the most important event that ever happened to the American Colo- nies ; an event which will doubtless be celebrated through a long succession of future ages, by anniversary commemora- tions, and be considered as a grand era in the history of the American States. On this auspicious day, the Representa- tives of the Thirteen United Colonies, by the providence of God, unanimously agreed to, and voted a Proclamation, declaring the said Colonies free and independent States, which was proclaimed at the State-House, in Philadelphia, on Monday last, and received with joyful acclamations. Copies were also distributed to all the United Colonies. On Tuesday last, it was read at the head of each Brigade of the Continental Army posted at and near New-York, and every- where received with loud huzzas, and the utmost demon- strations of joy. The same evening, the equestrian statue of George IIL., which Tory pride and folly raised in the year 1770, was, by the sons of freedom, laid prostrate in the dirt, the just desert of an ungrateful tyrant! The lead wherewith this monu- ment was made is to be run into bullets, to assimilate with the brain of our infatuated adversaries, who, to gain a pep- percorn, have lost an empire.* DUTCHESS COUNTY (NEW-YORK ) COMMITTEE. In General Committee, Dutchess County, July 9, 1776. This is to certify, that John R. Livingston proved to the satisfaction of this Committee, by his own affidavit and the affidavits of the principal millwright and principal manufac- turer, that his Powder-Mill in this County was completed before the 20th day of May last, and that the quantity of one thousand pounds of good merchantable gunpowder was manufactured at the said mill in one week, or seven days successively. By order of the Committee: Ecsert Benson, Chairman. GOVERNOUR ‘SRUMBULL TO CAPTAIN SHAW. Lebanon, July 9, 1776. Sir: On receipt of this, you are desired to prepare and forthwith transmit to me a particular account of the cannon left at New-London by Commodore Hopkins, their num- ber, size, bore, and weight, how they are disposed of, and where to be found at this time; also, an account of the other cannon at New-London belonging to the Colony, their num- ber, size, bore, and weight; particularly distinguished from those brought in by Commodore Hopkins. There is high probability that the fortifications building at the harbour of New-London will be at Continental expense. I thank you for yours of yesterday. The law has made provision for the supply of Captain Richard Deshon. ‘The arms you im- ported may be purchased by the Selectmen, and paid by order to the Pay-Table for that end. From your humble servant, Jonatruan TRrumBULL. To Captain Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., New-London. P.S. Please send me also, by itself, an account of the stores left by the Commodore, and how we are provided for necessaries for the cannon, shot, &c. * Lord Clare, in the House of Commons, declared that a pepper- corn, in acknowledgment of Britain’s right to tax “merica, was of more importance than millions without it. 145 WILLIAM HILLHOUSE TO NATHANIEL SHAW. Lebanon, July 9, 1776. Sir: The Colony arms to be divided among the towns that I spoke to you about. New-London’s share is seven- teen, which may be had at Captain Braznard’s, at Hadam. Mr. Hosmer, I suppose, has given orders accordingly. I am, sir, your humble servant, Ww. Hittuouse. To Mr. Nathaniel Shaw. — GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, July 9, 1776. Sir: The small-pox in our northern Army carries with it a much greater dread than our enemies. Our men dare to face them, but are not willing to go into a Hospital. I wish to have every precaution taken to prevent the spread of that infection. Surely, by care and good discipline, the infected may be cleansed, and a stop put to its progress. To promote this design, and afford every assistance in my power, I have sent up Major John Ely,a gentleman skilled in that distemper, whose fidelity may be relied on, to con- sult and assist in the matter. I shall cooperate in every measure tending to the security of the rights of the Colonies. The two battalions from this Colony will come on soon; beg they may be preserved from the infection. ‘The two companies of ship carpenters will begin their march the beginning of this week. One meets at Middletown this day. I have written you by Captain Winslow. Captain Lester will follow soon. Do not doubt you will find both, with their companies, skilful workmen, and answerable to your expectations. They bring their tools. Neither of the head workmen, and but few of the others, have had the small-pox. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your obedient hum- ble servant, JONATHAN TRUMBULL. To Major-General Schuyler. MOSES MORSE TO COMMANDING OFFICER AT CROWN-POINT. Worthington, July 9, 1776. Sir: I am directed by the General Court of Massachu- setts-Bay forthwith to send an express to Head-Quarters at Crown-Point, requesting the true state of the Army in that department, and the danger that the country is in at present from that quarter. Would inform that three thousand men are preparing with all expedition to come to the relief of that part of the country. Also, fifteen hundred more are ordered by the Continental Congress to be raised for that department. Boston is become a hospital with the small- pox. Also, have enclosed a copy of a resolve for a post- rider. Have appointed Joshua Morse, of Worthington, for the present. Am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Moses Morse. To the chief Commanding Officer at Crown-Point. «In the House of Representatives, July 6, 1776. “Resolved, That Jonathan Brown, Esq., Doctor Moses Morse, Mr. Benjamin Guild, Oliver Wendell, Esq., and Major Jacob Davis, be a Committee to agree with two suit- able persons to ride post to Crown-Point once a week until the last day of November next; and that the said Post take such route as the Committee aforesaid shall think best—the said Post to start from and return to Watertown until the further orders of this Court. “And it is further Resolved, That some person be ap- pointed at Watertown by the Committee aforesaid to receive and deliver such Letters as shall not be delivered before said Post’s arrival at Watertown; and that all Letters to or from any persons in the Army be carried free of charge. “Sent up for concurrence. . “Wittiam Cooper, Speaker pro tem. “Ix Councit, July 6, 1776: Read and concurred. “Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. “Consented to by the major part of the Council. “A true copy: Attest: Joun Avery, Dep. Sec. “N. B. Letters to be received and delivered at Mr. Stephen Harris’s, near Watertown Bridge, and at Captain Nathaniel Daniels’s, in Worthington.” | Firta Series.—Vot. I, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 146 PETITION OF THE INHABITANTS OF TRURO, MASSACHUSETTS, To the Honourable the Council and House of Representa- ties of the Colony of the Massacuuserts-Bay in Ge- neral Court assembled at Warerrown, July 9, 1776, the Petition and Memorial of the subscribers humbly show: At a meeting of the inhabitants of the town of Truro, legally warned, and held on the 9th of July, 1776, moved and voted, that Israel Gross, Reuben Higgins, and Sylvanus Snow, be a Committee to draft a petition to the honourable Council and House of Representatives for an easement of our Colony taxes; which is as followeth: We, your petitioners, do humbly address your Honours to take into your wise consideration the many difficulties your petitioners at this time feel and Jabour under. Firstly. The sandy and lightness of our soil, which is much blown over to sand, does not afford more than half a sufficient supply to support our inhabitants; and as Cape-Cod harbour is open to the enemy, and no convenient harbour in this town, we are at a great expense in trans- porting the most of our necessaries from other places. Secondly. The enormous loss we sustain by being re- strained from our whale and cod fishery, which was our greatest support, besides a dormant and wasting substance of our vessels. Thirdly. The exposed situation we are in to our unnatural enemies; as this town is a narrow neck of land, not short of twelve miles in length, and from a mile and a half to a half mile in breadth, and makes one side of Cape-Cod harbour, where the enemy may anchor in safety, and land and rob us of our stock, burn our buildings, and retreat off, before we can be reinforced from our neighbouring towns. Fourthly. And that by reason of our distressed situation, from four years taxes our constables cannot gather enough to support our reverend pastor; as we were ever willing to pay the first money collected into the Province treasury, and left the town treasury empty; for which reason our schools, for six months past, have entirely ceased, and many of our necessary town charges remain unpaid; besides a great number of poor families, widows, and fatherless chil- dren, depend on the charity of the town; and although the greatest part of our men have gone into the war, yet we expect they will bring but little to support their families, by reason of extraordinary expenses. All of which your peti- tioners think it our indispensable duty not to conceal, but humbly to present it to this honourable Court, praying that your Honours, by taking our hard lot into your most serious consideration, would be pleased, so far to consider us as to cause an easement in our Colony taxes ; and your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray. By order of the Committee: IsraEL Gross, Chairman. COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO GENERAL WARD. Watertown, July 9, 1776. Sir: The Board was this day informed that you had given liberty to a number of Continental troops now sta- tioned at Winter-Hill, to receive the small-pox by inocu- lation. ‘The Board are unwilling to credit such a report, as there is an act of this Colony prohibiting inoculation except in the town of Boston. ‘They therefore request, if you have given out any such orders, that you would immediately recall them, that the good people of Medford, &c., may be relieved of their apprehensions; and desire your Honour would not permit any of the troops under your command to receive the small-pox by inoculation, in any other town except the town of Boston. To the Honourable Artemas Ward, Esq. GENERAL WARD TO COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS. Boston, July 9, 1776. Sm: I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of this day; and in answer thereto, say, there is no Conti- nental troops at or near Winter-HMill, except a guard at the powder magazine, and they have all had the small-pox. Yesterday the Selectmen of Medford applied to me for leave to make use of one of the barracks at or near Winter- Hill for a small-pox hospital, the small-pox having broken out in said town. I gave them leave to take some of them 10 147 for that purpose. I thought then, and I think now, I had a right so to do. I am, sirs, yours, and the honourable Board’s most obe- dient and very humble servant y ? Artemas Warp. To the Honourable John Avery. BARNSTABLE (MASSACHUSETTS) COMMITTEE. Messieurs Printers: Please to give the following a place in your next, and you will oblige a friend, and help to vindicate the injured : In the Watertown paper of last Monday, I then being in Boston, had the mortification to see a piece most artfully dressed up in the form of a Protest,* against the proceedings of the town of Barnstable, in a late meeting of theirs, which was held to choose a Representative in the room of that truly honourable gentleman, lately admitted to the Board. These respectable gentlemen (as the protestors are pleased to call themselves) have endeavoured to make it appear, by their representation of the matter, that the town of Barn- stable, in voting not to instruct their Representative, did posi- tively give their sentiments as a town against the measure of Independency, even if the Congress should see fit to adopt it; and that they did thereby absolutely refuse to support such a determination, however necessary it may appear to the wisdom of the Continent. The subscriber to this, bemg an inhabitant of the town of Barnstable, and present at the said meeting, humbly requests the candid publick that they would for the present suspend their judgment of this matter (which, as it has been represented, must appear in the most unfavourable light) until such time as an attested copy of the above mentioned proceedings can be procured and made publick, when he hopes it will appear, not that the late Pro- test was designed as a malevolent aspersion of the town, but that the representation therein exhibited has not the truth for its foundation ; in the mean time, I am the respectable protestors’ humble servant, Sturgis Goruam. Boston, July 9, 1776. JOSEPH OTIS ON THE PROCEEDINGS AT BARNSTABLE. Barnstable, July 18, 1776. Mr. Epes: By Powers & Willis’s paper of the 11th July 1 find an inhabitant of the town of Barnstable greatly mortified at a piece in your paper, dressed up in form of a Protest, and with a sneer at the persons whose names were annexed to the account, ‘“ begging the candid publick to sus- pend their judgment.” Who dressed up the piece that gave him so much mortification I pretend not tosay. But surely he showed but little address in taxing the protestors against * We, the subscribers, inhabitants of the town of Barnstable, protest against the proceedings of said town, at their meeting held on Tuesday, 25th of June instant, respecting their giving the Representatives instruc- tions with regard to the independency of the Colonies, as it was recom- mended to the several towns in this Colony, by way of resolve from the honourable House of Representatives: and as a vote was put in said meeting, to know whether the town would proceed to give any instructions to their Representatives agreeable to the aforesaid recom- mendation, which was carried in the negative. And judging it to be our duty to protest against said vote, we do it for the following reason: we think such a measure as proposed in said resolve to be the most salu- tary that can be gone into for the safety and well-being of the Colonies under our present oppressed situation. And as it is the duty of every individual to give his voice in favour of the aforesaid recommendation, in case the honourable Continental Congress see cause to declare these Colonies entirely independent, we are ready and willing to stand by such a declaration (if it should take place) to the uttermost of our power, with our lives and estates. And being very unwilling that the aforesaid vote should be passed over in silence, for fear of offending our own consciences in being thought to acquiesce in so strange a vote of the ‘town, and of offending our countrymen and brethren in other towns who may go into contrary measures, entirely abhorring any principles but what are for the good of the United Colonies of America, and detesting ‘those arguments brought by some men in said meeting to dissuade the :people from complying with said recommendation, we take this method -of letting the publick know our dissent from the aforesaid proceedings sof the town, having no other way to make our sentiments known. We request that this Protest may be entered in the Town-book, to let posterity know that there were a few in this town who dared to stand ‘forth in favour of an injured and oppressed country, treated with every ‘species of wickedness used by tyranny to enslave mankind; and itis a matter of great grief to us that the cause of liberty is treated with such untleaty by some of the inhabitants of the town of Barnstable. oseph Otis, Nathan Bassett, Cornelius Lovell, Thomas Annable, David Smith, Seth Lathrop, Benjamin Smith, Job Howland, Benoni Crocker, Zaccheus Howland, James Davis, John Bliss, Joseph Jenkins, Nathaniel Howland, Edmund Hawes, ‘Benjamin Smith, | Ebenezer Lathrop, John Russel, Freeman Parker, Binney Baker, Charles Conant. John Crocker, Jun., Jonathan Hallet, ‘BARNSTABLE, June 26, 1776. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 148 a proceeding of a town meeting with “ artfully misrepresent- ing” in an article of intelligence, and which he insinuates was a “ malevolent aspersion of their town,” when the pro- testors were to a man unacquainted with the piece until it appeared in your paper. Nor has he the truth for his foun- dation when he says the “ protestors call themselves respect- able gentlemen,” for, in truth, the protestors have hitherto been silent, and the paragraph in your paper only styles them “respectable inhabitants.” An unfortunate advocate for truth and candour this, to appear in the first part of his performance destitute of both. I pronounce the account of our town meeting neither true nor false, nor do I determine whether, all circumstances considered, a negative upon the question of instructing relative to Independence was a nega- tive upon the question of Independence ; though if the infer- ence was natural, it was unavoidable. The account of our town meeting in your paper “had the truth for its founda- tion ;” but if the question was mistaken, or even “artfully” stated, I see not how the protestors are responsible. Asa protestor, an inhabitant of Barnstable, and one at the meet- ing, I join issue with this “ mortified” young man, state facts, and leave the publick to draw their inferences. _ After it was debated largely whether the town would give any instructions to their Representatives, the question was put by yeas and nays. Thirty appeared for instructing, thirty-five against it. There was a long debate about de- claring independency. One said “it was downright rebel- lion ;” another, a staunch friend of Governour Hutchinson, said “our trade was as free as if we were independent ;” and these were violently against the motion. And such-like weighty arguments, I suppose, obtained a majority against instructing, of which number our quandam Captain under Governour Hutchinson was one. The protestors, | am sure, for one, were far from rejoicing that the vote was carried as it was, and am as certain they have no desire of aspersing the town ; though if exculpating themselves and stating facts “mortifies a part of the town, and our candid sneerer at the protestors amongst the rest, I am little solicitous about that consequence. I have no wish to set the town in a less repu- table light. It is my opinion, if a certain party had not, by their boisterous, illiberal behaviour, intimidated the major part not to act, (for of one hundred and forty voters at the meeting sixty-five only voted upon the question,) the question would have been carried in favour of instructing, and the town would have saved its credit, at least in this affair. The unprovoked attack upon me and the protestors has drawn me into the view of the publick upon this occasion, supposing my silence would be deemed a tacit acknowledg- ment of wrong, which is all my inducement to answer ; for the sneers of a little emissary of a desperate cabal are as con- temptible as their unremitting malice and abuse; happy in conscious integrity, though the love of my country and my efforts in her service have opened upon me the throats of deep-mouthed mastiffs, as well as occasioned the barking of lesser curs. This unprovoked attack will, I hope, apologize for publishing the Protest as it was hastily drawn up; and submitting to the judgment of an impartial publick, Iam their humble servant, JosEPH Ortts. Salem, July 9, 1776. On Wednesday last, was taken and sent into Cape-Ann, by the Yankey privateer sloop, in the Continental service, (lately fitted out at Boston, to cruise against the unnatural enemies of America,) commanded by Captain Henry John- son, the ship Creighton, Ross, master, about three hundred and fifty tons burden. She was bound from Antigua to Boston, and has on board a cargo of four hundred pun- cheons of rum. Same day, was also sent in by Captain Johnson, the ship Zechariah Baily, , master, four hundred and fifty tons burden, with a cargo of rum, sugar, spices, pepper, cotton, &c. She was taken about a fortnight ago, on her passage from Jamaica to London. 'This ship was a lettgr- of-marque of twenty-four guns last war. When the above ships parted with the Yankey, she was in chase of several other vessels. COMMITTEE OF MACHIAS TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Machias, July 9, 1776. We, the Committee of Safety for Machias, beg leave to acquaint your Honours, that on Saturday last came into 149 our harbour the Viper sloop-of-war, and she has taken five fishing vessels, two of which had about one hundred quin- tals of fish each; all of which vessels were taken as they were passing by our harbour, bound home; and said man- of-war, after tarrying here two days, sailed for Annapolis Royal, with her prizes, where the ship Merlin, of eighteen guns, lies, there to fix out one or two of the schooners for tenders, to cruise upon this shore for three months, to pick up every vessel that passes. Her station, as we are informed by Mr. Ralph Hacock, is from Mount Desert to Granmenan. Mr. Hacock was master of one of the vessels taken, owned in this place, and the Captain of the Viper gave him leave to come on shore, by his pleading the great necessity of his family; and Mr. Hacock gives further information that the Viper mounts ten guns, six- pounders, and twenty swivels, and has one hundred and thirty men; but have been on two-thirds allowance all their cruise. We would inform your Honours, that bad the Machias privateers been here, we should have tried to have taken the Viper; but being destitute of any such assistance, we lie almost at the mercy of our enemies. If we cannot pass with our vessels, we can maintain our families but a short time in this place. ‘Therefore, we beg that your Honours would take our difficult circumstances into your consideration, and grant us such relief as you in your wis- dom shall think proper; and we, the Committee, as in duty bound, will ever pray. By order of the Committee: Bensamin Foster, Chairman. To the Hon. Council and the Hon. House of Representa- tives for the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay. THOMAS OLIVER TO EDWARD WINSLOW. London, July 10, 1776. Dear Nep: I received your very obliging letter of the 23d of May, by Mr. Simpson, with a number of other letters returned, which went out from England, directed to me at Halifax, or Boston; and Iam much obliged, not only for your kind attention to my concerns, but for your early cor- respondence, containing a fund of intelligence and entertain- ment. I wish it were in my power to make you a suitable return, by giving you such information as would be new and enter- taining; but long, I hope, before this reaches your hands, you will have known the great preparations which are already made for prosecuting with vigour the American war. We hope that these appearances of determination may have great effect upon the southern Governments, in bringing them to a proper temper of mind for a speedy reconcilia- tion; but have not the least expectation of the New-England people giving up without real correction. At this season of the year, London is more barren of interesting events, or any great movements, than Nova- Scotia. I am glad you did not come over, as I am confident you would have been disappointed, entre nous. The application from the sufferers in America are like to be so very numerous, that I apprehend it will prevent the gratification of any. There is scarcely a Province in America which does not afford shoals of petitioners hanging about. the Treasury; and Administration, however well inclined, are unable to answer all the numerous demands. Therefore, my friend, I advise you to trust your fortune in the channel you are in. If times alter in America, it may alter appearances here. I am still in the neighbourhood of London, but mean to get into some cheaper part of the country. Colonel Vassal and family are well; they will continue in London. I am not able to form any conjecture whether I shall succeed in my West-India plan, for reasons before mentioned. I remain, your affectionate friend, T. Oxiver. To Edward Winslow, Esq., Halifax. LETTER FROM THE CAMP BEFORE GWIN’S ISLAND, DATED suLY 10, 1776. Yesterday morning Brigadier-General Lewis, accompa- nied by the Colonels Stephens, Woodford, Weedon, and Bucknor, arrived here; when a vigorous attack was made on the fleet and camp of the enemy. The ships were so roughly handled that the Dunmore and several others were CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 150 in a short time towed off, and the enemy abandoned their works, after carrying away all their cannon except a six- pounder. We have taken the Lady Charlotte tender, with three guns, a very fine schooner, and a pilot-boat, which they made use of as tenders. ‘The want of boats prevented our seizing many Tories, all their cannon, the greatest part of their baggage, and the negroes ; the enemy have burnt sev- eral of their vessels, among them a very fine ship, supposed to be the Dunmore, which was rendered unfit for sea. His Lordship lost his china, by a double-headed shot, and it is said he himself was wounded in the leg by a splinter. The fleet is driven off without water; and although they have plenty of prize flour, there is not a biscuit on board. The houses, ovens, and fortifications, which they have begun on the Island, plainly prove that they had no intention to leave it in so precipitate a manner. All the loss that we sustained was in poor Captain Arundel, of the Artillery, who was killed by the bursting of a mortar. ‘The officers and sol- diers of Colonel Dangerfield’s regiment behaved with great bravery. PARTICULAR ACCOUNT OF THE ATTACK AND ROUT OF LORD DUNMORE, WITH HIS PIRATICAL CREW, FROM GWIN’S ISL- AND. We got to the Island on Monday, the 8th of July, and next morning, at eight o’clock, began a furious attack upon the enemy’s shipping, camp, and fortifications, from two batteries—one of five six and nine-pounders, the other mounting two 18-pounders. What forces the enemy had were encamped on a point of the Island, nearly opposite to our five-gun battery, covered by a battery of four em- brasures, and a breastwork of considerable extent. Besides this, they had two other batteries, and a stockade fort higher up the haven, where troops were stationed to prevent our landing. In the haven, were three tenders—one a sloop, (the Lady Charlotte,) mounting six carriage-guns, a schooner of two carriage-guns, six swivels, and a cohorn, and a pilot- boat, badly armed—who had orders from Captain Ham- mond, of the Roebuck, to prevent our boats passing over to the Island, and to annoy the Rebels by every means in their power. | General Lewis announced his orders for attacking the enemy, by putting a match to the first gun, an 18-pounder, himself; and the Dunmore, being the nearest to us, at the distance of only four or five hundred yards, the shot passed through her hull, and did considerable damage. Our five- gun battery likewise began playing on the fleet, the enemy’s camp, and works; and the fire soon became so hot, that the Dunmore was obliged to cut her cables and haul off, after receiving ten shot, some of which raked her fore and aft. The Otter lay next to her, and it was expected would have taken her birth; but the first shot we gave her took effect, supposed between wind and water, as she immediately slipped her cable likewise, and hauled out on a careen, without firing a gun. By this time, all the fleet any way near shore began to slip their cables, in the utmost confu- sion; and had the wind set in with a flood tide, we must have taken great numbers of them, Our 18-pounders did great execution from the upper battery, which raked the whole fleet ; and Captain Denny, who commanded the other battery, soon silenced the enemy at the point, knocking down several tents, which put their camp into great confusion. At half after nine, the firing ceased, which was renewed again at twelve, with double vigour, from both batteries; and nothing prevented our pushing to the Island, during the can- nonade, but the want of vessels. The General being determined to cross next day, gave orders for all the small craft to be collected together from the neighbouring creek that night, and two brass field-pieces, six-pounders, to be carried to a place called Lower Windmill Point, to attack the tender that lay there, and facilitate our crossing. Accordingly, in the morning Captain Harrison, who had the direction of those field-pieces, began playing upon the tenders, which he galled so much that the schooner ran up a small creek which made into the Island, where the crew abandoned her, and the sloop got aground in reach of our cannon; upon which, the General ordered Captain Smith, of the Seventh Regiment, with his company, to man the canoes and board her, which was done with alacrity. However, before our men came up with her, the crew got into. 151 their boats, and pushed for the Island; but Captain Smith, very prudently passing the tender, pursued them so close, that before they could reach the shore, he exchanged a few shot with them, and took part of them prisoners. The enemy’s lookouts, perceiving our men close upon the lower part of the Island, cried out, “The Shirtmen are coming,” and scampered off. The pilot-boat made no resistance. General Lewis then ordered two hundred men, under Colonel McClanahan, to land in the Island; which was per- formed as expeditiously as our small vessels would admit of. On our arrival, we found the enemy had evacuated the place with the greatest precipitation, and were struck with horrour at the number of dead bodies, in a state of putrefaction, strewed all the way from their battery to Cherry-Point, about two miles in Jength, without a shovelful of earth upon them ; others gasping for life; and some had crawled to the water’s edge, who could only make known their distress by beckoning to us. By the small-pox, and other malignant disorders which have raged on board the fleet for many months past, it is clear they have lost, since their arrival at Gwin’s Island, near five hundred souls. I myself counted one hundred and thirty graves, or rather holes, loosely covered over with earth, close together, many of them large enough to hold a corporal’s guard. One, in the middle, was neatly done up with turf, and is supposed to contain the remains of the late Lord of Gosport. Many were burnt alive in brush huts, which, in their confusion, had got on fire. In short, such a scene of misery, distress, and cruelty, my eyes never beheld ; for which the authors, one may reasonably conclude, never can make atonement in this world. The enemy left behind them, in their battery, a double fortified nine-pounder, a great part of their baggage, with several tents and markees, besides the three tenders, with their cannon, small arms, &c.; also, the anchors and cables of the Dunmore, Otter, and many others, to the amount, it is supposed, of twelve or fifteen hundred pounds. On their leaving the Island, they burnt some valuable vessels which had got aground. Mr. John Grymes’s effects on the Island have fallen into our hands, consisting of thirty-five negroes, horses, cattle, and furniture. Major Byrd, on the approach of our canoes to the Island, was huddled into,a cart, in a very sick and low condition, it is said, and carried down to Cherry-Point, where he embarked. ‘The second shot the Dunmore received cut her boatswain in two, and wounded two or three others; and she had scarcely recovered from the shock, when a nine-pounder from the lower battery entered her quarter, and beat in a large timber, from the splinters of which Lord Dunmore got wounded in the legs, and had all his valuable china smashed about his ears. It is said his Lordship was exceedingly alarmed, and roared out, “Good God, that ever I should come to this!” We had our information from one of his people that came ashore after the engagement, who was taken by our scouts; he likewise.said that many were killed in the fleet, which had sustained some thousand pounds worth of damage. The Fowey and Roebuck were the lowermost ships; besides which, there were one hundred and large odd sail of vessels, which took their departure on Thursday afternoon, and are supposed to have gone into Potomack. In this affair we lost not a man but poor Captain Arundel, who was killed by the bursting of a mortar of his own invention, although the General and all the officers were against his firing it. His zeal for the service lost him his life. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED WILLIAMSBURGH, VIRGINIA, JuLY 13, 1776. A battery of two eighteen-pounders was opened on the enemy’s fleet on Tuesday morning, whilst another of four nine-pounders played on their works and camp on G'win’s Island. Ina short time, the whole fleet was forced to tow out of reach of the battery; their fire ceased after a few rounds; their camp was thrown into confusion; and in the night, before we could procure boats to carry over our men, they removed all their tents except one, their cannon except one, and all their stores, &c. There were three tenders in the haven, which attempted to prevent our passage. Their works were still manned, as if they meant to dispute their ground; but as soon as our soldiers put off in a few canoes, they retreated precipitately to their ships. The tenders fell into our hands; one they set on fire, but our people boarded CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 152 it and extinguished the flames. The enemy burnt two small vessels, and the night following, a very large ship, supposed to be the Dunmore, for she was very much damaged, having received four eighteen-pound shot through her sides, and a double-headed one through her stern, which raked her. Her mate was killed, a sailor had his arm taken off, and Lord Dunmore had his leg wounded by this shot. The fleet has sailed from the Island, which we are in quiet possession of. From their works, and preparations for others, and stock of cattle left on the Island, it is evident they left it much against their inclination, and long before they expected it. We found one hundred and fifty graves and twelve dead negroes lying in the open air. They have had a dreadful fever amongst them, and the small-pox. I wish our Army may not catch the infection. The Roebuck was at the mouth of Rappahannock. The Fowey and Otter did not choose to come to the assistance of the Dunmore, which, unfortunately for her, had changed stations with the Otter, and by this means came into the jaws of our battery, which was concealed. We did not lose a man. LIST OF SHIPS IN LORD DUNMORE’S FLEET, JULY 10, 1776. Roebuck, a forty-four-gun ship, Commodore Hammond com- mander. Fowey, a twenty-gun ship, Captain Montagu commander. Otter, a ten-gun sloop of war, Captan Squzres commander. Dunmore, a frigate-built ship, mounting four six-pounders on one side. William, a ship with two four-pounders of a side, a part of the 14th Regiment on board. Anna, a ship, barricadoed, with a part of the 14th Regiment on board. Dun Lace, a ship, occupied by the Queen’s Loyals, a regi- ment of ditto raising. Grace, a ship belonging to and occupied by Mr. Fleming and family. Deen a store-ship, in which Governour Eden has taken a passage. Brigantine Fincastle, belonging to and occupied by Neel Jamieson. Brigantine Dolphin, belonging to and occupied by Hector McAlister. Brigantine Maria, occupied by John Allason and family. Brigantine Fanny, occupied by Dr. Mc Caa and family. Brigantine Betsey, occupied by Captain Boynoe and family. Ditto, occupied by Doctor Coakley and family, sometimes with negroes. Ditto, | occupied by Mr. Feener and family. A Spanish snow, prizemaster, supercargo, captain, and crew, on board. Brigantine Helena, belonging to Roger Steuart, occupied as a prison for prisoners. Brigantine William and Charles, from Barbadoes, on board three hundred hogsheads rum and one hundred hogsheads sugar, sent in by the Governour of Barbadoes to Sir Peter Parker. Snow Unicorn, on board of which is blacksmith’s shop. Brigantine Hammond, occupied by Mr. John Hunter and Mr. Sprowles’s family. Schooner Thomas, occupied by William Calderhead and family. aes Charlotte, occupied by William Hargisdes and family. Sloop Campbell, occupied by Mr. Farmer and family. Sloop Peace and Plenty, belonging to and occupied by Mr. Eilbeck. Sloop Lady Augusta, belonging to and occupied by Captain Lowes. Sloop Lady Gower, a tender, John Wilkie commander. Sloop Lady Stanly, a tender, William Younghusband com- mander. Sloop Lady Susan, a tender, Briger Goodrich commander. Schooner Gage, a tender, belonging to the Roebuck. Sloop Fincastle, of twelve guns, belonging to the Otter. Sloop Lady Gage, a tender, belonging to the Fowey. Seven sloops, occupied by Messrs. Spedden and Goodrich’s families. Two schooners, occupied by John Brown and family. Ship Logan, belonging to and occupied by Mr. Logan and family. | 153 Sloop John Grimes, occupied by said Grimes and some dragoons. Most of the other vessels are small craft, and occupied by tradespeople and negroes—vessels that are not fit to go to sea. The Lively frigate cruising off the Capes. To the Honourable the Council of Safety, Annapolis. EDWARD TILLARD TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 10, 1776. Gentiemen: I have nearly raised my thirty men, as directed by my warrant, and I believe the Lieutenants and Ensigns are in a fair way of raising theirs; but they have but few or no firelocks fit for service among them. If you have none ready, I am told Mr. Stephen West hath some very good ones, which I do not doubt may be procured for the service. 1 would willingly have firelocks put into the hands of these men that could be depended on, and if you think proper to give me an order I will go and secure them, and fit out my company as soon as completed. Iam told his price is six pounds currency apiece. Iam, gentlemen, your obedient servant, Epwarp Titvarp. To the Honourable Council of Safety. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH. [No. 14.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: We have four hundred and fifty yards of country linen cloth fit for making tents, and want a man from Balti- more immediately to make itup. We shall be much obliged to you if you will send us such a person down without delay, as the service will be greatly forwarded by it. If a person can be got to make it up in Baltimore it shall be sent to you on notice immediately. We are, &c. To Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO SMYTH, HANDS, AND NICHOLSON. [No. 15.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. GentiemeNn: Do you know of any one who will engage in the tent-making business for the Province? Pray inform us immediately, and as soon as the wagons arrive from below, advise us of it. We are, &c. To Messrs. Smyth, Hands, and Nicholson. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL BUCHANAN. {No. 16.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: There is an indispensable necessity that the Militia for the Flying-Camp should be provided as soon as they are raised with cartouch-boxes; but as this cannot be accom- plished in proper time, without a return of those which were delivered the Militia in your district when the Otter sloop- of-war was up the bay, there not being a sufficient quantity without them, we desire you will immediately collect and return them to the magazine in this city, or Baltimore town. The service requires the utmost expedition in this matter, and will not admit of a moment’s delay. We are, &c. To Brigadier-General Buchanan. [Copies of the above letter sent to Colonels A. Hall, Bond, Dorsey, and Rumsey.| MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO EDWARD PARKER. [No. 17.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: The service requires an immediate supply of linen cloth fit for making tents. The encouragement you have met with, and still may expect to meet, together with the punctuality hitherto shown by you, induces us to think you will exert your utmost endeavours to bring in as great a quantity of that sort, and in as small a space of time, as lies in your power. We are, &c. To Mr. Edward Parker. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO-AMOS GARRETT. [No. 18.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: We request you will exert yourselves in supplying us with bayonets; they are much wanted for our Militia of the Flying-Camp. We are, &c. To Mr. Amos Garrett. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 154 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO STEPHEN STEWART. [No. 19.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: We are in great want of tents. Can your sailmaker engage in that business for us? We are, &c. To Mr. Stephen Stewart. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JOHN ARCHER AND JAMES HARRIS. [No. 20.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. GrntLemen: You are by obligation bound to pay three hundred pounds borrowed of the Province, in linen; one-third thereof by the Ist of June, one-third by the Ist of Septem- ber, and the residue by the Ist of December, in such sizes as should be wanted by this Colony. The publick service re- quires linen of about a six hundred, or coarser, fit for tenting, or tow linen wove thick, as our troops must very shortly take the field. We have that confidence in your publick spirit, and ardour to serve your country, that you will, as soon as possible, furnish us with what quantity you can, as some of our coun- trymen may be too fatally exposed to the inclemency of the weather without it. We are, &c. To Messrs. John Archer and James Harris. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO RICHARD DALLAM. [No. 21.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: The regular forces were ordered by Convention to march from Annapolis and Baltimore, and an equal number of the Militia to be raised for the Flying-Camp, were directed, when raised, to supply their places. You must be sensible that all the arms we can procure in the publick way will be immediately wanted; therefore send what you have already made, and all you can make, down to Gerrard Hopkins, the Commissary of Stores at Baltimore. It will be necessary that the barrels should be proved ; the common proof is the weight of the ball in powder, and one ball; this may be done before Mr. John Rumsey and Doctor Thomas Andrews, or either of them, and a certificate taken thereof, as also of their delivery to the Commissary, unless you incline to have them proved before Captain Smith, in Baltimore. We are, &c. To Mr. Richard Dallam. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO WILLIAM WHETCROFT. [No. 22.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: The Council of Safety have been informed that you have a servant who understands the business of tent-making ; if so, and you are desirous of having him employed in that business, we will immediately set him to work, and find em- ployment for him for some time. We are, &c. To Mr. William Whetcroft. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL DORSEY. [No. 23.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: The regular forces in the pay of this Province leave this city this evening; the sooner, therefore, the company you are to send get here, the better. It will be proper, under the resolves of the Convention, that three companies of our neighbouring Militia should be stationed in Annapolis, until the places of the regular troops ordered from hence can be supplied by the Militia to be raised for the Flying- Camp. When Colonel John Dorsey was with us, we con- ceived that your company of Militia might be discharged when the company of Militia raised on Elk-Ridge for the Flying-Camp marched here ; but upon further considering the resolve, apprehend there may be three companies of the neighbouring Militia in this city, until the places of the regular troops can be supplied by the Flying-Camp Militia, You may rely on it, however, that the company of your battalion which comes down shall be relieved as soon as possible. You must be mistaken in what you wrote about the vote of Congress; those only of the Militia that compose the Flying-Camp, are to march to Philadelphia, or anywhere out of the Province. We are, &c. To Colonel Thomas Dorsey. 155 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEE OF HARFORD. [No. 24.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Gentiemen: The publick service requires that all the arms purchased by you, or manufactured in Harford under your direction, be transmitted to Baltimore town, to Ger- rard Hopkins, the Commissary, of whom you will be pleased to take a receipt, and transmit to us the number, quality, and value of the same. We desire you will also furnish us with an account of the disposition of the four hundred pounds we heretofore sent you. Weare, &c. To the Committee of Harford. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN TILLARD. [No. 26.] Annapolis, July 10, 1776. Sir: We are glad to hear you and your officers are so forward in raising your company, as our forces are at present much wanted. ‘L'hough it will be difficult to procure fire- locks for all the men, yet we cannot agree to give so great a price as six pounds currency apiece. We have got very good at four pounds and a crown, but would on this occa- sion willingly advance as far as four pounds ten for such as are good and serviceable, fixed with bayonets. We are, &c. To Captain Edward Tillard. Annapolis, Maryland, July 11, 1776. Yesterday evening six companies of the First Battalion of Maryland Troops, stationed in this city, and commanded by Colonel Wiliam Smallwood, embarked for the head of Elk, in high spirits, and three companies of the same battalion, stationed in Baltimore town, embarked yesterday morning for the same place; from thence they are to proceed to Philadelphia. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. Sir: The enclosed letter from Mr. Ephraim Anderson, I am directed to transmit by order of Congress. As Mr. Anderson appears to be an ingenious man, and proposes to destroy the Britzsh fleet at New-York, the Congress are willing to give him an opportunity of trying the experiment, and have therefore thought proper to refer him to you. The event only can show whether his scheme is visionary or practicable. Should it be attended with success, (and the very chance of it is sufficient to justify the attempt,) the infinite service to the Americun States arising therefrom cannot be described ; or should it fail, our situation will be in every respect the same as before. Many things seem highly probable in speculation which, however, cannot be reduced to practice. And on the other hand, experiment has shown that many things are extremely practicable which our most accurate reasonings had taught us to believe were impossible. [have the honour to be, sir, with the greatest respect, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington, at New-York. GenTLEMEN: Being anxiously desirous of being service- able to my country (in an eminent degree) at this time of publick calamity, I am ready immediately to undertake the destruction of the British fleet now at New-York. If I may be honoured with such directions from this Congress, my plan of operation I will communicate to any of the Members. of the House for their approbation, convinced of the probability of success, and the infinite service such an enterprise would be to these States, particularly at this time. Shall be glad to execute it at the hazard of my life. An enterprise of the same kind I undertook at Quebeck, and should undoubtedly have succeeded, had not the enemy had intelligence, and stretched a cable across the mouth of their harbour, and myself by accident much burnt; but, thank God, am recovered perfectly again, and ready to make the like attempt. This, or any other appointment: I may be honoured with, shall be thankfully received. As men well CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 156 acquainted with military discipline are much wanting in our armies, I would offer myself to the Congress for an appoint- ment in that department. Having served in the British Army last war, have had greater opportunities of being acquainted with the military art than most of our officers are. I shall wait the order of the Congress at the Conestoga Wagon, in Market Street. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble servant, Eruram ANDERSON, Adjutant to 2d Jersey Battalion. July 9, 1776. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO WILLIAM PALFREY. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. Sir: [am to inform you that Congress, in consideration of your zeal and attachment to the liberties of America, have thought proper to give you the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in the Continental Army. You will please to acquaint me whether General Wash- ington has delivered a commission to Mr. Harrison or to Mr. Baylor, in consequence of their appointments. If he has, I will forward one to you; but if they have not received commissions, you will in that case, like them, take your rank without a commission. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant i ; Joun Hancock, President. To William Palfrey, Esq., Paymaster-General, New-York. PETITION OF BENJAMIN FLOWER. {July 11, 1776, read, and referred to the Board of War.] To the Honourable the Unrrep States or AMERICA: The Petition of Bensamin Fiower, Lieutenant in the First Battalion of the Associators of the City of PuiLapELPuiA, showeth : That your petitioner, animated with a just sense of the importance of the present contest, was among the first of the Associators in the Province of Pennsylvania; that he un- derstands that the office of Conductor or Commissary of Stores for the Flying-Camp, is vacant; he therefore prays your Honours to appoint him to that office, and, as in duty bound, he will ever pray, &c., Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. Bensamin Fiower. PETITION OF MAJOR MELCHIOR. [July 11, 1776, referred to the Board of War.] To the Honourable the Unitep States or AMERICA: The Petition of Isaac Mexcutor, late Major of Brigade in Canapa, showeth: ' That your petitioner is desirous of serving his country in the present alarming state of publick affairs, in any station to which your Honours may think fit to appoint him. That he understands that the offices of Paymaster and Adjutant to the Flying-Camp and Militia are both yet vacant; to either of which, if your Honours think proper to appoint him, he hopes to act in such a manner as to give the fullest satisfac- tion. For his conduct in the campaign in Canada, he begs leave to refer to the letters of the late General Montgomery and of General Schuyler. And your petitioner will both fight and pray, &c. Isaac Mevcutor. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. MARINE COMMITTEE TO CAPTAIN PARKER. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. Sir: The brig Despatch, of which you are hereby ap- pointed the commander, in the service of the United States of America, being now ready for sea, you are to proceed immediately on board said brigantine for the port of Bor- deaux, in France; and, on your arrival there, deliver the despatches given you herewith to Messrs. Samuel and J. H. Delap, merchants at that place. You are to consider these letters directed to those gentlemen as very important, and must deliver them yourself as soon as possible. You must have them hung at sea with a heavy weight, ready to throw overboard and sink them, in case you should be unfortu- nately taken by the enemy; but, to avoid that danger, you 157 must make a standing rule to run from every vessel you see at sea. The Despatch is well found with plenty of sails, rigging, stores, and materials. . You will therefore make good use of them, and endeavour to make a short passage by a diligent attention to winds and weather, carrying at all times as much sail as is proper. ‘ The goods we have caused to be shipped on board this brig are consigned to Messrs. Delap, to whom you are to deliver the same; and when this is done, you must imme- diately set about arming the brig with eight or ten four- ounder cannon, as many swivels, blunderhusses, cohorns, booninal and muskets, as you think proper; but take care that the cannon, &c., are of the best and handsomest fit for ship’s use. You may, if you think proper, fit her with close quarters, and mount some guns in the cabin, steerage, and forecastle, or you may mount the whole on deck ; and if she will bear more than ten cannon, you may buy them. You must procure a suitable quantity of powder and ball for the cannon, arms, &c., with cartridges, cartridge-paper, and all necessary apparatus thereto. You will complete this busi- ness with expedition, and procure the best advice and assistance in doing it. Messrs. Delap will recommend you to proper people for this purpose, and they will supply you with money to pay the cost. You must ship as many sea- men as you can possibly get, especially American seamen, or those that have been much connected in this country; but you are not to confine yourself to these alone. We are in want of seamen, and you may bring people of all coun- tries or nations that are willing to enter into the American service. You must make it known, in the best manner you can, that great wages and encouragement is now given to seamen in every part of America, both for the publick and for merchant service. You are therefore to bring over not only sufficient for your own complement, which, as an armed vessel, might be thirty to forty, but as many as you can conveniently give ship-room to, and you may contract’ with them for such reasonable wages as may be satisfactory to them. If any masters or mates want passages home, you are to accommodate them, free of any charge to them. You must lay in sufficient of provisions, and allow each man plenty, but suffer no waste. You are to receive from Messrs. Delap any goods they may desire to ship, or from any other persons goods that Messrs. Delap approve of being shipped on board; and when you are ready for departure, you are to wait on those gentlemen for their despatches; and when you receive the same, with their approbation for your de- parture, you are then to make the best of your way back for this coast. You know how it is lined with British men-of- war at present, and it is not possible for us to say what port may be safest by the time you return; but as we expect you will be well armed and manned, you need not fear small vessels; and by keeping constantly a hand at each mast- head to look out, we think you may avoid all large ones, especially as we expect the Despatch will be a flyer, and in France you may get another complete suit of sails for her ; you must therefore put into the first safe port you can, any- where in the United States of America, and by the time you return you may expect to meet with some of our own frigates, galleys, and cruisers. Little Egg-Harbour or Cape May will probably be as secure as any other places. We deliver you herewith a commission, a list of agents for prizes, and the resolves of Congress respecting captures, by which you will learn how to conduct yourself in this respect; your business, however, is not to cruise, but to make quick passages; but if you meet any prizes on your return, so much the better, provided you do not lose time in seeking them; and in case of capture, you must send them in to some of the agents, who will do the needful for all concerned. We expect you will be careful of the brig, her stores, and materials, diligent in making despatch, both at sea and in port, faithful in the discharge of your duty, and the moment you reach any port in America, come, or send the despatches express to the Committee of Secret Corre- spondence. We are, sir, your humble servants. To Captain Peter Parker. P. S. Should you meet Silas Deane, Esq., who lately went from this place for Bordeaux, you may consult with and be advised and directed by him in all things relative to your business with the brig Despatch. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776) 158 j MARINE COMMITTEE TO MESSRS. DELAP. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. GentLemen: You will receive this by the brigantine Despatch, Captain Peter Parker, and with it some letters for Silas Deane, Esq., which, being of considerable conse- quence, we beg you will cause them to be sent or delivered to him with the utmost expedition ; and we make no doubt he has left his address with you, should he have left Bor- deaux. You will find herein an invoice and bill of lading for some goods we have shipped on board this brig, consigned to you for sale. ‘These goods you will please to receive, and make the most advantageous sale of them that your market will admit. . Captain Parker has orders to arm and fit out the Despatch in a warlike manner, and we hope you will advise and assist him in doing it. You will please to procure him the assist- ance of the most skilful persons, tradesmen, &c., for doing that business, and supply him with money to purchase can- non, swivels, howitzers, muskets, powder, ball, &c. He must fit her in a very complete manner, and must have plenty of those kinds of stores. He is also to procure as many seamen as he possibly can, to come with him in this brigan- tine, in which we also pray for your assistance, and that you will furnish him with money to pay advance wages for provi- sions and a new suit of sails; all which we hope he will soon get completed with your assistance. When you have paid all charges and expenses relative to this vessel, what- ever balance remains from the sale of her cargo, you will please to invest in the purchase of some brass field-pieces, six and four-pounders, if you can procure them; good soldiers’ muskets, gunlocks, powder, or saltpetre ; or, if you cannot ship such articles, you may then invest the said balance in blankets, and other woollen goods, suitable for wear in a cold climate; and whatever you buy, ship on board the said brigantine Despatch, for address of the Committee of Secret Correspondence, on account and risk of the United States of America, and enclose to them an invoice and bill of lading for the same. It is necessary that Captain Parker make despatch in fitting the brigantine and getting her ready for sea, and that you also complete your business for her as soon as you can ; but she is not to sail until Mr. Deane sends his despatches ; for those are the most immediate object of the present voyage. Therefore, if Mr. Deane is not at Bordeaux, you will please to keep him well informed when the brigantine will be ready to return, and the moment his despatches come to your hands, deliver them to Captain Parker, with an injunction to sail immediately for this coast, agreeable to his orders. Should Mr. Deane be in Bordeaux, Captain Parker must be di- rected by him entirely in all his proceedings; and if Mr. Deane desires any goods to be shipped on board the Despatch, they must be received on board. In short, the Captain is ordered to receive on board all goods you recommend. Therefore, you will please to ship any you may have, or that Mr. Deane may order Mr. John Daniel Schweighauser, of Nantz, that he may ship any he has for account of this Continent. We hope you will assist in making it known that great wages and encouragement are given to seamen in America, and the seamen of every country will be alike welcome. We shall have frequent opportunities of addressing you ; and remain, gentlemen, your obedient servants. To Messrs. Samuel and J. H. Delap. CAPITULATION AT THE CEDARS. In Congress, July 10, 1776. The Committee to whom the cartel between Brigadier- General Arnold and Captain Forster, and the several papers thereto relating, were committed, having had the same under their consideration, and made diligent inquiry into the facts, have agreed to the following Report : They find that a party of three hundred and ninety Con- tinental troops, under the command of Colonel Bedel, was posted at the Cedars, about forty-three miles above Montreal; that they had there formed some works of defence, the greater part of them picketed lines, the rest a breastwork, with two field-pieces mounted. That on Wednesday, the 15th of May, Colonel Bedel received intelligence that a party of the enemy, consisting 159 of about six hundred regulars, Canadians, and Indians, were on the way to attack his post, and were within nine miles of it; that Colonel Bede! thereon set out himself for Montreal, to procure a reinforcement, whereupon the command at the Cedars devolved on Major Butterfield. That on Thursday, a reinforcement, under the command of Major Sherburne, marched from Montreal for the Cedars, while a larger detachment should be getting ready to pro- ceed thither with Brigadier-General Arnold. That on Friday, the 19th, the enemy, under the com- mand of Captain Forster, invested the post at the Cedars, and for two days kept up a loose, scattering fire; that Major Butterfield, from the very first, proposed to surrender the post, and refused repeated solicitations from his officers and men to permit them to sally out on the enemy. - That on Sunday afternoon, a flag being sent in by the enemy, Major Butterfield agreed to surrender the fort and garrison to Captain Forster, capitulating with him (whether verbally or in writing, does not appear) that the garrison should not be put into the hands of the savages, and that their baggage should not be plundered. That, at the time of the surrender, the enemy consisted of about forty regulars, one hundred Canadians, and five hundred Indians, and had no cannon. The garrison had sustained no injury from the fire, but the having one man wounded; they had twenty rounds of cartridges a man, thirty rounds for one field-piece, and five for another, half a barrel of gunpowder, fifteen pounds of musket ball, and pro- visions sufficient to have lasted them twenty or thirty days. Report of the Committee on the Capitulation entered into between General Arnoxp and Caplain Forster. {Brought in June 17, 1776. Read,and ordered to lie on the table. Recommitted June 24,1776. Passed July 10.) The Committee to whom were recommitted the cartel between Briga- dier-General rnold and Captain Forster, for the exchange of prisoners, and the several papers relating thereto, have had the same under their consideration, and agreed to the following Report: Your Committee having proceeded to make inquiry into the facts relating to the agreement entered into at St. nn’s, between Brigadier- General Arnold and Captain Forster, find a part of them well authenti- cated and others not; yet being apprehensive that silence on the part of Congress may be construed by some into a ratification of the said agreement, they have thought it best to state the same as they appear at present, with such resolutions as they will justify if found true, reserving final decision till the whole truth shall be accurately inquired into and transmitted to Congress. Your Committee, on the best information they have been able to obtain, find— That on the 24th day of May last a party of the enemy, consisting, as is said, of about six hundred men, under the command of Captain Fors- ter, attacked a post at the Cedars, held by a garrison of three hundred and fifty Continental forces, then under the command of Major Butter- field. That the said post was secured by a stockade sufficient to cover the garrison from the enemy’s musketry; that there were mounted therein two field-pieces, and that the enemy had no cannon. That the said garrison had ammunition and provisions sufficient to have lasted them ten days ; that they had reason to expect a reinforce- ment in a few days, which, on a requisition from themselves, was actually on its way from Montreal; and, moreover, were so near the main body of the Army, that they could not doubt being joined by detachments from them sufficient to oblige the enemy to retire. That the enemy, for two days, kept up only ascattering fire, by which not a single man of the garrison was killed or wounded, and that on the third day the garrison surrendered themselves prisoners of war, having capitulated for the preservation of their own baggage from plunder, an that their persons should not be delivered into the hands of the savages. That the enemy broke the capitulation, utterly and immediately, on their part, plundering the garrison of their baggage, and stripping their clothes from their backs, and delivering the prisoners into the hands of the savages. That they then proceeded against the reinforcement which was on its way, consisting of about one hundred and fifty men, under the command of Major Sherburne; that Major Sherburne and his party engaged and fought them with bravery; but being at length surrounded by numbers greatly superior, and informed that the fort and garrison were already in the hands of the enemy, they were obliged to surrender themselves prisoners of war also, but whether on capitulation or not, your Com- mittee are not informed. That after they had put themselves into the hands of the enemy, the said enemy murdered two of them, butchering the one with tomahawks and drowning the other, and left divers others exposed on an island, naked and perishing with cold and famine. That by this time Brigadier-General rnold, who had been detached by Major-General Thomas to relieve the fort at the Cedars, approached, and was making dispositions to attack the enemy. That Captain Forster thereupon notified General Arnold, that if he attacked him, the prisoners (then five hundred in number) would, every man of them, be put to death ; and proposing, at the same time, an exchange of prisoners. It appears that General Arnold was extremely averse to entering on any agreement of that kind, and was at length induced to do it by no other motive than that of saving the prisoners from cruel and inhuman death, threatened in such terms as left no doubt it was to be perpetrated. That an agreement was thereupon entered into between Brigadier- General rnold and Captain Forster, bearing date at St. Mmn’s, on the 27th day of May, whereby the said Forster stipulated that he would deliver up all the said prisoners, except such as were Canadians, to General “rnold, who agreed, on the other part, that so many of equal CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 160 Major Butterfield knew that a reinforcement was on its way, and, moreover, was so near the main body of the Army that he could not doubt of being supported by that. That immediately on the surrender, the garrison was put into the custody of the savages, who plundered them of their baggage, and even stripped them of their clothes. That Major Sherburne having landed on Monday, the 20th, at Quinze Chiens, about nine miles from the Cedars, and marched on with his party, consisting then of one hun- dred men, to within four miles thereof, was there attacked by about five hundred of the enemy; that he_ maintained his ground about one hour, and then, being constrained to retreat, performed the same in good order, receiving and returning a constant fire for about forty minutes; when the enemy finding means to post advanced parties in such a manner as to intercept their further retreat, they also were made pri- soners of war. That they were immediately put into the custody of the savages, carried to where Major Butterfield and his party were, and stripped of their baggage and wearing apparel. That two of them were put to death that evening; four or five others at different times afterwards—one of whom was of those who surrendered on capitulation at the Cedars, and was killed on the eighth day after that surrender. That one was first shot, and while retaining life and sensation, was roasted, as was related by one of his companions now in pos- session of the savages, who himself saw the fact; and that seve- ral others, being worn down by famine and cruelty, were ex- posed in an island, naked and perishing with cold and hunger. rank and condition should be returned to the enemy of those taken by our arms on former occasions; that the prisoners so stipulated to be given up to the €nemy were not in the possession of General Arnold, nor under his direction, but were at that time distributed through various parts of the Continent, under the orders of this House. That Captain Forster, in violation of this agreement, also detained a considerable number of the prisoners he had thus stipulated to deliver, and sent them into the Indian countries, for purposes unknown. Whereupon, your Committee have come to the following Resolutions: Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that plundering the baggage of the garrison at the Cedars, stripping them of their clothes, and delivering the prisoners into the hands of the savages, was a breach of the capitulation on the part of the enemy, for which satisfaction ought to be demanded. Resolved, That the murder of two of the prisoners of war wasa gross and barbarous violation of the laws of nature and of nations, for which satis- faction should be made by the enemy, by delivering into our hands either Captain Forster, or the individuals concerned in committing the murder. Resolved, That the agreement entered into at St. 4mn’s was a mere sponsion on the part of Brigadier-General rnold, he not being invested with powers for the absolute disposal of the Continental prisoners in general, and that therefore it is subject to be ratified or annulled at the discretion of this House, the sole Representative of the United Colonies. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that Major Sher- burne and his party having fought as men should do, so much of the said sponsion as relates to their exchange should be ratified and con- firmed by this House, and that an equal number of captives from the enemy, of the same rank and condition, should be restored to them, as stipulated by the said sponsion. Resolved, ‘That it is the opinion of this Committee, that so much of the said sponsion as relates to Major Butterfield, and the garrison surrender- ing with him, ought not to be ratified, because we should redeem none but those who will fight, and because, too, the said sponsion excepted the Canadian prisoners, and we will in no case admit a distinction of countries among men fighting in the same cause. Resolved, therefore, That the said Major Butterfield and garrison should still be considered as prisoners of war appertaining to the enemy; but as, by the actual murder of two of the prisoners, and the threats at St. Ann’s to put the others to death, the enemy are found capable of destroy- ing their captives, the said prisoners ought not to be put into their hands, but should be permitted to remain in their own country; that, in the mean time, they shall not bear arms, nor otherwise act against the enemy; but are bound to demean themselves in all things in the manner of prisoners of war enlarged on their parole, and to hold themselves subject to be recalled by the enemy whenever proper security shall have been given that their lives shall be safe. ‘ Resolved, That previous to the delivery of the prisoners to be returned in lieu of Major Sherburne and those captivated with him, satisfaction be required from the enemy for the murder of the two prisoners, by deliver- ing into our hands Captain Forster, or the individuals concerned in per- petrating that horrid act; and likewise restitution for the plunder at the Cedars, taken contrary to the faith of the capitulation; and that till such satisfaction and restitution be made, the said prisoners be not delivered. : Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that if the enemy shall put to death, torture, or otherwise ill treat any of the hostages in their hands, or of the Canadians or other prisoners captivated by them in the service of the United Colonies, recourse must be had to retalia- tion, as the sole means of stopping the progress of human butchery; and that for that purpose, punishments of the same kind and degree be in- flicted on an equal number of their subjects taken by us, till they shall be taught due respect to the violated rights of nations. ; Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that a copy of this report be transmitted to the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Forces in Canada, to be by him sent to the British Commander there; and that he moreover make further and diligent inquiry into the facts therein stated, and such others as may relate to the same subject, and return the same, duly authenticated, and with all possible despatch, to Congress, for their final decision; and that, in the mean time, the pri- soners delivered up by the enemy abstain from bearing arms, or other- wise acting against them, 161 That while Major Sherburne was in custody of the en- emy, Captain Forster required of him and the other officers to sign a cartel, stipulating the exchange of themselves and their men, for as many of equal condition of the British troops in our possession ; and further, that, notwithstanding the exchange, neither themselves nor men should ever again bear arms against the British Government; and for the performance of this, four hostages were to be delivered: which they, being under the absolute power of the enemy, did sign. é : That, on Sunday, the 26th, the prisoners were carried to Quinze Chiens, when it was discovered that General Arnold was approaching, and making dispositions to attack them. That Captain Forster, having desired Major Sherburne to attend a flag which he was about to send to General Arnold for confirmation of the cartel, carried him into the council of the Indians, then sitting, who told him that it was a mercy never before shown in their wars, that they had put to death so few of the prisoners; but that he must expect, and so inform General Arnold, that they should certainly kill every man who should thereafter fall into their hands. That Captain Forster joined in desiring that this bloody message should be delivered to General Arnold, and, moreover, that he should be notified, that if he rejected the cartel and attacked him, every man of the prisoners should be put to instant death. That General Arnold was extremely averse from entering into any agreement, and was at length induced to do it by no other motive than that of saving the prisoners from cruel and inhuman death, threatened in such terms as left no doubt it was to be perpetrated, and that he did in the end conclude it, after several flags received from Captain Forster, and a relinquishment by him of the unequal article, restraining our soldiers from again bearing arms. That the prisoners so stipulated to be given up to the enemy, were not in possession of General Arnold, nor under his direction, but were at that time distributed through various parts of the Continent, under the orders of this House. That four hostages were accordingly delivered to Captain Forster, who were immediately plundered and stripped by the savages; and on his part were delivered one Major, four Captains, sixteen subalterns, and three hundred and fifty-five privates, as specified in a certificate of Captain James Osgood and others, of whom no specification by their names or numbers has yet been transmitted; that he retained twelve Canadians, alleging, in his justification, express orders so to do; and that being in a military Government, they were to be considered even in a worse light than deserters from his Majesty’s armies. These he carried away in irons, but afterwards released. That he permitted the Indians to carry into their countries several others, natives of the United States, for purposes unknown. That during the time of their captivity, not half food was allowed the prisoners. ‘They were continually insulted, buffeted, and ill-treated by the savages; and when the first parties of them were carried off from the shore, to be deliv- ered to General Arnold, balls of mud were fired, and at the last parties, musket-balls. Whereupon, the Congress came to the following Resolu- tions: Resolved, That all acts contrary to good faith, the laws of nature, or the customs of civilized nations, done by the officers and soldiers of his Britannick Majesty, or by foreigners or savages taken into his service, are to be considered as done by his orders, unless indemnification be made in cases which admit of indemnification; and in all other cases, unless immediate and effective measures be taken by him or his officers, for bringing to condign punishment the authors, abetters, and perpetrators of the acts. Resolved, ‘That the plundering the baggage of the garrison at the Cedars, stripping them of their clothes, and delivering them into the hands of the savages, was a breach of the capitulation on the part of the enemy, for which indemnifi- cation ought to be demanded. Resolved, That the murder of the prisoners of war was a gross and inhuman violation of the laws of nature and nations; that condign punishment should be inflicted on the authors, abetters, and perpetrators of the same; and that, for this purpose, it be required that they be delivered into our hands. Firth Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 162. Resolved, That the agreement entered into by General Arnold was a mere sponsion on his part, he not .being invested with powers for the disposal of prisoners not in bis possession, nor under his direction; and that therefore it is subject to be ratified or annulled, at the direction of this House. Resolved, That the shameful surrender of the post at the Cedars is chargeable on the commanding officer; that such other of the prisoners as were taken there showed a willing- ness and desire to fight the enemy; and that Major Sher- burne, and the prisoners taken with him, though their disparity of numbers was great, fought the enemy bravely for a con- siderable time, and surrendered but on absolute necessity. On which considerations, an'd on which alone, it js Resolved, That the said sponsion be ratified, and that an equal number of captives from the enemy, of the same rank and condition, be restored to them, as stipulated by the said sponsion. Resolved, That previous to the delivery of the prisoners to be returned on our part, the British Commander in Canada be required to deliver into our hands the authors, abetters, and perpetrators of the horrid murder committed on the prisoners, to suffer such punishment as their crime deserves; and also to make indemnification for the plunder at the Cedars, taken contrary to the faith of the capitulation ; and that until such delivery and indemnification be made, the said prisoners be not delivered. Resolved, That if the enemy shall commit any further violences, by putting to death, torturing, or otherwise ill- treating the prisoners retained by them, or any of the hos- tages put into their hands, recourse be had to retaliation, as the sole means of stopping the progress of human butchery ; and that for that purpose, punishments of the same kind and degree be inflicted on an equal number of the captives from them, in our possession, till they shall be taught due respect to the violated rights of nations. Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing Report and Reso- lutions be transmitted to the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Forces, to be by him sent to Generals Howe and Burgoyne. By order of the Congress : Joun Hancock, President. Capitulation of Major Burrerrie.n. Camp at the Cedars, May 19, 1776. Sir: From the message I received from your flag of truce, [ am glad to find that my motives for sending to you yesterday has had the desired effect. é I have again assembled the many chiefs of my Indians, and have been so fortunate as to overcome their resolution of yesterday after your refusal. The disposition of the savages not being long certain, or governable to any particular will, to be the better able to keep my promises with you, it will be absolutely necessary that the fort be delivered up in half an hour after the receiv- ing this. Your persons and apparel you have on will be secured, as proposed yesterday, and the garrison will surrender at discretion, The artillery, ammunition, batteaus, and stores of every kind, to be delivered on good faith to persons appointed for that purpose. A part of the King’s troops to take possession of the fort at the expiration of the appointed time. The prisoners will be marched some distance from the fort, for their greater security, before the savages will be allowed to enter, exclusive of a few chiefs who may insist on going with the troops. I am, sir, your most obedient, Grorce Forster, Captain, commanding the King’s Troops. To Major Butterfield. Articles between Major Surreurne and Captain Forster. After the maturest deliberation on the customs and man- ners of the savages in war, which I find so opposite and contrary to the humane disposition of the British Govern-~ ment, and to all civilized nations, and to avoid the inevitable. consequences of the savages’ customs in former wars, (which, ee 163 by their threats and menaces, I find is not changed,) that of putting their prisoners to death, to disencumber themselves in case of their being attacked by their enemy,—I have, therefore, in compliance with the above disposition in Gov- ernment, and the dictates of humanity, thought fit to enter into the following Articles of Agreement with Major Henry Sherburne, and the under-subscribing officers in the name of the Power they were employed by, and of the officers and soldiers who shall be released by this agreement, whose rank and number shall be endorsed on this cartel : Ist. That there shall be an exchange of prisoners faith- fully made, returning an equal number of his Majesty’s troops of the same rank with those released by this agree- ment, as soon as possible, within the space of two months, allowing a moderate time for casualties that may render the performance of this article impracticable. 2d. That those prisoners taken in opposing Government shall not, on any pretext whatsoever, hereafter take up arms against the Government of Great Britain. 3d. That the prisoners shall be conducted with safety, and all possible convenience and despatch that circumstances will permit, to the south shore of the river St. Lawrence, from which they are to repair to St. John’s, and return to their own countries immediately, without committing any waste or spoil on their march thither, allowing ten or twelve to go to Montreal to transact their private affairs. 4th. That the prisoners so returned shall not, under any pretext whatsoever, either in words, writings, or signs, give the least information to Government’s enemies, or their ad- herents now in arms, in the least prejudicial to his Majesty’s service. 5th. That the batteaus or other conveniences made use of to transport the prisoners to the south shore of said river, or the necessary people to conduct them, shall return unmo- lested. 6th. That hostages be delivered for the performance of these articles to the full, according to the sense and spirit of agreement, without any equivocation whatsoever. 7th. That the security of the subscribers be given to the inhabitants for all the waste and spoil committed by the detachment under Colonel Bedel, on fair accounts, attested and signed, being delivered in, for which the hostages are not to be answerable. It being our full intention to fulfil the above articles, we mutually sign and interchange them, as assurances of per- formance. Signed at Vaudreuil, this 26th day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six. By order of Captain George Forster, commanding his Majesty’s forces at Vaudreuil. AnpDREW Parke, Lieutenant in the King’s or 8th Reg. of Foot. Henry SHERBURNE. Isaac Burrerrievp. Tueopore Buss. Danret WIxK1ns. JOHN STEVENS. EBENEZER SULLIVAN. Curo. Lormier. LesarpDE DE Monrieny. Articles between General Arnoip and Captain Forster. After the maturest deliberation on the customs and man- ners of the savages in war, which I find so opposite and contrary to the humane disposition of the Britesh Govern- ment, and to all civilized nations, and to avoid the inevitable consequences of the savage customs in former wars, (which, by their threats and menaces, I find is not changed,) that of putting their prisoners to death, to disencumber themselves in case of being attacked by their enemy,—I have, therefore, in compliance with the above disposition in Government, and the dictates of humanity, thought fit to enter into the following Articles of Agreement with General Arnold, in the name of the Power he is employed by, and of the officers and soldiers who shall be released by this agreement, whose rank and number shall be endorsed on this cartel :* Ist. That there shall be an exchange of prisoners faithfully made, returning an equal number of his Majesty troops of the same rank with those released by this agreement, as * Endorsement—2 Majors, 9 Captains, 20 Subalterns, 443 Privates. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 164 soon as possible, within the space of two months, allowing a moderate time for casualties that may render the perform- ance of this article impracticable. 2d. That the prisoners shall be conducted in safety, with all possible convenience and despatch which circumstances will admit, to the south shore of the river St. Lawrence, from which they are to repair to St. John’s, and return to their own country immediately, without committing any waste or spoil on their march thither, allowing ten or twelve to go to Montreal to transact their private affairs. 3d. That the prisoners so returned shall not, under any pretext whatever, either in words, writing, or signs, give the least information to Government enemies, or their adherents now in arms, in the least prejudicial to his Majesty’s ser- vice. 4th. That hostages be delivered for the performance of articles to the full, according to the sense and spirit of the agreement, without any equivocation whatever. 6th. That the security of the subscribers be given to the inhabitants for all the waste and spoil committed by the detachment under Colonel Bedel, on fair accounts, attested and signed, being delivered, for which the hostages are not to be answerable. It being our full intention to fulfil the above articles, we mutually sign and interchange them as assurances of per- formance. Given under our hands, this 27th day of May, 1776, at Vaudreuil. Georce Forster, Captain, commanding King’s Troops. St. Ann’s, 27th May. Arr. 2d. The prisoners shall be sent to the south shore of the river St. Lawrence, within one league of Caughnawaga, and from thence to St. John’s, and their own country, except twelve, who have liberty to go to Montreal, for which pur- pose six days shall be allowed, and hostilities to cease on both sides. Ath. Four Captains shall be sent to Quebeck as hostages, and remain there until prisoners are exchanged. 6th. The Continental troops, from principle, have ever avoided plundering. Upon proof being made of any waste committed by Colonel Bedel’s detachment, reparation shall be made. B. Arnoxp. To George Forster, Captain. May 27. But if the prisoners can be conducted in less time, this truce to cease on the return of the last boats employed on this service, on notice given. GrorceE Forster. May 27. Answer: If Captain Forster will choose to have hos- tilities commence in less time than six days, it will be per- fectly agreeable to me, provided the time is fixed on, and notice given this evening. B. Arnon. —— Copy of Proceedings of Council of War held in Cuamsty, Canapa, May 30, 1776. At a Council of War, held at Chambly, May 30, 1776: Hon. Brigadier-General Wooster, President. Brigadier-Generals: Arnold, Thompson, De Woedtke; Colonels: Greaton, Maxwell, Poor, Stark, Campbell, St. Clair, Livingston, Porter, Brown, Hazen, Allen, McAufie, Gilman. Ist. Resolved, That orders be immediately transmitted to the Commanding Officer at St. Ann’s to attack the enemy at Quinze Chiens, as soon as the time fixed for the cessation of hostilities is expired. 2d. Resolved, That it is necessary that a General Officer should take the command of the forces sent to Quinze Chiens. 3d. Resolved, That five hundred men, including those ordered this morning, be immediately sent from Montreal to St. -Ann’s, and that their place be supplied by the troops from St. John’s. Ath. Resolved, That, if practicable, it will be for the in- terest of the Colonies to keep Canada. ' 5th. Resolved, That it is not practicable or prudent, under our present circumstances, to keep possession of Descham- bault. Resolved, That the present post now occupied be kept for the present by the main body of the Army. 165 Montreal, June 2, 1776. GentTLEMEN: On my return to this place, I received intelligence from Colonel De Haas that the enemy had abandoned their post at Quinze Chiens, the 30th ultimo, and were seen next morning three miles above the Cedars. On their way up they made a precipitate retreat, and left behind them a quantity of flour. I repeated my order to Colonel De Haas to burn and destroy the town and inhabitants of Canassadaga, and afterwards to destroy the fort at S¢. Ann’s, and retire to La Chine. Last evening an express arrived from him, who advises that on the 31st they received intelligence by some Frenchmen that seven hundred Indians were arrived at Canassadaga from the upper countries, and were on the point of attacking St. Ann’s, on which Colonel De Haas called a council of war, which concluded it best to retire from the fort. The express came away at three o'clock, P. M., and the troops were to leave it immediately after. The advice Colonel De Haas received from the Frenchmen appears to me very vague and uncertain, neither do I believe a single Indian has arrived from above. The orders I sent Colonel De Haas were very positive; and how he should think of calling a council to determine if he should obey them, appears to me very extraordinary. A fatality seems to attend every of our enterprises. Enclosed are sun- dry depositions respecting the affair at the Cedars. Our prisoners are most of them delivered up. I have sent all the sick from this to Isle-aux-Noix. Nothing new from below since you left us. Our future conduct must be governed by advice from that quarter. J am making every possible pre- paration to secure our retreat. I have secured six tons of lead, ball, and shot. Merchandise or the inhabitants I have not as yet taken hold of; I intend it to-morrow. It is im- possible to know one hour beforehand the necessary steps to be taken. Everything is in the greatest confusion ; not one contractor, Commissary, or Quartermaster: I am obliged to do the duty of all. 1 wish with all my heart we were out of the country. We had much better begin anew, and set out right and methodically. Enclosed is the list of the prisoners who came into Caugh- nawaga, attested by Captain Osgood, who was appointed on my part to receive them. They were fired at on their leaving Quinze Chiens, and narrowly escaped. Major Sherburne will deliver you this, to whom I beg leave to refer you for particulars. I am, with great esteem and affection, gentlemen, your obedient, humble servant, B. Arnotp. To the Honourable Commissioners of Congress. Major Burrerrieip’s Testimony respecting a breach of the Convention at the Cepars. The savages did plunder the prisoners of almost all their clothes, beginning their pillage and plunder the evening we surrendered, but plundered us chiefly after Major Sherburne was taken. Captain Forster being acquainted with it, said it was not in his power to prevent it. I believe Captain Forster and the other officers did not induce the savages to take any of the prisoners, but exerted themselves to redeem and rescue the prisoners out of their hands. I did not hear the Indians say that Captain Forster promised them all the plunder. Some of the prisoners said that they heard some of the Indians say that Captain Forster promised them all the plunder. As to what number of prisoners the savages have taken or murdered, I am under a disadvantage of not knowing, by not seeing the last party that came in. They murdered one of my party the eighth day after we were taken. Have taken with them several young lads, and all the blacks, also one young child from one of the women. Of the whole number I cannot assert as yet what are killed and carried away by them. There were nine Canadian soldiers, and one Lieutenant, a Canadian. Captain Forster did refuse to exchange them with the rest of the prisoners. He said it was not in his power to release them, signifying that they were liable to be treated "as deserters from the King’s troops by their taking up arms against their own military laws and Government. Did likewise carry the soldiers away in irons, and the Lieutenant with a guard. The number of prisoners taken with me CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 166 were, according to my best knowledge, three hundred and ninety. Test: Montreal, June, 1776. Isaac BuTrTERFIELD. Captains Eastasroox’s and Witxins’s Testimony respect- ing a breach of Convention at the Cenvars. Question 1. How long were you apprised of the approach of the enemy before you were attacked? Answer. Three days. . 2. Did you hear their numbers ? A. We heard that there were fifty regulars, and between three and four hundred savages; but when the fort was given up, we suppose that the enemy consisted of six hun- dred in all, including one hundred Canadians. Q. 3. Did the Commanding Officer exert himself in get- ting provisions into the fort? A. He did in procuring flour, but nothing else. . 4. How much provision had you when attacked ? A. Three barrels of pork, one barrel and a half of beef, twenty bushels of meal, besides five or six horses. Q. 5. Was any to be got in the neighbourhood ? A. None, unless by force. . 6. How much ammunition had you for small-arms and how much for field-pieces when you capitulated ? A. Twenty rounds per man for small-arms, thirty for the smallest cannon, five cartridges for the largest, half a barrel of powder, and about fifteen pounds of musket-ball. . 7. Did not the private soldiers and many of the offi- cers beg of Major Butterfield to let them go out and attack the enemy? A. They did; which he refused. Q. 8. How much longer do you think you could have held out against the enemy ? A. We expected the enemy to make a general attack on Sunday night, the same night we gave up; which if they had, it is our opinion that we could have defended the fort from being taken, and even beat them if we had sallied out from the fort upon them. Q. 9. Did Major Butterfield seem terrified or not? A. He seemed much terrified. Q. 10. How were you treated by the enemy after capitu- lation ? A. Cruelly insulted, and repeatedly stripped of almost everything, and several murdered. @. 11. How many were murdered, their names and com- panies, and for what reason? A. Three or four; of their companies, and for what, we cannot tell. Q. 12. Were you fired upon or any one killed after the articles were signed for the exchange of prisoners ? A. We were fired at, but none killed. . 13. How were the prisoners sent off, and where de- livered ? A. They began to send off the prisoners the 27th of May, and continued till the 31st. Five boat-loads were landed at Chateauguai, and the rest at St. Ann’s. Q. 14. Did Captain Forster promise plunder to the savages ? A. He was told by Lyanee, the Interpreter, in Captain Eastabrook’s presence, that he had promised all the plunder to the savages, and that they should strip the prisoners to the skin, which Captain Forster did not deny. Dante, Winxins, JosepH EasTaBroox. Personally appeared before me Captain Joseph Eastabrook and Captain Daniel Wilkins, and made solemn oath that the foregoing answers to the questions proposed to them, are just and true, to the best of their knowledge. B. Arnovp, Brigadier-General. Montreal, June 2, 1776. GrntLemeNn: On the strictest inquiry, I find that Major Sherburne has acted with great prudence, spirit, and resolu « tion. I beg leave to recommend him as an officer worthy of your particular notice ; and am, with great esteem and respect, gentlemen, your obedient, humble servant, B. Arnoup. To the Hon. Samuel Chase and Charles Carroll, Esq., on their way to Philadelphia, 167 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 168 Captain Nosie’s Company. A list of the Prisoners belonging to the Continental Army, ? Elice Kinsley, Private. Tristram Storey, Private. taken at the Cevars. Colonel Beven’s Regiment. Captain Oscoon’s Company. Captain Asutey’s Company. Ebenezer Williams, Private. Samuel Fowler, Ist Lieutenant. Ezekiel Eastman, Private. Ts John Webster 2d Lieutenant. Wells Burbank do. c a : : Chas Hill, —_Ensien. J meas alike a aad. A list of the Prisoners belonging to the Continental Army Stephen Webster, Sergeant. Edward Danford, do. taken at Forr Crepars, Canapa. Hubbard Carter, do. William Hopkins, do. 5 : Benjamin Webster, Corporal. Noah Payne, do. Colonel Bepew’s Regiment. Joseph Hardaway, Private. Barnabas Hagatee, _— do. Captain Dantex Winxins’s Company. John Hardaway, do. James Murphy, do. Dani pa 5 ie f Wathanthnenien da: Joseph Basford, Ho: aniel Wilkins, Captain. Robert Livingston, Private. Robinson, do. James Basford do. Roby, Ist Lieutenant. Roger Dutton, do. Christopher Hinkley, dat Matthew: Peck, do John Mills, 2d Lieutenant. James Hartshorn, do. Chandler Abbot, do. Jeremiah Smith, do. William Bradford, Ensign. Abbot Roby, do. Biiog Abbott al Aaron Smith, ee Jabez Holt, Fifer. Shirtherick Wesson, do. Philip Abbot, do. William Teahey, ds! Samuel Wood, Private. Thomas Mallady, do. Timothy Foss, aes! William Simons, dae George Pearmain, do. Sylvester Wilkins, do. Wandervort do. Elisha Speed, aa: Alexander Brown, do. Robert Coffran, do. John Carney, : an Ezra Abbott, aan James Harwood, do. Aaron Nichols, do. Benjamin Fifield, aa William Cutler, hee Thomas McLeary, do. James Colwell, Sergeant. Nathaniel Walker, do. William Fahey, do. John Robbins, do. Robert Campbell, do. John Brown, do. Edward Carleton, do. William Hamlet, do. J. Colwell McNeil, do. SO ett da. Tahe Beatin dée William Alds, do. Samuel Boyd, Private. Cotton, de taeci Spalding, adc. Thomas Stevens, do. Benjamin McAllister, do. Nason Cass, do. Richard Pangbourn, do. Joseph Dickey, do. Timothy Martin, do. Joseph Cass do: Elisha Spera jn Lareford Gilbert, do. Hugh McKeene, do. Taha Smith ; ace Wore Abnoe Ge he Isaac Cartis, do. Jonathan Fifield, | Corporal. 7 ee nine do: William Guiler do. Reuben Camp, do. Daniel Wilkins, Private. S? j Joseph Farrer, do. John Wyley, do. Captain CaruisLe’s Company. John Allen, do. Lemuel Curtis, do. Joshua White, Private. Isaac Gibbs, Private. oe Brown, do. Stephen Curtis, do. John Butler, do. James Wheelock, do. acob Blodget, do. Isaac Stearnes, do. David Gibbs, do. Henry Willard do. John Phelps, do. John McClintock, do. Thomas Gibbs, do. John Willard, do. James Jewell, do. Obadiah Holt, do. Joshua Gibbs, do. Zephaniah Richardson, do. Ephraim Clarke, do. Andrew Wilkins, Corporal. James Cochran, do. Joseph Lovejoy, Private. Captain Warrs’s Company. Samuel Sternes, Corporal. Jonathan Farnham, do. Aaron Johnson, Private. Amos Puffer, Private. Joshua Abbott, do. James Clark, do. Oliver Mordock, ao. Joseph Gray, da Henry Glover, Private. Jeremiah Lamson, do. Benjamin Hall, do. Amos Flood, do. Josiah Warren, do. Amos Boutal, do. Elisha Willis, Corporal. Simeon Puffer, do. Colonel Burreww’s Regiment. Captain GreEn’s Company. Captain Downes’s Company. Benj. Chamberlin, Ensign. John Roe, Private. David Downes, Captain. Elijah Jackson, Private. David Chamberlin, Private. Pearley Rogers, do. Samuel Johnson, Ensign. William Williams, do. Joseph Skinner, do. Josiah Hopkins, do. David Ruscoe, Sergeant. James Laughlin, do. Abner Chamberlin, — do. Daniel Eustis, do. David Strong, do. Samuel Gray, do. Nathaniel Rogers, jr., do. Joseph Dimmer, do. David Randall, Private. Elijah Bennett, do. John Morris, do. Aaron Smith, do. David Manning do. Joseph Callcins, do. John Evans, do. John Powell, do. James Clary, do. Josiah Hambleton, do. Elias Chamberlin, do. Joseph Doty, do. Abner Goodrick, do. ; i Simon Whitcomb, do. Oliver Crocker, do. Colonel Burrew’s Regiment. Faerie McIntire, do. Charles Gillett, do. pies a Tichael McGee, do. Amasa Warner, do. Captain SterHens’s Company. Rozil Roberts, do. Jehiel Smith, do. Phineas Stephens, Private. Joseph A. Tanner, Private. Caleb Jewett, do. Isaac Parsons, aoe Benjamin Stevens, — do. Jacob Wheeler, do. W.Guttridge Willar, do. John Hall, jr., do. Samuel Simons, do. William Wheeler, do. John Wren, do. Ephraim Toby, do. Ephraim Simons, do. Walter Whalen, do. Jonas Knight, do. Simeon Reno, do. Jabez Spencer, do. John Waterhouse, do. Redr. Bell, do. Stephen Wilcock, do. Amos Shephard, do. Abraham Webster, do. Jacob Marsden, do. Jeremiah Ringsbery, do. Colonel P re eS Judah Bills, do. Asa Rice, do. olonel LK ATTERSON S fregument. James Clay, do. Benjamin Young, do. Captain Sutiivan’s Company. 4 ; Captain Joun Strynns’s Company. 2d Lieutenant. Jonathan Nook, Private. Ne an ord, Matthew Patterson, 2d Lieutenant. Obil Fellows, Private. Enoch Whitehouse, Corporal. Moses Eggleston, do. anes = Z 5 John Jenkins, Ppivete, Mark Tuke, do. Ate corpo pean Pe re do. Ephraim Goodwin, do. Richard Shean, do. eee tas e Ebenezer A. Foot, do. Rook Stillians, do. Jeremiah Ceathe, do. een ee ens Ha aes ays ebulon Stevens, oO. saiah Gridley, O. TA ape glenn he ae. pepe Hern, oe Samuel Green, Drummer. Zadock Hawley do. Captain SawyeR’s Company. Zechariah Porter, Fifer. Ephraim Hewett, do. William Joloson, Private. Joseph Wilkins, Private. Edward Bowe, Private. Joseph Henderson, do. Paul Goodwin, do. Hezekiah Kember do. Elisha Bradford, do. John Herrington, do. Joseph Stewart, an ‘ Hezekiah Barce, do. Daniel Jackways, do. ; David Baldwin, do. Eldad Kellogg, do. Captain Sutiivan’s Company. Josiah Cleveland, do. Jabez Lears, do. Samuel Spray, Private. Nathaniel Tyler, Private. Jonas Cleveland, do, fEneas Lyne, do. James Hambleton, do. Josiah Strong, do. James Clary, do. John Ledgar, do. Samuel Jones, do. Thomas Durban, do. John Cole, do. Paul Moon, do. Samuel Spray, do. Joseph Adams, do. Simeon Dupee, do. Titus Merrill, do. Samuel Southard. do. Reuben Deane, eee ss Magoon, do. oS, , Jobn Evans, oO. avid Preston do. Coptcin MeKinsrny’s Company. Eleazer Fisher, do. Amaziah Palmeter, do. —— Phelps, Private. William Fann, Private. Samuel Fitch, do. Seth Raymond, do. Roberts, do. William Bennett, do. Thomas Fleming, do. Joel Phelps, do, Geo. Vanvolcamburgh, do. ; s Joseph Hon a ¥. Vanvoleamburgh, do. Colonel Beprx’s Regiment. Isaac Welch, 0, e atch, do. , : Michael Murray, do. John Leming, do. Cape SYERENT ; Company. f Edward Everett, Captain. William Pitts, Private. Captain Asuiny’s Company. Chamberlin, Lieutenant. Ephraim Blodget, do. Caleb Walker, Sergeant, Isaac Winston, Private. John Tyler, Sergeant. Ephraim Chamberlin, do. Abner Bruce, Private. David Read, do. Benjamin Mordock, do. Daniel Chamberlin, do. Joseph Chaplain, do. Timothy Cole, do. Benjamin Rawlins, Corporal. Lemuel Medes, do. Jesse Perin, do. William Raymont, do. Nahum Powers, Private. Joseph Wheat, do. Oliver Clary, do. Willis Taylor, do. Michael Clarke, do. Ezra Gates, } do. Abel Maltoon, do. Elisha Whitehead, do. Joseph Judkins, do. Ezra Gates, jr., do. William Long, do. Nathan Curtis, do. Job Leverett, do. Jacob Gates, do. Hezekiah Davis, do. Joel Curtis, do, John Brown, do. Stephen Gates, do. Sylvanus Maltoon, do. Daniel Perin, do. Nathaniel Bardean, do. John Cooley, do. John Deverin, 0. James Taylor, do. James Barnes, do. Jeremiah Miller, 2d Lieutenant. Benjamin Ingram, do. Captain Youne’s Company. Ezra Read, Private. Elisha Norton, do, Solomon Cleveland, Private. Joseph Hadley, Private. Captain Wryman’s Company. Captain Green’s Company. James Wentworth, Private. Isaac Fisk, Private. Alexander, Private. 169 Captain Caruisie’s Company. Eleazer Jordan,. ~ Private. Joshua Pierce, Private. Luke Aldridge, do. Joseph Beaman, do. Nathaniel Bacon, do. Stephen Chapman, do. Thomas Whitcomb, do. Nathaniel Colborn, do. Thomas Armsdin, do. Captain Warr’s Company. Isaac Johnson, Private. Aaron Rice, Private. Josiah Johnson, do. Captain Eastasrooxs’s Company. Jos. Eastabrooks, Captain. Martin Montgomery, Private. —— Sergeants, 1st Lieutenant.’ Benjamin Coate, do. Griggs, 2d Lieutenant. William Hardwich, do. Holbrook, Ensign. Elisha Bowes, do. Fuller, Sergeant. Joseph Church, do. Skinner, do. Moses Wright, do. James Miller, Drummer. Elphias Hill, do. John Udal, Private. Asa White, do. Andrew Binton, do. Cornelius Dunfer, do. John Wright, do. Robert Little, do. Peter Wilson, do Timothy Harvey, do. Charles Richards, do. Amos Holbrook, do. William Murphy, do. Train of Artillery. John McKallough, Sergeant. James Edy, Private. Abiah Buck, Private. Michael Fitzgerald, do. Matthew McCluar, do. Isaac Butterfield, | Major. Thomas Hibbard, Adjutant. The first party (five boats) were landed at Chateauguat, and the remainder at Fort Ann. The prisoners mentioned in these papers are all [ received at Cuughnawaga. : 5 8 James Oscoon, Captain. Montreal, June 2, 1776. Montreal, June 2, 1776. The annexed schedule contains a true and just account of the prisoners which were taken at the Cedars, and some at Caughnawaga, amounting to one Major, four Captains, sixteen Subalterns, and three hundred and fifty-five Privates ; most of them were set at liberty at Quinze Chiens. James Oseoop, Captain. Captain Osgood, who was appointed and sent to Caugh- nawaga to receive the prisoners according to articles entered into with Captain Forster, personally appeared before me, and made solemn oath to the truth of the above account. B. Arnoip, Brigadier-General. CESAR RODNEY TO THOMAS RODNEY. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. Sir: You mention in your last that Mr. Wells is dis- charged the service. Colonel Haslett has not as yet reported that matter to Congress. When he does, I shall attend to what you have said on that head, With respect to the other matters you sent me, I am of opinion that/any good effect that might flow from them must be local—I mean, that it would be confined principally to the inhabitants of that County; and, on the other hand— at a time of such imminent danger, when powerful armies are actually knocking at our gates, and the serious attention of every friend to American liberty is employed in giving that manly opposition to those vile invaders of their just rights, privileges, and property—whether it would be pru- dent to hold out to the world such numbers of internal ene- miesfespecially as, by the manly and determined spirit pre- vailing in the Congress, their wings must and will be clipped. The Declaration has laid the foundation, and will be followed by laws fixing the degree of offence and punishment suit- able. Some people have done things which, if done in future, nothing less than life will be sufficient to atone for. ‘These enemies to our righteous cause will (I apprehend) be less on their guard, if they are not held up in that publick way, than if they are, and will undoubtedly meet their due reward, provided you pursue steadily your line of patriotism, and at the same time keep a watchful eye toward their conduct in the politicks of your country. These things must and will be inquired into. But, sir, now is the time and season that our open and avowed enemies are pressing hard. They call forth the attention and utmost vigilance of the Congress to that point. ‘They well know they have internal enemies in disguise; and whenever, by the blessing of God, their virtuous efforts shall be crowned with success, they will immediately turn their thoughts toward those sap- pers of the rights of mankind. It is also the business of every Government, so soon as formed, to take in hand that business. South-Carolina has already set them a good ex- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 170 ample. Ihave sent you a pamphlet, called Observations on the nature of Civil Liberty, &c., written by Doctor Price, in England. It is an excellent piece, and I do not doubt (properly used) will tend to strengthen your patriotick, or, in other words, independent party. I have also directed one to Doctor McCall as a present. The Militia of Pennsylvania are beginning their march this day towards New-York ; and I do suppose that by the last of this week General Washington will be thirty thousand strong at least. Colonel Has/lett’s battalion (except one company, which is to stay at Lewis) is ordered up to Wil- ming‘ton, as a security to Philadelphia in the absence of their Militia, as well as to the lower Counties, and hopes, for this reason, the Committee of Safety will permit them to retain (while thus employed) the Militia arms belonging to the publick. Neither Betsey’s nor Sally’s shoes are yet done, though the measures were sent as soon as I got to town. Iam glad to find that you are of opinion my harvest will be down by the last of this week. Pray do attend to it. Perhaps wheat will bring something next year. I am yours, &c., To Captain Thomas Rodney, Esq., at Dover. Cmsar Ropney. JOHN ADAMS TO MRS. ADAMS. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. You will see by the newspapers which I from time to time enclose, with what rapidity the Colonies proceed in their political manceuvres. How many calamities might have been avoided, if these measures had been taken twelve months ago, or even no longer ago than last December. The Colonies to the South are pursuing the same maxims which have heretofore governed those to the North. In constituting their new Governments, their plans are remark- ably popular, more so than I could ever have imagined; even more popular than the “'Thoughts on Government;” and in the choice of their rulers, capacity, spirit, and zeal in the cause, supply the place of fortune, family, and every other consideration which used to have weight with mankind. My friend Archibald Bulloch, Esq., is Governour of Geor- gia; John Rutledge, Esq., is Governour of South-Caro- lina; Patrick Henry, Esq., is Governour of Virginia, Xc.; Dr. Franklin will be Governour of Pennsylvania. The new Members of this city are all in this taste, chosen be- cause of their inflexible zeal for Independence. All the old Members left out because they opposed Independence, or at least were lukewarm aboutit. Dickinson, Morris, Allen, all fallen, like grass before the scythe, notwithstanding all their vast advantages in point of fortune, family, and abilities. I am inclined to think, however, and to wish that these gentlemen may be restored at a fresh election, be- cause, although mistaken in some points, they are good characters, and their great wealth and numerous connexions will contribute to strengthen America, and cement her Union. I wish I were at perfect liberty to portray before you all these characters in their genuine lights, and to explain to you the course of political changes in this Province. It would give you a great idea of the spirit and resolution of the people, and show you, in a striking point of view, the deep roots of American Independence in all the Colonies. But it is not prudent to commit to writing such free specu- lations in the present state of things. ‘Time, which takes away the veil, may lay open the secret springs of this sur- prising Revolution. - But I find, although the Colonies have differed in religion, laws, customs, and manners, yet in the great essentials of society and government, they are all alike. ADDRESS TO GENERAL ROBERDEAU. To the Hon. Dantet Roserveav, Esq., First Brigadier- General for the Province of PENNSYLVANIA: Str: We are desired by the Board of Officers of the Second Battalion to inform you that they are fully sensible of the great attention and zeal with which you have con- ducted yourself while in the station of their Colonel, not only for the general and important interest of our bleeding country, but for those of the battalion in particular. Nothing but the consideration of your being advanced to a situation 171 in which you can be more extensively useful, could alleviate the regret they feel on the removal of their Colonel. Weare instructed unfeignedly to congratulate you on your election to the distinguished department you now fill, which we have no doubt you will conduct with honour to yourself and advantage to the cause in which our lives and fortunes are so deeply engaged; and permit us to assure you that the officers and privates of the Second Battalion will always esteem it a peculiar privilege to be under your command, and you may depend upon their zeal and readiness on all occasions to support your authority and execute your orders. Signed by order and in behalf of the Battalion : Joun Bayarp, Colonel. JonaTHan Situ, Captain. Samuet Massey, Lieutenant. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. GENERAL ROB ERDEAU’S REPLY. GentLemen: The sense which the Officers of the Second Battalion express, in this obliging Address, of my attention to, and zeal in, the service of my bleeding country, in that particular line of duty marked out by their free unanimous voice, is not only very honourable, but also highly pleasing, as it is a fresh proof of the regard of a corps with whom I have had uninterrupted happiness ever since our first con- nection, and whose esteem I would ever studiously culti- vate. At the same time that I accept with thanks, as a further mark of regard, your congratulations on my late honourable appointment at Lancaster, permit me to say that neither that appointment nor your congratulations can prevent the pain of an ingenuous mind under the conscious sense of a want of talents for so important a station. How- ever, the cause in which we are engaged is the cause of God, who loveth justice and hateth oppression. He can give efficacy to the feeblest efforts. ‘The concurrence of officers and privates, in a general assurance of their zeal and readiness in the service of their country under my command, presages a happy, and, I trust, a successful campaign, for which they have my hearty thanks. I expect no less from every friend to America, engaged in the service, as I can have no private or sinister view, and it is evident union alone can serve our suffering country, whereas divisions would destroy it. Philadelphia, July 10, 1776. DanieL RoperDeEav. LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. In Committee, Lancaster, July 10, 1776. The necessity for Arms at present is such, that it is re- commended to Thomas McClenaghan, a journeyman of Michael Rhinehart, (gun-barrel maker,) to go to work with the said Michael Rhinehart, as it is the opinion of the Com- mittee that gun-barrel makers, and persons of such trades as are immediately necessary for the publick service, ought to continue at their particular employments. BUCKS COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE In Committee, Bucks County, July 10, 1776. Resolved, That this Committee will use their utmost en- ‘ deavours that the Resolve of the late Provincial Conference for imbodying four hundred of the Associators of this County, be immediately put into execution; and that the following gentlemen be appointed Officers, being the proportion allot- ted to this County, viz: Colonel, Joseph Hart; Captains: John Followell, William Roberts, William Hart, Valentine Up, John Jamison ; First Lieutenants: John Kresen, Henry Durroch, Hugh Long, Philip Trumbower, Dennis Middle- swart ; Second Lieutenants: Abraham Dubois, James Shaw, Jacob Drake, Samuel Deane, John Irvine ; Ensigns : McKissack, Wilham Hines, Joseph Hart, Stoffel Keller, John Mc Cammon ; Adjutant: John Johnson ; Surgeon: Joseph Fenton, Jun.; Quartermaster: Alexander Benstead. Resolved, That where any person or persons within any Township of this County, shall refuse to deliver his or their Firearms to the Collectors of Arms, either chosen or ap- pointed, agreeable to a late resolve of the Assembly of this Province, the said Collectors, or any one of them, shall apply to the Colonel, or, in his absence, the next in command of the Battalion to which the Associators of that Township belong, who shall thereupon give orders to such officer and CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 172 such number of men as he shall apprehend proper and sufli- cient to enforce the said resolve of Assembl¥. Resolved, That where it shall appear to the Collector of Arms, that any person or persons have been possessed of good Firearms, and do not deliver them, or satisfy the Col- lectors where they are, the said Collectors, or any of them, cite such person or persons to appear before this Committee at their next meeting, and satisfy this Board how the said Arms have been disposed of. Agreeable to two Resolves of the Committee of Safety of this Province, this Committee have appointed Gerret Dungan to cause the Firearms collected from Non-Associa- tors in this County, to be immediately rendered fit for use. Matthew Bennet is appointed for the First Battalion, and Jared Irvine for the Second, Third, and Fourth Battalions of Associators in this County, to seize the guns and mark the size on the breechpin, or lower end of the barrel. By order of the Committee : JosEPH Harr, Chairman. SAMUEL TUCKER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 12,1776. Referred to the Board of War.] In Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, Trenton, July 10, 1776. Sir: By order of the Provincial Congress, I am to inform you that, on the sudden call of the Commander-in-Chief at New-York, the Militia of several of the eastern Counties have marched to the General’s assistance ; and also a number from the western part of the Colony there, together with the new levies for the requested brigade, have greatly drained us of men, at a time when the grain (the support of the Colony) is in imminent danger of being neglected and lost. The condition of this Colony, from the present situation of the enemy, has been such that the Militia have been neces- sarily detained hitherto. In such circumstances, we have with pleasure received information that the Militia of Penn- sylvamia is about to march to our assistance. While we thus enjoy the pleasing prospect of more effectually oppo- sing our common enemy, we hope the Congress will give such directions as may afford an opportunity for immediately dismissing our Militia for the present, in order that they may save and secure their grain, already suffering. At Trenton, where we understand the camp is to be formed, the Pennsylvania Militia cannot effect the purpose, which we have greatly at heart, of relieving our people from their attendance, that their harvests may not perish. We submit to Congress, therefore, the propriety of sending for- ward our friends from Pennsylvania to the eastern part of this Colony; if not all, at least such part of them as may be thought more immediately necessary. Besides the danger of our harvest suffering, a more press- ing one, if possible, urges us to this application, which is that of our people from the interior Counties deserting the service in order to preserve their crops; the rather as some of our Counties have in a great measure withheld their force, whilst others have turned out almost to a man. We are, sir, your most humble servants. By order of Congress: s J 6 SamueL Tucker, President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. “* DR. WITHERSPOON TO COLONEL HARRISON. Dr. WirHErsPpoon’s compliments to Colonel Harrison. The bearer of this is Mr. Rowland Chambers, recommended by the Provincial Congress of New-Jersey as Paymaster to the three thousand three hundred men raised in Jersey for the Army at New-York. He will be obliged to Colonel Harrison, if he is appointed, to let him know as soon as possible the condition of the bond to be taken of him, and the nature of the security, that no time may be lost in pro- viding it. Philadelphia, Friday, July 12, 1776. In Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, Burlington, June 27, 1776. Resolved, That Mr. Rowland Chambers be recommended by this Congress to the honourable Continental Congress as a proper person to be Paymaster of the new levies raising in this Colony to reinforce the Army at New-York. Extract from the Minutes : Wixtiam Paterson, Secretary. 173 EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED PRINCETON, NEW-JERSEY, ° suLy 10, 1776. Last night Nassau-Hall was grandly illuminated, and In- dependency proclaimed under a triple volley of musketry, and universal acclamation for the prosperity of the United States. The ceremony was conducted with the greatest decorum. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 11, 1776.] New-York, July 10, 1776. Sir: I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your two favours of the 4th and 6th instant, which came duly to hand, with their important enclosures. I perceive that Congress have been employed in delibe- rating on measures of the most interesting nature. It is certain it is not with us to determine, in many instances, what consequences will flow from our counsels; but yet it behooves us to adopt such as, under the smiles of a gracious and all-kind Providence, will be most likely to pro- mote our happiness. I trust the late decisive part they have taken is calculated for that end, and will secure us that free- dom and those privileges which have been and are refused us, contrary to the views of nature and the British Consti- tution. Agreeable to the request of Congress, I caused the Declaration to be proclaimed before all the Army under my 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, testify- ing their warmest approbation of it. I have transmitted a copy to Genaral Ward, at Boston, requesting him to have it proclaimed to the Continental troops in that department. It is with great pleasure that I hear the Militia from Ma- ryland, 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 pos- sible 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 want- ing to support it. I hope, and I doubt not, that the asso- ciated Militia, impressed with the expediency of the measure, will immediately 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 necessary provision for their reception, who will also supply the Army for the Flying-Camp with rations. A proper officer will be appointed 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 impor- tance to have a sufficient force there to prevent the enemy’s passing the lake, and making an impression in that quarter. The gondolas and galleys will be of great service, and I am hopeful the carpenters you have sent from Philadelphia, and that will go from the eastward on your application, will be able to build a sufficient number in time to answer every exigency. I have requested Governour Cooke, if the duck mentioned in Mr. Greene’s letter is proper for tents, to have it made up as early as possible, and forwarded here. I have also desired him to send the flints and small-arms; as I leave General Ward those of the latter that were taken out of the Scotch transports, our deficiency in those necessary articles being still greater. Observing that Congress have particularly mentioned a bounty of ten dollars to be paid to men of some corps directed to be raised in two or three instances, since their resolve of the 26th of June allows such bounty, I have been led to doubt how that resolve is to be construed; whether it is a general regulation, and extends to all men that will engage for three years: for instance, the soldiers of the present Army, if they will inlist for that time. If it is, and extends to them, it will be necessary to forward a large sum of money; many, perhaps, would engage. I also observe, by the resolve of the 25th June, for raising four regiments of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 174 Militia in the eastern Governments, to augment the troops in the Northern Department, that the Assemblies of those Governments are empowered to appoint Paymasters to the said regiments. ‘This appears to me a regulation of great use, and I could wish that it was made general, and one allowed to every regiment in the service: many advantages would result from it. 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 inconveniences 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 gen- tlemen for their zeal and the attachment they have mani- fested upon this occasion, and informed them that I cannot consent to their keeping their horses, at the same time wish- ing them to stay themselves. I am told that they, or part of them, mean to do so. General Mercer is now in the Jerseys, for the purpose of receiving and ordering the Militia coming from the Flying- Camp, and have sent over our Chief Engineer to view the grounds within the neighbourhood of Amboy, and to lay out some necessary works for the encampment, and such as may be proper at the different passes in Bergen-Neck and other places on the Jersey shore, opposite Staten-Island, to prevent the enemy making impressions and committing depredations on the property of the inhabitants. The intelligence we have from a few deserters that have come over to us, and from others, is, that General Howe has between nine and ten thousand men, who are chiefly landed on the Island, posted in different parts, and securing the several communications from the Jerseys with small works and intrenchments, to prevent our people from paying them a visit; that the Islanders have all joined them, seem well disposed to favour their cause, and have agreed to take up arms in their behalf. They look for Admiral Howe’s arrival every day, with his fleet and a large reinforcement, and are in high spirits, and talk confidently of success and carrying all before them when he comes. I trust, through divine favour and our own exertions, they will be disappointed in their views; and, at all events, any advantages they may gain will cost them very dear. If our troops will behave well, which I hope will be the case, leaving everything to contend for that freedom they hold dear, they will have to wade through much blood and slaughter before they can carry any part of our works, if they carry them at all; and at best be in possession of a melancholy and mournful victory. May the sacredness of our cause inspire our soldiery with senti- ments of heroism, and lead them to the performance of the noblest exploits. ‘With this wish, I have the honour to be, with the greatest esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Grorce WasuHINGTON. New-York, July 10, 1776. In pursuance of the Declaration for Independency, a general jail delivery, with respect to Debtors, took place here this day. On Monday last, a small party of our men were sent to drive off cattle from Bergen woods; their curiosity led them to march along Bergen shore, to view the regulars on Staten- Island. On seeing two of their officers riding along the road towards Elizabethtown-Point, some of our men thought to scare them, and fired their pieces at them, over the river, nearly opposite Decker’s Ferry. About two minutes after, they thundered away incessantly for some time at our people with their cannon, but did them no hurt, as they betook themselves to the woods; however, they continued their fire with great fury for a considerable time, thinking, no doubt, that we had been intrenching there with a great force. It was no small diversion to our men to see them throwing away their powder and shot among the trees. ‘They picked up some of the balls and brought them away with them. During the past week several of the newly raised regiments of Connecticut troops have arrived in town, and appear to be as fine a body of men as any engaged in the present grand struggle for liberty and independence. Among them, the Light-Dragoons, between five and six hundred, who came to town yesterday, and paraded on horseback through 175 the city, made a noble and martial appearance; and as this corps is composed of the substantial yeomanry of a virtuous sister State, nothing could be more agreeable or animating to all true friends of their country. Some of these worthy soldiers assisted, in their present uniforms, at the reduction of Louisburgh, and their “lank, lean cheeks, and war-worn coats,’ are viewed with more veneration by their honest countrymen than if they were glittering nabobs from India, or bashaws with nine tails. PETITION OF JOSEPH BLANCHARD AND OTHERS. To the Honourable Provincial Congress of the Province of New-York: The Petition of the subscribers, inhabitants upon Lone- Isuanp, in said Province, humbly showeth : That your petitioners were taken prisoners by a military power, and confined in jail in the City of New- York, which confinement your petitioners apprehend to be occasioned by some mistaken opinion of their political principles. ‘They hereby beg leave to assure the honourable Congress that they nor either of them have, by any ways or means what- soever, directly or indirectly given or offered any aid, assist- ance, or information, to the Army or Navy of the King of Great Britain, relative to the dispute now subsisting between Great Britain and these Colonies. ‘That your petitioners are all tradesmen and farmers, and at this season of the year in particular their business must greatly suffer by reason of their absence. ‘Therefore your petitioners most humbly pray that, in tender compassion to their health, their families, and circumstances, your Honours will take their case under con- sideration, and cause them to be discharged, or otherwise suffer them to be brought before your Honours, that they may know of what they are accused, and what is expected of them to do. And your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray, &c. Joseph Blanchard, residing in the City of New-York. Townsend Weeks, Henry Dorland, William McCoun, John Hutcheons, Andrew Allen, John Fleet, Daniel Smith, Ezekiel Rayner, Elijah Rainer, John Carman, Jacob Lamberson, Benjamin Pettit, Samuel Townsend, Richard Smith, Joseph Dorlon, Peter Wheeler, Thomas Fleet, Nathaniel Smith. Joseph Bedell, New-York, July 10, 1776. H. GLEN TO WALTER LIVINGSTON. Schenectady, July 10, 1776. Dear Sir: Yours of the 2d instant, accompanied with a deputation as an Assistant Deputy Commissary, is duly come to hand, and am much obliged to you for appointing me to that post. I would have written you sooner, but have been so busy in getting forward a party of men with some cannon, artillery, &c. ‘They are now on their way to the German-Flats, to Colonel Dayton. I had no batteau-men to spare but what were wanted to take up the artillery stores and engineers’ ditto, which I had orders to send first, but at the same time sent off fifteen wagons, loaded with sixty bar- rels of pork, to the German-Flats, directed to the Deputy- Commissary, which I find is as cheap as in boats, as the water in this river is very low. I have some reason to believe that Colonel Dayton, with his regiment (when the officer of the Train with the artillery comes to the German- Flats) will proceed to Fort Stanwix ; and as the two com- panies of batteau-men, with twenty boats, are entirely loaded with artillery and engineers’ stores, I have ordered the cap- tains, whenever they have delivered their loading to Colonel Dayton, wherever he will please to order them; which will be at Fort Stanwiz. ‘The batteau-men, with three batteaus, are to proceed to the Little-Falls. Since the batteau-men went from here with the artillery, &c., came down one Captain Van Epps, who had undertaken to raise a company of batteau-men to take in flour at Major Fonda’s, or wherever the Major may have it ready. I have ordered Van Epps with his men to make two trips, with flour, from Major Fonda’s to the Little-Falls, which they are to carry up to Fort Stanwix before they come back. I shall by that time know if these companies of batteau-men are to remain in this river; if so, shall fix one of the companies between the Litile-Falls and Fort Stanwix, before they come down, and the other company between this and the said falls; so there will be no occasion for transporting any of the batteaus CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 176 across the Little-Falls’ carrying-place. Your instructions [ shall follow, you may depend on. ‘The copies Mr. Beecher sent for entries I have received. ‘The returns will be sent you at the day required. I can get no scales and weights, but have taken my storehouse to store the pork and beef, and as I have scales, weights, &c., of my own, shall make use of them for the present. I am informed that the Commissioners of Indian Affairs are going up to have a treaty with the Indzans. I would be glad to know whether they are to have pork, and from where. The pork I sent to the Flats is intended for Co- lonel Dayton’s regiment, and is to make up the loading I am to send to Fort Stanwix with flour from Major Fonda’s, I am, dear sir, your humble servant, H. Guevn. To Walter Livingston, Esq., Deputy Commissary-General, at Albany. H. GLEN TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Schenectady, July 10, 1776. Dear Sir: Yours of the 30th ultimo I received, and immediately, in conformity to your order to me of the 26th, began to put them in execution. I can now inform you that I have sent off all the artillery and engineers’ stores to the German-Flats, to Colonel Dayton, with the Captains Lan- sing and Wolcott, loaded in nineteen batteaus, together with sixty barrels of pork in wagons, as the boats could not load anything more than the artillery, &c., and the river very low withal. I was considerably put to it in getting the cannon loaded, for want of proper implements, as the officer of the artillery had neglected to bring a gin with him. I have like- wise been under the necessity to purchase three oilcloths for the preservation of the ammunition. I have also got them a gin made here, and procured a tackle, as I found it im- possible for them to load the cannon on carriages and the like, so that I got them fixed after a good deal of trouble. The batteaus were but indifferent in general; neither was the complement here fit for service, as was expected. Since the first batteaus, under Lansing and Wolcott, went off, came down Ernst Van Epps, with twenty men. I did immediately on his arrival despatch him to Fonda’s for flour, with seven boats to carry the same to the Falls, and ordered him to make two trips and then return here. The flour Van Epps wiil bring to the Falls, and the pork sent in wagons will, by computation, make a loading for Lansing and Wol- cott when they return, after delivering the artillery anywhere Colonel Dayton will have it brought. So that there will be no occasion of having the boats carried over the carrying- place until they may have gone a trip more with provisions, which, by computation, will make out thirty-five days’ pro- visions for seven hundred men, if they are supplied with a little fresh with the pork. By the time the batteaus may have done this work, I expect to be honoured with your further commands (as I have ordered them down here) what they are next to do. And should then anything be ordered to Colonel Dayton, at Fort Stanwix, where I have reason to expect he will be, I then intend to station one company above the Falls, to prevent the carrying of the batteaus over so often. You may rely on my exerting everything in my power to promote the service you have been pleased to honor me with. Ihave the honour to be, dear sir, your very humble servant, H. Gren. To the Hon. Major-General Schuyler. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. - Crown-Point, July 10, 1776. Honovrep Sir: I yesterday evening returned from a command which I hope I have executed to the satisfaction of your Honour and the other Generals. This absence has deprived me of the pleasure of seeing you here; but, as a matter of the last consequence to the Army is likely soon to be determined, I hope you will excuse my freedom. I have understood that the regiments are to be brigaded. If so, I should apprehend that it will tend to the furtherance of the service much, that the Pennsylvanians should be brigaded together. If there is no General proper to be appointed over them, Colonel St. Clair, an old and expe- rienced officer, would be exceedingly acceptable, and every one would act with confidence under him. 177 I have a great regard for the eastern troops; but I am confident they will act much better alone than joined with us. Our policy and manners are so exceedingly different, that it would require a much greater time than can now be spent to blend them properly together. Much business 1s to be done this campaign; and I am certain, from what I have observed, that we shall be happier, and act better, if the eastern and southern troops are in distant brigades. We shall preserve a polite and friendly intercourse, and will endeavour to wipe off all Colonial distinctions and pre- judices; but it will, in my weak opinion, tend to increase them, if brigaded together at present. I write this with a real intention of advancing the service; and am, with the greatest respect, your most humble servant, Tuos. Harter. To General Gates. IRA ALLEN TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Onion River, July 10, 1776. Gentiemen: I learn you are alarmed at the retreat of our Army out of Canada. Can assure you the savages have killed and scalped a number of men by the river La Cole, on the west side of Lake Champlain. When they will visit us or you, is uncertain. Advise you to look sharp, and keep scouts out, but not to move, except some families much remote from the main inhabitants. Last Saturday, was at Crown-Point with General Sullivan. He assured me he would do all in his power to protect the frontier set- tlements. I proposed a line of forts by this river to Cohos. He said he believed that to be the best place, and made no doubt but it would be done. He immediately ordered Colonel Waite and two hundred men to this place, here to remain, and grant all protection in his power to the inhabi- tants. Before I left there, Generals Schuyler, Gates, and Arnold, arrived. I conclude there is a determination before this time in regard to all the frontiers. I make no doubt but a line of block forts is agreed on by all, from this river to yours, and so round your frontiers. Had intelligence from sSt. John’s about twelve days ago. Our enemy had but one hundred tents, which, at most, could not be for more than six hundred men ‘They did not appear to be in much preparation for war. At. Chambly, there were but few men. It is thought by some that the enemy are busy in sending provisions and clothing to all the garrisons near the head of the river St. Lawrence, and in supplying. the Indians with all necessaries. The small-pox has almost gone through our Army; they are in much better health than they were. Gondolas are building ; the vessels are preparing for war. I hope, in a short time, they will be able to beat all the powers of Britain on this Lake. Crown-Point is proposed for headquarters. In haste, Ina ALLEN. NATHAN MILLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Camp at Newport, July 10, 1776. Sir: When I take pen in hand to address a gentleman with whom I have not the pleasure of an acquaintance, I feel myself abashed; but when I call to mind the injury received from your son, I feel myself bold. I am Commissary to the troops in the Colony of Rhode- Island, appointed by the General Assembly of the said Colony; and when I heard the troops were like to be-put under the Continental establishment, [ wrote a letter to your son, of 30th May. A copy of the answer I herewith enclose you, dated the 9th June, to which requisition I complied, as you may see by a copy of another letter, of the 28th June, received by Peter Phillips, Esq., by which you will see the ungenteel treatment of which I have abundant reason to complain. He, in his first letter, tells me how to proceed to make matters to his satisfaction, and, in his next, acknow- ledges them to be so; but informs me that Peter Phillips has a Colony appointment antecedent to mine. I acknow- ledge it; but it was to General Greene’s brigade, which went immediately out of the Colony when raised, and Mr. Phillips with them, who might have remained, and no one have superseded him to this day. I am sure I should never have harboured such a thought, although I have the vanity to think [ have been as good a friend to my country on every occasion as any one in it, according to my capacity; Firra Series.—Vor. I. l CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 178 and from the distraction of the empire, am now deprived of the profits of a very good branch of business, viz: ship- building, in which I have hitherto maintained a reputable character, till those distractions came on, which changed the face of matters in such a way, that business of that kind was at an end; and it pleased the Colony to appoint me to the place of Commissary to the Rhode-Island troops, where I was in a way still to support my character; and after the greatest encouragement, even to a promise, without a fault, and without any previous notice, gave Peter Phillips a com- mission to take my place; the justice of which I submit to your abundant goodness; while I subscribe myself, your Honour’s most obedient Xe. . ? NaTHAN Munver. To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. WILLIAM PITKIN TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Hartford, July 10, 1776. Honovurenp Sir: I have, since the first of this month, kept a guard at my powder-mill, at the expense of seven shillings per night. I was urged into the measure by a great number of gentlemen that live forty or fifty miles distant. ‘Threats have leaked out from Skene, and. other inimical monsters, that it should be destroyed, if art or money could effect it. I intended to procure, in writing, the opinion of all the prin- cipal gentlemen in this town, that it is absolutely necessary some effectual measures should be taken at the expense of Government, to prevent the intended destruction, which they were fond of signifying to your Honour and Committee, but have not time. Mr. Bennet is now with me, pleading for powder. Ihave repeated applications from people at the northward in great distress, some of whom I have supplied, upon advice of gentlemen in authority in this town; but shail supply no further without your Honour’s direction. Only add that 1 am, with the highest esteem, your Honour’s obedient humble servant, Wm. Pirin. To Governour Trumbull. P.S. Mr. Bennet, of Hartford, went from Ashford; has the character of an honest, good man, on whom your Honour may rely for intelligence, &c. . COLONEL HERRICK TO COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS. May tr pLeAsE’yourR Honours: A few days since, I received the within resignation from Captain Flint and his subalterns. ‘They were commissionated by your Honours to command the second company in my regiment; so that said company is now destitute of officers; and I submit it to your Honours to judge what is proper to be done, and wait your orders. I am, your most obedient humble servant, Henry Herrick, Colonel of 8th Regiment, in the County of Essex. To the Honourable Council of Massachusetts-Bay. Danvers, July 8, 1776. Honourep Sir: We, the subscribers, with profound respect to you, take leave to send you a few lines, to inform you that we have a real zeal for the good of our country, and nothing can be more agreeable to us than to see univer- sal harmony and benevolence prevail in every regiment and company of Militia upon the Continent, being sensible that the exigency of the times requires it more immediately now than ever; but, sir, as we cannot think our accepting the commissions offered to us by the honourable Council of this Colony will be attended with peace in this company, and for some other reasons which one of us has heretofore given you, we take leave, in this manner, to acquaint you, that we utterly refuse to accept the commissions. Hoping that you will be directed to some better method of setting the company in peace, we are, sir, your humble servants, Samvue. Fin, Dante. Putnam, JoserpH Purnam, Jr. WORCESTER COUNTY (MASSACHUSETTS) COMMITTEE. The good people of this County are hereby informed, that there are a considerable number of Prisoners in. this 9 ow 179 town, who are willing to go out to service, if proper persons should appear to hire them. The method of obtaining them is as follows: The persons applying must have a certificate from the ‘Committee of Safety, &c., of the town where each applicant belongs, recommending them to be friendly to the American cause, and must have a receipt from said Committee to be given to the Sheriff, and give a receipt to them, at the same time engaging to return the Prisoners whenever thereto required. Worcester, July 10, 1776. NORTHBOROUGH, (WORCESTER COUNTY, MASSACHUSETTS, ) COMMITTEE. Northborough, July 10, 1776. At a meeting of the Committee of Correspondence, In- spection, and Safety, it was voted unanimously, that Thomas Billings, and his son Sylvanus ‘Billings, John. Taylor, and James and John Eager, be all confined to the limits of their respective farms in said town; and that they should not pass said bounds on any occasion whatever, without leave it wri- ting from the major part of said Committee, unless it be to attend publick worship or funerals in their own town. As we consider these persons unfriendly to the cause for which the United Independent States of North America are contending, and as there have lately been many private meetings of them with others in other towns, (with ill design, as we have too much reason to think,) they are now held up to publick view; and all persons in town and out, who are friends to their country, are desired to concur with this Committee in their endeavours to prevent all such meetings for the future; and if the above-named persons are found beyond the limits aforesaid without a pass, to apprehend and return them to the Committee, or detam them in custody until they inform said Committee thereof. And all persons are warned not to have any commercial intercourse with them, agreeable to the Association of the Congress, as they would avoid being treated in the same manner. By order of the Committee of Correspondence, Inspec- tion, and Safety, of Northborough: Joun Baxi, Chairman. Attest : Jeruro Perers, Clerk. SUBSCRIPTION TO ENCOURAGE INLISTMENTS. Kittery, Maine, July 10, 1776. Whereas some difficulty attends the raising the proportion of men assigned this town by the General Assembly, for the purpose of opposing our cruel and most implacable enemies, we, the subscribers, being duly affected with a sense of the justice of our present contest, and also of the absolute neces- sity that the said men be forthwith inlisted and sent to the place of destination, for encouragement and in order to expe- dite this measure, do severally promise to pay unto Charles Chauncey, Esquire, the sums respectively set against our names. Charles Chauncey, - - ten dollars. Edward Cutts, - - - seven dollars. N. Sparhawk, two joes, or sixteen dollars. Wilham Moore, - - -~ one dollar. Roger Dearing, - - - James Hearswell, - - one dollar. Wilham Dearing, - one dollar. Thomas Harnat,- - - _ half-dollar. Joseph Gerrish, - - - two dollars. Richard Cutts, - - - seven dollars. one dollar. Samuel Mitchell,- - - four shillings. Jeremiah Mitchell, - - three shillings. William Mitchell, - - four shillings. Joseph Bitmer, - - - one dollar. Benjamin Mogdridge, - one dollar. London, July 11, 1776. The following letter was received yesterday from Mr. Charles Barns, commander of the snow Blake, in the ser- vice of Government, dated Cadiz Bay, June 20: “ Yesterday morning I chased an American ship of about two hundred and fifty tons into this bay, but cannot take her, it being a foreign port. I never was more surprised in my life when I found there were three American privateers aiding here at single anchor, and a number of their merchant CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 180 vessels loading and unloading at the quays. A large Spanish fleet of men-of-war have sailed from this place, but to what part I cannot learn, all manner of business being conducted here with the greatest mystery.” EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM ST. EUSTATIA TO A GENTLEMAN IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED JULY 11, 1776. You have herewith a few West-India papers, and an extract of a letter received from Dominica, dated July 8. We have a vessel here from Dublin, that sailed May 28. The captain brings accounts of A. Thompson, Newry, A. Bryan, and James Lecky, Dublin, being all taken up by order of the Privy Council of Ireland, for carrying on cor- respondence with the people of America. Mr. Bryan was discharged, but Mr. Thompson and Mr. Lecky were held to great bail; and when the Captain sailed, an officer was kept on Mr. Lecky’s house, and his papers sealed up. It was the affair of the gunpowder he purchased last year for Mr. B. Mc Clenachan, to be shipped by the Hancock and Adams, that Mr. Lecky was taken up for; and the appearance of Captain Forrest in Dublin from Nantz revived the story, and caused these disagreeable things to happen. Large subscriptions were made or offered for Mr. Lecky, to support him against this attack of the Council. About ten days ago the Pomona frigate, Captain East- wood, came down from Antigua, and came to in this road, where she stayed for several days, with intention, as we since find, to wait the sailing of a brig, Captain Booker, (owned formerly by Mr. Goodrich, of Virginia, but at pre- sent Dutch property,) bound to Amsterdam. As soon as the brig got under way, the Pomona followed and took her. She was sent into St. Kitts, and an express sent up to the Admiral at Antigua to know what to do with her. It appears that information was lodged against said vessel that she was bound to America with warlike stores, &c., and it is expected as soon as she is examined will be discharged. While Captain Eastwood lay in this road, he sent a let- ter to our Governour, requesting leave to take possession of several American vessels then in the road, two or three of which were loaded with powder, dry goods, &c., and ready to sail. ‘The Governour informed him he could grant him no such permission, and desired he might not attempt to commit any hostilities by offering a thing of this nature. The Governour and Council met on this occasion, and determined that, in future, if any English frigates or cruisers came within reach of the guns of any fort of this Island, with intention to obstruct the trade, the commanders of the different forts have orders to fire on them. The Pomona has kept within sight of this Island ever since, but has not attempted to come within reach of the forts. Mr. De Graff (our late Secretary) is appointed Gover- nour of this Island. His commission is expected out by the first vessel from Holland, and it is thought he will do every- thing in his power for the protection of trade. P. S. Two of the passengers that came in the before- mentioned vessel from Dublin are just arrived here. They say that Captain Forrest arrived in Ireland from Nantz in a vessel under French colours, and on his appearance in Dublin was immediately suspected of coming for the pow- der he was disappointed in taking away before; on which his vessel was searched, and several letters and papers found on board, two of which letters were for Mr. Lecky and Mr. Thompson, in consequence of which they were taken up. Mr. Lecky is held to twenty thousand pounds bail, and Mr. Thompson to thirty thousand pounds, but Captain Forrest would not be admitted to bail, and was committed to prison in irons, where he lay when those gentlemen came away. It was the general opinion in Dublin that they would all three be removed to England for trial, and the consequence very uncertain. CAPTAIN WICKES TO SECRET COMMITTEE IN CONGRESS. On board the Ship Reprisal, July 11, 1776. GentLemen: This will inform you of my proceedings since I left Cape-May, the 3d instant. We left that place ia company with thirteen merchantmen, who [ think all got safe off, as we did not lose sight of them till they got a good distance from the land. We saw no ships-of-war at all on the coast. 181 We this day fell in with Captain Mackay, in the ship Friendship, from Granada, bound to London, loaded with rum, sugar, cocoa, and coffee, which ship I have taken, and sent John Parks in her prize-master, and have given him orders to get into Philadelphia, if possible; and if this should not be practicable, he is to run her into the first port in his power, and send an express to inform you immediately. Mr. Bingham is well, and desires his compliments to you. From, gentlemen, your most obliged, humble servant, Lampert Wickes. To the Committee of Secret Correspondence, Philadelphia. P. S. Our people are all well to three or four. We are in longitude 57° west, and latitude 319. EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN PHILADELPHIA FROM SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, DATED JULY 11, 1776. We have received, by several expresses, very alarming news from the Indians. Colonel writes that the savages have murdered four families on our frontiers; that two women were taken prisoners, one of whom afterwards made her escape, and the other had her hands tied behind her, and was naked, all her clothes being taken from her. Some men have likewise been taken, and since found means to get away, who say there is a report that these Indians are to be joitted by six hundred Creeks, and a number of the King’s men, who are to march down and cut the settle- ments all off. We are also informed that a great number of people are fled from the ceded lands, and that the Chero- kees and Creeks were to join and come down on the frontiers of South-Carolina and Georgia. ‘These things confirm the truth of the Ministerial plan, discovered by the intercepted letters of Stuart and others. Iam in hopes the action on Sullivan’s Island will defeat the prosecution of their horrid projects, and give a different aspect to our affairs. ASSOCIATORS OF THE CITY OF ANNAPOLIS. At a meeting of the Associators of the City of Annapolis, on Thursday, the 11th of July, 1776, Wilham Roberts, Esq., Chairman, John Duckett, Clerk: ist. Resolved, That it is the duty of every inhabitant of the City of Annapolis, and of all persons having property therein, to contribute every assistance in their power for the protection and defence of the City and the inhabitants thereof, and that Mr. James Brice, Mr. John Bullen, Mr. Charles Wallace, Mr. William Wilkins, Mr. Beriah May- bury, Mr. John Brice, and Mr. John Campbell, or a majority of them, or any three or more of them, be a Committee to act on behalf of the inhabitants of this City; and that they wait on the Council of Safety, and inform them that the inhabitants will afford every assistance in their power for the putting the City into the best posture of de- fence ; and that the inhabitants will, in person, or by others employed at their expense, labour on any intrenchments or works which the Council shall think necessary. Qd. Resolved, That the said Committee be empowered to call on every inhabitant of the City, and every person having property therein, to labour in person, or to furnish some person to labour in his stead, at such time and place as the Committee shall think proper, on the works that may be ordered by the Council of Safety to be erected for the defence of the City. 3d. Resolved, That the said Committee be authorized to execute all matters which may be recommended by the Council of Safety for the defence of the City, or for the keeping peace and good order therein. 4th. Resolved, That no member of this meeting will, and that it is the opinion of the meeting that no inhabitant of the City of Annapolis ought, to buy from, or employ, any merchant, tradesman, or any other person, who has not subscribed the Association. 5th. Resolved, That application be made by the Com- mittee to the Council of Safety not to employ in the publick service any Non-Associator, and that they be requested to give a preference to such tradesmen and others as have manifested their attachment and zeal to the liberties of America. Ordered, That copies of the above Resolutions be trans- mitted by the Chairman to the Associators of Baltimore town, for their opinion and concurrence. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 182 Ordered, That the names of the Non-Associators in this City be published, and distributed among the inhabitants. Resolved, ‘That this meeting be adjourned to the 10th day of August next, and that the Committee have power to call a meeting at any time before, if they shall think proper. True copy of the proceedings. Test: Joun Deckert, Clerk. JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 11, 1776. Sirs: The brigs are both discharged. On hoisting out the lower tier of the flour on board Mr. Lux and Mr. Bow- ly’s brig, I find it is damaged. I have had two gentlemen to view the flour. The report they make, I send you. The flour appears to have been wet some time ago, as it is rotten all round the outsides and head of the barrel, and has since dried, so that it is hard and black, which answers with what Captain Sands reports concerning it, as he says that it has not been wet this some time, but was under water more than two months ago, and not since. His report I have taken down in writing, as I think there has been a fault. I would be glad that the blame should be fixed right. Mr. Spear has all the damaged flour in his custody, and says that he will bake all that can be baked, and the remainder must be returned. I suppose Mr. Lux ought to take it. Ifso, Mr. Spear says he will assist Mr. Lux in dividing it, and such as can be baked, he will bake. ‘The bake-houses are going on; and I suppose there might be a parcel of bread, and part of Captain Woolsey’s flour, sent to the brig that lately arrived with your powder. If it is practicable, and must. be done, the sooner the better. I received yours this day, and shall speak to Mr. Jacobs this evening, about making the tents. I think the linen must come here, as the sailmakers would choose to work at home with their hands. From yours, Jesse HoLiincswortn. To the Honourable Council of Safety, at Annapolis. Baltimore, July 12, 1776. We, the subscribers, being requested by Mr. Jesse Hol- lingsworth to inspect some flour, (suppose near one hundred barrels,) said to be landed from the brig Fortune, belonging to Messrs Lux and Bowly, and which flour was purchased by them for the honourable the Council of Safety for this Province, do, to the best of our knowledge, believe that such of the aforesaid flour as we have examined has been damaged by bilge water, admitted into the hold of the said vessel, through insufficiency of said vessel, or neglect of the hands then on board, in not pumping her as often as neces- sary, and the said flour is now hard, rotten, and musty, and unfit for baking, or any other merchantable use. Marx ALEXANDER, Bensamin GrirFiru. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee, July 11, 1776: Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, W. Luz, Vice Chairman, W. Buchanan, W. Aisquith, J. Calhoun, B. Griffith, J. Sterrett, and J. Griest. The following appointment of Officers for the two German Companies to be raised in this County was agreed upon, and a copy thereof transmitted by letter to the Council of Safety: Philip Greybill, Captain; John Shora, First Lieutenant ; Christian Myers, Second Lieutenant ; and Martin Shugart, Ensign. George Peter Keyports, Captain ; Samuel Garroch, First Lieutenant; William Ritter, Second Lieutenant; and John Landenberger, Ensign. Ordered, That the Chairman grant Dr. James Houston a permission to depart with his vessel, and that he advise the Committee of Somerset of our having taken security of the said James Houston in the sum of two hundred and fifty pounds sterling for his good behaviour, and that the same: was done from several suspicious circumstances which gave: reason to believe him inimical to the interest of America, and requesting that they will give directions whether the said security shall be delivered up; which, it is presumed, 183 they ought to do, provided the Committee of Somerset either choose to take security of the said Houston themselves, or have sufficient reason to believe him a friend to the country. Whereas Abraham Evening, a person suspected of being inimical to the interest of America, was adjudged by this Committee to give security in the sum of two hundred and fifty pounds sterling for his good behaviour, and hath neg- lected to do so, the Committee agreed to issue a warrant for the apprehending and commitment to prison of the said Abraham Evening, which was done, as follows: Whereas a certain Abraham Evening was brought before this Committee on the 9th instant as a Non-Associator, and a person suspected of being unfriendly to the rights and liberties of America, and the Committee adjudged him, the said Abraham Evening, to find security in the sum of two -hundred and fifty pounds sterling, agreeable to a resolve of the honourable Convention of this Province in that case made and provided, which security he, the said Abraham Evening, hath neglected : These are therefore to require you to arrest the body of him, the said Abraham Evening, and deliver him, with this commitment, to the Sheriff of Baltimore County, who is commanded to receive into his custody the said Abraham Evening, and him in his Jail safely keep, until he finds the above mentioned security, or be delivered therefrom by the honourable the Convention of this Province, the honourable the Council of Safety, or this Committee; and for your so doing, this shall be your sufficient authority. Given under our hands and seals this 11th July, 1776. Signed by all present. Attested : Georce Lux, Secretary. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, In Committee, Baltimore, July 11, 1776. GentLemeN: Agreeable to your instructions we have nominated the gentlemen, whose names are undermentioned, as officers for the two companies of Germans to be raised in this County. We advertised a meeting of the Committee to be held this day for the very purpose, and have taken care to be as well informed as possible of the characters and qualifications of the persons who applied to us; and we have the satisfac- tion to assure you they are all persons whose merits and reputations appear to us in the most favourable light. Weare, with much respect, gentlemen, your most humble servants. Samueu Pourviance, Jun., Ch’n. Wituiam Bucnanan, Wiuiam Atsquita, Bensamin GrirFitH, J. Griest, James CaLnoun, JOHN STERRETT. To the Honourable Council of Safety, at Annapolis. Officers recommended for the two Companies of Germans to be raised in Baltimore County : Philip Greybill, Captain ; John Shora, First Lieutenant ; Christian Myers, Second Lieutenant; and Martin Shugart, Ensign. George Peter Keyports, Captain; Samuel Garroch, First Lieutenant; William Ritter, Second Lieutenant; and John Lindenberger, Ensign. HARFORD COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 11, 1776. GENTLEMEN: Agreeable to a resolve of the late Conven- ‘tion, empowering the Committee of this County to appoint the officers of a Rifle Company to be raised within this County, we have chosen and do recommend the following gentlemen as worthy of commissions, to wit: Alexander Lawson Smith, Captain; James White Hall, First Lieute- nant; William Bradford, Second Lieutenant; and Josias Hall, Third Lieutenant; whose conduct, we flatter our- selves, will do honour to them and justice to the choice of this Committee. We are, gentlemen, your most humble servants. Signed per order of Committee of Harford County : Amos Garrett, Chairman. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 184 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL HALL. [No. 25.] Annapolis, July 11, 1776. Sir: The Council of Safety think it proper that you and the battalion under your command should be stationed at this city and at Baltimore town, to supply the place of the regular troops that have marched from this Province to Penn- sylvuania. As we desire to see you as soon as possible, to con- cert the proper measures for the defence of this place, we request you will come to Annapolis as soon as you can. We send you enclosed your commission. We are, &c. To Colonel Josias Carvil Hall. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO BALTIMORE COUNTY COM- MITTEE. . [No. 27.] Annapolis, July 11, 1776. GentLemen: The Council of Safety think it expedient to have a Magazine built at some place in your County, be- tween five and ten miles back from Baltimore town. They would have it large enough to contain about four hundred barrels of powder, and a proportionable quantity of lead, arched and substantially built; and will be obliged if you will fix on any place you may judge safe and convenient, aod contract for materials and attend to the construction of the same. ‘They will supply the cash necessary to defray the expense whenever you will be pleased to eall for it. Weare, &c. To the Committee of Baltimore County. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COL. HOLLINGSWORTH. [No. 28.] Annapolis, July 11, 1776. Sir: We are in immediate want of about four hundred bayonets, of different sized sockets, for the arms of the Eastern-Shore Militia, who are to compose part of the Flying-Camp, and have sent an order on you to Mr. Win- ters for them; and we request you will supply him with that number as soon as possible. The greatest exertions are necessary upon this occasion, and we doubt not your warmest efforts to enable us to carry into execution the resolves of our Convention with that despatch the exigency of the times require. We are, &c. To Colonel Henry Hollingsworth. JOHN ADAMS TO MRS. ADAMS. Philadelphia, July 11, 1776. You seem to be situated in the place of greatest tranquil- lity and security of any upon the Continent. I may be mistaken in this particular, and an armament may have in- vaded your neighbourhood before now. But we have no intelligence of any such design; and all that we now know of the motions, plans, operations, and designs of the enemy, indicate the contrary. It is but just that you should have a little rest, and take a little breath. I wish I knew whether your brother and mine have inlisted in the Army, and what spirit is manifested by our Militia for marching to New-York and Crown-Point. The Militia of Maryland, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the lower Counties, are marching with much alacrity, and a laudable zeal, to take care of Howe and his Army at Staten- Island. The Army in New-York is in high spirits, and seems determined to give the enemy a serious reception. The unprincipled and unfeeling and unnatural inhabitants of Staten-Island are cordially receiving the enemy, and, deserters say, have engaged to take arms. They are an ignorant, cowardly pack of scoundrels. ‘Their numbers are small, and their spirit less. It is some time since I received any letter from you. The Plymouth one was the last. You must write me every week, by the post, if it is but a few lines. It gives me many spirits. I design to write to the General Court, requesting a dismission, or at least a furlough. I think to propose that they choose four more members, or at least three more, that so we may attend here in rotation. ‘Two or three or four may be at home at a time, and the Colony properly represented notwithstanding. Indeed, while the Congress were employed in political regulations, forming the sentiments of the people of the Colonies into some consistent system, extinguishing the remainders of authority under the 185 Crown, and gradually erecting and strengthening Govern- ments under the authority of the people, turning their thoughts upon the principles of polity and the forms of Goy- ernment, framing Constitutions for the Colonies separately, and a limited and a defined Confederacy for the United Colonies, and in some other measures, which I do not choose to mention particularly, but which are now determined, or near the point of determination, I flattered myself that I might have been of some little use here. But now, these matters will be soon completed, and very little business will be to be done here, but what will be either military or com- mercial—branches of knowledge and business for which hundreds of others in our Province are much better qualified than Iam. I shall therefore request my masters to relieve me. I am not a little concerned about my health, which seems to have been providentially preserved to me much beyond my expectations; but I begin to feel the disagreeable effects of unremitting attention to business for so long a time, and a want of exercise, and the bracing quality of my native air; so that I have the utmost reason to fear an irreparable injury to my constitution, if I do not obtain a little relaxa- tion. The fatigues of war are much less destructive to health than the painful, laborious, attention to debates, and to wri- ting, which drinks up the spirits and consumes the strength. Iam, &c. RICHARD ELLIS TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [July 17, 1776, referred to the Board of War.] Bohemia, Md., July 11, 1776. Honovurep Gentiemen: The present critical and alarm- ing season, the vengeful hand of tyranny, now ready to snatch from the subjects of our free and independent States all that is dear and sacred to them, to wit: their lives and liberties, make it necessary that each subject on the Conti- nent should now, with a manly fortitude, assert their nights to the free donations of God and Nature. I presume that prudence will dictate to every American the necessity they are under of defending those inalienable rights, at the ex- pense of their blood and treasure. It cannot be bought or purchased too dear, since life, liberty, and happiness, are thereby secured to the combatants and their posterity, on a happy conquest. All that I can say for myself, as an individual, is, that a sense of the insult offered to my threatened, bleeding coun- try, has begat in me an ardent desire to risk my life in its defence, and afford every aid in my power to its service and interest. I hereby beg leave to inform the honourable Congress, that there are a number of likely men inlisted under my command already. They are to serve during the war between the American States and their enemies, or to the dismission of Congress. ‘To this number of men already engaged, can be added as many more as will make it a full company in three days. My officers are, Hezekiah Foard, Nicholas Vanhorn, and Thomas Bouldoin. If your Honours should think it meet and necessary to grant us commissions, we shall be ready to march in a few days from the date of our commissions, with a full company of healthy, stout, brave men, whose affection for each other are so inter- woven, that it would be cruel to part them, as they are nearly all from our neighbourhood. , Being fully assured your Honours will do every matter that may be productive of good to the States, with humble submission I wait the event of your answer. , In the interim, I am, gentlemen, with much respect, your Honours’ obedient and very humble servant, Ricuarp Extis. To the Honourable Continental Congress, Philadelphia. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 11, 1776. Sir: Ido myself the honour to inform you that your several letters to this time have been duly received, in the order of their dates. I now enclose sundry resolves, to which I must beg leave to request your attention. Agreeable to the resolve herewith transmitted, I have enclosed Mr. Anderson’s letter to you, and wrote you on the subject. He will present you with the letter himself. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 186 The Postmaster having established a double post, in obe- dience to the resolve of Congress, a post will, after Monday next, leave New-York every morning, subject, however, to be detained or hastened whenever you think the publick service requires it. It is with the greatest pleasure I inform you that the Militia of this Colony are in motion from one end to the other. Several companies marched yesterday, and a much greater number, I expect, will now march every day, until the whole are gone. A most laudable spirit seems to have taken place, and I am persuaded our exertions will exceed what I originally apprehended. To that great and good Being who “ poureth contempt on princes, and weakeneth the strength of the mighty,” I beg leave most ardently to recommend you, and the cause you are intrusted to defend. I have the honour to be, with much esteem, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO GENERAL WASH- INGTON. In Committee of Safety, Philadelphia, July 11, 1776. Sir: Your Excellency’s letter of the 8th instant is re- ceived, but the Committee, having previously determined on the appointment of the four Captains of the German bat- talion, think themselves very unfortunate in not having it in their power to show the proper respect to the recom- mendation of Lieutenant Wilpert; the letter is, however, sent forward to the Convention of Maryland, who probably have not yet filled up the appointments committed to them by Congress. The Committee, understanding that fire-vessels and rafts are preparing at New-York, and being told that the com- bustibles are managed there in a method different from ours, they are induced to send Captain Hazelwood to your Ex- cellency, to offer his services in this business. ‘They have the highest confidence in his skill and abilities, having given him the command of all their vessels and rafts. He has sent forward a quantity of useful materials, which he is told do not make any part of the composition at New-York. The Committee do not mean he shall obtrude his opinion or advice upon those to whom your Excellency may have committed the direction of this species of defence ; but they thought, on the comparison of different modes, some real improvements might be struck out. He takes with him Mr. Bedford, who has assisted in the construction of some of our fire-rafts. Ihave the honour to be your most obedient, humble servant. By order of the Board: Grorce Criymer, Chairman. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. PETITION OF FRANCIS MENTGES TO BE APPOINTED MAJOR OF THE GERMAN BATTALION. Ordered to lie. Referred to the Delegates of Pennsyl- vania and Maryland.] To the Honourable the Delegates of the Thirteen UnirEep States or America, in Congress met: The Petition of Francis Mentees, humbly showeth: That your petitioner was lately appointed by the honour- able Assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania to the post. of Adjutant of the battalion of Musketeers lately raised for the defence of said Province, and has continued since his said appointment in the faithful discharge of the duty of said office. That being a native of Germany, and hearing your Honours were about to raise a battalion composed of Ger- mans only, in the Continental service, and humbly appre- hending that he hath knowledge, ability, and experience equal to the duties of the post of Major, he humbly solicits from your Honours the appointment of your petitioner to the post of Major in the said battalion. And, as in duty bound, &c. Francis Menrees, Adjutant in Pennsyluana Battalion of Musketeers. July 11, 1776, [Read July 12. 187 I do hereby certify, that the above gentleman, Mr. Francis Mentges, has acted as Adjutant in the battalion of Musket- eers in the pay and service of the Province of Pennsylvania, under my command, with reputation. I therefore recom- mend him to the particular notice of the honourable the Con- tinental Congress in the appointment of the officers for the German battalion to be raised for the service of the United Colonies. SamueL T. ATLEE, Colonel of Pennsylvania Musketeers. July 11, 1776. I approve of the above recommendation. Caves Parry, Lieut. Col. The petitioner is very capable of performing the duty of Major. Samueu Mixes, Colonel of Pennsylvania Rifle Regiment. Witiram Wit, Captain First Battalion. Francis C. Haseniniovs, Captain First Battalon. Freperick Kunt, Isaac Metcuior, Jacos Barce, CuristorraL Lupwicx, Joun Kepreve. The Committee to whom it was referred to consider of proper Field-Officers for the German battalion to be raised in Pennsylvania and Maryland, beg leave to recommend Nicho- las Hauseigger for Colonel, George Stricker for Lieutenant- Colonel, and Lodowick Welper for Major, of the said bat- talion. The bearer, Captain George Stricker, of the Light-Infantry, in the First Battalion of Maryland Regulars, under my com- mand, has served some time in the said corps, during which his conduct as a vigilant, good officer has gained my good opinion, and merited my approbation, which induces me to recommend him as a person qualified and disposed to form a good officer. Given under my hand, this 9th day of July, 1776. W. SmatLwoop. Annapolis, July 8, 1776. Sir: If it should be the pleasure of Congress to appoint a Lieutenant-Colonel and Major of the German battalion from this Colony, I would beg leave to recommend to their notice Captain George Stricker and Mr. Lodowick Welper. Both these gentlemen are Germans, have been in actual service, and are much esteemed by all who know them. They have a considerable influence with their countrymen, speaking good English, and would greatly facilitate the raising of the men. Captain Stricker commands a company of our regulars, and is capable of discharging the duty of Lieutenant-Colo- nel. Mr. Welper will make an active and _ intelligent Major. I remain, sir, with every sentiment of regard and respect to yourself and the Congress, your most obedient servant, SaMUEL CHasr. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. ACQUITTAL OF CAPTAINS SALTONSTALL AND WHIPPLE. In Congress, July 11, 1776. The Marine Committee, in pursuance of the order of Con- gress, reported that they have called before them divers of the inferior officers belonging to the ships Alfred and Colum- bus ; and having heard their complaints against the Captains Saltonstall and Whipple, in their presence, are of opinion that the charges against Captain Saltonstall do not appear to be well founded, and that the charges against Captain Whipple amount to nothing more than a rough, indelicate mode of behaviour to his marine officers. Whereupon, Resolved, That the Marine Committee be directed to order the Captains Saltonstall and Whipple to repair to their respective commands, and that it be recommended to Cap- tain Whipple to cultivate harmony with the officers. By order of Congress : Joun Hancock, President. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 188 LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee of Inspection, Observa- tion, and Correspondence, at the house of Adam Reigart, July 11, 1776: Present: George Ross, Matthias Slough, William Atlee, Lodwick Lowman, Christopher Crawford, Jacob Krug, William Bowsman, George Moore, Andrew Graff. Grorce Ross, Esq., in the Chair. Resolved, That one hundred and fifty men of the Asso- ciators be left as a guard in the Borough of Lancaster. Resolved, That the said one hundred and fifty men be taken from among the Associators in the Borough of Lan- caster. On motion, Resolved, That Christopher Heyne, John Feltman, Michael Diffenderfer, and Nicholas Job, be re- quested to collect and purchase from the inhabitants of this town all the tin Camp-kettles they can procure, and for such prices as they think reasonable, for the use of the Mili- tia now preparing to march by order of Congress. Colonel Bartram Galbraith, Lieutenant-Colonel Alex- ander Lowrey, and Major James Cunningham, of the Sixth Battalion of Associators in Lancaster County, do certify, that the company of volunteers from their battalion to form a part of the six thousand Militia for the Flying-Camp, have chosen William Hay for their Captain, Robert Clark their First Lieutenant, Patrick Hays their Second Lieutenant, and William Patterson their Third Lieutenant; and the said Field-Officers recommending the said persons to the Commit- tee for their appointment, the said certificate and recom- mendation is approved of, and the said Wilham Hay, Ro- bert Clark, Patrick Hays, and Wilham Patterson, are, agreeable to the resolves of the conference of Committees of Pennsylvanta, appointed the Captain and First, Second, and ‘Third Lieutenants, of the said company, according to the choice and recommendation aforesaid. Resolved, That the members of the County Committee in the different Townships be requested to give every assist- ance in their power to Commanding Officers of the Battalions and Corps in their District in procuring wagons and other necessary conveyances for their march to join the Militia of the Province in the Jerseys, agreeable to the resolve of Com- mittees and recommendations of Congress. GEORGE ROSS TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. In Committee, Lancaster, July 11, 1776. GentLemMen: The Committee, to enable the Militia to march immediately, have been under the necessity of draw-~ ing moneys for the several Captains of the troops to march from this town; and have prevailed on Messrs, Lowman & Hubley, of this place, to advance to Captain John Henry the sum of one hundred pounds; to advance to Captain George Musser the sum of one hundred pounds; and to Captain Paul Zantzinger the like sum of one hundred pounds; amounting to three hundred pounds. And have prevailed on Mr. Christian Wirtz to advance to Captain Samuel Boyd the sum of one hundred pounds, and to Captain Peter Hoofnagle the sum of one hundred and twenty pounds ; amounting to two hundred and twenty pounds. The whole sum advanced by these gentlemen being five hundred and twenty pounds. For whith sums the receipts will be sent down to the honourable the Continental Congress. These Captains and the troops commanded by them are of the First Battalion of Associators, in Lancaster County, commanded by Colonel George Ross. The Committee hope their conduct will meet the appro- bation of the honourable the Congress, and that those gen- tlemen who have advanced these moneys will have it re- placed on application. We are, gentlemen, with much respect, your most obe- dient humble servants. By order of the Committee. Gerorce Ross, Chairman. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 14, 1776.] New-York, July 11, 1776. Sir: I was honoured with your favour of the 8th instant by yesterday morning’s post, with the several resolves to 189 which you referred my attention. I shall duly regard them, and attempt their execution as far as I am able. By virtue of the discretionary power that Congress were leased to invest me with, and by advice of such of my Gene- ral Officers as I have had an opportunity of consulting, I have ordered the two remaining regiments in the Massachusetts- Bay to march immediately for the defence of this place, in full confidence that nothing hostile will be attempted against that State in the present campaign. I have written to the General Court of Massachusetts-Bay, and transmitted a copy of the resolve for employing the Eastern Indians ; entreating their good offices in this instance, and their exertions to have them forthwith engaged and marched to join this Army. I have desired five or six hundred of them to be inlisted for two or three years, if they will consent to it; subject to an earlier discharge, if it shall be thought necessary, and upon the same terms of the Continental troops, if better cannot be had, though I am hopeful they may. In my letter of yesterday, | mentioned the arrival of part of the Connecticut Lighthorse, 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 inform you 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 King’s Bridge, (being unwilling to send them away,) at the rate of half a dollar per week each, meaning to leave it entirely with Con- gress either to allow or refuse it, as they shall judge proper. I promised to make this representation, and thought it my duty; and will only observe, 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 property. The subject of the enclosed copy of a letter from Gover- nour Trumbull, I beg leave to submit to the consideration of Congress; they will perceive from his representations, the disquieting apprehensions that have seized on the minds of the people since the retreat of the northern Army, and how exposed the northern frontiers 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 con- ceives necessary 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 ; what I have done being only meant to lay the matter before them, in compliance with his wishes. I have also enclosed a memorial from the Surgeon’s Mates, setting forth the inad- equacy of their pay to their services and maintenance, and praying that it may be increased. I shall observe that they have a long time complained in this instance, and that some additional allowance may not be unnecessary. As I am truly sensible the time of Congress is much taken up with a variety of important matters, it is with unwilling- ness and pain 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 publick interest, | would beg leave once more to call the attention of Congress to an appointment competent to the purpose. ‘T'wo motives induce me to urge the matter: first, a conviction 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 examination of the accounts of such an Army as this, with any degree of precision and exactness, without neglecting other matters of equal impor- tance, is utterly impracticable. All that I have been able to do—and that, in fact, was doing nothing—was, when the Commissary, and 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 gene- ral account of their expenditures. But this answers no valu- able purpose. It is the minutia that must be gone into; the propriety of each charge examined, the vouchers looked into; and with respect to the Commissary-General, his vic- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 190 tualling returns and expenditures of provisions should be compared with his purchases, or otherwise a person in this department, if he was inclined to be knavish, might purchase large quantities with publick money, and sell one-half of it again for private emolument, and yet his accounts on paper will appear fair, and be supported with vouchers for every charge. I do not urge this matter from a suspicion of any unfair practices in either of the departments before mentioned ; and sorry should I be if this construction was put upon it, having a high opinion of the honour and integrity of these gentle- . men. But there should nevertheless be some control, as well upon their discretion as honesty; to which 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 publick accounts; 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. We have intelligence from a deserter that came to us, that on Wednesday morning the Asia, Chatham, and G'rey- hound, men-of-war, weighed anchor, and, it was said, intended to pass up the North River above the city, to prevent the communication with the Jerseys. They did not attempt it, nor does he know what prevented them. A prisoner be- longing to the Tenth Regiment, taken yesterday, informed that they hourly expected Admiral Howe and his fleet. He adds that a vessel has arrived from them, and the prevail- ing opinion is, that an attack will be made immediately on their arrival. By a letter from General Ward, I am informed that the small-pox has broken out at Boston, and infected some of the troops. I have. written him to place the invalids under an officer, to remain till they are well, and to use every possible precaution to prevent the troops coming from thence bringing the infection. ‘The distresses and calamities we have already suffered by this disorder in one part of our Army, I hope will excite the utmost care that they may not be increased. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of the greatest esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To the Honourable Continental Congress. Lebanon, July 4, 1776. Sir: The retreat of the northern Army, and its present situation, have spread a general alarm. By intelligence from Major General Schuyler, received last evening, I have reason to conclude that they are now at Crown-Point and Ticonderoga, in a weak state, and under the necessity of an immediate reinforcement to enable them to make a stand, and preventing the enemy from passing the lake and pene- trating into the country. The prevalence of the small-pox among them 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; and the battalions ordered to be raised in this Colony fill up slowly. Are there no measures may be taken to remove the impediment? May not the Army soon be freed from that infection? Can the reimforcements be kept separate from the infected? Or may not a detachment be made from the troops under your command, and the Militia raising in the several Colonies and ordered to New-York of such men as have had the small-pox, to be replaced by the troops raising for the Northern Department? Could any expedient be fallen upon that would afford probable hopes that this infection may be avoided, I believe our battalions would soon join the northern Army. I shall omit nothing in my power to expedite them. The retreat of the Army from Canada exposes the north- ern frontiers of New-York and New-Hampshire to the ravages of the Indians, who will doubtless 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 filled with the most disquieting apprehensions. Some pow- der and lead, upon application, has been supplied them from this Colony; but the settlers there, from their infant state, 191 and consequent poverty, are unable to devote themselves to the defence of their frontiers, unless they should be enabled to hire labourers to carry on the business of their farms in their absence. I could therefore wish that your Excellency might think proper to recommend it to the Continental Con- gress to order a battalion to be raised and stationed there for the defence of those settlements. It would, I trust, be immediately filled up with a hardy race of men in that quar- ter, to repel the attacks of the savages, and be ready to join and support the northern Army upon occasion, and who at all times may scour the woods, and furnish intelligence of the enemy’s motions. If these settlers are driven back, besides the loss of their property, a much heavier expense will fall upon some of the Colonies for the support of their families than the charge arising from the raising and maintaining a battalion of Con- tinental troops, and we shall still have a frontier to defend. The anxiety of the friends and relations of many, if not most of those settlers who emigrated from this Colony, and the importance of the matter, will, I trust, be my sufficient apology for wishing to engage your influence with Congress to support the motion I judge advisable, and shall make, to have a battalion raised out of and stationed on these fron- tiers. By a letter from General Schuyler of the Ist instant, re- ceived last evening, I am advised that Generals Schuyler, Gates, and Arnold, were to set out on Tuesday morning. I trust they are by this time at the end of their journey, and hope their presence may have a happy effect towards affairs in that quarter. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JONATHAN TRUMBULL. To His Excellency General Washington. To the Honourable Brigadier-General Lord Srtruine: The Memorial of the Surgeons’ Mates of the several Regi- ments under your Honour’s command, humbly showeth : That your Memorialists meant to be included in a late Petition presented to your Honour by the gentlemen Sur- geons of the several regiments in the brigade under your Honour’s command, for an augmentation of their wages, but through mistake of the Mates’ signature, or by some other means, no notice has been taken of said Petition in their behalf; and your Memorialists find that, whilst employed in the common service of their country—which service they have and ever want to discharge with the greatest care and fidelity—their present pay will not support them in the character of gentlemen, even if used with the utmost frugality and economy. Your Memorialists, therefore, most earnestly request your Honour to represent their aggrieved state to his Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, and pray him, in their behalf, to lay the same before the honourable Continental Congress, or take such other measures as in your Honour’s wisdom shall be found most expedient. And your Memo- rialists, as in duty bound, shall ever pray. Danie, Menema, Isaac Lepyarp, Asa Kinespery, Preserve Warp. To the Honourable Brigadier-General Spencer: The Memorial of the Surgeons’ Mates of the several Regi- ments under your Honour’s command, humbly showeth : That your Memorialists meant to be included in a late Petition, presented to your Honour by the gentlemen Sur- geons in the brigade under your Honour’s command, for an augmentation of their wages; but, through mistake of the Mates’ signature, or by some other means, no notice has been taken of the said Petition in their behalf. And your Memorialists find that, whilst they are employed in the common service of their country—which service they have and always mean to discharge with the greatest care and fidelity—their present pay will not support them in the character of gentlemen, even if used with the utmost frugality and economy. Your Memorialists, therefore, earnestly request your Honour to represent their aggrieved state to his Excel- lency the Commander-in-Chief, and pray him, in their behalf, to lay the same before the honourable the Continental Con- gress, or take such other measures as shall, in your Honour’s CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 192 wisdom, seem most expedient. And your Memorialists, as in duty bound, shall ever pray. Dated at New-York, June 26, 1776. Gersuom Bearpstey, Sitas Homes, Joun R. Wartrovs, ZECHARIAH Keys, WiuciaM PRENTICE. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, July 11, 1776. Sir: I duly received your favour of the 6th instant, and return you my best thanks for the attention you have shown at this crisis, in preparing the several regiments of Militia which are nearest this place to be ready for marching when ordered. Some of the troops have arrived, and I hope the rest will follow without loss of time. In my letter of the 9th instant I wrote you fully relative to the Lizhthorse, which have arrived to the number of between four and five hundred; and have the happiness to acquaint you the officers and men of that corps have mani- fested so firm an attachment to the cause we are engaged in, that they have consented to remain here till such a body of troops are marched from your Colony as will be a suffi- cient reinforcement, so as to admit of their leaving this city with safety. I mention this matter with greater pleasure, as they have the additional merit of determining to stay, even if they are obliged to maintain their horses at their own expense. | have also written you with regard to sending any troops from hence to the northward, to be replaced by the Militia from your Province, and have stated the injudi- ciousness of adopting such a measure. It is indeed a great misfortune that the small-pox is so prevalent in our northern Army; but I conceive it would be highly impolitick, at this important period, to send away troops who have been a considerable time in the service, and to have their places supplied by men of much less experience, who belong to the Militia. I have only to add, that I am, with much esteem, sir, ur very humble servant 2 Ona lal ! Go. WasHINGTON. To Governour Trumbull, Connecticut. P. S. I must refer you to my letter above mentioned for my sentiments with respect to removing the cattle from the different places specified. As to the cattle on Montauk- Point, I can only say, some method must be devised to answer the purpose of preventing the inhabitants of East- hampton from suffering on the one hand, and the supply of the enemy with any stock on the other. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. New-York, July 11, 1776. GenTLEmEN: At a crisis like the present, when our ene- mies are prosecuting a war with unexampled severity, when they have called upon foreign mercenaries, and have excited 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 impelled by necessity, the Congress have been pleased to empower me, as you will perceive by the enclosed copy of their resolve, which L have the honour of transmitting 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 honour- able body in carrying their views into execution, and to assure you, that whatever expenses you may necessarily incur in doing it, and as incident to it, they will reimburse. Esteeming their service of much importance, particularly if the enemy should attempt an impression into the interior 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 have them accoutred with all possible expedition, to join the Army here. Having professed a strong inclination to take part with us in the present con- test, it is probable they may be engaged for less pay and on better terms than the Continental troops; but if they can- not, they must be allowed it. The term of their inlistment 193 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 to, 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 you the neces- sity of the utmost despatch in the matter. I well know the execution of the work will be attended ‘with some trouble and inconvenience; but a consideration of the benefits that may arise from employing them, and your zeal for the common cause, I am persuaded will surmount every obstacle and apologize for my requisition ; especially as it comes recommended and supported by authority of Con- gress. ; I have the honour to be, with sentiments of great respect, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Go. Wasuincron. To the General Court, (or Committee of Safety in their recess,) Massachusetts-Bay. P. S. Since I had the honour of addressing you on the 9th instant, I have received a resolve from Congress for ealling the other two Continental regiments from the Mas- sachusetts-Bay to join the Army here, (a copy of which I have enclosed ;) and by the advice of my General Officers have written General Ward to detach them immediatel y—the accounts we have all agreeing that Lord Howe is every day expected with one hundred and fifty transports, with at least fifteen thousand troops, in addition to those already here. In Congress, July 8, 1776. Resolved, That General Washington have permission to call forth and engage in the service of the United States so many Indians of the St. John’s, Nova Scotia, and Penobscot tribes, as he shall judge necessary, and that he be advised to write to the General Court of the Massachusetts-Bay, requesting their aid in this business, and informing them that Congress will reimburse such expenses as may be necessa- rily incurred in consequence of the foregoing resolutions. Per Rosert H. Harrison, Secretary. In Congress, July 8, 1776. Resolved, That General Washington be vested with dis- cretionary power to call to his assistance at New- York such of the Continental Regiments in the Massachusetts-Bay as have not already received orders to march to Ticonderoga, and that the General Court of that Province be requested to supply their places with Militia, if they think it expedient. ' Roserr H. Harrison. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. New-York, July 11, 1776. Dear Sir: I received your favours of the Ist and 2d instant, and agreeable to your request transmitted Congress a copy of the former and of its several enclosures. The im- portant subject referred to them has met with their attention, and the letter accompanying this will inform you and Ge- neral Gates of the result of their deliberations. I hope that harmony and a good agreement will subsist between you, as the most likely means to advance the interest of the cause 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 per- sons for that purpose, to be in the former. I gave orders immediately on the receipt of your favour, for the several articles you wrote for, to be sent you, if they could be had. Ball and buckshot could not be spared from hence, and I directed a quantity of lead to be sent you, out of which you must attempt to have them made. I have not heard anything of the money mentioned by Mr. Duane. I imagine it has not been sent. If any acci- dent has befallen it, the matter would have been known ere now. Since my last, General Ffowe’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. Firtu Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 13 194 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, who state that an advice packet arrived at Halifax before they left it, informing that he was ready to sail when they came from England, to join General Howe here; in consequence of which he came with the present armament. They add that nothing will be attempted till his arrival. ‘Their intelligence, [have no doubt, is well founded. Indeed, the enemy having done nothing yet, affords proof beyond question that they are waiting for more troops. We are strengthening ourselves as much as possible, and deem their staying out so Jong a fortunate circumstance, as it not only gives us an opportunity of advancing our works, but getting some relief from the neighbouring Provinces. From every appearance, they mean to make a most vigorous push to subdue us this cam- paign, and, for this purpose, to possess themselves of this Colony, if possible, as a step leading to it. Our utmost exertions must be used, and [ trust, through the favour of divine Providence, they will be disappointed in their views. As having a large number of gondolas and galleys on the lakes’ will be of great importance, Mr. Hancock informs me, in his letter of the 6th instant, that fifty carpenters were gone from Phaladelphia, in order to build them, and that he had written to Governour Cooke to engage and forward the same complement. I am advised by Governour Trumbull, in a letter just received, that he has procured two companies, of twenty-five men each, who were about to set out. When they arrive they will be able, I am in hopes, to turn several off the stocks in a little time. It being evident that an attempt will be made by 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 discretionary power, with which I was honoured by Congress, 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 this way, and with much less fatigue, than if they had pursued their route by land altogether, at this hot uncomfortable season. 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 my- self will be able and more than equal to repel any invasion that may be attempted from that quarter. It. will be some time before their aid can be had, having never had the authority of Congress to order them till within this week. You will perceive by the enclosed Declaration, that Con- gress of late have been deliberating on matters of the utmost importance. Impelled by necessity, and a repetition of inju- ries no longer sufferable, without the most distant prospect of relief, they have asserted the claims of the Colonies to the rights of humanity, 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. A prisoner taken yesterday, belonging to the Tenth Re- giment, informs that Admiral Howe is hourly expected. He adds that a vessel is arrived from his fleet. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To the Honourable Major-General Schuyler. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD. New-York, July 11, 1776. Sir: Since writing to you on the 9th instant, I have been honoured with a letter from Congress, enclosing a resolve, a copy of which you have transmitted herewith, empow- ering me to call to the assistance of the Army here the other two regiments of Continental troops, now in the Massa- chusetts 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 195 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 expe- ditious, 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 necessary that you should write Mr, Huntington, at Norwich, to prepare as many vessels as will bring the whole of them. To the Quarter- master and Commissary you will give proper orders, that they may provide, in each of their departments, such sup- plies of necessaries for the route as may be wanted. I have just now received your favour of the 4th instant, with its several enclosures. It is extremely unlucky that the small-pox should prevail in the Army at this time; but such is the necessity that every possiblesuccour should be given to the troops here, and to those at the northward, at this critical period, that it is the sentiment of myself and other General Officers, that the whole of the regiments that are not in- fected with the disorder, should be instantly forwarded. ‘The calamities that would flow from its bemg communicated to the whole Army are too obvious to need mention. You will therefore direct the utmost care and attention to be used to prevent those that are well from taking the infettion, and for this end, that they may be kept separate and apart from those that have the disorder. Every precaution will not be more than necessary to prevent the fatal consequences that will attend their bringing and spreading it at this time. And I trust that nothing in your power to prevent it will be wanting. Such of the men who are down with it, and those you may suspect have received the infection, you will put under a proper officer or officers, to whom you will give orders to proceed with them to this place, as early as possible after they are well and clean of the infection. ‘The com- pany, or such part of the train of Artillery as are there, must remain, in case they should be wanted. I request that you will have an accurate and exact return made of all the military and other stores belonging to the Continent, that I may be enabled to transmit it to the Board of War and Ordnance, agreeable to their order. You will charge the Commissary or Conductor with the care of them, and that he will remain and guard them in a safe and secure manner. He must be active and vigilant in his duty, that nothing may be lost or injured. I ain, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasuineTon. To Major-General Ward, Boston. REV. JOHN RODGERS TO GENERAL GATES. New-York, July 11, 1776. Dear Sir: Give me leave to introduce to your acquaint- ance the bearer, Mr. Tennent, who is my son-in law. He is one of the Chaplains appointed by the Colony of Connec- ticut for General Waterbury’s brigade. I doubt not he will do his duty with fidelity and diligence, and your politeness and benevolence supersede the necessity of my asking your countenance and friendship to him, while he supports the dignity of his character. For news, I must refer to our good friend Mr. Hazard and the bearer; for I take it for granted Mr. Hazard writes to you by this conveyance. With every tender wish for your prosperity in your present important department, I am, dear sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Joun Ropcers. To General Gates. EBENEZER HAZARD TO GENERAL GATES. New-York, July 11, 1776. Dear Sir: I intend writing to you the news by the post who sets out for Albany to-morrow, and will very probably reach you sooner than this. My only design at present is, to introduce to you my very particular friend, the Reverend Mr. William Tennent, of Greenfield, in Connecticut. He was solicited by General Waterbury to accept the Chaplaincy of a regiment, and is now on his way to Crown-Poznt for that purpose. Since the commencement of the present dispute, he has uniformly supported the American side of it, and his zeal has been commendable. For further particulars, I must refer you to a future acquaintance with him, which will give CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 196 you a more just idea of him than anything dictated by the partiality of friendship. I am, dear sir, yours affectionately, EBENEZER Hazarp. MEMORANDUM, As much depends upon the expedition with which the expresses travel, that matter ought to be particularly attend- ed to; more especially as the expresses in general have not outrode the stated posts. Private letters (2. e. not on publick business) ought not to’ be sent by express, as it will lessen the revenue of the Con- tinental Post Office, unless they are delivered to the Post- master, that postage may be charged on them. As letters from the commanding officer in Canada are carried by the stated posts, free of postage, General Gates will be pleased either to enclose his for his friends in Virginia, &c., to Mr. Hazard, or write his own name at the bottom of the direc- tion, that Mr. Hazard may be able to distinguish them. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 11, 1776. Dear Sir: A report was sent in last evening from the outguards at the Narrows, that there were two ships, one brigantine, and one schooner, standing in for the Hook last night. I was mentioning, some few days past, that a putrid fever prevailed in my brigade, and that I thought it partly owing to their feeding too freely on animal food. Vegetables would be much more wholesome; and by your Excellency’s permission, they may be provided for the troops without any additional expense to the Continent, if the Colonels of the Regiments were allowed to retrench in the article of meat, and that they should draw its value in money, to be applied by the Quartermaster of the regiment to the procuring ne- cessary sauce, the Quartermaster to draw the money weekly and account to the commanding officer of the regiment how it is expended, and for what. ‘This method may be a little more troublesome to the Commissary-General and the Quartermasters of the regiment; butif it will remedy so great an evil as now prevails, I think it worthy your Excellency’s attention. The troops cannot complain that they are scanted in their allowance: leaving them at liberty to draw either meat or money, as the inclination of the troops or command- ing officer may lead them, puts it out of their power to complain. People often would adopt measures when left to their choice, that they would think a hardship to have imposed upon them. Cleanliness contributes much to the health of the troops. They now do, and have done, so much fatigue, that the allowance of soap will not keep them clean. ‘Their clothing gets exceedingly dirty, and they wear out twice as many clothes on fatigue as doing other duty. I should think it a piece of justice due to the troops for the extraordinary fa- tigue, to be allowed a double quantity of soap when they are employed so much on fatigue. ‘This is a grievance I have often heard the officers complain of, that the fatigue wore out the troops’ clothing faster than they could get them, and that they made themselves so dirty at work, that the allowance of soap would not clean them. ; I have never mentioned anything of a further allowance of soap to any person except the other evening at Head-Quar- ters. I only beg leave to propose it to your Excellency’s consideration, and leave it for your better judgment to deter- mine the propriety and utility of such an establishment. Believe me to be, with the greatest respect, your Excel- lency’s most obedient humble servant, NaTHANAEL GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington. EXAMINATION OF DESERTERS. The Examination of seven Deserters from on board the Enemy’s Fleet, Jury 7, 1776. John Hogan, James Jarras, John Joseph, William Down- ing, John Bragg, Robert Caswell, deserters from a victual- ling ship of the enemy’s fleet, all taken in different vessels and put on board the fleet, except John Hogan, who was impressed at Halifax, say: That the ship they deserted from 197 is called the Killingworth, Thomas Poundage master; that they took her boat about twelve o’clock last night, and came to Long-Island, and went up to General Greene’s encamp- ment; that the fleet consists of one hundred and fifty or one hundred and sixty sail of all kinds—it contains one sixty- four, two fifty, one forty, one thirty-six, the rest sloops of war (about four) and some tenders—no bombships, but two expected from England with the fleet; the fleet expected every day with about fifteen thousand troops; all the troops now here between eight and nine thousand—healthy; no Horse. They intend no attempt till Lord Howe arrives. Sixty-six men from New-Jersey and Staten-Island joined them. ‘The troops and inhabitants appear friendly. One boy killed and six men wounded in the tender the other day. The Chatham, Admiral Shuldham’s ship, well manned, but very sickly on board; several died since they left Halifax. The rest of the ships of war not so well manned; the trans- ports badly manned; no troops but the Lighthorse left at HMalifax; Artillery ashore, and encamped; the troops quar- tered. Lord Piercy commands ashore; General Howe on shipboard. About five hundred Highlanders and four compa- nies from Antigua. Matthew Kelly, who deserted from on board the transport brig the Admiral Gayton, which took him on the Banks, outward bound, from Newbury to Surinam, agrees in general with the foregoing. Three riflemen went.on board the Greyhound last night was a week, and a brother-in-law of Captain James Ayscough. One Highlander, and another person, came on board the same night. Only three ships of war left at Halifax—the largest a frigate, the others sloops ; one of them to convey some victualling ships to Quebeck. Taken ten o’clock, July 7, 1776. Jno. Morin Scort, Brigadier-General. Examination of Epenezer Corerox, Sailor, deserter from the Enemy’s Fleet. On Monday evening, July 8th, 1776, deserted from on board the Amity’s Admonition, commanded by Captain John Noles, (it being one of the fleet now lying in our harbour,) a certain Ebenezer Colefox, who says: That on the 22d of May \ast he was taken a prisoner in the sloop Macaroni, commanded by Captain John Arthur, belonging to Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, of New-London, of which sloop he was mate. That he was carried into Halifax by the vessel that took him. That the vessel in which he was a prisoner arrived in Halifax on or about the 10th of June last. ‘That the number of the enemy is about eight thousand, who are all landed and billeted out in different parts of the Island, but that he knows not with certainty whether any of the General Officers are landed or not, but is certain that General Howe is yet on shipboard. ‘That it is currently reported among the enemy that a reinforcement of twenty thousand men is daily expected; that they have landed their heavy artillery, though not their field-pieces, and that they have not yet erected any fortifications. That it is also currently reported on board the fleet that no descent would be made by the enemy until the arrival of the reinforcement, and that then an attack would be made on this city. That two sailors, who arrived at Halifax in a transport-ship from England, had got on board the vessel to which the exami- nant belonged, and declared that Lord Howe’s fleet had actually embarked and sailed from England before their departure therefrom. ‘That four hundred of the Fifth Regi- ment came from Halifax in the ship to which he belonged ; that they were in the battle of Bunker’s Hill; that most of them were very averse to the service, and wished to come to a field action, for that they did not care whether they died or lived. No bombships with this fleet, but some ex- pected with Lord Howe. ‘The Army healthy. Never was ashore himself on Staten-Island. No troops left at Halifax but the sick. Does not know that any ship of war was left at Halifax, except the frigate which took him, called the Cerberus. In the fleet in our harbour now are the Asia; two ships of fifty and one of forty guns; the Greyhound frigate ; two sloops, commanded by Wallace and Ayscough; one small sloop cruising on the back of Long-Island, and a few small armed vessels, ‘The tender on which we fired some days ago much damaged, and had one man killed and eight or nine wounded. ‘The Army not suffered to take anything from the inhabitants of the Island without pay. The in- habitants sell them fresh provisions. ‘There are to be two CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. * 198 market-days in a week. He got ashore by swimming on a piece of plank to Long-Island ; when near the shore he called out, and the guards came down and received him, almost spent with being in the water two hours. Taken this 9th July, 1776. Jno. Morin Scorr, Brigadier-General. Examination of Emanuet Joseruson, of New-York, who made his escape from the Enemy, Jury 10, 1776. Emanuel Josephson, of the City of New-York, was taken in a boat belonging to Newark, on Tuesday, the 2d of July instant. He was well treated, and all his baggage returned. General Howe lives at Banker’s. He heard a sergeant say that the British forces were seven thousand only, consisting of the troops that left Boston, except three regiments that are left at Halifax, and four companies of Highlanders that have joined them since. No intrenchments, nor cannon, except two twelve-pounders, near Decker’s. ‘The men look very hearty, and have plenty of salt provisions and flour. He understood from them that they intended to remain on Staten-Island till the arrival of the fleet. They appeared rather afraid. Some of the subalterns and soldiers told him there was something preparing that the New- Yorkers little thought of. ‘They were much afraid that our people would set the town on fire; that in general they thought they would go up the North River, and land there, and another party would land on Long-Island, and so take the city. It was reported in the camp that we treated our prisoners very ill; and especially, that some of the Highland officers were drummed through the town with the rogue’s march. That a great number of different people from the Continent had joined them lately. Hesaw Messrs. Apthorp, De Lancey, Bayard, Barbarie, and Lawrence. He heard that Paxton, the barber, was there. Was treated with great politeness by Captain Williams, of the tender, and Captain Dickson, of the Greyhound. Richard Lawrence is building flat- bottomed boats on the Island. ‘The people are afraid, if a reinforcement comes, they will be starved for want of pro- visions on the Island. Yesterday two men came from Bergen- Point, with all their baggage. Examination of Witu1am Garpener, a Prisoner, July 11, 1776. Wilham Gardener, of the Tenth Regiment, commanded by Major Vattes, was going to get some milk, and being in liquor, lost his way and was taken by our men. Men in good spirits. Plenty of salt provisions, and an order issued for fresh provisions twice a week, but he had not seen any yet. Noworks yet thrown up. They are only waiting for the fleet. After they left Halfax they were joined by the fleet from Glasgow, said to contain three thousand men when sailed. ‘They have an account that General Burgoyne is at Fort Edward. ‘There are on the Island General Howe, General Grant, Lord Piercy, Brigadiers Jones: and Smith. There is a brigade opposite to the Point, consisting of three regiments, commanded by Brigadier-General Jones. ‘They have two field-pieces with each regiment. Each regiment consists of ten companies, and forty men toacompany. He was told by a person who wrote for some of the officers, that the reason of leaving Boston was the want of provisions, but he thought it was time, as it was becoming very hot about their ears. He heard the Adjutant tell the Major that they had received intelligence from General Burgoyne, by land, that he had an army of thirty-five thousand men, regulars and Canadians. ‘They expect the fleet in every hour. A vessel has arrived from them. 'The general idea among the men is, that they are to attack New-York, and can easily pass up the river. A Sergeant Deane, of the Fifty-Second Regiment, taken at Bunker’s Hill or Lexington, came over to the Island within a few days, and was with General Howe, and supposes gave a particular account of what was doing. Examination of Evisau Steruens and Cuauncey Smiru, deserters from the Enemy’s Fleet, New-York, July 11, 1776. On Wednesday night deserted from on board the Generous Friend, a transport, one of the fleet now lying in our harbour, Elijah Stephens and Chauncey Smith, who say: That on the 17th day of May they were taken prisoners in the schoo- 199 ner called the Leviathan, belonging to New-Haven, by the Cerberus man-of-war, and carried into Halifax, where they arrived on or about the 3d of June, and were turned over to the aforesaid transport. That they left Halifax on or about the 10th of June, where they left no troops but invalids. They say that the number of the enemy arrived in the fleet is (as nearly as they have been able to inform themselves) about seven thousand. That the troops were all landed on Staten-Island, and that they were on different parts of the Island. That there were a few tents, but that the troops were chiefly billeted out in houses. ‘That besides those who have. the small-pox, (of which there are fifty or sixty,) there are many sick among them. ‘That many of the soldiers seem much averse to the service, and curse their fate for being engaged therein. They further say, that yesterday morning the Asia, Chatham, and the Greyhound, weighed anchor, and, as the examinants were informed, intended to sail past the city, up Hudson’s River, and lie at some con- venient distance above it, to prevent communication between it and the country. They also say that it was reported among them that the inhabitants of the Island were about forming themselves into companies, who, together with such of the enemy as were unfit for actual service, were to remain upon the Island, to defend it when an attack should be made by the troops; but that no attack was to be made until the arrival of the reinforcement from Europe, which reinforce- ment, they were informed, would consist of about fifteen or sixteen thousand men. Jno. Morty Scort, Brigadier-General. Examination of James McFaruan, a soldier belonging to the Fifty-Fifth Regiment, (Colonel Mupic,) deserted from Sraten-lsuanp on the 4th or 5th Juty, 1776. The Colonel absent. ‘The regiment now commanded by the Major, who is General Howe’s Aid-de-Camp. He left Staten-Island about one or two o’clock yesterday afternoon. He came away in a skiff opposite the Blazing-Star Ferry. He left Halifax (where they went from Boston) about four weeks ago. Some of the Grenadiers and Light-Infantry landed on the Island on Tuesday night, and the battalions on Wednesday. ‘They consist of nine thousand—about one thousand sick and lame. General Grant, of the brigade to which the examinant belongs, is about one mile and a half from Blazing-Star, inland, with three battalions (of eight companies each) of Foot. No breastworks or other remark- able works raised since Grant came on the Island; the men so weak and feeble, and the weather so hot, that they cannot work, and therefore don’t intend raising any yet awhile. About four hundred of the inhabitants to be sworn yesterday to be true to carry arms, but not to go out of the country. He has not tasted a bit of fresh provision since he has been on the Island, but yesterday they began to buy. Their sentries are all along the shore—two together in the night- time. The report in the Army is, that they are waiting for the fleet from England. He thinks one-half of the Army are very easy about the dispute, and had rather let it alone; these are chiefly Scotch and Irish ; but the English are very violent. ‘They expect a reinforcement of ten or twelve thousand men. He thinks Admiral Shuldham commands the fleet. If they are to be attacked, now is the time. The Captain of the tender was killed on Thursday morning, as reported through the Army. A schooner was taken the other night loaded with flour, about two miles from Blazing- Star, supposed to be from Amboy. A great many flat- bottomed boats, with sixteen oars, will carry two companies ; but are all yet with the fleet. In general, about thirty-six in a company, and many not that. There was a talk at Halifax about a regiment of Indians, but it all went over, and none came. ‘The inhabitants of Staten-Island are well used; no soldier dare do anything against them. The other night the soldiers broke into a cellar belonging to a man who had deserted to Jersey, (supposed to be Mr. Mesereaua,) and knocked in the heads of some wine-casks and drank it, for which they were tried next day by a general court-mar- tial. A large man, a ship-carpenter, (Richard Lawrence,) came aboard them with a likely young man the first night after they came from Sandy-Hook, and told them there was nobody on the other side of the Island but a parcel of jawing rascals, and five hundred of such as he would drive them all. ‘The Army have the bloody-flux and scurvy. There CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 200 are no Lighthorse among the Regulars; these were left at Halifax till they see whether they can make their landing good; but have riding and draught-horses. ‘The Grenadiers and Light-Infantry are in a brigade by themselves, in the middle of the Island. The reinforcement is expected every day. ‘The men are so weak that they cannot march twelve miles a day to save their lives. A great many (nearly twenty) boats from Long-Island came on board and helped them to land their men on Staten-Island ; the boats are used to carry grass; they had been at the light-house a fortnight. Examination of Abram Van Duzar, of New-York, from Sraten-Istanp, July 9, 1776. The examination of Abram Van Duzar, of New-York, who saith: That on Tuesday, the 2d day of July, he went over to Staten-Island, to bring over a horse he had some time before purchased ; that he could not get a passage back again that night; and that the next morning he was forbid returning, guards having been set all round the Island. The examinant further saith, that he attempted to come away three times, and was hindered the two first times, but that the last (being this morning) he effected his escape in a skiff from Decker’s Ferry; that guards are set all over the Island, but that no fortifications are made or intrenchments flung up anywhere. That on Saturday last, Governour Tryon called all the Militia of the Island together, and agreed with them that, on their taking the oath of allegiance to the King, he would give to them new commissions, and that then they were to be inlisted to serve during the war, and not to go off the Island; that they were to receive the same pay as the King’s troops; and that he heard one Decker (an inhabitant of the Island) say the number of men belonging to the Island, and fit to bear arms, consisted of between four and five hundred. ‘That they had raised a company of Horse, whose pay is one dollar per day when called to duty. That he saw Cortlandt Skinner on the Island, in high spirits, save that he laments a little the loss of his son. ‘That he had heard it talked among both officers and soldiers, that when the fleet and army (expected to arrive every hour under Lord Howe) should arrive to their assistance, they were to land at Amboy and on Long-Island, and so force their way to New-York; and that Carleton was to come from Canada; and by their talk one among another, were of opinion that Carleton must needs be now in Albany; and that they seemed well assured of success ; nor could they think their attempt could possibly fail. ‘That the troops are very healthy, and look exceedingly well, and are impatient to attack us. ‘That with the present fleet came only six men-of-war, sloops, tenders, and several bomb- ships. ‘That he thinks, from the best judgment he can form, that the number of troops, exclusive of the marines, consists of twelve thousand; but that they, among themselves, .give such different accounts of their number, that there is no kind of dependance on the accounts they give about it. That the troops are chiefly landed and scattered over the Island; that he thinks they are likely to want fresh provisions pretty — soon. ‘That he had been well informed that forty-eight men came and joined them from Amboy; that on Sunday evening last three Riflemen came over to them from Long-Island, and brought with them five rifles, and told the General that twenty-five more wanted to come over, but had no craft to bring them; that those three Riflemen joined the Army, and drew provisions and pay immediately. ‘That when the fleet came in through the Narrows, our guns from the battery killed four men and a boy. ‘That they had asked him how many in number our troops consisted of in New-York ; that he had told them not less than fifty thousand, and more likely one hundred thousand, ‘That they had talks of at- tempting the little privateer in the bay; and that he heard it talked among the officers, yesterday, that five men-of-war were to be sent up to town to-day, but that no general attack is to be made until they are reinforced by the fleet from England, with whom, they say, fifteen or twenty thou- sand troops will come. That they were going through with the people on the Island yesterday, tendering them the oath of allegiance; and that people in general took it cheerfully, without hesitation, as he was informed. Asram Van Duzar. Taken on this 9th of July, 1776, at Bergen town, by me, Jacos Forp, Jun., Colonel. 201 NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. White-Plains, Westchester County, R July 11, 1776. Sir: In pursuance of the resolution of your honourable House of the 17th of June last, we have passed a resolve to authorize the Commander-in-Chief to call out all or any part of our Militia whenever he might think it necessary, of which we now enclose you a copy, marked No. 1. We have also taken into consideration the recommenda- tion of the Congress relative to the providing of clothing for the troops, and passed the resolution of which we enclose you a copy, marked No. 2. ; As soon as we had received the resolution of Congress for raising a regiment in the Colony, in order to provide for those officers who had served in Canada, we referred it to a Committee, expecting from them an arrangement which would preserve the rank of those officers, and thereby pre- vent all disgusts and just grounds of resignation, it being our opinion that inferior officers should not be raised over their superiors, unless in cases of extraordinary and distinguished merit. And although we could not forbear observing that the recommendation of Mr. Dubois tended in some measure to impair that liberty of nomination, without which the privi- lege would be ineffectual, yet, as we conceived that such instances were not frequent, we had determined to comply with the request. A But, sir, we were much surprised and most deeply affected by the resolution of Congress of the 26th of June, by which it appears that your honourable House had taken from us the right of nominating, not only the Field-Officers, but also the Captains and Lieutenants of that regiment, a measure so contrary to the common usage hitherto observed and practised upon in all similar cases, as to raise a discrimination highly invidious to this State; and it is our great misfortune not to perceive the force of those three reasons which your honourable House have thought fit to assign to us. The first, sir, is, that the Congress were furnished with a list of the officers who had served in Canada, and were therefore enabled to appoint without our interposition. We shall readily admit that the Congress may in this and in other cases have sufficient information to enable them to make such appointments; yet we submit it to their superior wisdom,*whether the ability they may thence derive to per- form an act can constitute a right of doing it; and if, as we suppose, those appointments did (by the common usage) appertain to us, then how far the mere capacity of making them could vest the right in any other body whatsoever. The-second reason, sir, is, ‘that the Congress have ap- pointed only such officers as were originally appointed and recommended by us; and that we should probably have fixed our choice on the same persons.” We shall acknowledge it to be merely possible, that in the course of human affairs we might, by some chance, have fixed upon those persons which are most agreeable to your honourable House. And it is strictly true, that the greatest part of the officers were appointed and recommended by us the last year, although not to the same rank and commissions which your honourable body have thought fit to confer upon them ; but it is equally true, that several of them have never been recommended or appointed by us, and one of them, if not more, has never been in the service at all; and we are really at a loss to conceive that our nomination of officers in a regiment disbanded after the term of inlistment was expired, can, upon the raising of a new regiment, deprive us of that right of nomination, and vest it in the Congress. Nor can we be of opinion that another body ought to claim the right of choosing for us, from the mere conjecture that their choice would be similar to ours, even if that conjecture should be well founded; but we are sorry to observe, sir, that the arrangement made by your honourable House is materially different from that which we had prepared. The third reason for depriving us, in this instance, of the right of nomination, is, “the good of the service, and the ‘danger of delay.” We are deeply impressed with the idea that your respect- able body are actuated by the purest intentions of serving this country; and we entertain so well founded an opinion of their wisdom and integrity, that we shall not presume to apologize for that plainness of speech which distinguishes freemen, and which can never give offence to those who, from the dignity of their private characters, impart lustre to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 202 the offices they hold. We shall observe, therefore, that although the necessity of the case has, in all ages and nations, been the fruitful source of extraordinary power, yet it has but too frequently sown with tares the fertile fields of liberty, and blasted the fairest fruits of patriotism and publick spirit. ‘The whole history of mankind bears testimony against the propriety of considering the principle as the parent of civil rights, and therefore a people jealous of their liberties must forever reprobate it. At the same time, we take leave to assure you, sir, that however we may be calumniated by individuals whose censure we consider as praise, we shall ever continue ready and willing, with our lives and fortunes, to support the cause and rights of America. We are extremely sorry to inform the Congress that the good of the service will not be promoted, nor the dangers of delay prevented, by the measures which they have taken, as many spirited and good officers have been so disgusted that some have resigned, and we have but too much reason to apprehend that others will refuse to accept of their com- missions. We beg, therefore, that your honourable House will excuse us from interfering in the further arrangement of this regiment, and make out the few appointments which remain. We have received from Wiliam Goforth, a brave and good officer, who served the last campaign in Canada, a letter containing his reasons for quitting the service, of which we enclose you a copy, marked No. 3, and also the copy of a letter from Colonel Fleming, on. the same subject, marked No. 4. We daily expect other resignations, and pray leave to observe, that we think the case of Lieutenant-Colonel Cort- landt is attended with singular hardship. He is a young gentleman of affluent circumstances, good family, and exten- sive connexions. He entered the service last year as a Lieutenant-Colonel, and served with spirit and fidelity, and has done the like this year. He is now inferior in rank to Mr. Dubois, who entered the service last year as a Captain. If by such neglect many respectable inhabitants among us, with their numerous and extensive connexions, be disgusted and remain inactive, we flatter ourselves that this Colony will not be censured for the ill consequences which may result from it. The day before yesterday we took into consideration the Declaration of your honourable House, proclaiming the United Colonies free and.independent States, and thereupon came to a resolution, of which we enclose you a copy, marked No. 5. Governour T’ryon has inlisted into the service of the King of Great Britain certain disaffected persons belonging to this Colony, New-Jersey, &c., some of whom are now in custody. We are really at a loss what to do with them, there being no laws according to which they can be tried and punished, and ex post facto laws are liable to many ob- jections. We unanimously join in requesting the favour of your honourable House to advise us what would be proper to do in this case. We take the liberty of suggesting to your consideration also, the propriety of taking some measures for expunging from the Book of Common Prayer such parts, and discon- tinuing in the congregations of all the denominations all such prayers as interfere with the interest of the American cause. It is a subject we are afraid to meddle with, the enemies of America having taken great pains to insinuate into the minds of the Episcopalians that the Church was in danger. We could wish the Congress would pass some resolve to quiet their fears, and we are confident it would do essential service in the cause of America, at least in this State. We have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, sir, your most obedient and most humble servants. By order: ‘Naruantet Woopuutu, President. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. [No. 1.] In Provincial Congress, New-York, June 21, 1776. Resolved unanimously, That the Commander-in-Chief of the Army of the United Colonies be, and he hereby is, authorized and empowered to impress Carriages and Water Craft within this Colony, when necessary for the publick ser- vice; and also to remove Ships and other Vessels in Hudson’s and the East Rivers, for the purpose of securing them from the enemy. 203 June 30.—Resolved, That the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental forces be, and he is hereby, authorized and empowered, whenever he shall judge it necessary for the defence of this Colony, to apply to the Brigadier-Generals thereof, and in case of their or either of their absence, to the next Commanding-Officer, for any proportion of the Militia under their respective commands; and that on receipt of such application, they be, and hereby are, directed to call out such part of their Militia, and march to any place or places within this Colony, as the said Commander-in-Chief shall order for its defence; and that this order shall continue until revoked by this or some future Congress or Legisla- ture of this Colony. Extract from the Minutes: Rosert Benson, Secretary. [No. 1.] In Convention of the Representatives of the State en New-York, White-Plains, July 15, 1776. Resolved, unanimously, That if his Excellency General Washington should think it expedient, for the preservation of this State, and the general interest of America, to aban- don the City of New-York, and withdraw the troops to the north side of King’s Bridge, that this Convention will cheer- fully cooperate with him in every measure that may be necessary for that purpose. Extract from the Minutes: Rosert Benson, Secretary. [No. 2.] In Provincial Congress, New-York, June 24, 1776. Resolved and Ordered, 'That Colonel Curtenius be re- quested to procure, without delay, on account of this Con- gress, and on the most reasonable terms, all the coarse wool- len Cloth that is for sale in and about this city, for the purpose of making Coats for the Troops raised and to be raised in the Colony for the present campaign; and if a sufficient quantity for that purpose cannot be procured in this city, that he send to the city of Albany, and the town of Schenectady, and elsewhere, and cause to be purchased as much more, in addition to the quantity purchased in this city, as will be sufficient to make one Coat for each soldier so raised and to be raised, as aforesaid. That Colonel Curtentus procure, without delay, at the place aforesaid, and elsewhere, brain dressed Deer’s Leather, sufficient to make each soldier as aforesaid one Waistcoat and one pair of Breeches, and that he employ a sufficient number of hands to make the said Coats, Waistcoats, and Breeches, with all expedition. That Colonel Curtenius procure one Blanket, one felt Hat, two Shirts, two pair of woollen Hose, and two pair of Shoes, for each soldier raised and to be raised as aforesaid ; and that he cause all the articles hereby ordered to be pro- cured, to be baled, invoiced, and stored in proper places, there to remain subject to the order of the Continental Con- gress, or Commander-in-Chief of the American Army. Extract from the Minutes: Rosert Benson, Secretary. [No. 3.] New-York, July 5, 1776. GentLemeEN: Having, in the course of the last year, been called by you from private life, without any solicitation, to the most honourable of all services, that of my country, I obeyed the call, and have, to the utmost of my poor abili- ties, exerted myself for the general good; and having, on my return home, found my toils amply rewarded, inasmuch as I had so far fallen under your notice as to be appointed to a Majority, which promotion I view as great as I could reasonably expect, or even have desired—nevertheless, when [I look over the arrangement which you were pleased to make the last year, and call to mind that you then deter- mined that the First Regiment shoulll take rank of the Second, and find that I had the rank of fourth Captain in the First, and that Lewzs Dubois, Esquire, had the rank of fourth Captain, and Jacobus Bruyn, Esquire, that of seventh in the Third Regiment, I view my appointment as speaking two things: first, that you have found men of greater merit than myself, and men who are better qualified for the pub- lick service, of which am extremely glad; and, secondly, that your now appointing me to serve under two junior officers, is no more than taking the most genteel way of discharging me from the publick service as an officer. Per- haps it may be said that this is no time to dispute about rank ; CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 204 if so, I would just beg leave to inform you, that when in Canada last winter I viewed this argument to be of great force; but at present conceive myself to be in the state in which I was when I left home, and beg leave to decline the service; and with the utmost deference to subscribe myself, as in reality I am, a true friend to the free and rising States of America, and at the same time, your most obedient and most humble servant, Witiiam Gororru. To the Honourable the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New-York. True copy, examined by Rozsert Benson, Secretary. [No. 4.] New-York, June 21, 1776. Gentiemen: I take occasion to express the high sense I entertain of that honourable testimony of your approbation which you were pleased to give by unanimously appointing me Deputy Adjutant-General in the Continental Army, and extremely regret the necessity I am now laid under of making a resignation of the trust committed tome. I flatter myself that, considering my uniform conduct, and my circumstances in life, you will do me the justice to believe, that in accepting the office I was influenced by my zeal for and attachment to the cause of America; not by any avidity for the emolu- ments which might thence arise. It is unnecessary to say I left ease and competency, my wife, my children, and every thing dear to me, to encounter, at the expense of my health, as well as at the risk of my life, all the rigours, difficulties, and dangers of a long campaign in Canada. Neither is it my part to determine whether my behaviour in the station I filled has been reprehensible or meritorious; but this much I will venture to assert, that however moderate my abilities, my assiduity and attention to the discharge of my duty were unremitted. What share of zeal and perseverance I may pretend to can easily be ascertained by the term of my con- tinuance in Canada, under all the discouragement of an excruciating disorder. At any rate, I am not conscious of any such neglect or desertion of my duty as may justly expose me to a manifest indignity; and when it is offered me I cannot forbear feeling it with the sensibility of a man. As first Deputy I naturally expected to succeed to the Ad- jutant Generalship when it became vacant; but, to my great surprise, I find the Continental Congress have thought proper to give the preference to another. ‘True it is, the Congress have adopted a resolution to reserve to themselves a right of dispensing preferments according to the merit of officers, and not the seniority of commissions; but even on that ground the preference they have given to another contains an im- plied censure on my conduct. It is a tacit declaration that I am not competent to the place of Adjutant-General, and of course that I have not acted with propriety in my former character; for no man capable of acquitting himself well in the post of Deputy Adjutant-General can be unqualified for that of Adjutant-General. I am, therefore, compelled to suppose the Continental Congress disapprove of my past conduct, and think me unfit for the place to which I was appointed ; otherwise it cannot be imagined they would step aside from the plain path of succession by seniority, and take the pains to place a gentleman not at all within the line of the department over my head. This would be charging them with a degree of partiality of which I hope they are incapable. I am now reduced to this dilemma, either to suppose that I have been much injured, and my honour as a soldier wounded in the tenderest part, by being excluded from a station without sufficient cause, to which I had a good right to aspire; or to close with the opinion of the Continental Congress, and consider myself as inadequate to the office you were pleased to honour me with. In either case it is evidently my duty to resign. In the first, justice to myself requires it; in the last, justice to my country. On whatever ground I act, be assured, gentlemen, my affections to this country and my zeal for the preservation of its rights, will always remain unimpaired. As a private citizen, my property, my life, shall be cheerfully hazarded in defence of America. I am, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, your most humble servant, Epwarp FLemine. To the Honourable the Provincial Congress. A true copy, examined by Rosertr Benson, Secretary. 205 [No. 5.] In Convention of the Representatives of the State va: New-York, White-Plains, July 9, 1776. Resolved unanimously, That the reasons assigned by the Continental Congress for declaring the United Colonies free and independent States, are cogent and conclusive ; and that while we lament the cruel necessity which has rendered that measure unavoidable, we approve the same, and will, at the risk of our lives and fortunes, join with the other Colonies in supporting it. ' Resolved, That a copy of the said Declaration, and the aforegoing Resolution, be sent to the Chairman of the Com- mittee of the County of Westchester, with orders to publish the same with beat of drum at this place on Thursday next, and to give directions that it be published with all con- venient speed in the several Districts within the said County, and that copies thereof be forthwith transmitted to the other County Committees within the State of New-York, with orders to cause the same to be published in the several Dis- tricts of their respective Counties. Resolved unanimously, That the Delegates of this State in the Continental Congress be, and they hereby are, author- ized to concert and adopt all such measures as they may deem conducive to the happiness and welfare of the United States of America. Extract from the Minutes: Rosert Benson, Secretary. NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, White-Plains, July 11, 1776. , Sir: Your letter of the 6th instant, enclosing a copy of the Declaration of Congress proclaiming the United Colonies free and independent States, and requesting us to proclaim and publish the same in this Colony, has been received. It gives us pleasure to inform you, that having been in- formed of that Declaration by our Delegates, we have antici- pated the request of the Congress by our resolutions of the 9th day of July instant, a copy of which was enclosed in a letter we did ourselves the honour of writing to you this morning. We have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, sir, our most obedient and most humble servants. By order: NatHanieL WoopuuLu, President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Conti- nental Congress. COLONEL SEYMOUR TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, July 11, 1776. Honovrep Sir: Notwithstanding the singular circum- stances of my family, I could not possibly avoid coming with the Lighthorse to this place, in the cause of our coun- try. We got in on Monday, and make a body of about five hundred as fine men, and as well spirited, as any on the ground. ‘The General was much rejoiced at the measure, and appears disposed to show us every mark of respect. He is something perplexed about the expense of foraging the horses. He fears he cannot be justified in it without the consent of Congress. He will write Congress upon the sub- ject, and use his endeavour (he assured me) to have their approbation ; if not, the men must rely upon the Colony for it. How long we shall stay, is uncertain—this. depends much upon the arrival of our new levies; and as the men are principally farmers, have left their grass, their grain, and other affairs much unprovided for, they hope every method will be taken for their speedy relief; and in this respect they rely much upon your Honowr’s influence. ‘The enemy are constantly in view, upon and at Staten-Island. Some mea- sures, it is thought, are in contemplation to dislodge them, before they are reinforced. ‘Tories grow scarce in the city, and I wish it may fall to the Lighthorse to purge the Colony of such vermin. I cannot omit mentioning to your Honour that the Captain of the troop at Norwalk (Belding by name) designedly neglected his duty, and so we have none of his men. 1 am, with every sentiment of esteem, your Honour’s most humble servant, T. Seymour To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. P.S. Independency is highly approved by the Army. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 206 COMMISSARY TRUMBULL TO JEREMIAH POWELL. New-York, July 11, 1776. Sir: I received your favour of the Ist instant, notifying me of the route of the troops from the Colony of Massachu- setts-Bay to Ticonderoga. 1 find it coincides fully with my wishes. Captain Farnsworth will be at No. 4, and every precaution is and will be taken to render the march of the troops as easy to them as possible, and the mileage paid them. As to the troops coming to this place, I will also take care to meet them with proper supplies at New- Haven. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Josery ‘TRUMBULL. To Jeremiah Powell, Esq. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. Fort George, July 11, 1776. Dear Sir: Captain Varick, my Secretary, in a letter of the 8th instant, from Albany, advises me that the enemy had landed on Staten-Island, and that their fleet anchored about three miles above the watering-place on Wednesday last. Immediately on my arrival here, I caused inquiry to be made for axes and intrenching tools: none of either to be had, except a few pickaxes, which I have ordered to be sent to you to-day. I will hasten up all I can procure at Albany. Captain Veeder’s company of Militia I have sent to Skenesborough to assist the carpenters there. Permit me to remind you of employing some of the Militia in bringing boards from the mill at Cheshire’s. The sick will be very comfortably accommodated at this place, and I hope so disposed of when they recover, as soon to join the Army without the danger of communicating any infection to it. Enclose you Colonel Alden’s complaint against Colonel Wayne, which I forgot to leave you. I am, dear sir, your most obedient humble servant, Puitie ScHuyLer. To General Gates. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL ARNOLD. Tyonderoga, July 11, 1776. Dear GeneraL: This morning I received your favour of yesterday, and have this moment sent General Schuyler a copy of Colonel Hartley’s Journal, as you desired. ‘The distribution of the smiths, armourers, ship and house carpen- ters, is made according to your recommendation. You give no opinion in regard to the Indzans taken by Colonel Hartley. ‘The neutrality of the Indians at this critical juncture is much to be wished, for many reasons, and especially for the sake of the poor frontier inhabitants ; it therefore requires that we should be circumspect in our conduct, on the one hand neither rashly entering into hosti- lity, nor on the other suffer ourselves to be the dupes of our credulity. Does it appear that the Indians taken were in arms and intending to take part against the United Colo- nies? If that is confirmed, they must be kept in confine- ment; if, on the contrary, they were inoffensive and peace- able, I think they ought to be released. After weighing this matter well in your mind, you will decide upon it. I suppose you will send the rest of the Pennsylvania troops here as soon as it is proper and convenient. One of the Captains of Artillery should come with the next cargo of ordnance stores ; and if you have two ordnance guns at the Point, one should be sent here as soon as possible. General Sullivan and the gentlemen here are captivated with the ground intended for our new post, where the water Is ex- cellent. We have begun to clear the ground and make roads. Nonews yet from New-York. You may be assured of my sending you an express when any arrives. I am, dear General, &c. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Tyonderoga, July 11, 1776. Sir: Enclosed is Lieutenant-Colonel Hartley’s report of the proceedings of the detachment under his command. How far he was right or wrong in taking the Indians prison- ers, I cannot pretend to determine, until I see Colonel Hartley. The neutrality of these people is to be wished 207 for; and if the inhabitants are not apprehensive of their enmity, I think it would, upon many accounts, be best to let them alone. General Arnold will, I suppose, resolve what measure to take with them; if not, I shall. By the informa- tion respecting the enemy contained in this Journal, you see how necessary it is, by every means, to expedite our naval armament. ‘To that end, I have made the distribution of the carpenters and smiths between this and Skenesborough that you directed. You will not fail to send your orders to the commanding officer there to employ them to the best purpose. Musket-ball, of all sorts, buckshot, lead, and car- tridge paper, are much wanted in this department, as are carpenters’, smiths’, and armourers’ tools. ‘The rest of our wants your own observation will inform you, and your zeal for the service will, I am confident, supply. No news yet from New-York. My compliments to Mrs. Schuyler and the young ladies. I am, dear General, your affectionate, humble servant, ’ Horatio Gares. To Major-General Schuyler. P. S. Axes and intrenching tools, I have great hopes you will speedly supply. GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 10, 1776. Dear Sir: Colonel Hartley arrived from a tour down the lake last night. Enclosed is a copy of his Journal. I make no doubt the enemy have a number of vessels in for- wardness, and will exert themselves in building, to command the lake. I have made a draught of the artificers, and have sent you a number of each, as per the enclosed memorandum. I have ordered the oar-makers to go between this and Skenes- borough. If timber cannot be procured there, they must return here, where it is plenty. I believe the armourers will be wanted at T%conderoga, and some few of the. black- smiths. ‘The others will have employ at Skenesborough. All the house-carpenters you will doubtless want. ‘The ship-carpenters are divided into gangs of fifteen each, and will most or all of them be wanted at Skenesborough. 1 have employed officers to command the artificers, which I believe will expedite the works. I have ordered to Ticon- deroga some boards, plank, &c. All that can be procured will be forwarded to you immediately. I am anxious to hear from New-York. You will be kind enough to transmit to General Schuyler a copy of Colonel Hartley’s Journal. { am, with esteem and affection, dear General, yours, &c., &e., B. Arnowp. N. B. I sent you about four tons lead yesterday, in sheets and ball. I have three tons remaining on hand. None can be found in the fort. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL ARNOLD. Crown-Point, July 10, 1776. In pursuance of General Sullivan’s orders, I set off from hence on the 5th instant, in the afternoon. We had a very great storm that evening, which had near destroyed several of our boats, and much injured our arms and ammunition. Against a very strong north wind, we arrived the second evening at Cumberland Head. Proper dispositions were made to provide against a surprise, or oppose an enemy, if any should appear. We, on the 7th, found a small quantity of ship-timber there, which we destroyed. I ordered out several parties, who scoured the woods for many miles around Cumberland- Head. I sent also a boat down the lake as far as the Isle Motte, early in the morning; but neither of the parties nor boat discovered an enemy. My whole detachment, consisting of about two hundred and fifty men, came to one William Hays’s, in Cumberland- Bay, on the 7th, in the evening. Hays had, within a few days, sent a child to St. John’s; and one Cross, his neigh- bour, had sent his wife there, as a place of security. Neither Hays nor Cross did incline to remove themselves or their cattle to Crown-Point. They alleged they were in no danger of the enemy, and that they were sure the Indians would not hurt them. They objected much against my CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 208 removing their cattle. I gave positive orders. They com- plied; but seemed very uneasy. ‘Though General Sullivan had recommended that Hays should be removed, yet, as his wife was very ill with the small-pox, I did not inform Hays that I had any order relating to his person, but pro- posed that he should remain with his wife, and retain a milch cow and calf, and all his household goods. He chose to come up himself to advocate his cause, and has left two men to take care of his wife. Ihave brought him and Cross along with me. ‘They are here, and are very pressing to return. I found several saws, intrenching tools, &c., very neces- sary for the publick service, at Hays’s. I caused an inven- tory of them to be taken, and brought them here. I brought away the chief of Hays’s and Cross’s cattle. They are now here. ‘There is an inventory of them. I found a quantity of good plank and crooked timber for ship-building at Hays’s, which is the property of Mr. Udney Hay. lordered the same to be brought here in several batteaus, which are now at the landing. There was about one thousand feet of plank some miles from the shore, which, at this time of year, could not be conveyed to the boats on account of some large swamps. As it could not fall into the hands of the enemy till winter, (when, perhaps, we might procure it ourselves, if wanted,) I thought it improper to burn it. At Hays’s, we found Hays, Cross, and two other men, and by some address we collected the following intelligence: That Cross’s father-in-law had been there within a few days; that he had informed that Generals Carleton and Frazier were at St, John’s with a considerable body of Hanoverian and other troops; that they were repairing the works at St. John’s, and that one hundred men were daily employed in cutting wood between that place and the Isle- aux-Noix; that they were building three sloops and two schooners at St. John’s, which they expected would be soon finished, and that they intended immediately to proceed to Crown-Point; and that the enemy did not mean to injure any of the common people in their settlements. We also understood that there were several Indians at the Isle-aux- Noi. Before we came to Hays’s, we were informed that he kept an Indian about his house, and was determined to do it during the summer. At Hays’s, by gathering something from each of the four, (though they seemed all averse to communicate anything to us,) we learnt that this Indian had some time before gone to hunt about twelve miles dis- tant, and that two Indians had come up the lake within a few days, and he had gone to join them; since which, nothing of them had been seen. From the conduct of Hays and Cross, as well as of the Indians in general on these waters lately, I considered these Indians unfriendly, and was persuaded they would act against us if an opportunity should offer. We fixed a plan against these savages with the greatest secrecy. We were very lucky in having one (Sergeant Cross) who was acquainted with the country. I detached Lieutenant Grier, Ensign Haffner, Sergeant Cross, and twenty-three riflemen. ‘They left Hays’s about one o’clock in the morning of the 8th, in a boat to the mouth of the river Sable. The party divided. Lieutenant Grier (an excellent woodsman) with his division some miles up the river took the Indian tracks which had been made the day before. ‘Ihe enemy had ten dogs with them; but the division managed with such secrecy and judg- ment, that Lieutenant Grier surprised three Indian men and seven women and children, in a wigwam, just at daylight ; they seemed much agitated and hallooed out; the party seized four guns and other arms. The officer prevented any of them from being put to death, though the late cruel murder and scalping of several worthy men of the Sixth Bat- talion might have justified it. ‘These Indzans had a watch- house on the lake at the mouth of the river Sable, to watch what passed on the lake—they were not employed by us; the house or wigwam had been very lately made use of. They had their females in such a remote place that they . thought no white people could discover them, and the men might act occasionally. However these Indians may have conducted themselves in former times, they now appear as unfriendly persons. ‘Two of them, as has been observed, came up the lake within these ten days, and since the murders committed below. 209 The detachment who took them, ought to be rewarded for their good behaviour; they have had assurances of this sort from the late General. Should these Indians be discharged, it will damp the ardour of our troops and injure the service. Be pleased to take some steps that their persons may be properly secured ; and should you consider the property of the prisoners to belong to the captors, I would be exceed- ingly glad you would order the same to be delivered to Lieutenant Grier, and disposed of for the use of his detach- ment. Be pleased to direct what is to be done with the plank, timber, cattle, &c. We also brought some cattle belonging to one Gay, which are now at the Point. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Tuomas Hart ey, Lieutenant-Colonel 6th Battalion of Pennsylvanians. To the Honourable Brigadier-General Arnold, Commander at Crown-Point. List of Artificers sent from Crown-Pornt to TiconDEROGA and SkenesBoroueu, July 10, 1776. Captain Edward Williams, Lieutenant Solomon Bowman, with sixty-five blacksmiths and armourers. The former, with Captain Willams, to go to Skenesborough, the latter, with Lieutenant Bowman, to remain at Ticonderoga. Lieutenant Benjamin Beal with thirty-four house carpen- ters, Lieutenant Zhayer with thirty-four house carpenters, Mr. Noah Nichols with eight wheelwrights and gun-carriage makers. Richard Fittock with thirteen ship carpenters, to Skenes- borough. Lieutenant William Curtis with thirteen ship carpenters, to Ticonderoga, if wanted, otherwise to Skenes- borough. B. Arnoxp, Brigadier-General. GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, July 11, 1776. Sir: Enclosed are the Invoices* of the cargoes taken on board the Scotch transports, which I received from the Agents. é I am your Excellency’s obedient humble servant, Arremas Warp. To General Washington. P.S. I have just received an account from Cape Ann, that two ships were, on the 6th instant, sent into that harbour by a privateer lately fitted out from this town. The prizes were from the West-Indies—one had four hundred hogs- heads of rum for General Howe, the other was bound for England, with four hundred hogsheads of sugar, two hun- dred hogsheads of rum, cotton wool, &c., &c. * Inventory of Sundries taken in the Ship Lornp Howe. 95 small-arms, 88 bayonets, 80 cartouch-boxes, 65 bags bread, 9 bags bread, 2 hogsheads and 1 barrel bread, 2} barrels powder, 12 barrels ease, part of a barrel currants, 1 tierce and an ullage vinegar, 2 hogs- Fence rum, 1 ullage rum, 6 barrels pork, 25 barrels beef, 13 barrels oat- meal, 1 barrel barley, 1 keg barley, 5 barrels flour, 1 barrel herrings, 1 cask canteens and kettles, 54 soldiers’ blankets, 1 barrel meal, 1 box candles, 4 bundles iron hoops, | cask tent pins and mallets, 10 remnants of cordage, 6 hammocks, 6 iron spades, 3 boxes and 1] ullage bullets, 3 pair handscrews, 2 remnants of duffils, 93 cutlasses, 110 canvass knap- sacks, 1 markee, 36 hatchets, 8 bags horsebeans and oats, 1 keg butter, 1 halbert, 1 tent spear, 2 drums. Errors excepted. J. Braprorp, Agent. Boston, July 11, 1776. Inventory of Sundries taken in the Brig ANNABELLA. 61 small-arms, 10 loaves sugar, 240 pair shoes, 23 soldiers’ tents, 8 barrels and 3 ullages oatmeal (damaged), 3 casks pease, 7 casks pork, 23 casks beef, 1 ullage vinegar, 4 hogsheads and 1 tierce rum, 6 iron spades, 2 shod shovels, 1 piece sheet lead, 1 firkin butter, 40 tent poles, 5 pack-saddles, 3 barrels flour, 90 cartouch-boxes, 17 leather bullet- pouches, 42 leather bullet-pouches, 16 leather shoulder-straps, 25 gun- straps, 30 cutlasses, 1(drum, 1 halbert, 1 bag oatmeal, 1 keg musket bullets, 3 pack-saddles, 18 pieces checked and striped linen, 5 pieces white linen, 57 bayonets, 16 belts. Errors excepted. J. Braprorp. Boston, July 11, 1776. -—— Inventory of sundry Materials received out of the prize-ship GrorcE, Boston, June 22, 1776. 20 fusees, 35 small-arms, 6 kegs bullets and shot, 6 bundles cartridge paper, part of a keg flints, 2 kegs part filled with cartridges, a cask con- taining a few books, 1 bundle bedding, 2 trunks and 2 portmanteaus, 1 black trunk, 1 bundle containing a tent, 1 black canteen, 1 bed bundle, 1 chest, 1 portmanteau, 3 casks bottled porter, 3 casks bottled wine, 1 Firru Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 14 210 GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, July 11, 1776. Str: Agreeable to your directions, I have forwarded all the arms and accoutrements fit for use that were in the hands of the Agents, lately taken from the Scotch prisoners. The Agents, without my knowledge, parted with part of the arms; part of them were taken by the commander of a Connecticut privateer, who assisted in taking the transports ; and some, I am told, were thrown overboard by the pri- soners, and others were broken; but I have not been able to obtain an exact return of the arms taken. I am, your Excellency’s obedient, humble servant, Artemas Warp. To General Washington.. Boston, July 11, 1776. Sent to Norwich, to the care of Joshua Huntington, Esq. : 73 arms, 60 bayonets, 73 bayonet belts, 73 slings, 73 shot- pouches, 50 cartridge-boxes, 73 knapsacks. Naruanre. Banser, Jun., Deputy Commissary of Artillery. TO THE JUSTICES IN MASSACHUSETTS EMPOWERED BY THE COURT TO DEAL WITH THE TORIES. Gentriemen: Lenity is a most excellent virtue; but there are certain seasons when it may betray us into a fatal neglect, by encouraging the determined enemies of the country to cabal and prosecute the basest measures for the destruction of our liberties. We may say of Toryism as of Popery, that it is always the same. ‘There are worthy individuals among the professors of both; and a few rare instances of real con- verts from each, through an increase of knowledge; but the prevailing spirit of the parties is uniform and abiding. Ido not mean that either of them should therefore be knocked on the head for their noxious sentiments, or be deprived of any privileges which can be enjoyed by them without hazard to ourselves, unless by their behaviour they have made or do make a forfeiture thereof. However, we are led by the first law of nature, the innate principle of self-preservation, to prevent their having it in their power to do us a mischief, when we know how ready they are to give in to the basest methods, that they may carry their point, and to think that the end will sanctify the means. Are any so weak as to imagine that their words are to be taken, and that they will be peaceable and inoffensive, and will not intermeddle more in the present dispute, seeing that they have been so tenderly dealt with by the publick in general, and so cordially re- ceived again into favour by particular individuals: let them hurry to New- York, and view that horrid, infernal plot, that their brethren had laid for the destruction of Generals, Army, and the whole American cause, ata single blow. Let them inquire whether—though they may now hang down their heads through chagrin that the plot has not succeeded, not through shame that it was ever laid—they have not lately behaved rudely towards the country; showed all possible publick friendship for the Highland officers, and concern at their captive situation, and allowed our brave countrymen to be styled Rebels at table, without animadverting upon the indecency of it. Jam not for censuring a polite treatment to those gentlemen who, by the fortune of war, are thrown into our hands. No; let them see that we are not cowards, by our declining everything that looks like insolence and cask hams, 7 hogsheads and part of a hogshead rum, 361 black shoulder- belts, 74 bundles gun-straps, ] field-bed and 2 bundles bedding, 4 markees, Colonel Campbell’s camp equipage, the Quartermaster’s camp equipage, 1 bundle, a bundle not directed, 3 field tents and materials, 6 bundles tent poles for markees, 12 bundles common tent poles, 7 bundles leather bullet pouches, 13 hair pouches, 3 cartouch-boxes, 62 camp tents, a remnant ticklenburg, 1 cask and 2 bundles tent pins, a cask tin canteens and 69 loose canteens, 10 tin pans, 23 camp kettles, 1 package tent stools, - 3 bayonets, 4 halberts, 1 riding saddle, 1 travelling pack-saddle, 82 can- vass knapsacks, 199 hair knapsacks, a bale containing 80 blankets, a bale containing 50 watch-coats, 1 box black plumes, 4 bundles soldiers’ clothing, 1 bundle stockings, 3 pairs shoes, 2 bags with belts and knap- sacks, 2 pieces plaid, 7 bonnets, 2 pieces and part of a piece duffils, 144 soldiers’ blankets, 33 beds, 85 pillows, a bale brown paper, 44 hatchets, 1 bundle twine, 1 cask sheathing nails, 2 casks fivepenny nails, 1 set small weights, 2 iron spades, part of a cask currants, 13 barrels pease, 6 barrels flour, 2 barrels barley, 9 barrels pork, 27 barrels beef, 19 kegs butter, 15 barrels oatmeal, 2 tierces and part of a tierce vinegar, 2 barrels herring, 1 bag oats, 74 bags bread, 14 casks bread (damaged), 104 water casks, 74 dozen bottles. Errors excepted. J. Braprorp, Agent. Boston, July 11, 1776. 211 brutality; that we are brave, by being humane and generous: but it is not for Ministerial Addressers and Associators, and such as have always avowed an enmity to the cause in which we are engaged, to push themselves forward and caress them. *Tis an insult to the publick, that can be sur- passed only by their repairing to and visiting them, when they will have the opportunity of consulting what can be done more effectually to embarrass us and serve the friends of Government—that is, the tools of tyrants. Gentlemen, it has been wisely resolved by the Conti- nental Congress, “that no man in these Colonies, charged with being a Tory, or unfriendly to the cause of American liberty, be injured in his person or property, or in any man- ner whatever disturbed, unless the proceeding against him be founded on an order of this Congress, or the Assembly, Convention, Council or Committee of Safety of the Colo- ny, or Committee of Inspection of the district wherein he resides.” Are you desirous that this wise resolve should be strictly adhered to, step forth with undaunted boldness, and execute the trust reposed in you, without fear, favour, or partiality. Should you sit but seldom, suffering this, that, and the other, to keep you from the Bench; should you do little business, protracting examinations, and declining to give judgment; should you spare this man, because he is a relation to yourself or friends; that, because he is eminent in his profession, and a family doctor; a third, because that, should there be a change in affairs, his influence and connex- ions may be the means of saving you; should you keep up the appearance of designing to do something effectual, and after all do little or nothing,—the publick may expect that they are amused, cheated, and betrayed; resent it, and de- termine that they will have justice done them, though they take the execution of it into their own hands. Gentlemen, would you prevent confusion and disorder, see, then, that you do your duty. The servants of the people are amenable to the people, from the Council to the Justice ; and if the people find, upon trial, that no Govern- ment sufficient to the exigencies of their affairs has been hitherto established, they have a right to instruct their pre- sent or any future Representatives to adopt such a mode of government as they themselves shall be of opinion will best conduce to their own happiness in particular, and of Ame- rica in general. While I intend, gentlemen, in this way, to lay before you the sentiments of numbers, I would treat you with all that respect that can be reasonably desired from . Pian TRuru. July 11, 1776. INSTRUCTIONS FOR BENJAMIN GILES. Colony of New-Hampshire, In Committee of Safety, July 11, 1776. To Benjamin Giles, Esquire : Whereas the General Court of this Colony have been notified that Captain Farnsworth, of Connecticut, is appoint- ed by the Commissary-General of the Continental forces to provide for the New-Hampshire troops at Connecticut River, on their route to Crown-Point: but as our troops are near! ready to march, and that they may not be delayed at No. 4, if anything should hinder Captain Farnsworth from having provision ready, you are desired to proceed with all possible despatch to aid No. 4, and find whether any pro- vision is there made” for the aforesaid men, or likely to be seasonably made; and if not, to purchase and transport to _said No. 4, with all speed, nine thousand pounds weight of pork, and the like quantity of bread, and deliver the several companies of New-Hampshire men, as they arrive there, to each man six days’ provisions, allowing a pound of pork and a pound of bread per day. You will, if no further provision is made, provide and have ready to deliver to the first com- pany that arrives, what provisions you can collect in that neighbourhood, while you are in the mean time collecting more. And for what provisions you may buy, you may engage the money to be paid as soon as you can send to Exeter therefor, which will be ready there in ten days from this time. Be expeditious, by all means; and when you have performed the said business, make return to this Com- mittee, unless you should have an opportunity to settle the same with said Captain Farnsworth. By order of the Committee. Marruew Tuornton, Chairman pro tem. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 212 NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO COLONEL WYMAN. In Committee of Safety, July 11, 1776. Sir: I send you, by the bearer, your commission as Colonel of a regiment of our Militia in the service; also, thirty pounds, as two months’ advance wages. As the troops will be along in a few days, it is expected you will go forward with them to Crown-Point, and join the Army there. The Captains Drew, Chandler, Shepard, Dearborn, Blanchard, Harper, Parker, and Weatherbee, with their companies, are to make your regiment. As it is of great consequence that the men are forwarded with speed, therefore expect you will do what is in your power that they make no delay at No. 4. You will also receive thirty-two pounds, advance wages, for your Surgeon, Adjutant, and Quartermaster, with this, and _blank commissions for those officers to be appointed by you. Imploring the divine assistance on your endeavours to serve your country, and that you may return in safety, with laurels of victory, is the sincere desire of him who, in behalf of the Committee, subscribes himself your very humble servant. To Colonel Wyman. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN WOOD- WARD. In Committee of Safety, July 11, 1776. To Captain Davin Woopwarp, of Hanover : You are hereby authorized to inlist thirty men, to serve under you as soldiers for three months, unless sooner dis- charged, to serve as scouting parties, to explore the woods and watch or oppose the motions of enemies coming against our frontier settlements; taking orders from time to time directing your route, from Colonel Jacob Bayley, Colonel John Hurd, and Colonel Charles Johnson, or any two of them, a Committee appointed for that purpose. You are to take special care to inlist none but good able-bodied, effective men, fit for such service, and they shall be paid the same wages (viz: forty shillings per month) as the Provin- cial troops raised and stationed for the particular defence of this Colony; and you shall be paid four pounds per month for your service, and one subaltern under you three pounds ten shillings per month. You are also to provide provisions for your company, giving them such allowance as is de- livered other troops in the Army, for which you shall be paid on exhibiting an account. You are to appoint out of the number of men as above, two Sergeants, whose pay is forty-eight shillings each. Petition of the Selectmen of Portrsmoutu, Colony of New- HampsHIRE: To the Honourable Committee of Safety of said Colony, humbly shows : That the subscribers, Selectmen for said town of Ports- mouth, your petitioners, have been requested by a number of the inhabitants of the town forthwith to call a town-meeting, to know whether the said inhabitants will vote to have a Hospital opened for inoculation for the small-pox under necessary regulations. ‘That it is the opinion of your peti- tioners that there will be a very great majority of the people for having the said Hospital; and we beg leave to give your Honours this early notice thereof by express, and to request that this measure may have your countenance and sanction, as we suppose it will (from the accounts we hear) be utterly impossible to prevent the distemper’s spreading in the natu- ral way—a calamity we ought to take every method to guard against. We further humbly entreat that you will be pleased to order such rules and regulations for the good government of said Hospital as in your wisdom you shall think meet; and your petitioners shall ever pray. peat Sf Selectmen of EoRGE Kine, P ortsmouth. Grorce Gaines, Portsmouth, July 11, 1776. PROCLAMATION BY GOVERNOUR BULLOCH. Georgia, July 12, 1776. By his Excellency Ancutpatp Butiocn, Esq., President and Commander-in- Chief of the said Province: A ProcnaMATION: Whereas the present struggle for our invaluable rights and liberties in this Province makes it requisite to give every 213 encouragement to all such persons who are willing to enter into the service of their country; and our Provincial Con- gress at their last meeting having taken the same under con- sideration, and being willing and ready to promote the wel- fare of every friend to the American cause, have thought fit to resolve, “'That all persons inlisting in the service of this Province, who do faithfully serve in the present contest until a peace shall be concluded with Great Britain, or shall serve three years in the present war, shall be entitled to one hundred acres of land in this Province; and should any of the aforesaid men be killed in defence of this Pro- vince, his wife or family shall be entitled to the same:” I do therefore issue this my Proclamation, declaring that every man who shall inlist in any of the Troops of Horse, or Companies of Foot, raised for the defence of this Province, and shall serve agreeable to the terms above mentioned, shall be entitled to a grant of one hundred acres of land as aforesaid; and in case of accident, his wife and family shall receive and enjoy the same emolument. Given under my hand and seal at Savannah, the 12th day of July, 1776. ArcuipaLp Butiocu. By his Excellency’s command: Epwarp Laneworrsy, Secretary. JOHN PAGE, PRESIDENT OF VIRGINIA COUNCIL, TO GENERAL LEE. Williamsburgh, July 12, 1776. My pear Generat: Your kind concern for my health made me happy, and the high approbation you express of my publick conduct highly gratified my pride. I had the pleasure of receiving your letter, which did me so much honour, about the 9th of last month. I was then at Mr. Harrison’s, near Petersburgh, where I had gone with Mrs. Page for the recovery of her health. Our trip happily has answered our wishes, and we are once more fixed at Wil- liamsburgh. It is now four weeks since we have received any certain account of the situation of affairs in either of the Carolinas. Even your letter to Brigadier Lewis, counter- manding the march of the troops, did not arrive here till four weeks after it was written. The regiments had just begun their march; but had they not been scattered abroad on distant stations, and badly provided with necessaries for such an expedition, they would have reached the place of their destination before your express could have stopped them. It will be worth your while to examine into the occasion of this. I thought it a matter of so much impor- tance to have such orders communicated with despatch, that I advised the Brigadier to send an express to you imme- diately, to inform you of the unaccountable delay that yours had met with, and to recommend it to you to establish a post throughout your district; but he was preparing for an expedition against Gwin’s Island. The Brigadier set out last Monday on his way to our camp, attended by the Colonels Woodford, Stephens, Bucknor, Weedon, and some others, intending to examine into the strength of the enemy, and submit the propriety of an attack to a council of war. hey reached the camp that night, and the next day, find- ing that the Dunmore had changed stations with the other, and had exposed herself very prettily to the very place where we had been preparing a battery for the Otter, they deter- mined not to lose this good opportunity of beginning their cannonade, in which they might severely and_ principally chastise the noble Earl. At eight o’clock, A. M., Captain Arundel and Lieutenant Denny saluted the Dunmore and Otter with two eighteen-pounders ; the very first shot at the Otter, though a full mile from our battery, struck her, as it is supposed, between wind and water, for she did not return the fire, but was towed off on the careen. The Dunmore fired a broadside, and then was towed off, having received four shot through her sides. Whilst she was in tow she received a fifth through her stern, which raked her. Scarcely a shot was fired which did not do execution in some part of the fleet. A schooner lost one of her masts. Whilst Lieu- tenant Denny was firing on the fleet, their battery on the Island began to play on him, and a ball passed through the embrasure; on which he immediately turned his cannon on their battery, (for he had taken the precaution to have scope enough to take in the fleet, and that part of their battery,) and fired three times successively into their embrasure, which three rounds completely silenced that part of the battery ; CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. ¥* 214 the other part, facing our lines on the haven, was almost as soon silenced by our battery erected against it with four nines and three six-pounders. Part of their camp was a little exposed to both of our batteries, which fired a few rounds into it. ‘This fire was as well directed as that against their ships, for it beat down many of their tents, and threw their camp into the utmost confusion. When this was dis- covered, the Brigadier ordered canoes to be brought down to enable the men to pass over into the Island ; for, unhap- pily, we had not a boat on the shore: these could not be procured till the next day, when a smart cannonade began between the batteries ; but as soon as our men had manned their boats, their fire ceased, and they retired with precipi- tation to their boats, and escaped safely to their ships, having first broken off the trunnions, &c., of their cannon. There were three tenders up the haven, which could not pass our batteries ; these they abandoned; they endeavoured to burn one, but our men boarded it, and extinguished the flames. I understand that all these tenders have their swivels in them; but it is reported that they had thrown the guns overboard. We are now in possession of the Island. The fleet has retired, but is in sight. ‘This might have been a complete affair, if proper measures had been preconcerted, and the whole well conducted. Our men, however, be- haved well; our artillery was admirably served, and we have disgraced and mortified our enemies. In this affair we lost not a man; but, most unhappily, poor Captain Arundel was killed by the bursting of a wooden mortar, with which he was endeavouring to throw shells into the fleet. His loss is irreparable. He behaved with great spirit and activity, and was so hearty in our cause, that he is universally lamented. Colonel Stephens is just returned from Gwin’s Island ; he says the enemy carried off all their cannon from their batteries, except one six-pounder, which they spiked. ‘They left six carriage guns in one of the tenders; several negroes and a few whites were taken; two negroes and one soldier of the Fourteenth Regiment deserted to us. The prisoners inform that Lord Dunmore’s mate was cut in two by a double-headed eighteen-pounder, which also took off one man’s arm and another’s leg, and drove a splinter into his lordship’sleg. Tom Byrd was ill of a fever, and was carted off to a boat just before our people landed. ‘They were obliged to burn two fine small vessels that day, and at night, in the mouth of the river, they burnt also a large ship, sup- posed to be the Dunmore, as she was not with the fleet next morning. The Fowey, it is said, was with the fleet, but did not choose to come within reach of our guns. The Roe- buck was at the mouth of the Rappahannock. ‘The Colonel says when he came away the whole fleet had sailed, and were out of sight, and it was uncertain where they are gone— supposes to Maryland. ‘They went off in a bad plight, without biscuit or water. Their works were found of ex- cellent construction and considerable extent ; they were pre- paring to build houses and a wind-mill; they had made a vast collection of materials for different works; their tents, which they moved off, except one markee, which was left in their hurry, and through which a cannon-ball had passed, were capable of containing about seven or eight hundred men. From many circumstances it is evident they meant to stay there a considerable time. I have been interrupted in writing, and before I could return to my scrawl, I had the happiness to receive your letter of the 3d of July. 1 most heartily congratulate you on your success: it was a most glorious affair—a noble de- fence! The British Navy has been happily checked in her proud career, and has received a most just and com- plete chastisement. What must the King think now? The whole Continent in arms against him, seven hundred and fifty of his favourite Highlanders in our possession, and his fleets repulsed and disgraced along our coasts for two thou- sand miles! I hope he will repent, and be contented to put up with the loss of America, or, if he does not, that he may meet with repeated disappointment. The Marylanders were roused by the resolve of our Con- vention, and have lectured their Representatives so well, that they have unanimously voted for Independence—they have no occasion for our Riflemen on that account. How- ever, I can assure you, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland there has been a considerable insurrection of Tories, inso- much that Colonel Fleming has been obliged to march with 215 a hundred and twenty men to quell them. We have not yet heard the event of that affair. I have just now received another letter from you, and am delighted with your description of the bravery of Colonel Moultrie and the garrison of Fort Sullivan. It is not flat- tery, my dear General, when I tell you that most of us here attribute the glorious display of bravery on that day to the animating presence of a commander, who, independent of his great military abilities and experience, appeared to be the evil genius of Clinton, who had followed him, and from whose presence he had seemed to retire and retreat along the coast, from Boston to Charleston. All that I could do, as there were not gentlemen enough in town to make a Council, was to desire Brigadier Lewis to send immediately to North-Carolina all the powder that could be spared out of the magazine. About four thousand pounds will be sent. I am, most sincerely, yours, Joun Pace. To Major-General Lee. GENERAL ORDERS. Camp near Gwin’s Island, July 12, 1776. General Lewis cannot leave camp without expressing his approbation of the conduct of the Officers and Soldiers at this station. The fatigues through which they have gone with cheerfulness, and the great services they have rendered their country, justly entitle them to his hearty thanks, which he would have expressed at the head of each Company by the Captains. MATTHEW TILGHMAN TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Talbot County, Maryland, July 12, 1776. Sir: The resolution of our Convention to send up our recular troops as part of our quota for the Flying-Camp, has given some uneasiness to our commanding officer, Colonel Smallwood, who seems to apprehend that the Brigadier- General, (Mr. Dent,) who is to command the Militia sent from hence, may also take the command of his battalion. This, he justly observes, would be an indignity to him to which he could not in honour submit. ‘To prevent any evil from hence, our Militia should be considered as different corps. And what I have to request of you, sir, is, that you will be pleased to remind Congress of this circumstance. So, unless Colonel Smallwood can retain the command of his own battalion, (being under the control of a Continental superior officer only,) he will most certainly resign. He is a worthy man and good officer, a firm American, and much devoted to the cause; for which reasons, I cannot but hope that care will be taken to prevent the loss of such an offi- cer, by exempting him from the command of a person under whom he thinks it improper for him to act, because, in his own Province, he takes rank of him, The service requires that some attention be paid to this matter, and I trust you will readily excuse the trouble I have given you in it. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient and very hum- ble servant, Mar, Tireuman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., President of Con- gress, Philadelphia. N. RUXTON MOORE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. . Annapolis, July 12, 1776. HonouraBie Sirs: As there is a vacancy in Captain Nathaniel Smith’s company of Artillery for a Second Lieutenant, I should esteem it a very particular favour, if your honourable Board would grant me liberty to fill that place. My reason for being so pressing to leave Annapolis is, I have never enjoyed my health since I have been here, and am afraid, should I not be benefited by the Baltimore air, I shall be obliged to resign my commission, though very much against my inclination, as I do not ima- gine [ shall have my health while I remain here, and, as you well know, life is of little worth without health. I hope you will consider my case, and indulge me in my above request; and the obligation shall be ever gratefully acknow- ledged by, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, N. Ruxtron Moore. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 216 JOHN WEEMS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 12, (eleven o’clock,) 1776. GenTLEMEN: Enclosed is a letter I just received from Captain Chew. If it should prove true, please to let me know in what manner I am to act; and am, your most humble servant, Joun Weems. To the Hon. Council of Safety, in Annapolis. Saturday morning, seven o’clock. Dear Str: I this moment received, by express, a line from Colonel Somerville, acquainting me that there are forty sail of square-rigged vessels as far up the bay as Point- Lookout. We have ordered the Captains of our battalion to call their companies together immediately, and to have their guns put in the best order they will admit of. Like for them to be ready to march at a moment’s warning. Captain Parran’s company is under arms. Have heard that the whole of the Militia of St. Mary’s is in arms. If the ves- sels come up farther, which I make no doubt they will, Barbara begs that Mrs. Chew will come down here. I am in great haste; then conclude, by subscribing myself your most obedient humble servant, JosePpH WILKINSON. To Captain Richard Chew. THOMAS SMYTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Ship-Yard, July 12, 1776. Gentiemen: This will be handed you by my son Thomas, who waits on the Council for his commission, in pursuance of the honourable the Convention’s order to him for inlisting a company of Militia. He has inlisted a company of stout, able young fellows, and almost all of them country-born. He informs me that they have very few muskets among them which are fit for service, and I believe it will be very difficult to borrow any from the inhabitants, as they do not know how soon they may be called on to use them. What guns belong to the Militia are generally very indifferent. Permit me, therefore, to solicit your honourable Board, that his company and Captain Perkins’s may be armed out of the arms that will be made by Winters, and those which are sent for to Chingoteague. I hope they will be indulged with having their companies well armed, as they have been industrious enough to enrol them so soon at this busy season of the year. As I apprehended, the Council have not been able to pro- vide tents for the Militia that this Province has resolved to send to the F'lying-Camp. I make them a tender of my best endeavours to get as many made as will be sufficient for my son’s company, and, perhaps, Captain Perkins’s, if they will order over one of those made at Baltimore, with the poles, the linen, and twine or thread to make them; the cruger would do much better than none; perhaps some of the sail-duck which is ordered up from Chingoteague might do better. It will certainly kill all our men, to be exposed to the open air in the months of August and Sep- tember, when such heavy dews fall. I have two or three men in my service that have been used to making sails, and a tailor, who, I think, would make, in a few days, as many as will be sufficient for those two companies. If the Council should determine to accept of my offer, the sooner they send everything over the better, and I dare say I can soon get the tents made, especially if they are to be made of cruger,as many women can be employed in sowing such linen. If the Council have not provided baggage-wagons enough, I can furaish them with one very suitable for the purpose that is almost new, and in very good order. I wrote you some time last week, that a Robert Blake, a saddler in Chestertown, would undertake to furnish the Province with a quantity of cartridge-boxes, gun-slings, and bayonet-belts, at the same price which the saddlers of Baltimore had done, and requested an answer; but have not heard from the Council on that subject. Blake waits your determination. A report prevails here that some of the companies of Militia which are ordered to be raised for the Flying-Camp are to be stationed in this Province. My son earnestly requests that he may not be one of those companies, and that he may be permitted to march to the camp as first intended, and I hope the Council will indulge him in his request. f You will please to remember that the hire of the wagons sent to Chingoteague will amount toa pretty large sum. It will be some time before I can attend the Council, as I am 217 much engaged in forwarding the building of the row-galley which I have undertaken, and am anxious to have her done very complete. Anything which the Council may have to do in the mean time in this quarter, they will command me. What has been done towards sending for the goods from Chingoteague, Mr. Nicholson has no doubt informed you. I am, gentlemen, with much respect, your most obedient humble servant, Tuos. Suyru. To the Hon. the Council of Safety, Annapolis. PETER CHAILLE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 12, 1776. Gentiemen: The bearer, Mr. Samuel Smyly, is one of the owners of the schooner | informed you of when at Annapolis. She is well fitted as a merchantman, and think she will an- swer your purpose. What information Mr. Smyly gives you of her may be relied on, as he is a gentleman of integrity. I am your most humble servant, Perer CualLie. . DORCHESTER COUNTY COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee of Observation for Dorchester County, July 12, 1776. Gentiemen: Basil Clarkson, of this County, was brought before us a few days ago, being charged with going on board the enemy’s tenders, and carrying some men to join Lord Dunmore’s party. And upon examining into the affair, we thought it our duty to send him over under the care of Cap- tain Hindman, to take his trial before your Board. John Rumley was the only witness produced to us against him, whose deposition we have taken, and now send you en- closed. It is said Clarkson bears a very ill character, as to holding a communication with and carrying men in his boat to the tenders; and we have just now been informed that one Job Slocum, Jun., of this County, will prove that he endeavoured to persuade him and some others to go with him on board the tenders and join Lord Dunmore; but as the guard was just setting off with the prisoner, we could not delay them until we sent a summons for Slocum. ‘There were several other persons apprehended in this County on suspicion of being unfriendly, and having a communication with the enemy; but upon our inquiring into their conduct, we could fix nothing criminal on them, and therefore dis- charged them, though some of them were under rather sus- picious circumstances. And indeed we are sorry to inform you that we have lately discovered such an unfriendly dis- position in many of the inhabitants about the islands in this County, that we are convinced that it will be productive of very ill consequences, unless some steps are taken imme- diately to keep them in proper order; and we beg leave to submit it to your consideration, whether it may not be ab- solutely necessary for the publick service that part of one of the Independent Companies be immediately stationed in that part of this County. The inhabitants there are so much exposed to the depredations of the enemy that we cannot help thinking many of them have been induced from that circumstance rather than from inclination to appear friendly towards them; and that many may be prevented from attempting to join the enemy could they see any forces stationed among them to afford them proper protection. Our Militia have been so long on duty, guarding our bay and river shores, to prevent the depredations of the enemy and the escape of Tories, that they have many of them lost considerably in their harvests, and suffered much in other parts of their property; and, we fear, if they are not assisted very soon they will be almost in a state of despair. Cap- tain Woolford’s company, which was originally intended for this County, is now taken from us, and part of it is ordered by Major Price to be stationed in Somerset, and the other part on the mouth of Nanticoke, whereby it is rendered almost useless to this County; and we are left in a manner defenceless, though as much exposed as any County in the Province. ‘This being the situation of our County, we thought it necessary to inform you thereof, and we doubt not but your Honours will pay proper attention thereto. We are, with great respect, your most humble servants, Signed per order: James Murray, Chairman. P.S. We are greatly in want of Powder, and should be glad to receive a supply as soon as possible. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 218 DEPOSITION OF JOHN RUMLEY. John Rumley deposeth and saith: That he was taken by a tender’s boat on the shore of Spring’s Island; that while he was on board the tender he saw a boat standing out of Hooper's Straits, directly for the tenders in company with that which this deponent was on board of; that the said boat continued her course directly on board one of those tenders; and that it appeared to this deponent to be the voluntary act of those on board said boat to go to the ten- ders, as there was not a gun fired at them, or any measures taken by the tenders to send a boat, or use any other means to bring said boat to them; that said boat getting alongside one of the tenders, he knew it to be Basil Clarkson’s boat, and that said Clarkson and three others were in her, all of whom got on board the tender; that soon after Clarkson and his company boarded the tender, this deponent heard men on board the several tenders hail each other, and say that the Defence was lying off Hooper’s Island, and that Basil Clarkson and a certain John Baptist told them so; which said Baptist and two others went on board the tender when Clarkson came off from them in his boat, about one hour and a half after his going on board; and further saith not. Taken before the Committee of Observation for Dorches- ter County, this 9th day of July, anno Domini, 1776. Signed per order: Joun C. Harrison, Clerk. To the Honourable the Convention of Maryianp: The Petition of Basal Clarkson most humbly showeth : That your Petitioner now is, and hath been for a consider- able time past, confined in the jail of the City of Annapolis for a supposed crime of which your Petitioner is in no wise guilty. Your Petitioner also begs leave to represent to your Honours that he is now in almost a starving condition, oc- casioned by the want of, not only the common necessaries of life, with respect to bodily clothing, but also for the fur- ther want of bedding. That he is now craving your Honours to release your Petitioner from his confinement; and should your Honours deign to hear your Petitioner at the bar of your honourable House, your Petitioner is satisfied within his own mind that he shall be well acquitted. Should this Petition be adverted, your Petitioner, as in duty bound, will pray, &c. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO ELISHA WINTERS. [No. 29.] Annapolis, July 12, 1776. Sir: The Convention having resolved that the firelocks of such of the Militia who are to compose part of the Flying- Camp as are not effective, but might be made so by repairs, should be repaired at the expense of this Province, and that we should cause muskets found by the Militia, borrowed or purchased, for the Flying-Camp, to be fitted with bayonets, iron ramrods, worms, priming-wires, brushes, belts or scab- bards; and as we are apprehensive such repairs cannot be made or bayonets fitted on the Eastern-Shore, with that despatch and expedition the service may require, but at your shop, we desire you will immediately inform us whether you can engage in that business, and will undertake to repair and fit with bayonets such guns as shall be sent to you from the several Counties over the Bay for that purpose. If they can be done elsewhere, we shall not desire you to do them, as we would wish you should confine yourself as much as possible to the work you have in hand; but if they cannot, as there is an absolute necessity that the Militia should be immediately provided with good and substantial arms, we must request you will engage in that business for us. It cannot be expected that during the time you may be at work on the arms for the Flying-Camp, that you should comply strictly with your contract with the Province; yet it is hoped that you will be able to furnish some guns, as we stand in very great need of them. We have already belts and scab- bards sufficient, and have advertised for persons to make priming-wires and brushes, and expect to get the ramrods in Annapolis, so that you will not have anything to do but repair the guns and fit the bayonets, unless to make swivils to sling the guns, which must likewise be done. We enclose you a letter and order to Henry Hollings- worth for four hundred bayonets, of different sized sockets, for the Militia arms; if you engage for us in that business, you will send them by express; but if you cannot, you will be pleased to return them. We are, &c. To Mr. Elisha Winters. 219 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH. [No. 30.] Annapolis, July 12, 1776. Sir: We have received both yours of the 11th and 14th, and have despatched the last vessel you sent down with the flour to Pocomoke. We aresorry to hear the flour on board Messrs. Lux and Bowly’s vessel has been so much dam- aged by their negligence, but no doubt they will think it but reasonable to make us a compensation. You will receive by Captain Nicholson, two hundred and fifty pounds, out of which you will be pleased to pay for the vessels that carried the soldiers from Baltimore, as also for those you sent down to Annapolis for that purpose. We are pleased with your conduct, and are obliged to you for the assistance you have given us. We request you will purchase the timber Mr. Wells may want for building the two gondolas, and apply the remainder of the money in payment for the same; what more you may have occasion for, shall be sent you as you want it. While you are employed in the publick business, we really think it unreasonable you should be obliged to attend at musters; it is our desire, therefore, that you should be exempt from that attendance, and desire you will signify this to your officers ; and we are, Xc. To Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CHARLES RIDGELY, SEN. [No. 31.] Annapolis, July 12, 1776. Sir: The Council of Safety would be glad to see you immediately, on the subject of your Letter. Weare, &c. To Mr. Charles Ridgely, Sen. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS, [No. 32.] Annapolis, July 12, 1776. GenTLEMEN: Mr. Hughes, the bearer of this, has been under contract with the Convention to supply them with cannon ; he has nearly complied with his contract with us, and has run himself and his partners to a pretty considerable expense to get his works into such order as may enable them to cast many more than we shall probably want for the use of this Province. ‘The cannon of his first casting did not stand proof, but he has his furnace now in such order that the cannon they cast are very good. He has been informed that the Congress are in want, and would willingly contract with them, and would yet considerably enlarge his works, provided the Congress would take all the cannon he and his partners should cast before the first day of next January twelvemonth. We introduce him to you asa man of credit, and who will, in our opinion, comply with any contract he may enter into with the Congress. We are, &c. To the Deputies in Congress. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO LANCASTER COMMITTEE. Philadelphia, July 12, 1776. Gentiemen: The enclosed resolve, which I have it in charge from Congress to transmit, is so extremely explicit, that I have only to request you will have it carried into immediate execution with all the despatch in your power. I shall write to the Committee of Reading to remove the prisoners in that place to your town. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant d y > Joun Hancock, President. Committee of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. In Congress, July 10, 1776. Resolved, That the Committee of Lancaster be empow- ered and requested to keep a guard over the Prisoners in the Barracks of that Borough, and to surround the said Bar- racks with a stockade fort. That the Privates who are prisoners in the Town of Reading, be removed to the Borough of Lancaster. By order of Congress: Joun Hancock, President. THOMAS STONE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 12, 1776. GentLemeEn: Yours, by Captain Stricker, was this morn- ing delivered to me, and I shall pay particular attention to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 220 its contents, though I much fear our endeavours to procure an Engineer to suit your purpose will not be successful. Every man who ever fired a cannon, or was present at erecting any kind of fortifications, has been taken up for the Continental service. There is no provision made here for quartering any troops which may pass through. Upon the first notice of Colonel Smallwood’s approach I made inquiry of the state of the city barracks, and find that there are some soldiers in them who have the small-pox, of which I shall acquaint Colonel Smallwood before he gets into town. Indeed, there is danger in almost every part of the city, and I shall advise him to halt his men in the common for a while, until some safe place can be provided for their reception. They will feel severely the want of tents, of which there are none in the Continental stores. I submit to your consideration if it would not be proper to have tents immediately made, and sent after the troops. They will probably be stationed ata place where no quarters can be had. I expect to see them to-morrow. Captain Stricker will, I think, be appointed a field-officer in the German battalion, for which I have no doubt but he is well qualified, from what I have heard of him. The Militia of this Province are daily marching to Trenton in the Jerseys, from whence they are to proceed to Amboy. This will be the route of our troops I presume. If Brigadier Dent should join the Regulars with the Militia to be raised in your Province, I don’t know how it will be possible to settle the rank of the officers. As to keeping them distinct when they are to compose one army, it seems to me to be imprac- ticable. The rank of each officer in the Army must be set- tled before service is entered on, or the greatest confusion will probably take place. I ordered, by Mr. Stephen Stewart, a case of instruments, some paper, and a gun-carriage. Be pleased to inform me if you received them. Mr. Alexander writes me that Dr. Weisenthal wants the instruments very much. Our affairs on the Lake are far from being so prosperous as I wish them, though we have heard nothing certain from that quarter since our Army retreated to Crown-Point. Considerable reinforcements are ordered, and if they arrive in time, I hope our enemies will receive a check. General Howe remains on Staten-Island, exercising his men, and viewing the situation of the adjacent grounds. The inhabitants of the Island are generally Tories, who I suppose will assist him all they can without taking up arms, which I think few of them will do. General Washington and the Army under him are in good spirits, and our strength daily increasing. We regret to hear of the arrival of a considerable reinforcement from Britain. Weare daily in expectation of a more intimate acquaintance between the two adverse armies. May Godsend victory to the arm lifted in support of righteousness, virtue, and free- dom, and crush even to destruction the power which wantonly would trample on the rights of mankind. Our Province is now unrepresented, though matters of the last consequence are coming on. I pray one of the Delegates may be desired to attend. Mr. Paca is out, which occasions me alone to address you. I am, gentlemen, with most sincere esteem, your faithful and most humble servant, Ts . STONE. To the Hon. Council of Safety of Maryland, at Annapolis. ALEXANDER WILCOCKS TO MARYLAND CONVENTION, In Committee of Safety, Philadelphia, July 12, 1776. GentLemen: The Committee of Safety take the liberty to enclose a letter from General Washington, (of July 8,) recommending Lieutenant Wilpert to a company in the German Battalion. ‘They would have been happy in an occasion of showing proper respect to such a recommenda- tion, but unfortunately it did not arrive till the appointment had been made. Should there be an opening left in the Maryland division of the battalion, they make no doubt but you will be pleased with an opportunity of providing for Mr. Wilpert, agreeable to the General’s desire. I am gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant. By order of the Board: AvexanpER Witcocks, Chairman. To the Convention of Maryland. 221 LANCASTER COMMITTEE, At a meeting of the Committee of Observation, Inspec- tion, and Correspondence, at the house of Adam Reigart, the 12th July, 1776: Present: Matthias Slough, William Ailee, William Bows- man, Lodwick Lowman, Jacob Klatz, Michael Musser, John Miller. Wituium At ee in the Chair. Colonel Ross laid before the Committee a Letter from Colonel Porter, directed to him, complaining of the ill behaviour of some of the Associators in his neighbourhood, who had seized the Arms which had been collected by his directions from Non-Associators and others, together with an answer written by him (Colonel Ross) to Colonel Porter; which answer, being read, is approved of, and ordered to be forwarded to Colonel Porter by his express. And it is Resolved, That it be recommended to the Mem- bers of Committees in the several Townships from which Colonel Porter’s Battalion is drawn, to give their best assist- ance to Colonel Porter in procuring Arms and necessaries for the Militia, to enable them to march. The Committee think it will be best and most for the general good for Colonel Porter to march his Militia by Companies, as he can arm them, immediately to Philadel- phia, or across the country to Trenton, where they stand the best chance of being supplied with camp-kettles and other necessaries, which are not to be procured in the country. It being represented by Jacob Erb that the persons who were chosen Collectors of Arms in the Township of War- wick have neglected their duty, this Committee do therefore appoint Christian Hollinger, Matthias Hagey, and John Huber, Collectors of Arms in the said Township of War- wick, who are to do the duty required of Collectors of Arms by the resolves of Assembly. Captain Zantzinger’s Account of Rifles purchased from Jacob Dickert, for the use of his Company, to enable them to march to the Camp in the Jerseys, to the amount of £31 Zs. 6d., was produced to the Committee, approved of, and Mr. Dickert referred to the Committee of Safety or Congress for payment. Peter Bollinger, the Committee’s Messenger, being now about to march with Colonel Slough’s Battalion, produces his Account for services and expenses to this time, amounting to £8 16s. 4d., which being examined, is approved of and allowed; and it is recommended to the Commissioners of the County to pay the said Bollinger moneys of the County, as he may have immediate occasion for it to provide himself with necessaries for his march. ASSOCIATION GF INHABITANTS OF DONEGAL, LANCASTER COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA. We, part of the inhabitants of the Township of Donegal, having associated into a Company, and signed an agreement for the regulation of the said Company, as well Officers as Soldiers, understanding that the Committee for this County is to meet in Lancaster, in order to adjust and settle griev- ances, we conceive the greatest grievance is, that numbers of people, of different persuasions, will not join in the said Association ; some for scruple of conscience, some for the Joss of time and expenses, and others being disaffected at the cause which we associate for. Some of the said people are the wealthiest and best seated in the County. We imagine that there should be none of the inhabitants of this County exempted from joining the said Association, or pay- ing in proportion for the finding of arms and other necessaries to those who are willing to do it, who are not of ability to provide themselves with such. We request of you that it be allowed that all the landholders and farmers in the County of Lancaster be obliged to find at least one good gun each, and that every other person, who is judged by the Committee to be of ability, likewise find a good gun, whether they be joined in Association or not. This will put the County in a state of defence. We request of you that such a sum as is thought reasonable by you be laid upon each and every person who will not join the said Association, exclu- sive of finding the arms aforesaid, in restitution of the time which the people that have joined the said Association have and will expend, learning exercise and other duties neces- sary; and that such sums of money and arms be paid and ‘CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 222 received into the hands of the Committee of the different ‘Townships in the said County, or into the hands of any other persons which you shall appoint, to be laid for the use and support of the Associators of the Townships such sums and arms will be received in. If the said proposals be not put in execution by you, we, for our part, do intend to continue no longer in the said Association, as it will be entirely useless for the greatest number of our Company to continue in the same, who are not of ability to find themselves in arms or other necessaries. But, on the contrary, if no partiality is or will be shown by you, or indulgence to the enemies of the cause, but to have all persons in the said County equally concerned therein, according to their several abilities, we will, as we always have done, defend and protect the cause of our country, to the extremity of our power and ability. Signed by part, and by order of said Company, by J.Anderson,Jr.,1stLt. Jacob Peseler, Frederick Gilbugh, Philip Clugh, 2d Lt. Frederick Hufman, Abraham Eatter, Joseph Worth, Ens. Jacob Seller, David Cook, Jun. John Bayly, Christian Pesler, Thomas Anderson, Matthew Swan, David Scot, Thomas Clingan, Alexander Mitchel, Ulery Tannar, Francis Stewart, Williams Bauer, James Scott, James Thompson, Cornelius Boyle, Frederick Sibale, Nath’! Stepheson, John Carliel, Robert Ponton, James Mitchel, Nicholas Blazser, Philip Winand, John Winand, John Crookshanks, Frederick Yeigh, Hendry Vinegar, Walter Bell, George Bready, Robert Carns, James Willson, Hugh Hagerty, Duncan Levingston, William Allison, John Booth, James Mitchel, Jun. John Mays, Ulery Seller, John Donily, Samuel McChin, Conrode Hufman, George Crookshanks, John Tate, Jacob Vion, John Emmack, William Alexander, Robert Borland, David Cook, James Anderson, James Kerr, William Wilson, Hendrey Tann, Adam Neas, Daniel Dead Ys Enoch Hastings, James Cook, Lewis Miller, Patrick Hackett, Philip Brannar, Jacob Hufman, Philip Amant, Christian Seller, Peter Seller, Matthias Steer, Robert Caven, Christian Vinegar, John Nicholas, Abram Long, Valentine Shirelen, Samuel Park, Nicholas Peck, Adam Ross, James Alexander, James Levingston, John Brown, James Bayly, Jacob Musselman, Zechel Norres, Jacob Winan, Jun. Wm. W. Gomery, James Young, Jacob Minnigo, John Hamilton, Peter Dillo, Conrode Albrite, Michael Clous, Daniel Killman, Jacob Shireman, James Carsey, Samuel Cook, John Barber. YORK COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. In Committee of Inspection and Observation for the County of York, July 12, 1776. Resolved, That in case Mr. James Rankin make suitable concessions, (as he proposes,) and give sufficient surety for his good behaviour in future, he shall be restored to his liber- ty and the confidence of his countrymen. * As I have, in several instances, injured the Committee * of York County, by sundry publick misrepresentations, as well as by personal insults, thereby obstructing the publick measures now so necessary for the safety of our country, but being convinced of the bad tendency of my past conduct, and desirous of being restored to a good understanding and friendship with my countrymen, I do thus publickly ask for- giveness of them, and do promise, on the faith and honour of an honest man, that I will in future pay due regard to the rules and regulations of the honourable Continental Con- gress, and behave, in all respects, as becomes a good citizen of the United States of America. “James Rankin. “July 13, 1776.” BRITISH OFFICERS (PRISONERS) TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Yorktown, Pennsylvania, July 12, 1776. Sir: We have long suffered, without complaint, a series of ill treatment which our characters as British officers, and our conduct since the fate of war threw us in your power, has not merited. Should we continue silent under this usage, we might be esteemed by the world either deserving of it or afraid to complain, in neither of which predicaments would we choose to appear. When an order of Congress, about four months ago, sepa- rated us from our men, we complained of the hardships that would accrue from it in as decent terms as circumstances would admit of, but without redress. We were brought to this town and a parole tendered us to sign, with the alterna- tive of going to jail if we refused. Conscious that a compli- ance could not in the smallest degree be prejudicial to His 223 Majesty’s service, we acquiesced ; for be assured, sir, had we entertained the least doubt of the contrary, we should have blushed to have hesitated a moment in our choice. To enumerate the particulars of the many gross insults we have endured would far exceed the bounds of this letter. Let it suffice to declare, that outrage hath succeeded insult, and a violation of every law of humanity been dignified by the name of authority. Not content with depriving us of the liberty of leaving our rooms after nightfall, (contrary to the faith of the parole we signed,) they have now, as a fur- ther instance of their wishes to distress us and to render our situation as disagreeable as possible, taken from us our ser- vants, which they tell us is by order of Congress. We have, sir, too much generosity to conceive that that body would purposely issue an order to distress a few already too much injured individuals. Prejudice, wilfully mistaken, ever uses a language opposite to truth; and that the Commit- tee of this place are prejudiced against us must strike the candour of every dispassionate heart; for we dare confi- dently ask the loudest advocate of their party to say that in any one instance we have infringed the least on the parole we signed, or that our conduct has been in any way repre- hensible. Through you, therefore, sir, as President of the Congress, we apply for redress, and desire that we may be treated as gentlemen and prisoners of war, who yielded only to an ho- nourable capitulation ; at the same time beg leave to remark, that if we must continue liable to such treatment, a jail would have a preference over our present situation; and remain, sir, your humble servants, A. Gorpon, Captain Twenty-Sixth Regiment. Dante. Rosertson, JOHN STRONGE, Joun Livineston, Epwarp ‘l'Hompson, E. P. Witurneron, D. McDone tt, Rosert THomas, James Gorpon, Ropert CHase, Lav. Dutuounty. To John Hancock, Esq. EPHRAIM BLAINE TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 18, 1776.] Carlisle, Cumberland County, July 12, 1776. Honourep Sir: I take the opportunity by Mr. Boyd of drawing upon you for two thousand dollars, on account of blankets and hose purchased by order of Congress for our Army at Virginia. I sent seven hundred and fifty blan- kets and eleven hundred pair of hose three weeks ago; the residue shall send m three weeks from this date. Will not be able to procure above fourteen or fifteen hundred blankets: they have risen to a very great price. ‘The peo- ple ask for old ones from 15s. to 22s. 6d., and for new from 45s. to 52s. 6d. per pair. You need not expect more than the above number. The Militia and our quota of troops to form the Flying-Camp, I fear, will not be supplied without applying to me, though as yet have refused giving any. As soon as I send off the residue, shall render you my account ; and am, honoured sir, your most obedient and very humble servant , 2 Epruraim Buaine. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. {Read in Congress, Sunday, July 14, 1776.] New-York, July 12, 1776. Sir: The design of this is to inform Congress, that at about half after three o’clock this evening, two of the enemy’s ships- of-war—one of forty and the other of twenty guns—with their tenders, weighed anchor in the Bay opposite Staten-Island, and, availing themselves of a brisk and favourable breeze, with a flowing tide, ran a part of our batteries up the North Raver, without receiving any damage that I could perceive, 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, returned and continued CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 224 the fire as they ran by. I despatched an express to Briga- dier-General Mifflin, at our encampment towards the upper end of the Island, but have not heard whether they 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 foretopmast-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 immediately begin their operations. As it will be extremely necessary that the Flying-Camp should be well provided with powder and ball, and it may be impracticable to send supplies from hence, on account of our hurry and engagements, besides, the communication may be uncertain, I must beg the attention of Congress to this matter, and request that they will forward, with all possible expedition, such a quantity of musket powder and lead, if balls’ of different sizes cannot be had, as will be sufficient for the Militia to compose that camp. By an express this minute arrived (quarter past eight, P. M.) from General Mifflin, the ships have passed his works. I am, in heart, with sentiments of great regard, sir, your most obedient servant, Gone Wasnixeron Minutes of a Conference of General Officers, Jury 8, 1776, At a Conference of General Officers and others at Head- Quarters, July 8, 1776: Present, His Excellency the General; General Putnam, General Heath, General Spencer, General Greene, General Scott, General Wadsworth, Colonel McDougall, and Messrs. Randolph, Green, Dennis, and Duer. A proposition having been made to the General to sink Hulks in the North-Rwver, at Tappan-Bay, in order to stop the enemy’s progress, it was fully discussed, and agreed that the same be carried into execution: Captain Grenell to sound the Channel, and fix the Buoy; Captain Dennis to take up the Vessels and Raft; Captain Lawrence and Captain Tudor to have them sunk in a proper manner; Captain Grenell to take notice of the commanding ground, so that, if works should be hereafter erected, they may be made in the most proper manner. The General proposed to the General Officers, what should be done with the Troop of Horse from Connecticut? Agreed, That the Men be detained until the new Levies arrive, but the Horses be sent home as soon as possible. The Congress having referred to the Generals’ determi- nation the propriety of marching three Regiments of the Continental Troops from Boston to the Northern Army, and, in case of need, substituting the Militia in their place, Unanimously Agreed, ‘That the said three Regiments be immediately despatched to join the Northern Army. Proceedings of a Council of General Officers. At a Council of War, held at Head-Quarters, July 12, 1776: Present, His Excellency General Washington ; Major- General Putnam; Brig. Generals Heath, Spencer, Greene, Lord Stirling, Scott, Wadsworth, and Heard. The General proposed to the consideration of the Board a plan of a descent upon Staten-Island in different places, so as to form a general attack upon the enemy’s quarters, and a question was made: Whether, in our present situation, such a measure was advisable ? Agreed, unanimously, That it was not. The General then proposed a Partisan Party, with a view to alarm the enemy and encourage our own Troops, who seem generally desirous that something should be done. Agreed, That Major Knowlton, who is stationed at Ber- gen, and has reconnoitred the Island, do confer with General Mercer thereon ; and if they, upon consideration, shall deem such a surprise practicable, and that the retreat of the men can be secured, the General be advised to prosecute it. That this enterprise be accompanied with a cannonade upon the fleet from Bergen-Point, if the distance will admit. 225 GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 5, 1776. (Parole, Cambridge.) . (Countersign, Durham.) Those Regiments which have not made a Return of their Officers, the ranks, and dates of their commissions, agreeable to a former Order, are now called on to do it without delay, and to mention in such Returns the Colony in which such Regiment was raised, the time when and period in which they inlisted, together with the vacancies in their respective Regiments. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 6, 1776. (Parole, Essex.) (Countersign, France.) The Quartermaster-General to have all the empty casks which have been collected filled with fresh water, to be changed occasionally. | The General hopes the officers and soldiers will improve this opportunity to get their arms in the best order for ser- vice, as they cannot tell how soon, or how suddenly, they may be called forth. ‘Two hundred men, properly officered, (exclusive of the number ordered the 3d instant,) to parade to-morrow morn- ing, five o’clock, at the Laboratory, with four days’ provi- sions. ‘They will receive tools and directions from the Chief Engineer. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 7, 1776. (Parole, Goshen.) (Countersign, Hartford.) A working party of one hundred and fifty men, properly officered, to go to King’s Bridge to-morrow, to march at six o’clock from the parade; they are to take two days’ provisions with them; after which they will draw out of the stores there; to take their arms and tents with them; and when they get there, General Mifflin will give them orders. As the enemy may make an attack early in the morning, when there may not be time for the soldiers to fill their canteens, the General directs that they be filled every even- ing; the officers to take care that it is not neglected, as it is a matter of much consequence at this season. James Johnson, a soldier in Captain Hide’s Company, and Colonel Wylly’s Regiment, tried at a General Court- Martial, whereof Colonel Reed is President, for “ desertion,” is found guilty, and sentenced to be whipped thirty-nine lashes on his naked back. Sergeant George Douglas, John Davis, John Cooper, Robert Sawyer, and George Clarkson, all of Captain Van Wyck’s Company, Colonel McDougall’s Regiment, tried at the same court-martial for “ mutiny and sedition.” Sergeant George Douglass is acquitted; the others severally found guilty, and sentenced, Davis to be whipped thirty-nine lashes; Cooper thirty lashes; Sawyer and Clarkson to be whipped each twenty lashes, on their bare backs for said offence. ‘The General approves of the foregoing sentences, and orders them put in execution at the usual time and place. Some persons having barbarously wounded and maimed some cattle belonging to Leonard Lispenard, Esq., on Fri- day last, the General hopes no soldier in the Army is con- cerned in so base and scandalous an action; but if it should appear otherwise, such person may depend on the severest punishment. Any person who can give any information in the matter will be well rewarded. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 8, 1776. (Parole, Johnston,) (Countersign, Lebanon.) The new levies from Connecticut and New-Jersey daily arriving, a report is to be made every day to the General of the number arriving, by the Commanding Officer of each corps, in order that proper arrangements may be made. All officers are required to be careful that their men are acquainted with orders, that they may not plead ignorance. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 9, 1776. (Parole, Manchester.) (Countersign, Norfolk.) John Evans, of Captain Ledyard’s Company, Colonel McDougall’s Regiment, Hopkins Rice, of Captain Pierce’s Company, Colonel Ritzema’s Regiment, having been tried by a General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Reed was Pre- sident, and found guilty of “desertion,” were sentenced to receive each thirty-nine lashes. The General approves the sentence, and orders them to be executed at the usual time and place. Firtn Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. : 15 226 Passes to go from the city are hereafter to be granted by John Berrien, Henry Wilmot, and John Ray, Jun., a com- mittee of the city appointed for that purpose. Officers of the guards at the ferries and wharves to be careful in making this regulation known to the sentries, who are to see that the passes are signed by one of the above persons, and to be careful no soldier goes over the ferry without a pass from a General Officer. ‘The North River guard to be removed to the market-house, near the ferry stairs, as soon as it is fitted up. The honourable Continental Congress 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 accordingly; persons of good character and ex- emplary lives; to see that all inferior officers and soldiers pay them a suitable respect, and attend carefully upon reli- gious exercises. ‘The blessing and protection of Heaven are at all times necessary, but especially so in times of publick 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. The honourable the Continental Congress, impelled by the dictates of duty, policy, and necessity, having been pleased to dissolve the connexion which subsisted between this coun- try 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 General hopes this im- portant 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 depends (under God) solely on the success of our arms, and that he is now in the service of a State possessed of sufficient power to reward his merit, and advance him to the highest honours of a free country. The Brigade Majors are to receive, at the Adjutant- General’s office, several of the Declarations, to be delivered to the Brigadier-Generals and the Colonels of Regiments. The Brigade Majors are to be excused from further attendance at Head-Quarters, except to receive the orders of the day, that their time and attention may be withdrawn as little as possible from the duties of their respective Bri- gades. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 10, 1776. (Parole, Ogden.) (Countersign, Philadelphia.) A working party of one hundred and fifty men, properly officered, to parade to-morrow morning, with their arms, near the Laboratory, at six o’clock. ‘To take three days’ provisions. ‘The Commanding Officer to come to Head- Quarters for his orders. The Quartermaster-General to provide tents. General Heath’s Brigade, instead of repairing to their alarm posts to-morrow morning, to hold themselves in readi- ness to march. ‘They will receive their orders from the Brigadier-General on the parade, at four o’clock. The Brigadier will attend at Head-Quarters, this afternoon, for the orders. John Butler, of Captain Bridgham’s Company, Colonel Bailey’s Regiment, having been tried by a General Court- Martial, whereof Colonel Reed was President, is found guilty of “desertion,” and sentenced to receive thirty lashes. The General confirms the sentence, and orders it to be executed at the usual time and place. Though the General doubts not the persons who pulled down and mutilated the Statue in the Broadway last night, were actuated by zeal in the publick cause, yet it has so much the appearance of riot and want of order in the Army, that he disapproves the manner, and directs that in future these things shall be avoided by the soldiery, and left to be executed by proper authority. After orders.—Colonel Drake, who was ordered-in the orders of yesterday for picket this day, being unable to mount, Colonel Batley is to mount picket this day in his stead. Likewise, as Lieutenant-Colonel Stoutenburgh is sick, Lieutenant-Colonel Sheppard is to succeed in his place to-morrow. é 227 Head-Quarters, New-York, July 11, 1776. (Parole, Quebeck.) (Countersign, Roxborough.) General Spencer’s Brigade, instead of repairing to their alarm post, to hold themselves in readiness to march to- morrow morning, at four o’clock. The Brigadier-General will attend at Head-Quarters this evening for orders, which he will deliver on the parade to-morrow morning to the Brigade. As the weather is very warm, there will be the greatest danger of the Troops growing unhealthy, unless both Officers and men are attentive to cleanliness in their persons and quarters. The Officers are required to visit the men fre- quently in their quarters, to impress on them the necessity of frequently changing their linen, cleaning their persons, and, wherever it can be avoided, not to cook their victuals in the same room where they sleep. If any of the Officers apprehend themselves crowded in their quarters, they are to represent it to the Barrack-Master, who is ordered to accommodate them in such a manner as to be most con- ducive to health and convenience. The good of the service, the comfort of the men, and the merit of the Officers, will be so much advanced, by keeping the Troops as neat and clean as possible, that the General hopes that there will be an emulation upon this head; and as a scrutiny will soon be made, those who shall be found negligent will be pun- ished, and the deserving rewarded. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 12, 1776. (Parole, Somerset.) (Countersign, Tunbridge.) Thomas Blunfield, of Captain Darrow’s Company, Colonel Parsons’s Regiment, tried by a General Court- Martial, whereof Colonel Reed was President, was found guilty of “desertion,” and sentenced to receive thirty-nine lashes. ‘The General approves the sentence, and orders it to be executed at the usual time and place. Lord Sterling’s Brigade to be on the parade at four o'clock to-morrow morning, with their arms and accoutre- ments, ready to march. ‘They will receive their orders from their Brigadier at the parade. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 12, 1776. Sir: Two ships of force, with their tenders, have sailed up Hudson’s River. Iam 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 An- thony’s Nose. 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 highest reason to believe it will be absolutely necessary, if it was only to prevent an insurrection of your own Tories. - Lam, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasuHineTon. To Brigadier-General George Clinton, New-Windsor. P.S. A return must be immediately made to me of the number of men you collect. EBENEZER HAZARD TO GENERAL GATES. New-York, July 12, 1776. Dear Sir: In my last I told you of the arrival of the fleet from Halifax, under General Howe. The troops under his command are about eight thousand in number, and have taken possession of Staten-Island, which has been peaceable hitherto, but very probably will not be so long, for I believe it is in contemplation to attack them before an expected reinforcement under Lord Howe arrives. No at- tempt has been made on this city or the adjacent country yet. Imagine General Howe will do nothing before he is reinforced. Desertions are frequent among them: almost every night some men make their escape. I do not learn that they bring any material intelligence. Enclosed is the Congress’s Declaration of Independence. It has been proclaimed in the State-House at Philadelphia, and in the Army here, and received, as might naturally be CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 228 expected, with great joy. The King of England’s Arms have been burned in Philadelphia, and his statue here has been pulled down to make musket ball of, so that his troops will probably have melted Majesty fired at them. Our Convention now sitting at White-Plains have entered fully into the spirit of Independency, and have ordered it to be proclaimed by the Chairman of every Committee in the Colony within their respective districts. No news from Boston lately; only Gordon writes that the Assembly are going to make thorough work among the Tories; and that a servant maid of Colonel Jrwin’s has re- turned from Halifax with a number of letters for Tories in and about Boston, which, instead of delivering them as directed, she put into the hands of the Committee. The contents of them have not yet transpired, but it is expected they contain useful information. I have not had the plea- sure of a letter from you yet. Have only time to add, that I am yours, To General Gates. EBENEZER Hazarp. NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 18, 1776. Referred to the Board of War.] In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, White-Plains, July 12, 1776. Sir: Nothing but regard to their duty could induce the Convention of New-York again to call your attention to a subject so disagreeable as complaints against the arrangement of the Canada Regiment formed by your honourable House. They this day received certain papers relative to that busi- ness from a number of officers, who think themselves deeply affected by it, of which papers the enclosed are copies. From thence it appears that, besides other appointments out of the line of rank, three Sergeants, a Corporal, and a Lieu- tenant Fireworker have been raised over the heads of com- missioned officers. I have the honour to be, sir, the Congress and your most obedient servant. By order: NaruanteL Woopuutt, President. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., President of the Continental Congress. New-York, July 8, 1776. We, the subscribers, do hereby resign the appointments we held in the regiment lately ordered to be raised and com- manded by Lewis Dubois, Esq., for the following reasons : First: We have been ungenerously superseded, which the old arrangement of officers made by the Provincial Congress will fully evince; for we assert that the youngest Lieutenant in the Third Regiment, to which Mr. Dubois belonged, is appointed a Captain over the heads of the First Lieutenants of the First and other regiments; likewise that Sergeants and Corporals, who went out in said Third Regiment, have superseded officers who bore commissions in the last cam- ion. ; Pals Aaron Arrson, Lieutenant. JONATHAN Pease, Lieutenant. Ricuarp Puart, Lieutenant. Daniext Gano, Lieutenant. Garret H. Van Wacener. To the Honourable the Provincial Congress. White-Plains, July 12, 1776. GentLtemen: Whereas we have had the honour to serve in the Continental Army by your appointment last year, we beg leave to mention to you a state of facts which we esteem as real grievances, and look up to you for direction or re- dress. When first the dire alarm of war was sounded in our land, we willingly stepped forth and offered our services to our bleeding country, and were much pleased with the appoint- ments which you honoured us with. Urged on by the same motives which first induced us to engage, we endured all the hardships of a most severe campaign, with a pleasing forti- tude, not doubting but whilst we were doing our duty we should meet with the applause of our country; that an equal distribution of honour would have been conferred on those who had not merited the reverse. But this has not been the case; a few have been promoted to high rank, while others, of equal standing and merit, are superseded or entirely neglected. Among the many instances of this procedure 229 that might be given, the most recent is the late arrangement of the officers of a regiment te be commanded by Lewis Dubois, Esquire, the injustice of which we hope will fully appear to your honourable House, if you will please to look over the copy of the arrangement itself, which we take the liberty of enclosing to you. We humbly desire you, gentlemen, to take this matter into consideration; and are, with due respect, (in behalf of the disbanded officers that served in Canada,) gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants, SAMUEL SACKET, * Aaron AERSON, Ricuarp Puarr. To the Honourable Convention of the State of New-York. A list of the Officers who served the late campaign in Canapa, with their proper rank according to the first arrangement. Captains. second, in First Regiment. fourth, in First Regiment. fourth, in Third Regiment. seventh, in Third Regiment. | tenth, in Tenth Regiment. Marinus Willet, William Goforth, Lewis Dubois, - Jacobus Bruyn, David Palmer, First Lieutenants. second, in First Regiment. second, in Third Regiment. second, in Fourth Regiment. fourth, in Third Regiment. fifth, in First Regiment. fifth, in Fourth Regiment. seventh, in Third Regiment. eighth, in First Regiment. ninth, in Third Regiment. tenth, in First Regiment. William Gilleylen, - David Dubois, - Samuel Sacket, - Elias Van Bunschoten, Aaron Aerson, - Samuel Pell, Thomas De Witt, - Jonathan Pearse, - Cornelius T. Jansen, Matthias Clarke, - Second Lieutenants. . Richard Platt, - James Grey, first, in First Regiment. second, in Third Regiment. John Houston, - - - - fifth, in First Regiment. Isaac Van Wert, - - - fifth, in Fourth Regiment. Daniel Gano, - - - - sixth, in First Regiment. Albert Paulding, - seventh,in Third Regiment. Garret Van Wagener, eighth, in First Regiment. Philip D. Bevier,- - - tenth, in Third Regiment. Wilham Mathewman, - - tenth, in Fourth Regiment. James Dow, appointed at St. John’s. Isaiah Wool, Lieutenant, fire-worker in Captain Lamb’s company of Artillery. Lewis Dusots, Esquire’s, Arrangement. Field - Officers. wd Lewis Dubois, - - - - - - Colonel. Jacobus Bruyn, - - - - - - Lieutenant-Colonel. William Goforth, - - - - - Major, (resigned.) Captains. First Captain. Second Captain. Third Captain. Fourth Captain. Fifth Captain. Sixth Captain. Seventh Captain. Eighth Captain. First Lieutenants. first. second, resigned. third, resigned. fourth, Sergeant in 3d Regt. fifth, resigned. sixth, Corporal in 3d Regt. seventh, Sergeant in 3d Regt. eighth, Sergeant in 3d Regt. David Dubois, - Elias Van Benschoten, Thomas De Witt, - Jsaiah Wool, Philip D. Bevier, Richard Platt, - Albert Paulding, Cornelius T. Jansen, James Gregg, - Aaron Aerson, - Jonathan Pearse, Evans Wherry, - Garret Van Wagener, Henry Vandenburgh, Nathaniel Conklin, Henry Dodge, - Second Lieutenants. Daniel Gano, - - - = first, resigned. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 230 General Monrcomery’s arrangement. Lewis Dubois,* appointed Major, November 25, 1775. Jacobus Bruyn,* appointed First Captain, Nov. 25, 1775. David Dubois,* appointed Captain, November 25, 1775. Ehas Van Bunschoten,* appointed Captain, Nov. 25, 1775. Thomas De Witt,* appointedCaptain, November 25, 1775. Samuel Sackett, appointed Captain, November 25, 1775 Fourth Regiment. Isaiah Wool, of Captain Lamb’s Company of Artillery, appointed Captain-Lieutenant therein, Nov. 25, 1775. A list of the Officers of Colonel Dusots’s Regiment, who served last campaign in Canapa. Captain Elias Van Bunschoten, Lieut. Henry Dodge, Captain Thomas De Witt, Lieut. Henry Vandenburgh, Captain Cornelius T. Jansen, Lieut. Nathaniel Conklin, Captain James Gregg, Lieut. Evans Wherry, Captain Albert Paulding, Ensign Samuel English, Captain Charles Graham. Henry Dubois, Adjutant. John Coats, Surgeon. List of Colonel Dusois’s Officers who did not serve in Can- apa, but served in his Regiment during this Campaign. Lieutenant Thomas Brinkley, Lieutenant John Farman, Lieutenant John Bennet. > EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN OFFICER AT NEW-YORK TO HIS FATHER IN SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS, DATED NEW- york, JuLy 12, 1776. The enemy are now in the harbour, although they have not yet ventured themselves within gunshot of the city; but we hourly expect to be called to action. ‘The whole Army is out between two and three every morning at their respective alarm-posts, and remain there until sunrise. This was something irksome to me at first, but is now very fami- liar and agreeable. I am morally certain that it will not be long before we have an engagement. God Almighty, of His grace, grant us courage and wisdom, and smile on our arms, that we may play the men valiantly for our God and the cities of our God. This campaign, if in our favour, I expect will prove decisive; hope there will be no effort wanting on our side to effect it. May we all be fired with a noble ardour and Godlike resolution, rather to die than submit; take for our motto, Liberty or Death, remembering that it is truly honourable to die for our country, and far better to die freemen than to live slaves. I make no doubt, considering the great, good cause we are fighting for, and the necessary preparations that are made, that, with the smiles of Heaven, we shall behave with becoming fortitude and con- duct, and be enabled to vanquish those instruments of British tyranny and oppression, the enemies of God and mankind. I most heartily congratulate you on the Declaration of Independence—a Declaration which happily dissolves our connexions with a Kingdom where the name of a King is synonymous to that of tyrant, and the name of subject to that of slavery. Our trade is courted by all nations, who would gladly enter into alliance with us for the sake of it; but in that respect we may do as we please, for our internal resources are great, and will, in a short time, be sufficient to supply our necessity; and what success may we not hope for and expect, under God, from the united efforts of this vast extended Continent. July 14.—Just as I had finished the foregoing, we were alarmed by some of the men-of-war getting under sail and making for the city. We immediately repaired to our alarm- posts, which are at such a distance from the river that we had not a chance to fire a gun, but had a beautiful pros- pect of the whole engagement. We saw them pass by ten of our batteries. ‘They all kept an incessant fire upon ‘them until out of reach, but had not so much success as I * could wish, though they were all hulled several times, and much damaged in their rigging; but wind and tide being in their favour, and a very brisk breeze, they soon got by. They poured their broadsides upon our batteries, and the town as fast as possible, but without doing any damage. They kept their way up the river until they came near King’s Bridge; and not knowing there was any battery there, they dropped anchor near the shore, when our people opened * Officers of Third Regiment of New- Yorkers that were first promoted. 231 a battery of four twelve-pounders, six six-pounders, and two three-pounders, which did great execution. They weighed anchor with all possible expedition, and proceeded farther up the river, where they lie peaceably at present. ‘Their rigging and hulls were very much damaged, so that they are obliged to keep continually pumping. One of the tenders was so much damaged, that the people all went on board of the large ships, and took her in tow; and by deserters from the Phenix, of forty-four guns, the largest ship that went by, it appears that they lost, from that ship alone, twenty-four men killed and thirteen wounded, and that she had sprung a leak which they could not discover, that kept them continually pumping. We lost six men killed, and three or four wounded, by notspunging a gun. Mr. Conant, the bearer of this, is one of the wounded, who behaved with courage and activity. I expect we shall, in a few days, prevent those ships from returning, and any more getting to them. Which concludes me, after proper respect to all friends, your dutiful son. New-York, Monday, July 15, 1776. Last Friday morning, it was reported in town that Lord Howe was arrived at Sandy-Hook, with a large fleet from England. Between one and two o'clock, P. M., two ships hove in sight, and joined the fleet at the Watering-Place. About an hour after, a ship, supposed to be the Phenix, of forty-four guns, a frigate of twenty-eight, and three tenders, got under way at Staten-Island, and stood up for this city. The Army soon took the alarm, and in a few minutes every man was at his station, well provided with all necessaries for a-vigorous defence; but as soon as the ships came near Bedlow’s Island, they inclined towards the Jersey shore, to avoid our batteries, that then began to play upon’them from every quarter, on both sides of the river; and, notwithstand- ing they must have received considerable damage, they stood their course up Hudson’s River, firmg several broadsides as they went along, without either killing or wounding any of our people, who, on the occasion, behaved with uncommon bravery. A strong southerly wind, and the tide of flood, facilitated the ships getting above the batteries near the town; but we hear they were roughly handled about twelve miles up the river, from whence they have not yet attempted to return, but we hear laid at Tarrytown, about thirty miles up the river, on Saturday evening. Several shot went through different houses in the town; two into the house of Mr. Verdice Elsworth, at Paulus- Hook ; three into Captain Clarke’s house, at Greenwich— one of them went through the front, and lodged in a brick wall, at the head of Miss Clarke’s bed, in her chamber; a second went through the house, and the third destroyed several trees before the door, and took its course into the woods. A ball also struck the house of Mr. Daniel Phe- nix, and from that took its course to the new dwelling of Mr. Christopher Smith, in the opposite side of the street. Soon after these ships passed the town, a great number of salutation guns were heard in the fleet below, which, we are since told, was on the arrival of Lord Howe, with a few more ships. On Sunday afternoon, a barge from the fleet appeared in our bay, with a white flag, which was there met by the General’s barge, with several gentlemen of the Army on board. The flag was sent by Lord Howe, with a letter to his Excellency General Washington; but as the letter was improperly directed, it was not received. Lord Howe came over possessed of unlimited power, and was much concerned he had not arrived a few days sooner, which would have effected a reconciliation, &c. However, it seems his unlimited power did not extend to the neces- sary preliminaries of a negotiation—an acknowledgment of the right of the persons, to whom he came, to treat with him. Indeed, the idea of coming over to propose a plan of reconciliation is, in every view, absurd and ridiculous. For, as the Colonies never invaded the rights of Britain, and only defended their own, there was no occasion at all for negotiation. The moment Great Britain receded from her unjust claims, the war was at an end. The very proposi- tion, therefore, of a negotiation was a proof that Great Britain persisted in her encroachments on the rights of the Colonies, and was in itself an act of a hostile nature. On Tuesday, another flag from the fleet appeared, and was met as before, when a letter was again offered, but, for the same reason as the former, rejected. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 232 GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. e Albany, July 12, 1776. Dear Sir: I am just returned from Crown-Point, to which place I accompanied General Gates. On our wa to that place we stopped at Ticonderoga, and left Colonel Trumbull to take a view of the grounds opposite to it, and on the east side of Lake Champlain. In the evening of the Sth we arrived at Crown-Point, and on the 6th Colonel Trumbull arrived, who made so favourable a report of the ground he had been to view, that, in a Council of all the Géneral Officers, held on the 7th, it was unanimously re- solved to take post there, as your Excellency will see by the enclosed paper, (No. 1.) On the 8th we returned to Ticonderoga, and on the 9th we went over the ground for the intended post on the east side, which we found so remarkably strong as to require little labour to make it ten- able against a vast superiority of force, and fully to answer the purpose of preventing the enemy from penetrating into the country to the south of it. On the evening of the same day, I received a remonstrance by the hands of General Sullivan, copy whereof, (No. 2,) with copy of my answer, (No. 3,) I also enclose. The most descriptive pen cannot describe the condition of our Army: sickness, disorder, and discord, reign triumph- ant—the latter occasioned by an illiberal and destructive jealousy, which unhappily subsists between the troops raised in different Colonies. General Sullivan is on his way down, the occasion of it your Excellency will see in his letter to me, copy of which (No. 4) is enclosed, together with copy of my answer, (No. 5;) the former General Gates saw soon after I received it, and the latter (of which he approved) before it was sent. By the advice of the General Officers, I have ordered all the sick to Fort George. ‘T'wo houses, capable of contain- ing about three hundred and fifty, are ready for their recep- tion, and a sufficient quantity of boards is collected, under which to shelter the remainder comfortably until hospitals can be erected. The waste that has been made of provision is incredible. Flour we have in plenty; but of pork not more than six hundred barrels, and fresh beef extremely difficult to be pro- cured. 1 hope the Commissary-General will send up pork. Intrenching tools of every kind are wanted; no one can tell what is become of them, nor can we find above fifty of the vast number of axes that have been sent up. I expect- ed to find a scarcity of both, and before I left this gave orders for collecting all that could be got. In procuring the former, we have had no suecess; of the latter, something better than three hundred are to be forwarded to-morrow. Perhaps the scarcity of intrenching tools at New-York no longer subsists; if so, be pleased to order all that can be spared. Axes I am in hopes to procure. Your Excellency will please to press Congress for their pleasure on the resolution (No. 6) for raising six companies toeguard the frontiers, which we conceived could be much better done by the inhabitants themselves than by others. None of the Militia from the eastern Colonies are yet arrived ; they are extremely apprehensive of being infected with the small-pox, and not without reason, as it proves fatal to many of them. The excessive high price which the troops are to pay for the clothing bought for them will give great disgust, and be attended with the most disagreeable consequences. I wish Congress could see fit to order an abatement on the first cost so considerable as that the soldiers might see the attention paid them. I am informed that there is a resolution of Congress that no officer should hold double commissions. There are several such appointed in Canada by the Generals that commanded there. I have made one here, by giving my Aid-de-Camp, Captain Van Rensselaer, a company in Van Schaick’s, that became vacant by the death of Captain Mills. If such a resolution exists, I wish to know it, with your orders for my conduct in regard to those already appointed. We have reason to believe that the Indians will be very numerous at the ensuing treaty. I set out to-morrow to meet them. We have had no intelligence from Canada since that contained in General Sullivan’s letters, which passed me on my way to Crown-Poit. No carpenters are yet arrived from New-England. Those from Connecticut were to leave Hartford some day this week. 233 Please to order up the sundry articles mentioned in the enclosed list of naval stores, (No. 7.) Lead is an article we stand in great need of; if any can be spared, your Excellency will be so good as to order it to be sent up. July 13th. The lead is just arrived, but the anchors and cables I fear are by some mistake landed at Poughkeepsie. Be so good as to order Mr. Hughes to make inquiry into the matter. wee LS Se ee ee unanimously agreed that I should write to the different Gov- ernments from whence troops had been sent, entreating the Governours and Commanders-in-Chief to issue their procla- mations promising pardon to all such as should return by a limited time, to be fixed by such Governours, &c.; and to require all officers, civil and military, in their respective Governments, to apprehend all such deserters as should not comply with the terms offered, which I hope will meet with your approbation. I am, dear sir,,with the most unfeigned esteem and respect, your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant, Puitie SCHUYLER. To His Excellency General Washington. [No. 1.] MINUTES OF A COUNCIL OF WAR. At a Council of War held at Crown-Point, July 7th, 1776, the Honourable Major-General Schuyler, President ; Honourable Major-General Gates, Brigadier-General Sulh- van, Brigadier-General Arnold, and Brigadier-General De Woedtke, Members: Resolved, That under our present circumstances the Post of Crown-Point is not tenable; and that, with our present force, or one greatly superior to what we may reasonably expect, it is not capable of being made so this summer. Resolved, therefore, ‘That it is prudent to retire immedi- ately to the strong ground on the east side of the Lake, opposite to Ticonderoga, with all the healthy and uninfected troops; and that the sick and infected with the small-pox be removed to Fort George; it appearing clearly to the Council that the post opposite to Ticonderoga will the most effectually secure the country, and removing the infected with the small-pox obviate every objection that may at present retard the Militia (ordered by Congress) from joining the Army. Resolved, That the most effectual measures be taken to secure our superiority on Lake Champlain, by a naval arma- ment of gondolas, row-galleys, armed batteaus, &c. . Resolved, 'That one or more Surveyors be immediately employed to trace out a road between the high ground opposite to Ticonderoga and the road leading from Skenes- borough to the Northern settlements. PHILIP SCHUYLER, Horatio Gares, JOHN SULLIVAN, {No. 2.] REMONSTRANCE OF COLONEL STARK AND OTHER FIELD OF- FICERS TO MAJOR-GENERAL SCHUYLER. ; Crown-Point, July 8, 1776. May ir PLease your Excetuency: We, whose names are hereto subscribed, Field-Officers of the several regiments in the Continental service now at this place, beg leave, with the utmost respect, to acquaint your Excellency, that when we have been heretofore called upon in a council of war to give our opinion respecting the propriety of a retreat from Canada, we were informed by the then commanding officer in chief, that the positive orders of the Continental Congress were, “to dispute every inch of the ground in Canada.” That order we have complied with, so long as we or our General (in council) thought would be most conducive to the publick weal. And at the last council of war to which we were called, it was almost (if not quite) unanimously resolved to retreat to this place, and here make a stand against the Ministerial Army. Since our arrival at this place we have been informed by your Excellency that the honourable Continental Congress have ordered and directed the superiority of the lakes to be maintained. Also, that the Army are to be removed to Ticonderoga. B. Arnon, B. De WoeprkeE. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, W&c., JULY, 1776. 234 We would not pretend to dictate to you, sir, or to the other Generals, what orders you should issue; neither will we ever decline obeying them; but at the same time beg leave to remonstrate to your Excellency that the order for our removal to Ticonderoga appears to us to militate with both the foregoing orders of Congress, in the spirit (if not in the letter) of them, for the reasons following, viz: Ist. We cannot but judge from our own observation of the ground here, that we can maintain it against any forces our enemy can send against us. 2d. That this post appears to us to be the only one where we can maintain a naval superiority upon the lakes. 3d. That whenever we quit this post, we give our enemy an opportunity of taking possession of it, with all the advan- tages already made by former works, which it will be im- possible for us ever to retake from them without an amazing expense of blood and treasure. 4th. By admitting the enemy to get the possession of this place, it not only entirely destroys the communication with the lower parts of the lakes, but opens a plain and easy passage for them into the heart of the four New-England Governments and frontiers of New- York. 5th. Our retreat from this place to Ticonderoga must occasion the retiring of hundreds of families from their farms, and quitting their crops of grain, which would be much more than sufficient to maintain themselves, and drive them upon other towns, which must occasion a consumption of whatever could be spared for the publick service, if not a famine amongst them. 6th. That this place will afford an asylum for the savages, from which they may much easier make excursions upon the frontier settlements and secure their retreat. 7th. That the place to which we are ordered to remove, has ever proved extremely unhealthy, and will tend to increase the distresses our Army have laboured under by reason of sickness. These, sir, are some of the many reasons which we beg leave to offer to your Excellency’s consideration why we are not entirely easy with the determination of the General Officers respecting our removal, and hope our zeal for the publick good, which induces us to make these observations, will be a sufficient apology for this interruption upon your publick business, and that your Excellency will pay such regard hereto as the importance of the affair demands. We are, with great esteem, your Excellency’s most obe- dient humble servants, Joun Srark, Colonel, Enocu Poor, WiriramM MaxweE tu, ExisHa Porter, James Reap, Wix.1am Bonn, JosepH CiLey, Joun McDurree, IsRAEL SHREVE, Setu Reep, JoserpH VosE, To His Excellency General Schuyler. Joram Lorine, TxHomas Poor, Joun Moor, Davip Rusa, Natuan Furr, ABNER Morean, Cuarves Burret, Natuan Hatt, IsraEL Gruman, Joun Greaton. {No. 3.] Ticonderoga, July 9, 1776, nine P. M. GentTLeMEN: Your remonstrance of yesterday’s date was delivered me at eight o’clock this.evening by General Sulli- van. Previous to any observations on it, give me leave to remind you of a mistake you have made in supposing that I informed you that Congress had directed me “ that the Army was to be removed to Ticonderoga.” My expression was exactly in these words: “That it be recommended to Gene- ral Schuyler to form a strong camp in the vicinity of TYcon- deroga or Crown-Point.” 1 observed, that as I quoted from memory, and had not the resolution with me, I could not repeat the very words of it. I rather wish to impute your mistake to misapprehension, than to any intentional false repetition of what I said, which I cannot suppose any gen- tleman can be guilty of The reasons which induced the council of General Offi- cers unanimously to give their opinion to remove the main body of the Army from Crown-Point, I cannot conceive myself at liberty to give without their consent. For myself, I declare with that frankness which I wish always to cha- 235 racterize me, that the measure seemed not only prudent, but indispensably necessary, for a variety of reasons, against which those you have given do not, in my opinion, bear a sufficient weight to alter it—some of which are evidently nugatory, and all of which might be contrasted with much more cogent ones in support of the resolution. I assure you at the same time, that if I were convinced of the impro- priety of the measure, I should not be in the least tenacious of supporting my opinion, but immediately give way to con- viction, and rescind the resolution so far as it depended on me to do it. I am happy, gentlemen, that you declare your readiness to obey the resolution of the General Officers, although it does not meet your approbation—a sentiment which every good officer ought not only to entertain, but to inculcate on others, as a principle on which the preservation of every army, ina very great measure, depends. Such a sentiment will always induce me, and, I dare say, every other General Officer, to receive with patience and pleasure the advice of his officers, and act accordingly, where I or they are con- vinced. I am, gentlemen, with great respect, your most obedient le servant humble s ? Puitie SCHUYLER. To Colonel Stark and the other gentlemen who signed the remonstrance to General Schuyler, dated the 9th July. [No. 4.] Crown-Point, July 6, 1776. Dear Genera: The command of the Army in Canada having unexpectedly devolved on me, I with reluctance accepted the arduous task; and however unsuccessful I may have been in my attempts, yet I may venture to say that the ill success never happened by my rashness, imprudence, or cowardice. I must beg leave further to add, that I am not conscious, in any one instance since I was honoured with a commission from Congress, that I have neglected or re- fused to do my duty; for the truth of which I appeal to the candour of those officers with whom I have had the pleasure to serve. I readily confess that I ever was desirous of some officer of superior rank to relieve me from the disagreeable command, and should with pleasure have remained in the Army and served under him; but Congress having thought proper to supersede me by appointing General Gates, (who had not, by the rank they were pleased formerly to confer on us, the same pretensions as myself,) I can construe this in no other light but by supposing Congress was apprehen- sive that I was not equal to the trust they were pleased to repose in me. If this be the case, I am bound in justice to my country to relinquish a command to which I am not equal. If this was not the foundation, and they had not such an opinion of me, surely my honour calls upon me to leave the service after a person is put over me without any impeachment of my conduct. I should not have the least objection to being commanded by General Grates, as I have no personal objections to him, and would willingly have served under him, had he in the first instance held a com- mission superior to the one Congress was pleased to honour me with. But this not being the case, and the procedure so strong an implication against my conduct or abilities, I must beg leave to quit this department, with my family and baggage, as I cannot with honour act in future, and shall, as soon as possible, repair to Congress, and petition for leave to resign my commission. This indulgence, dear General, shall ever be acknow- ledged by your most obedient servant, JOHN SULLIVAN, To the Hon. Major-General Schuyler. — [No. 5.] Crown-Point, July 7, 1776. Dear Sir: Your letter of yesterday’s date was delivered me this morning. The merits of the reasons which induce you to ask leave of absence from the Army, I would not by any means wish to enter into. It is, however, a justice I owe you to declare, that your conduct since the command of the Army in Canada devolved on you, has been perfectly agreeable to me, and that every manceuvre of yours, as far as they have come to my knowledge, and I am capable of judging, has been con- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 236 ducted with a prudence and discernment that leave your character as an officer unimpeached. Although I most sincerely wish you to remain with the Army, yet as I wish to evince the utmost tenderness to the feelings of every gentleman who conceives himself injured, I cannot withhold my consent to your waiting on the Com- mander-in-Chief, with such gentlemen of your suite as you choose should follow you. Iam, &c., Puitip SCHUYLER. To General Sullivan. [No. 6.] Minutes of a Council of General Officers. At a Council of General Officers, held at Crown-Point, July 8, 1776: Present: Major-General Schuyler, Major-General Gates, Brigadier-General Sudlivan, Brigadier-General Arnold. The inhabitants residing on the east side of Lake Cham- plain having, by Colonel Warner, and several other gentle- men, represented the distressed situation of the inhabitants, and that they will be under the necessity of quitting their habitations, unless a body of men is stationed on the east side of Lake Champlain, and to the northward of the settle- ments, to prevent the incursions of the savages, and that they were willing to raise a body of men for the purpose on the Continental pay, Major-General Schuyler informed the Court that he was not empowered by Congress to raise any men for that or any other purpose, and therefore requested the opinion of the Court on the following questions : Whether, the weak state of the Army considered, and the fatal consequences that may result from the inhabitants’ above alluded to quitting their habitations, and thereby alarm- ing and creating terror in the more southern inhabitants, it would not be advisable to raise a body of men for the pur- poses above mentioned from among said inhabitants? Resolved, That it is advisable to raise out of the said inhabitants six Companies, to consist of one Captain, two Lieutenants, three Sergeants, three Corporals, and fifty Privates; and that General Schuyler, or officer command- ing, issue warrants for the purpose. Resolved, That General Schuyler immediately transmit a copy of this Resolution to Congress, praying to be imme- diately informed if they should disapprove of this measure. Puiuip ScuuyLter, Horatio Gates, JoHN SULLIVAN, B. ARNOLD. [No. 7.] List of Articles wanted for Gondolas, armed Vessels, and Batteries, viz: 30 Anchors for Gondolas, 200 Ibs. to 250 Ibs. 40 do. do. 100 lbs. to 150 Ibs. 30 Hawsers, 44 to 5} inches, 50 or 60 fathoms. 40 do. 4 to4$ do. 50 to 100 fathoms. 1 coil 6-inch Rope, 60 fathoms. 1 do. 5-inch do. 60 do. 1 do. 4-inch do. 60 = do. 2 do. 31-inch do. 60 do. 2 do. 38-inch do. 60 do. 3 do. 23-inch do. 120 do, 4 do. 2-inch do. 120 do. 4 do. 13-inch do. 120 do. 4 do. 13-inch do. 120 do. 4 do. Ratline stuff. 4 sets Tackle Blocks. 200 double Blocks, 53 to 8 inches. 300 Single Blocks, 4 to 9 inches. 4 coils Spun Yarn, 2 and 3 threads. 10 dozen Ham- line to be sent. 10 dozen Marline to be sent. 50 half-hour Glasses. 10 Spy Glasses. 200 Buckets. 40 small Colours, (Continental,) some red and blue, for signals. 60 iron Pots, 4 to 6 gallons each. 4 dozen Lead Lines. 1 dozen Lines for Pendants and Ensign Halyards. 6 dozen deep wooden Bowls. Pistols and Cutlasses. Small Tacks and Pump Nails. Linseed Oil, Blacking, and White Lead. 1 dozen hand Speaking Trumpets. 6 dozen Sail Needles. 4 dozen Bolt-rope Needles; 4 dozen Marline Needles, 1 side Pump Leather. 6 Fishing Nets with Ropes. 60 coils Slow Match for the Artillery. 237 GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Albany, July 12, 1776. Str: On my way to Crown-Point, I was honoured with your letter of the 2d instant, an answer to which I could not conveniently send from thence. This day at two I returned here, and about four received your favour of the 9th, by Mr. Brown. I am extremely happy to learn that I may soon expect the carpenters. The allowance your Honour recom- mends shall be complied with; and if any account of disbursements, paid or ordered by you, be transmitted to the Deputy Paymaster-General here, he will immediately discharge it. On our way to Crown-Point, we left your amiable son, Colonel Trumbull, to reconnoitre the grounds opposite to Ticonderoga. His report was favourable, and accompanied with such judicious remarks that they confirmed me in my opinion that it was the properest place effectually to prevent the enemy from penetrating into the Colonies ; and I had the pleasure to. find that it was unanimously embraced by the other General Officers. Copy of their resolutions I enclose. On our return from Crown-Point, General Gates, the Chief Engineer, your son, and several other officers, again minutely surveyed the ground, and found it capable, with little labour, to be made tenable against a vastly superior force. On this spot we propose to encamp, and employ the Militia; and here they will be separated from the others by the lake, which is at this place about half a mile wide. The sick and infected with the small-pox are all ordered to Fort George, where hospitals are built and build- ing for their reception. I believe the last of these unhappy people will be there this evening or to-morrow at farthest. It gave me great pleasure to meet my much esteemed friend General Waterbury this morning at Saratoga. His vigilance will second my wishes, and I dare say we shall prevent the unhappy malady, which has so greatly distressed us, from reaching the troops now marching up to our support. The enemy, from the last accounts, were fortifying at St. John’s. From the number of tents there, they do not exceed one thousand, at St. Therese about one hundred and fifty, and as many at Chambly. What further numbers they may have we know not. We are greatly distressed for felling axes. All I shall be able to procure here will be vastly short of what we shall want. Your Honour’s goodness, and the despatch with which everything comes from you, will expose you to much trouble and many applications; but as | know where your consolation lies, I do not hesitate to beg your assistance on this occasion. I flatter myself that a great many axes may be procured from what the inhabitants of your Colony may have for their own use, and wish your Honour to appoint some person to do it, and to deliver them at Albany, for which he will be paid whatever consideration you shall be pleased to promise, together with every attend- ant expense. I do not know how conveniently to transmit the money to pay for the axes; perhaps it may be furnished out of your Treasury, to be replaced immediately by the first safe conveyance. [ wish to have as many (under one thou- sand) as can be procured. When I was at Crown-Point, I proposed to a council of officers an expedient to procure the return of the deserters from the northern Army; and it was unanimously agreed that I should write to the different Governments from whence troops had been sent, entreating the Governours and Com- manders-in-Chief to issue their Proclamations, promising pardon to all such as should return by a limited time, to be fixed by such Governours, &c., and to require all officers, civil and military, in their respective Governments to appre- hend all such deserters as should not comply with the terms offered. May I be permitted to entreat your Honour to issue such Proclamation in your Colony. We expect a very numerous meeting of the Indians at the German Flats. My colleague Commissioners set out with me to-morrow for that place. I am, with perfect esteem and respect, sir, your most obe- dient humble servant, Puimip ScHUYLER. To the Honourable J. Trumbull, Esq. GENERAL GATES TO MOSES MORSE. Ticonderoga, July 12, 1776. Srr: I this moment received your letter of the 9th instant, and entirely approve of the establishment of a post between CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 238 Watertown and the northern Army. I am sorry for the unhappy account you give of the sickness in Boston, and wish the same pestilential disease had not for some months sorely afflicted our troops in this department. ‘Three thou- sand of the Army are now in hospitals, and others daily falling sick; so that, what with the losses sustained at Que- beck, the Three-Rivers, and the Cedars, and the consequent retreat from Canada, together with the death and desertion that has happened since the Ist of April, our Army is dimi- hished upwards of five thousand men, exclusive of the sick above mentioned. ‘This miserable situation of our affairs, and other circumstances considered, induced the council of war, which General Schuyler held a few days ago, unani- mously to resolve, that the Army should immediately retire from Crown-Point to Ticonderoga, where, upon the strong ground on the eastern side of the lake, directly opposite to the east point of Ticonderoga, an encampment is marked out for the Army. The sick and infected are removing to the fort at the south end of Lake George, where the general hospital is fixed. Our naval force upon the lake is, in the mean time, refitting with the utmost diligence; but the loss of, all the field-cannon in Canada, with many carriages and artillery stores, very much retards this business, as carriages are to be made here, where our conveniences for doing it are very scanty. Brigadier-General Arnold is at Crown- Point, forwarding the troops, artillery, stores, and provisions, to Ticonderoga; as fast as these arrive, I shall endeavour to place them in a situation to maintain their post; but should the enemy gain a naval superiority upon the lake before this Army is augmented by at least six thousand men, I think our possession of any ground upon the naviga- ble part of these lakes exceedingly doubtful. By intelligence received yesterday from St. John’s, the enemy are very busy constructing three sloops and two schooners. General Carleton and General Frazer are said to be at that post, with a large body of troops. General Schuyler has ordered a number of gondolas to be built at Skenesborough ; three are already finished, but the providing them with artillery and rigging will be a work I am appre- hensive will take more time than we have to spare. As I would not detain the express, I have only given you a general description of the state of affairs here. General Schuyler, who commands in this department, assured me he would write particularly to the Eastern Governments; he left Ticonderoga the day before yesterday, to go to an Indian treaty that is to be held the 15th instant at the German- Flats, upon the Mohawk River. I am exceedingly anxious to know the true state of affairs at New-York, from whence I have not heard a syllable that can be depended upon since the Ist instant. The Almighty may chastise us for a time, but he surely will not suffer our righteous cause to perish. That the peace and freedom of America may, in his good time, be established, is the fervent prayer of, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Higa Cee! P. S. I desire the Militia sent to our assistance may come complete in arms and ammunition. . GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 12, 1776. Dear Sir: Enclosed is a list of officers and seamen, which I have sent you under the care of Captain Mayhew. I have engaged them the same wages as the seamen now on board the fleet. They will all be wanted to fix the ves- sels and gondolas; after which, I think it will be best to divide them into gangs of twelve or fifteen men for the gon- dolas now building. Captain Mayhew has in charge thirteen Indians, taken by Colonel Hartley and Major De Hart, who it will, perhaps, be best to send to Albany, and retain as hostages for the good conduct of their tribe. Enclosed is a letter I have written General Schuyler on the subject, which I beg the favour of you to forward. All the artillery and stores will go off this day: one company of the Train are ordered to Ticonderoga, to receive and take charge of the same, and the others will go off to- morrow. The whole Army may leave this place on Sunday, unless you think proper for part of them to remain here until barracks can be built at the new camp, as many of them are destitute of tents. I should be glad of your instructions 239 by return of the first boats. I have not had the pleasure of hearing from you since you left us. I am very anxious to know how matters go at New-York, and surprised we have no intelligence. I am, with respect and affection, dear sir, your obedient humble servant, To Major-General Gates. P. S. Dear General: Since writing the foregoing, I have received yours of yesterday. ‘The gin I have ordered down. I am greatly at a loss to know what to judge of the Indzans. It is a matter of so much importance, I would not choose to decide on it myself. ‘They have an interpreter with them. I could wish you would be at the trouble of examining them yourself. I am, with great respect and esteem, dear General, most sincerely yours, B. Arnoup. B. Arnon. GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. . Crown-Point, July 12, 1776. Dear GeneraL: The bearer (Mr. William Hay) and Henry Cross were taken from their farms at Salmon River, about fifty miles down the lake, on the west side; the former has left his wife behind, in the small-pox, and three children ; the latter has sent his wife to St. John’s. Part of the cattle of both are brought up here. They are suspected of being inimical to us; and having it in their power to give intelli- gence to the enemy, were ordered here by General Sullivan. There is a number of families under the same predicament. These people appear inoffensive. It will answer no purpose to remove a part, except the whole are removed ; in which case provision must be made for them. I have referred them to you for decision; and am, dear General, your most humble servant, To Major General Gates. B. Arnoup. COLONEL BEDEL TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 12, 1776. Sir: Iam now under confinement these forty days or more, for a crime I am sensible I am innocent of, and which I hope your Honour will find. I am under a court of in- quiry—only wait the decision of the affair. Shall be glad your Honour will let me have the liberty to repair to Ticon- deroga, and have it determined. The President and part of the members are there; shall be glad the rest might be ordered to attend. ‘The present situation of my regiment— I not being in a capacity to look after them—renders it very disagreeable; also my private affairs at home, in regard to my family and interest, which lies upon one of the frontier towns which is most liable to be exposed to the rage of the savages; and the news | might receive from that part, that they are all destroyed, would be no more than might be expected, when their situation is considered, as we may suppose the savages have penetrated that way. Colonel St. Clair, who is President of the court of inquiry, will be able to inform your Honour into the affair. I cannot help repeating a desire to have the affair settled as soon as possi- ble, so that I may have a final determination, according to my deserts. I am your Honour’s most obedient humble servant, Timotuy Breve. To Major-General Gates. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, July 12, 1776. Sir: The bearer hereof, Captain Jonathan Lester, of Norwich, in this Colony, an approved builder, has under- taken and raised a company of carpenters, in consequence of your requisitions, and entered into the articles of contract by you proposed, but in haste has inadvertently omitted taking a duplicate of the contract properly executed by his whole company, which may yet be done, as his men will be with him on the spot. From this hint you will perceive what will be needful to be done in that respect. You will find Captain Lester to be a gentleman of honour and probity, industrious and skilful in his profession, and one that governs his men with prudence and good example. From the knowledge I have of him, I can heartily recommend him to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 240 be worthy of trust and favourable notice. His men are on their march, and will probably arrive to receive your parti- cular orders as soon as possible. I am, most respectfully, sir, your obedient, humble ser- van ant, JoNATHAN TRUMBULL. To the Hon. Major-General Schuyler. CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety of Connecticut, at Hartford, Friday, July 5th, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyar, Jabez Huntington, William Williams, Titus Hosmer, Jede- diah Elderkin, and Nathaniel Wales, Esquires. Governour Franklin, of New-Jersey, was brought hither last evening, having been taken up by the Convention of his Province as a virulent enemy to the United Colonies, and to be confined in such place and manner as the Conti- nental Congress shall direct; and they have directed him to be sent to Governour Trumbull, with the following Re- solve, viz: ‘‘In Congress, June 24, 1776. “Whereas the Convention of New-Jersey has declared Wilham Franklin, Esq., to be a virulent enemy to this country, and a person that may prove dangerous, and that the said William Franklin be confined in such place and manner as the Continental Congress shall direct : “Resolved, That William Franklin, Esq., be sent under guard to Governour Trumbull, who is desired to take his parole; and if Mr. William Franklin refuse to give his parole, that Governour Trumbull be desired to treat him agreeable to the resolutions of Congress respecting prisoners.” Letter and Resolve brought in last evening by Thomas Kenny, Esq., officer of the guard of escort, and this morn- ing he applied for direction; and a parole was prepared; and said Franklin, moved by letter, for alteration, and liberty to return on his parole, &c., and answer made, &c., in writing, &c., took up most of the forenoon. The subject of answering, and manner how, of many Letters from Congress, &c., considered, and good deal dis- coursed, &c. Finding he could not be returned to Jersey, &c., moved by the officer to have leave to go to Stratford, and was told by officer he might go to Wallingford. Message was returned in writing, &c., that Governour Trumbull might do as he pleased with him, &c. Colonels Dyar and Willams waited on him, by desire, &c., and finally he consented to go there, and signed his parole accordingly. Mr. Job Winslow, builder of the Galley Crane, laid in his Bill and Accounts, and the same were examined, adjusted, and allowed, being in the whole £1013 6s. 10d.; he having received, by two drafts, £700, the balance, being £313 6s. 10d., is ordered to be drawn for; and orders given accordingly. (Delivered to said Winslow.) Letters partly prepared for Congress, and many weighty matters, &c. Adjourned till to-morrow morning. —= : ‘ Saturday, July 6, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present, as yesterday: His Honour the Governour, Eli- phalet Dyar, Jabez Huntington, William Williams, Titus Hosmer, Jedediah Elderkin, and Nathaniel Wales, Esqrs. Congress Letters received, and considerations about an answer, &c. : Colonel Mott came in, moving about his affairs, &c. Captain Niles moving for Instructions, &c. ; on consider- ation, voted the following Instructions: “To Captain Robert Niles, of the Colony armed Schooner Spy, greeting : “You are hereby instructed carefully and diligently to attend the duty of your station and department; to keep a careful watch and lookout for any and every hostile ship or vessel which may be hovering about our coasts, take any that you can, give every signal and intelligence of and con- cerning them in your power; and for the advantage of the trade and friends of the couatry, you are also to take care 241 and prevent, as far as lies in your power, any smuggling trade and clandestine management, contrary to the laws and embargo of this Colony, and any prohibitions of the honour- able Continental Congress; for which, and every faithful exertion for the good of the Colonies and the support of the laws, this shall be your sufficient warrant. ‘¢ Given, &c,”’ . é Signed by the Governour, and copy delivered Captain Niles. Instructions to Doctor John Ely, to visit the Army at the Northward, infected with the small-pox, &c., viz: “By the Governour and Council of Safety for the Colony of ConnecTIcurT: «Whereas two Battalions are raising in this Colony to re- inforce the Northern Army, in pursuance of the recommenta- tion of the Continental Congress; and as very few of the people of this Colony have passed through the small-pox, now prevalent in that Army, recruiting for that service is likely to be greatly retarded, as there is a high probability of that infectious distemper spreading among the new troops as fast as they arrive, which more effectually retards enter- ing into the service than any other prospect of danger, or fear of the enemy: «This Board are of the opinion, therefore, that it is highly proper to remove that impediment as far and as soon as possible, and do, therefore, as an expedient for that purpose, appoint, empower, and direct Major John Ely, Physician and Surgeon, and as a gentleman who has had great expe- rience in that disease, to repair forthwith to the Army in the Northern Department, wait on the General and proper officers, and find and learn the true state of said Army with respect to that infectious disease ; advise and consult with the General, &c., concerning the most proper methods to cleanse and remove said infection from the Army, and prevent the further spreading thereof, if it should be found practicable and expedient; and afford his best advice and assistance for those purposes, and in general of whatever may contribute to the health of said Army, as far as may be proper and suitable in his character, with the allowance and approba- tion of the General. _ And he, the said Doctor Ely, is hereby recommended to. the said General, in the character and for ‘the purposes aforesaid ; and the said Doctor is to transmit an account and report of his proceedings to his Honour the Governour, and of the circumstances of said Army, relating to the premises, as soon as may be, and from time to time, until he shall return.” ‘ On application of Colonel Dyar, &c., Voted, That the Selectmen of Westmoreland may receive at Messrs, Elderkin and Wales’s Mill not exceeding two hundred pounds of Gunpowder, they to account to the - Colony therefor, at the price of 5s. 4d. per pound, or in ‘such manner as shall be ordered by this Board, or the Gene- ral Assembly, giving their receipt accordingly. (Copy given, delivered to Colonel Dyar.) About ten o’clock, adjourned to Tuesday next. Tuesday, July 9, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present: His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyar, Jabez Huntington, William Williams, Richard Law, Jede- diah Elderkin, Beryjamin Huntington, William Hillhouse, and Nathaniel Wales, Esquires. The Governour laid before us many things done since last meeting. Colonel Mott, present, laid in a paper, &c., amounting to a declining or resigning of his Colonelcy of a northern Regiment, in the room of Colonel Douglass, &c. Voted, ‘That the Committee of Pay-Table be desired to settle and adjust and pay Captain Edward Mott’s Account and Pay-Roll of his Company, raised by resolve of this Board, according to the regulations thereof, which may appear by the orders he has for that purpose, and according to any rule of the General Assembly, he having received £250, to be accounted for in said settlement. Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table, for Jesse Brown, the Governour’s Postrider to the Northward, for the sum of £10, towards his expenses for riding, &c., to be accounted for on settlement of his account for said service. (Order drawn, and delivered to said Brown.) Firra Series.—Vot. I. 16 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 242 Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Committee of Pay-Table, for Major John Ely, for the sum of £60, to be improved towards payment of his Company, wages and billeting, and to be accounted for on settlement of his account. (Order drawn, and delivered to said Ely.) On motion of Doctor Ely, allowed that he may carry with him to the northern Army, where he is going, &c., by order, &c., to take care about the small-pox, &c. viz: one Peter Granger, a French neutral, much used with him to nurse the small-pox, &c.; to be improved for such purposes as he shall find necessary and convenient. Captain Nathaniel Saltonstall, of a Company of Matrosses, is here, and much to be done about regulating the Com- pany, &c.; and it is considered and Voted, That said Companies consist of forty Men each, exclusive of Officers; that there be one Captain and three Lieutenants for each; that there be eight Gunners to each Company; that their Pay be £2 4s. per month. Voted, That Captain Niles be allowed one-and-a-half per cent. on his purchases and payments of his Crew, &c., on board the Schooner Spy. Colonel Wolcott was present this day, and many persons on various applications, which took up a good deal of time. Colonel Mott also, and much to do about settling the affair of his going in his command to the northward, he having almost resigned, &c., &c.; but finally accepted. Adjourned till to-morrow morning. e Wednesday, July 10, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present: the same as yesterday, and also Tvtus Hosmer, Esq. ’ Colonel Ward was present; a good deal to say about his affairs, and orders to receive, given, and many to converse about, with him, &c., &c.; stayed till noon. Jonathan Chester, of Groton, owner of the land where the Fort is built at Groton, is here, pressing about an allow- ance for land taken up by said Fort, and damages done him, &c., and finally came to the following agreement, viz: “Whereas Governour Trumbull and Committee of Safety, agreeable to directions from the General Assembly, have ordered a Fort to be erected in the Town of Groton, on land belonging to Captain Jonathan Chester; and ‘said Ches- ter having applied to this Board to pay for the land so used, and as the value of said land is not known to this Board, and said Chester offering to submit the appraisal of the same to indifferent men, mutually chosen, to say what sum the Colony shall give for what land they have already taken, or shall have occasion to take, for the use of said Fort, with the damages done his lands not so taken: “Tt is now agreed between Governour Trumbull and the Committee of Safety, on one part, and the said Jonathan Chester, of Groton, on the other part, that Luke Perkins, of Groton, Wilham Witter, of Preston, and William Man- warring, of New-London, Esquires, shall appraise the land that is already taken up, or shall necessarily be wanted for the use of said Fort, and the said damages; and thereupon said Chester doth hereby agree and oblige himself to give a proper deed of conveyance of the land so appraised to the Colony, and a discharge of the damages done; upon which the said Chester shall receive an order on the Treasury for his money, according to appraisal; and said Chester doth hereby acknowledge the receipt of £10, lawful money, in part payment thereof. Dated this 10th day of July, A. D. 1776. JONATHAN CHESTER. “ Signed in behalf of said Governour and Committee of Safety: Wo. Witurams, Clerk.” Original delivered to Mr. Law and Mr. Hillhouse. Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table, for said Chester, for the sum of £10, to be accounted for on settlement of his account. (Order drawn accordingly.) This Board do appoint Mr. Royal Flint, of Windham, to be Paymaster of Colonel Ward’s Regiment. Voted, That Richard Law and William Hillhouse, Esquires, either, or both of them, be a Committee to apply to and procure the gentlemen agreed on by the Governour and Committee of Safety, and by Captain Jonathan Chester, of Groton, to appraise the value of the lands taken up, used, 2435 and wanted for the Forts and works of defence built on his land at said Groton, and to move them to proceed to the place, and attend on said business, according to the agree- ment made this day between said parties, and to lay the matters before said appraisers, and appear in behalf of, and represent the Colony in said appraisement; that they apply to the Colonel of the Regiment at New-London, and the Engineers, for their advice and directions as to the quantity of land wanted for the use of said Fort and its necessary accommodations, which is to be the quantity appraised and purchased ; and said Committee are to take a good authentick deed, well executed, of the same, to the Governour and Company; giving their receipts therefor, and engaging said Chester an order of said Governour and Committee of Safety for the sum of which the same shall be appraised, deducting £10 which he has already received ; and make report of their doings to this Board. Captain Tinker, of the Row-Galley Crane, present, applies for directions about many things; and thereupon Voted and Resolved, That Captain Tinker, of the Galley Crane, take two three-pounders at the old Fort at New- London for said Galley, to be delivered him by the keeper thereof: that he receive eight Swivel Guns as soon as they can be obtained: that he receive ten Muskets, to be deliver- ed him by Colonel Williams, which he procured of Jonathan Goodwin: that he receive of Mr. N. Shaw, Junior, such Powder, Ball, and Military Stores as he, said Shaw, shall judge necessary: that he receive, from time to time, a sup- ply of salted Beef, Pork, Bread, Flour, suffigient for the support of the Officers, Sailors, and Marines, on board said Galley, of Captain John Deshon, who is directed to deliver the same; and that the said Tinker provide all other neces- sary provision for them, and take order that the same be dealt out prudently, without spoil or waste, with such fresh Fish as they may take; and that he keep a just and true account of the purchase and expenditure of such Provisions, and the same render to his Honour the Governour, at the end of two months, for his consideration and further orders in the premises; and that the place of his general rendezvous be for the present at New-London, and to cruise from Stonington to the mouth of Connecticut River, and south- ward as far as Montauk-Point, with proper precaution and prudence; that he, his Officers and Men, and all others in the sea service, be under the rules and laws of the Con- tinental Fleet, as far as they are applicable, and until more particular or further rules can be made. Captain McCleave, of the Galley Whiting, also applies for directions, &c.; and Voted and Resolved, That Captain Mc Cleave may receive of Captain John Deshon such supplies of salted Beef, Pork, - Bread, and Flour, sufficient for the support of the Officers, Sailors, and Men, on board his Galley, who is directed to deliver the same; and that said McCleave provide all other necessary Provisions for them, and take care that the same be dealt out prudently, without spoil or waste, with such fresh Fish as they may take; and that he keep a just and true account of the purchases and expenditures of such Provisions, and the same render to his Honour the Gover- nour, at the end of two months, for his consideration and further *orders in the premises: that he receive necessary Powder, Ball, and Military stores, of Mr. N. Shaw, Junior, at his (said Shaw’s) discretion; and that he shall receive eight Swivels, as soon as they can be obtained: that he may receive five Muskets of Captain Mott, or the proper officer of his late Company; he having reported that he had a surplus in his hands, having received fifteen before: that he rendezvous for the present at New-London; and to cruise from Stonington to New-Haven, and southward as far as Montauk-Point, with proper prudence and caution: that he, his Officers and Men, and all others in the sea service, be under the rules and laws of the Continental Fleet, as far as they are applicable, and until more particular or further rules can be made. Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Committee of Pay-Table, in favour of Capt. Robert Niles, of the Schooner Spy, for the sum of £477 6s. 9d., the balance of said Schooner’s accounts to the 8th June, (he having received £400,) and also for £200 more for the use of said Schooner from that time forward; and to render his account. Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, Junior, of New-London, is ap- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 244 pointed Agent for the Colony, for the purpose of Naval Supplies, and for taking of such sick seamen as may be sent on shore to his care. (Copy given, sent by Gaptain Harding.) Voted, That Letters be sent to the Purchasers of Pork, by order of Assembly, as soon as possible; inform the Governour of what they have obtained, at what price, and where stored ; and wrote accordingly. Ordered, That Colonel Jabez Huntington send what Cannon-Powder he has received, per Colonels Elderkin and Wales, to Mr. Shaw, taking his receipt. Voted, That Orders be drawn on the Treasurer, in favour of Captains McCleave and Tinker, for the sum of £100 each, to be improved to purchase necessaries for the use of their Crews, and to render their accounts thereof; and order given on paper, delivered them, present. Adjourned till to-morrow morning. Thursday July 11, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present: His Honour the Governour, Ehiphalet Dyar, Jabez Huntington, William Wilhams, Richard Law, Titus Hosmer, Jedediah Elderkin, Benjamin Huntington, Na- thaniel Wales, and William Hillhouse, Esquires. Voted, That twenty-five Arms, Bayonets, &c., which had been fixed up by Mr. David Trumbull, of Lebanon, of barrels brought from Crown-Point, &c., now in the hands of John Leffingwell, be delivered to Captain Joshua Hun- tington, for the use of his Company, to be returned for the use of the Colony. (Order given, and delivered Colonel Huntington.) On recommendation of the Captains, appointed William Latham, Junior, Captain-Lieutenant of Captain Ledyard’s Company of Artillery or Matrosses ; Jonathan Leeds to be Lieutenant of ditto; Archas Sheffield to be Second Lieuten- ant of ditto: commissioned. And for Captain Saltonstall’s Company, Nathaniel Coit, Jun., to be Captain-Lieutenant; Daniel Starr, Lieutenant ; Samuel Champlain, Jun., Second Lieutenant: commissions given. Captain Coit came in moving for an appointment. ) Congress Declaration of Independency received in a letter from Colonel Trumbull to me. Colonel Oliver Wolcott having lately returned home from the Continental Congress, by reason of ill health; and it being the opinion of this Board, that it is of importance that the Colony should have a full representation at Congress, and that it is also the opinion of the Assembly, that their full number of Delegates should be present, &c.; and by a letter from Colonel Wolcott, expressing also his desire that another member should attend, &c.; this Board, having at turns discoursed on the subject, at several days and times, do conclude, that William Williams, Esq., do, as soon as may be, repair to and attend said Congress, as one of the Delegates appointed by the General Assembly —Mr. Hos- mer and he having discoursed, and partly agreed, on which should attend, &c. The matter of appointing Officers for the Colony Ship, building at Saybrook, taken up and discoursed of largely, and of persons for the Officers. Question was put, whether we will at this time proceed to appoint a Captain and two Lieutenants for said Ship? And resolved in the affirmative. And on further consideration, and the question being put, William Coit is appointed Captain of said Ship, T%mothy Parker appointed First Lieutenant of ditto, and David Hawley appointed Second Lieutenant of ditto. Voted, That the date of the above Officers’ Commissions be referred to the further consideration of this Board, and their Pay to commence from the date of the same. That Letters be written, informing said Hawley of his appoint- ment; the others being near, &c. Captain Coit (in town) was called in, and the Governour gave him orders, instruc- tions, and admonitions as to his conduct, &c. Adjourned till to-morrow morning. Friday, July 12, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present: His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyar, Jabez Huntington, William Williams, Richard Law, Titus 245 Hosmer, Jedediah Elderkin, Benjamin Huntington, Wil- liam Hillhouse, and Nathaniel Wales, Esquires. A Letter from Colonel W. Pitkin, expressing his great apprehensions of danger of his Powder-Mills being destroyed by enemies, there having been much threatening about them, &c., from Prisoners, &c., which occasioned much consulta- tion about guarding or securing them, and how, &c. After much discourse, nin Voted, That Guards be allowed at Colonel Pitkin’s and also at Colonel Elderkin and Wales’s Powder-Mills, and that the respective owners be allowed 4s. per night for each night they shall keep such Guard until this Board shall take other or further order concerning them. Letters from the Congress of the 6th instant came in, by express, containing information of their late Declaration of Independence, and a copy of it, requesting the same to be duly published, &c. Two Letters also from General Washington, of the 7th and 9th instant, about the situation of affairs, and advice that Lord Howe with fifteen thousand men are on their passage, &c., and about our Regiments of Horse, much approving the measure, but expressing the difficulties of keeping horses, Xe. The matter and manner of publishing the Independency as recommended by Congress largely discoursed, and many things given out relative to the matter, &c., and concluded to lay by for the present. On representation of Dr. Usher, of the New-London Regi- ment, and Letter from Colonel Wolcott for that purpose : Voted, That he have liberty to purchase and take up Medicines for the use of said Regiment, of Doctor Lothrop or Doctor Dyar, to the amount of £10, for which the Colony will be accountable, and substance of the vote given said Dr. Usher. Sundry Accounts of Willam Williams, Esq., and Na- thaniel Wales, Esq., examined and settled, &c., viz: Mr. Wales’s account for services, July, 1775; journey and expenses to New-Haven, &c., by order, with William Wil- liams, to look out an armed vessel, and journey and expenses to Philadelphia in September, 1775, after money, &c.; jour- ney and expenses to New-London with Colonel Dyar, to see about Forts, &c.; journey and expenses to Cambridge in October, to meet Committee of Congress, &c.; in whole £51 17s. 3d. Allowed, and order to be drawn for. An Account of William Williams, June, 1775, for sending Powder, with Grain, Barrels, &c., to the Army near Boston; July, journey and expenses on the sea-coast about armed vessels, &c., with Esquire Wales; cash for many Companies ; eash for supporting the Cognowaga Indians in January, 1776, &c.; total, - - £18 19 3 September, 1775. Journey and expenses to Philadelphia with Esquire Wales, by or- der of the Governour and Committee of Safety, for money, - - - - - - May, 1776. Journey to New-Haven, New- York, and Philadelphia, on various servi- ces, with Colonel Dyar, brought £50,000, &c., cash paid more than £20, - - 29 15 9 41 65 SOOT NALS Adjourned to Monday next, 15th instant. CONVENTION OF COMMITTEES IN PETERSHAM. At a Convention of Committees of Safety, &c., of the Towns of Hutchinson, Templeton, Athol, and Petersham, at the house of Kenelm Winslow, in Petersham, on the 12th day of July, 1776, the following Votes and Resolves were passed : The question being put, Whether those persons called Tories, in said Petersham, were liberated from the restric- tions they were laid under by a former Convention of Com- mittees, and the people assembled at the same place? And it passed in the negative. The question being put, Whether it is the sense of this body that the House erected in the Town of Petersham for Publick Worship, was the place intended and meant in the restrictions the abovesaid persons were laid under by the former Convention? And it passed in the affirmative. The question being put, Whether the aforesaid persons should be indulged to meet for Publick Worship at any CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. * 246 other place than at the House erected by said Town for Publick Worship? And it passed in the negative. Resolved, 'That if such persons, or any of them, should presume to violate any of such restrictions in future, and more especially at such a critical day as the present, that this body will use their utmost influence that they or any of them so offending, after previous notice being given to them of these Resolves, shall be committed to close confinement, and there be continued until our political troubles are at an end. And whereas Mr. Aaron Whitney hath publickly declared that he will keep open doors for the assembling such persons, in violation of such restrictions, which were read to him; therefore, Resolved, As the opinion of this body, that such declara- tion and practice is an insult on the Committee, and against the peace, good order, and safety of the United Colonies, and ought not by any means to be suffered or continued, but that he be deemed as inveterate and as incorrigible as any who have been so restricted, and ought to be brought im- mediately to condign punishment. The aforesaid restrictions are as follow, viz: “That they should deliver all their Arms and Implements of war, immediately, into the hands of the Selectmen of Petersham, and that they should not go out of the Town of Petersham without a pass, signed by the major part of the Committee of Correspondence of said Town. “'That no more than two should assemble together at any place, except publick worship, legal town meetings, or funerals.” The reasons given by the Committees for laying on the restrictions aforesaid are as follow: “ At a meeting of the Committees of Correspondence of the several Towns of Hardwick, Templeton, Rutland Dis- trict, Hubbardston, Westminster, Petersham, New-Salem, Athol, Greenwich, Winchendon, and Royalston, at said Petersham, February 25th, 1775, at the request of the Committee of Petersham, on account of the riotous assem- bling of Joshua Willard, William Barron, Esqs., Ebenezer Bragg, and others, did, on examination, find that the said persons, with their associates, had entered into a covenant or combination utterly subversive of our natural and chartered rights, and tending to strengthen and assist the enemies of our Constitution in their arbitrary attempts to introduce the late unconstitutional acts of the British Parliament, and like- wise to assist each other, in opposition to all such persons who are friends to our liberties and rights. In consequence of which combination, they did actually assemble at the house of David Stone, with firearms, and did actually insult and threaten the lives of several persons who went to inquire into the occasion of their so assembling. By all which, it appears to us, the Committees of the above mentioned Towns, and the people assembled,” &c. The names of the persons thus restricted are as follow: Joshua Willard, William Barron, Ebenezer Bragg, Thomas Beeman, Joseph Stevens, Benjamin Furness, David Stone, Ephraim Whitney, James Jackson, Luke Lincoln, William Martindale, Seth Hapgood, Benjamin Chandler, Joseph Smith, Nathaniel Munroe, David Allin, Samuel £rizzel, Isaac Hastings, David Stone, Jun., Nathaniel Lincoln, and Ebenezer Ayres; with some others, whose names are not here mentioned, as they have made their peace with the Town of Petersham and the Committee of Correspondence, and manifested a friendly disposition towards American liber- ty; which persons, the present body are of opinion, ought not to suffer any inconvenience by the effect of the present Resolves. And further Voted, Thatif any of such persons who have not been restored as aforesaid, should in future, or until our political troubles are ended, be found with Firearms, Ammu- nition, or other implements of war, that in such case they ought immediately to be taken from them. Per order: Erxraim Doouirtie. July 12, 1776. At a meeting of the Committee of Safety, &c., for the Town of Petersham, July 16th, 1776: Whereas the Town of Petersham, since the above restric- tions were laid on said persons, have, in a full town meeting assembled, voted: that Robert Goddard, Ensign Man, and 2AT John Chandler, Esq., have been so far guilty and inimical with those whose names are inserted above, and accordingly restricted them, the said Robert, Ensign, and John, in like manner; and whereas some of the above persons, thus re- stricted, have by some means or other obtained general passes from the Committee of Petersham for passing out of said Town, and as they have not manifested such a friendly dis- position in the present struggle as to be entitled to confidence: The Committee adjudge that no notice ought to be taken of such passes, but such persons ought to be held to their restrictions. Per order: Samue.L Gates. BARNARDSTON. (MAS SAC HUSETTS) COMMITTEE, Barnardston, Massachusetts Bay, July 12, 1776. Whereas complaint hath this day been made to us, the Committee of Safety, &c., of the abovesaid Barnardston, by Nahum Ward, of Leveret, against Jacob Orcut, of this Town, for atrociously paying him a Sixpenny bill or note, New-Hampshire money, which had been counterfeited or altered from six Pence to six Pounds, paying of it to him for six Pounds: 'The matter of the complaint having been sufficiently proved, and he, the said Orcut, having confessed his paying the abovesaid counterfeited or altered bill for good money, and also confessed his being privy to and knowing of its being altered, after the most serious deliberation, we determined, That he, the said Jacob Orcut, shall pay Nahum Ward all his damages. Which he accordingly did. That he should be whipped thirty-and-six stripes on the naked body. Which was accordingly executed upon him. That he shall be confined in the Town of Barnardston, with liberty to go north from his house one mile in Guilford, and a mile east and a mile west in G'uzlford, from a north line from his house; to be confined in Barnardston from this time for the space of one year and a half, except he obtains liberty of the Committee of Safety of this Town, in writing, to go out. That if he knowingly puts off counterfeit money for the future, or goeth beyond his limits without liberty of the Com- mittee of Safety, he shall be sent to the Court, notwithstanding this punishment, for his trial, for putting off the abovesaid counterfeit money. That he shall pay the Committee, Constable, and attend- ants, for their trouble. That the putting off said counterfeit money, with the doings of the Committee, and the said Orcut’s punishment, be published in the Hartford paper, upon his cost. Signed per order: Exisua Burnuam, Chairman of said Committee. COMMITTEE OF BOSTON TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Colony of the Massacuusetts Bay: To the Honourable the Council of said Colony, met at Warertown, July 12, 1776: The Committee of Correspondence, Inspection, and Safety, for the ‘Town of Boston, being truly alarmed at the danger this country is exposed to from such information as might be carriedgto the British Fleet and Army, beg leave to repre- sent to your honourable Board, that at a time when a fleet of the enemy’s ships appeared for several days on our coast, a complaint was lodged with the Committee that a certain Captain Holmes, and a number of persons with him, all of them taken in the actual service of our foes, were about departing for the British West-Indies, in a schooner pur- chased of said Holmes for that purpose. In consequence of which, this Committee did order her sails into custody, and have ever since detained them. And although the said fleet hath since disappeared, yet the probability that the foreign troops are now near, and the very evident danger that might arise from the enemy’s being acquainted with the present melancholy situation of this town, when so many of its inhabitants, our friends from the country, and of our Army, are under inoculation for the small-pox; knowing that one person in the same predicament with Captain Holmes, did depart, and in violation of the fairest profes- sions and most solemn engagements, went directly to our enemy’s Head-Quarters, and there delivered them all possi- ble information, and even the private letters that had been intrusted to his honour; and though this Committee is CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 248 disposed to entertain the most favourable opinion of Captain Holmes’s integrity, and do most sincerely compassionate his very unhappy situation, yet as they know of no satisfactory security he can give that he will not go and do likewise, we do earnestly request of your Honours a revocation of your order in Council for his departure, or at least that it may be suspended till a happier situation of this town shall make it less dangerous to the publick safety for him to leave it. By order of the Committee: Joun Browne, Chairman. WILLIAM SEVER TO JAMES BOWDOIN. Kingston, July 12, 1776. Sir: I have at length obtained cannon for the brigantine at Plymouth. I purchased them in Connecticut. They are now at Taunton, and I expect they will be at Plymouth by Sunday next—ten four-pounders and four six-pounders, all double fortified. Captain Samson has given me a memo- randum of sundry articles which are wanting for his complete equipments. As I don’t know whether the Commissary- General is authorized to deliver from the Colonial store any articles necessary for the armed Colonial vessels, I take the liberty of addressing your Honour on the subject, desiring that such measures may be taken as may be thought proper for the supply of said stores, or such of them as may be thought necessary, as I suppose the brigantine will be ready to go to sea immediately. I had designed to be at Water- town, but am informed that the small-pox has such a spread in Boston and the towns around, as to make it very unsafe for a person who has not had the distemper. This con- - sideration has prevented my attendance. I am, with respect, sir, your very humble servant, W. Sever. To the Hon. James Bowdoin, Esq. Memorandum of sundries wanting for the equipment of the armed Brigantine at Puymouru, Simeon Samson, Cap- tain, viz: Forty fire-arms; 40 cartouch-boxes; 40 cutlass-belts; half a ton of powder; 6 reams of cartridge paper; 10 reams double-headed cartridge paper; 3 cwt. grapeshot; 350 four-pound shot ; 200 six-pound shot; 100 hand grenades ; 400 pounds of musket balls, 14, 16, 18, 22 toa pound ; 50 pounds of buckshot ; 400 flints; 1 cwt. match-rope. COLONEL GILMAN TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Gentiemen: That part of my regiment at New-Castle being reduced to a small number by reason of recruits being taken out for Canada and elsewhere, obliged me to order a detachment of one commissioned officer and thirty privates from Captain Daniel’s company to assist in building a fort at New-Castle. ‘The soldiers in a few days mutinied, and refused to obey my orders. After repeated insults of that nature, I ordered a general court-martial, and upon trial they plead they only inlisted to do duty in Fort Sulliwan. The inlistments being produced, it appeared to be a fact, a copy of which I here enclose. How men came to be so inlisted I cannot tell. You may easily see by their inlistments that they are not subject to inferior or superior officers, neither to the regulations in the Army. You may easily see what may be the cruel consequences of keeping men in pay under such inlistments. But how the matter will be remedied, or what is best to be done, you, gentlemen, are the best judges. _ I am, gentlemen, with esteem, your most obedient, hum- ble servant, P. Gitman To the Honourable Committee of Safety for the Colony of New-Hampshire. . P. S. The men have promised to obey orders; but how long before their minds will alter I can’t tell, as they are sensible they are under no obligation by their inlistment. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO THE SELECTMEN OF NEW-MARKET. ; In Committee of Safety, July 12, 1776. GentLemen: The Committee feel the greatest anxiety, and are-strongly depressed with the accounts from New- 249 Market, that any internal broil should in the Jeast obstruct the forwarding those things so absolutely necessary for the preservation of all that is dear tous. Probably a neglect of speedily reinforcing our northern Army may occasion the slaughter of our bosom friends and innocent offspring, while we are mingled in the common carnage. ‘The truly forward and patriotick disposition often shown by the inhabitants of New-Markcet in the common cause convince the Committee that they will not now attend to any particular difficulty, and neglect the main object, while their neighbours are nobly exerting themselves at this important time. ‘Therefore, they desire you will, with all possible speed, call a meeting of all the inhabitants of your town, and proceed to raise the men proportioned to you, in Colonel Gilman’s regiment, at which time Colonel Gilman will attend, and lend you all the assist- ance in his power to accomplish so noble and so necessary a purpose. To the Selectmen of New-Market. COMMITTEE OF KITTERY TO COMMITTEE OF PORTSMOUTH, NEW-HAMPSHIRE. Kittery, July 12, 1776. GentLemeN: The Committee of Correspondence for this town have received a letter from the Committee of Corre- spondence for Boston of the following import, viz: that they have information and reason sufficient to induce them to believe that a communication has been kept up between the enemy’s ships and some of our small boats, and that they have thought it necessary for the common safety to order that no vessel or boats be suffered in future to leave the town without special permission, and that they have confined the fishing-boats within the limits of one league from the shore. We therefore think it expedient to advise you of this mea- sure recommended to us, as without your coming into a simi- lar one it will be of no effect; wherefore we shall be much obliged to you for your opinion hereupon, and what method you propose to take respecting this matter; and are, with respect, your most humble servants. In the same and in behalf of the Committee : Joun J. P. Bartyuetrr, Chairman. CAPTAIN WICKES TO THE SECRET COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS. On board the Reprisal, July 13, 1776. GentLemen: This will inform of a small addition to our good fortune in the prize way. We this day took Captain Muckelno in the schooner Peter, of Liverpool, from St. Vin- cent, bound to Liverpool, in Britain, loaded with rum, sugar, coffee, cocoa, and cotton. We also took Captain Mackey, in the ship Friendship, from Granada, bound to London, which I have written you of before, and send a copy of that letter. ‘This schooner is ordered into one or either of the Egg Harbours, if she can get in there; if not, into any other port on the coast. Ihave given orders to Mr. Jere- miah Holden to send this letter and the proper papers and letters to you by express on his arrival in America. We had very little wind this two or three days past, and are but little farther on our way than when I wrote you last. From, gentlemen, your most obliged and humble servant, Lampert Wickes. To the Committee of Secret Correspondence, Philadelphia. WILLIAM FALCONER TO THE HON, ANTHONY FALCONER. Camp Long-Island, July 13, 1776. Dear Brorner: With the greatest difficulty I have procured this small piece of paper to inform you of my being very well, notwithstanding the miserable situation we are in. We have been encamped on this Island for this month past, and have lived upon nothing else but salt pork and pease. We sleep upon the sea-shore, nothing to shelter us from the violent rains but our coats and miserable paltry blankets. ‘There is nothing that grows upon this Island, it being a mere sand-bank, and a few bushes which harbour millions of moschitoes—a greater plague than there can be in Hell itself. By this sloop-of-war you will have an account of an action which happened on the 28th of June, between the ships and the fort on Sullivan’s Island. 'The cannonade continued for about nine hours, and was perhaps one of the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 250 briskest known in the annals of war. We had two fifty- gun ships and five frigates, from twenty-four to thirty guns, playing on the fort, I may say without success, for they did the battery no manner of damage, and killed fifteen and wounded betwixt forty and fifty. Our ships are in the most mangled situation you can conceive. The Acteon, a thirty- gun frigate, run aground during the action, and as it was impossible to get her off, we were obliged to burn and blow her up. Our killed and wounded amounts to betwixt two and three hundred. Numbers die daily of their wounds. The Commodore is wounded in two different places. His Captain lost his left arm and right hand, and was wounded in different parts of his body—he lived but two days after the action. Captain Scott, of the Experiment, of fifty guns, died of his wounds, and numbers of the other officers. If the ships could have silenced the battery, the Army was to have made an attack on the back of the Island, where they had about one thousand men intrenched up to their eyes, besides a small battery of four guns, one eighteen- pounder and three four-pounders, all loaded with grape-shot, so that they would have killed half of us before we could have made our landing good. We are now expecting to embark for New-York, to join General Howe with the grand Army. My anxiety to in- form you of bad news had wellnigh made me forget to mention our passage to Cape-Fear, where we arrived safely the first of May, after a voyage of three months. Though it was long, yet it was not disagreeable after we got out of the bay of Biscay, where we met with the worst weather ever known at sea, and continued in that situation for six- teen days; after that time we had very fine weather all along ; sometimes we were becalmed for four or five days together, not going above ten knots a day. Upon our arri- val in Cape-Fear we disembarked, and were encamped in the woods until the 27th of May, when we went on board again, and sailed for this infernal place. The oldest of the officers do not remember of ever undergoing such hardships as we have done since our arrival here. I hope you will be so good as to watch every opportunity to let me hear from you and Mrs. Falconer, and at the same time to inform me how I shall do in case I shall be obliged to purchase my Lieutenancy. I beg you will make my excuse to my dear sister for not writing to her at this time ; it is not owing to want of affection, but to the want of proper materials. J am obliged to write on the ground. You will be so good as to let Captain Falconer know the same thing. I shall write again from New- York. I am, dear sir, your most affectionate brother, Wiuwiam F'auconer. To the Hon. Anthony Falconer, at Montrose, Scotland. The foregoing Letter was found on Long-Island, South-Carolina, and forwarded to Congress, and is now made publick by order of Congress. Joun Hancock, President. August 29, 1776. JOHN PAGE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Williamsburgh, July 13, 1776. Sir: As the enemy’s fleet has been driven from their station, and their forces obliged to abandon G'win’s Island, and we are informed they will endeavour to possess them- selves of some place on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, we have thought it prudent to give you the earliest intima- tion thereof. A battery of two eighteen-pounders played on their ships, and a few rounds forced them to retire. Four nine-pounders silenced their batteries, raked their camp, and threw them into the greatest confusion; on which our men, as soon as boats could be procured, passed over to the Island, which the enemy abandoned with precipitation, carrying with them all their cannon, except one; two of their tenders fell into our hands. The ship Dunmore was so much damaged, that it is said she was burnt the night after the cannonade, They were obliged to destroy two other vessels. We con- gratulate you on the success of the American arms in South- Carolina. By this express you will be fully informed of Sir Peter Parker’s repulse. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Pacer, Pt. Council. To the Honourable President of the Council of Safety of Maryland, Annapolis. 251 CALEB C. GOUGH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 13, 1776. GentLemen: Agreeable to my last, Mr. Jacobs waits on you respecting the tents. Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth received your favour per Captain Nicholson, and thanks you for the draft therein enclosed, which he will apply to the pur- poses you direct, and render you an account of the charges of unloading the brigs and removing the soldiery, as soon as the amount can be ascertained. He desires me to assure you that he will give all the assistance he can to George Wells, in procuring the timber for the gondolas, and will always be glad of such commis- sions from you as it may be in his power to execute. I am, gentlemen, for Mr. J. Hollingsworth, your obedient BoeaD Ss Cates C. Goucu. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland, at An- napolis. JOHN HANSON, JUN., AND OTHERS, TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 13, 1776. GentLemeN: In consequence of a resolve of the Conven- tion, we, the Deputies from the several’: Committees of the Districts of this County, met and proceeded to the recom- mending of Officers for the two German Companies, and Lieutenants for the Rifle Company, whose names, together with a transcript of our proceedings, we here enclose you. As we have not heard from Captain Barrett, and have some reason to believe that he will not accept of his ap- pointment, from the emergency of the occasion, we beg leave, in case of his refusal, to recommend to your notice Mr. Thomas Beall, son of Colonel Samuel Beall, as a gen- tleman well qualified to fill that station, and one who, we are informed, would be able, in a very short time, to raise his company. We are, with respect, gentlemen, your obedient servants, Joun Hanson, Jun., H. Grirriru, Apam FiscuHer, Micuaer F'aLKner. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. Fredericktown, July 12, 1776. At a meeting of Deputies from the several Districts of this County, for the purpose of recommending Officers to the Council of Safety, for the command of two G'erman Companies, and Lieutenants to one Rifle Company, to be raised in this County : Were present, Messrs. John Hanson, Jr., Samuel Beall, Michael Falkner, and Adam Fischer. Resolved, That the following persons be recommended as Officers to the two German Companies: Wilkam Heiser, Captain; Jacob Cotz, First Lieutenant ; Adam Smith, Second Lieutenant; and Paul Christian, Ensign. Henry Fisher, Captain; Charles Balsall, First Lieuten- ant; Michael Barger, Second Lieutenant; and Jacob Crum- mitt, Ensign. . Adjourned till six o’clock to-morrow morning. July 13th, 1776. Same gentlemen present as yesterday. Resolved, ‘That the Lieutenants to the Rifle Company be recommended as follows : Peter Hanson, First Lieutenant; James Lingan, Second Lieutenant; and Richard Dorsey, Third Lieutenant. Ricuarp Ports, Clerk. JAMES HINDMAN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Oxford, July 13, 1776. GentLtemen: When I was in Somerset the Committee of Safety delivered me three prisoners to bring up as far as Talbot, there to be delivered to the Militia to send over to Annapolis. When I came to Cambridge I delivered them to a guard of Militia there, who had some men to send over. The Committee there, thinking I had no right to leave them there, have sent them over here to me, with a prisoner they had in custody, in expectation of my calling at Annapolis on my way to the head of Elk. As it may be a means of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 252 stopping us some time by calling, I have hired the boat to carry the prisoners over, whom you will please to pay, and take charge of the prisoners. I shall set off to-morrow morning early for the head of Elk, and shall make the. best of my way to Philadelphia as fast as possible. I am, gentlemen, your humble servant, James Hinpman. To the Hon. the Council of Safety, Annapolis. COLONEL BARNES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. Inigoes, July 13, 1776. Gentvemen: I received information on Friday, the 12th of July, that there was a considerable number of ships and small vessels between Smith’s Point and Point Lookout, on which I ordered five companies of Militia to repair there as fast as possible, and immediately set out to the Point myself, in order to get further information. On my arrival there, I found about forty sail of vessels; they were then about twenty-five miles off the Point, in the Bay, where they con- tinued till in the night. In the morning about fifty-eight sail were discovered opposite Smzth’s Creek in Potomack, and eight in the Bay, on which I gave orders to call the companies of my battalion immediately to march to Poto- mack, in order to prevent their landing in the district of the Twenty-first Battalion. We have had two small vessels driven on shore from the fleet; on board of one of them were three whites and two negroes, three of whom now have the small-pox on them. One of the white men informed us the fleet was Dunmore’s, and that Governour Eden was on board the Fowey, and that he heard it surmised that they intended to take possession of St. George’s Island; since which the Frowey and her tender have come to in St. Mary’s River; and I don’t doubt but the greatest part, if not all of the fleet, will be there in the morning. We have between two and three hundred of our Militia stationed in different places, and I have just sent off an express to Colonel Jordan to supply me with one or two hundred men of his battalion, if pos- sible. From the above affair, I think it would be proper Captain Beall’s company from Drum Point should be ordered here, and their place there supplied with the Militia of the County. I should be glad of your advice and assistance. I should have written you more particularly, but have been marching from place to place, from the morning tll now, which is twelve o’clock in the night, and am much tired. Mr. Hugh Hopewell has promised me to hire an express in Calvert to carry this to you, should therefore be glad you would pay him. I remain, gentlemen, your humble servant, Ricuarp Baryes. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. JOHN WESTON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Kingsbury Furnace, July 13, 1776. GentTLeMEN: I received your favour 8th current, and sorry it is out of my power to serve the Province with guns, as both our furnaces are out of blast, nor can we blow till late this fall for want of water. Captain Charles Ridgely’s furnace is in blast, and likely to continue for some time. I am, gentlemen, your humble servant, TNO oor To the Hon. the Council of Safety, Annapolis. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEES OF THE LOWER COUNTIES. [No. 33.] Annapolis, July 13, 1776. GentLemen: The bearer hereof (Colonel Ewing) will have occasion to spend some little time in your County, in forwarding the raising the men for the Flying-Camp, pur- chasing arms and blankets for them, and promoting in other respects the publick service. As he is pretty much a stranger in your part of the Province, he may be at a loss, perhaps, unless he receives some assistance from you; we therefore take the liberty of introducing him to you, and shall be obliged for any assistance you may give him, or any favours you may show him. We are, &c. To the Committees of the four lower Counties. 253 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 13, 1776. Sir: I am to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 10th instant, and to acquaint you that it is now under the consideration of Congress. The enclosed resolves I do myself the honour to transmit, as necessary for your information. I have written to Gene- ral Schuyler and the Commissioners for Indian Affairs re- specting the same. In obedience to the commands of Congress, I have en- closed you two copies of sundry resolves they have passed relative to the treatment of our prisoners by Captain Forster in Canada. Iam to request you will take the proper steps to send one of them to General Howe and the other to General Burgoyne. I transmit, also, a third copy for your own use. Should the United States of America give their sanction to the Jesuitical and villanous distinction which Captain Forster adopts to justify his conduct, there would be no end to butchering our prisoners. They have therefore very properly reprobated it; and, in the genuine spirit of freedom, resolved, that such cruelty as shall be inflicted on prisoners in their possession, by savages or foreigners taken into pay by the King of Great Britain, shall be considered as done by his orders, and recourse be immediately had to retalia- tion. It is to be hoped their determination will have the desired effect, and that for the future such barbarous scenes will never be acted under the eye and approbation of a British officer; for there is the greatest reason to believe that Captain Forster engaged the Indians to join him, on the express condition of giving up to them all such prisoners as might fall into his hands. His subsequent conduct, indeed, renders this conjecture more than probable. I have the honour to be, with perfect esteem, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington. One o'clock, P. M. This moment your favour per post of the 11th instant came to hand. I shall lay it before Congress on Monday morning. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Philadelphia, July 13, 1776. Sir: I am so extremely hurried at present that I must beg leave to refer your attention to the enclosed resolves ; and, indeed, this is all I have time to do. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Schuyler. PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE. Philadelphia County Committee, July 13, 1776. Resolved, That this Committee, in consequence of a Letter from the honourable Continental Congress, as well as from a recommendation of the Provincial Conference, do proceed to raise our part of the F'lying-Camp, and that the following gentlemen be appointed as Officers: Colonel, Robert Lewis ; Lieutenant-Colonel, Isaac Hughes; Major, John Moore, Esq.; Surgeon, Enoch Edwards ; Quartermaster, Marshall Edwards ; Adjutant, Solomon Bush. Captains: Archibald Thompson, George Smith, Henry Derringer, Jacob Laugh- lin, Rudolph Neff, Aaron Levering, Christian Shnyder, Henry Pawling, Joseph Jones. First Lieutenants: Marshall Edwards, Solomon Bush, Samuel Swift, William Wilson, Casper Doll, Samuel Hainds, Graudus Schlatter, Mordecai Morgan, David Schrach, Stephen Porter, Thomas Ros- setter. Second Lieutenants: William Armstrong, Leonard Dall, James Hazlet, George Bringhurst, Matthew Holgate, Jesse Roberts, Alexander Hall, Peacock Major. Ensigns: Andrew Barge, William North, William Nox, Abraham Duffield, Nathaniel Childs, Alewander Wright, James Potts, Rees Nanna. Extract from the minutes: Enocu Epwarps. The Officers appointed by the Committee of this County to compose the F'lying-Camp are requested to meet at the Conestoga Wagon, in Philadelphia, on Saturday, the 20th instant, at nine o’clock in the morning. Rosert Lewis. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. ' 254 JOHN COX TO JASPER YEATES. Philadelphia, July 13, 1776. My pear Frrenp: The enclosed letter came to hand a day or two after you left Philadelphia. My young man, not knowing but that.you intended returning home this way, kept it till I came home. Our Militia are all in motion, except three companies that are ordered to stay to guard the frigates, &c. he last of the Second Battalion will march off this afternoon, and I shall follow them this evening or to-morrow morning as their Lieutenant-Colonel. Where we shall go, or how long we shall continue in the service, God only knows. Our first encampment will be at Trenton, where I suppose we shall continue a few days, and advance towards the enemy. I am told the Militia of your County turn out with great cheerfulness. I make no doubt of our being able to muster twenty thousand men by the last of next week; if so, I take it there will be two to one in favour of our being ordered to dislodge the enemy, now at Staten-Island ; if so, 1 hope and pray we may distinguish ourselves as men fighting for every- thing that is valuable and dear. We have got one of the most gentlemanly fighting fellows you ever knew to command our privateer; and hope it will not be long before we shall be in possession of half a dozen rich sugar and dry-goods ships. Whenever you find it convenient, you will remit to my brother William two hundred pounds, which will be some- where about the amount of your share of the vessel. Should anything extraordinary turn up on the present campaign, you may expect to hear from me. I hope you reached home without any accident, and that you are all the better for your jaunt. I shall be much obliged by your settling the matter with Captain Patterson as soon as possible, as God only knows whether I ever shall return; and I should like matters so settled as to give those who come after me as little trouble as possible. God bless and protect you and yours, and believe me to be, with unfeigned sincerity, your affectionate and humble servant ’ Joun Cox. To Jasper Yeates, Esq. P. S. The packet mentioned above has been delivered to Colonel Ross, by his particular request. HENRY HALLER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Reading, July 13, 1776. Sir: We have received your letter, containing a resolve of Congress for the removal of the privates who are prisoners in this town, to Lancaster, which we shall carry into exe- cution with all the despatch in our power. We received a letter from the honourable the Delegates of this Province, mentioning that we should be informed by express, or by the gentlemen from our County then at Lan- caster, that all the Militia that could possibly be equipped and armed should be ealled forth. We also received a letter from the Committee of Lancaster, enclosing copies of letters from a Committee of Congress, and from the Committee of the City of Philadelphia; in the former of which it is men- tioned that the forces from the several Counties should be collected and marched to Brunswick ; in the latter it is men- tioned that only the four thousand five hundred men ordered to be raised in the Province, as part of the Flying-Camp, were meant by the letter of the Committee of Congress. We, therefore, continued our plan of raising our quota for the Flying-Camp, and, indeed, added a company more, to complete the battalion, hoping for the approbation of Con- gress in so doing; since which we have seen in the publick prints the proceedings of the Conference of the Delegates of the several Counties, and of the Committee of Safety of the City and Liberties. But as we had nearly raised several companies to compose the Flying-Camp, (the place of which this Militia is intended to supply,) and the others were pro- ceeding with great success, considering the great scarcity of every kind of tolerable arms among the people to arm such a multitude, we hope our completing the original plan will be approved of, as the men will be more quickly raised and better equipped than if we were to take down the whole Militia. Our conduct is dictated by the warmest attachment to the 255 cause of our country, and we trust it will be considered in that light by the honourable Congress. We are, with great respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servants, : Henry Hatwer, Epwarp Burp, Joun Wurman, Jun., Paut Kerser, Coxiuinson Reap, To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. Committee of Correspondence for Berks. WILLIAM H. ATLEE TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 16, 1776.] In Committee, Lancaster, July 13, 1776. GentLemen: The Committee were this afternoon hon- oured with your instructions of the 12th instant, with the resolve of Congress empowering and requesting the Com- mittee to keep a guard over the prisoners in the Barracks in this place, and to surround the Barracks with a stockade fort. The Committee will give the strictest attention to the matters recommended to their notice by Congress, and will have these resolves carried into execution with all the des- patch in their power. ‘They have sent off an express to General Irving, requesting his presence to direct the form and manner of the stockade, and hope on Monday morning to begin this necessary work, and flatter themselves they will then have the opportunity of consulting with him as to the proper guard and necessary workmen, and materials to be employed and used in this business. We have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servants. By order of the Committee: Wituiam H. Atire, Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COMMITTEE OF NEW-YORK CON- VENTION. Head-Quarters, July 13, 1776. GentLemen: A multiplicity of engagements, and a con- tinual pressure of other concerns, have prevented our pro- ceeding in the case of the soldiers confined for 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 sug- gest the propriety of the authority of the Province taking some steps with regard to those persons confined by them for the same offences. ‘They certainly are to be deemed the principals; and justice to the inferior agents, while the others pass unnoticed, [ observe, only excites compassion and cen- sure. I am very sensible it is a case full of difficulty and perplexity, and well deserving your most serious deliberation ; nor do I entertain a doubt but the result will be such as will conduce to the publick good. I have, some time ago, mentioned to the body of which you are a Committee, the. necessity of falling upon some measure to remove from the city and its environs persons of known disaffection and enmity 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 the purpose, that I beg leave again to repeat it, and do most earnestly entreat you to fall upon some plan for this purpose, or to give me your assistance doing it, so as to remove those disquieting and discouraging apprehensions which pervade the whole Army on this sub- ’ ject. 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 conse- quences in many respects, if a remedy to the evil is not soon and efficaciously applied. The removal of the Tory prisoners, confined in the jail of this city, is a matter to which I would solicit your atten- tion. 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 importance and necessity of the case could induce me thus to urge these matters, in which you have also an immediate and ‘common interest. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 256 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 commit- ted to officers of the Army, who, from their ignorance of the inhabitants, as well as other reasons, are wholly improper for 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 and very humble servant, Go. Wasuineron. To the Committee of the Honourable the Convention of the State of New-York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO EGBERT BENSON. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 13, 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 An- thony’s Nose. 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 highest reason to believe it will be absolutely necessary, if it were only to prevent an insurrection of your own ‘Tories. I am, sir, yours, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Egbert Benson, Esq., Chairman of the Committee of Dutchess County. P.S. A return must be immediately made to me of the number of men you collect. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO CAPTAIN DENNIS. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 13, 1776. Sir: Mr. Duer informs me that there are two or three vessels lying at the dock of Mr. Beverly Robinson, in the Highlands. As it is probable the men-of-war which sailed up the river yesterday may have anchored to the northward of these ships, I think it absolutely necessary that an at- tempt should be made to secure these vessels for future service. I have therefore to desire the favour of you to procure proper persons to bring these vessels down the river, and to anchor them under the fort where General Mifflin commands. It is absolutely necessary that this matter should be conducted with the utmost secrecy and despatch; and as I am of opinion that you possess these requisites, | have thought proper to apply to you for your services in this matter. I an, sir, &c., To Captain Dennis. Go. WAsHINGTON. INSTRUCTIONS TO SUPERINTEND lsT NEW-YORK. TO CAPTAIN JOHN JOHNSON. THE NORTH RIVER FERRY. It is General Washington’s orders that Captain Johnson, of Colonel McDougall’s. Regiment, do daily attend from sunrise to dark in the evening at the North-River Ferry wharves, leading both to Powles-Hook and Hoghbook, at which, or between which places, all boats coming to the west side of the town, are to land, where he in the first place is to examine all passengers going from the town, and to see that they have genuine passes from the Committee or one of the General Officers. In the next place, he is particularly to be attentive to the passengers who arrive in town. If they are travellers, such as he can have no sus- picion of, he is only to require their names and the places where they intend to lodge, and report them to the General at noon and in the evening. If they are in any manner of suspicious characters, he is to detain them at some conve- nient house, to be appointed for that purpose in the neigh- bourhood, till he can send his report (which is to be done immediately) to Head-Quarters, and the General’s determi- nation be had thereon. He is also to examine the passen- gers of all other boats (besides the ferry boats) which may arrive, and report in like manner, And in order the better to enable Captain Johnson to carry these instructions into execution, the commanding 257 officer of the North-River guard is to give him every necessary aid in his power. Captain Johnson is to commu- nicate these instructions to the Committee appointed to give passes. By the General’s order at Head-Quarters, this 13th of July, 1776. STIRLING. NEW-YORK COMMITTEE. Committee Chamber, New-York, July 13, 1776. Resolved, That in the opinion of this Committee, the Members of the different Fire-Engine Companies that re- main in this City ought not to be called out on any military duty which the common Militia of this City and County are subject to; and that it be recommended to the different Captains of the said Firemen, to engage as many able citizens as are sufficient to fill up the vacancies of such Fire- men as are entered in the Continental service, or have removed out of town; and that they pay strict attention to the state of the Engine and publick buckets; and that the Captains aforesaid return a list of all such Firemen as soon as possible to this Committee. Extract from the Minutes. Published by order of the Committee: Joserpu Winter, Secretary. JOHN McKESSON TO ROBERT BENSON. Saturday, A. M., 10 o’clock. Dear Broruer Bos: I received yours of Thursday. The city has been a scene of confusion, but begins to be more settled. Many of the Jersey Militia are gone to the Kills and Bergen-Point. 'They are the best Militia, and with better arms and accoutrements, than any other Militia I have ever seen. ‘There are some exchanges of cannon about the Narrows and Kills every day. Yesterday after- noon, either two or three tenders went up the Kills succes- sively, and fired at our troops, who returned the fire so briskly that the tenders soon returned. ‘The first tender soon re- turned to the fleet, when a second was sent. She was, or appeared to be, larger, but did not tarry long after the firing between them began. I send you a parcel of papers to put in the chest, and a few letters for the President and Members. Pray let me know whether the order for issuing commis- sions extended to Colonels Ritzema’s and Clinton’s regi- ments, or either. Ifso, please to send me a bundle or two of commissions. I had only forty-two left here. All the officers are vastly impatient, and some of them seem unwil- ling to think of coming to any action without commissions. T have ventured to issue the commissions for Captain Beau- man’s company, as he, though the youngest Captain in the Artillery corps, is assigned to the first place of danger. I hope the gentlemen will approve my conduct in this instance. I find I am of some use here, which, together with my expectation, as well from publick report as your letter, of your change of plan, has prevented my joining you. If you are likely to tarry at the Plains, or if you do not send me some blank commissions, I shall attend you without delay. My best compliments to the gentlemen of Congress, and Mr. Bancker. It is said that Westchester men are much alarmed at the great consumption of their sunfish, and that a considerable share of that waste is charged to Mr. Alderman Brasher and a few other gentlemen. I have got cartridges for your fusee, and will bring both whenever [ can be certain where to join you. I am, sincerely yours, Jou McKrssow. To Robert Benson, Esq. P.S. The Mayor’s Court stands adjourned to next Tues- day. ‘The Mayor refuses to appoint a Deputy. Some of the Magistrates fear the loss of the City charter; and Mr. Alderman Bayard writes by this conveyance to the Record- er to come to town, and open and adjourn the Court. ELECTION OF OFFICERS IN QUEEN’S COUNTY, NEW-YORK,. By orders of the Queen’s County Committee, July 13, 1776, we, the subscribers, were appointed a sub-Com- Firry Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 258 mittee to regulate the districts of Captain Peter Nostrant, on the south side of Hempstead, that four Companies had been thrown into one. Accordingly, we have made the district of the late Captain John Birdsall’s Company for one Company, and accordingly notified the people on this day to meet and choose their military officers. There met a number of men, and made choice of Richard Jackson for their Captain, Zebulon Seaman for First-Lieutenant, John Lewis for Second-Lieutenant, and Smith Brush Ensign ; to which we beg the favour of the honourable Provincial Con- gress to grant them their commissions. Gentlemen, we are your very humble servants, Joun Witutams, Joun Brepsaty, Bensamin Brrosawu, Three of the County Committee. JOHN COE TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER AT PAULUS-HOOK. Haverstraw, July 13, 1776. Sir: The regiment of this County is now, and has been, under arms all night, occasioned by the appearance of several ships-of-war of the Ministerial fleet, now lying in Tappan Bay. We have heard that another part of the same fleet attacked the city of New-York last evening; but what has been the event, or whether they have been able to pass the forts on the river, we are not able to learn. As we would endeavour to ease the County as much as is consistent with the publick service, at this busy season of the year, we have despatched the bearer, Mr. Reselvert Van Houter, express to you, and beg you would give him the necessary informa- tion relative to the action of yesterday, and your advice on the necessary steps to be taken by us to prevent the enemy from making inroads and depredations on the west side of Hudson’s River. We are, sir, your humble servants. By order of the County Committee for Orange County: Joun Cor, Dep. Chairman. To the Commanding Officer of the Continental Forces at Paulus-Hook, or on the west side of Hudson’s River. NATHANIEL WOODHULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of } New-York, White-Plains, July 13, 1776. § Sir: On being informed yesterday afternoon that two ships-of-war had gone into the North River, and passed by all the fortifications on York-Island, the Convention imme- diately sent an express to the commanding officer of the fort at the Highlands, advising him thereof. Last evening, advice arrived that two frigates and two or three tenders were at anchor at Tarrytown; whereupon, the Convention sent the inhabitants a supply of powder and ball, and took immediate measures for reinforcing the inhabi- tants along that shore. ‘This morning, the Convention were informed that the frigates and tenders still lay there at anchor, and that several barges were busy in sounding the river. Another detachment of the Militia has been directed to guard the stores in that neighbourhood, in which are sundry effects belonging to the publick. The Convention will endeavour to prevent their making incursions into the country; and beg leave to suggest to your Excellency the propriety of keeping a strong guard at King’s Bridge, the destruction of which they apprehend to be an object with the enemy. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, By order: NaruanteL Woopuuty, President. To His Excellency General Washington, at Head-Quarters, New- York. NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO COLONEL HAMMOND. White-Plains, July 13, 1776. Sir: We last evening ordered Colonel Thomas to send you a reinforcement of forty or fifty men, together with one hundred pounds of lead, and two quarter-casks of powder, all of which we hope you have received. There is no great reason to apprehend that any considera- ble incursions into the country will be made by parties from the ships in the river; and we are therefore of opinion that it 17 259 would not be expedient for great numbers of the Militia to leave their farms at this busy season of the year. Great attention should be paid to the conduct of the dis- affected among us, and care taken to prevent any unusual gatherings of them; and let all such of them be appre- hended and secured as may give any aid to the enemy, or threaten to give us any molestation. Colonel Drake will give the necessary orders for provi- sions, and we hope the Whigs of this County will distinguish themselves by their zeal and alacrity on this occasion. We are, sir, your very humble servants. To Lieutenant-Colonel Hammond. NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO COLONEL VAN CORTLANDT. White-Plains, July 13, 1776. Sir: Be pleased to order such a number of your regi- ment to guard the stores in which provisions and other effects belonging to the publick are lodged, at and near Peekskill, as you may think necessary. Colonel Drake will afford them the necessary supplies of bread and pork. As it would not be prudent, on every little alarm, to call great numbers of the inhabitants from their farms, we hope the detachments you may order on service will not be greater than the exigency of affairs may require. Weare, sir, your most obedient servants. To Colonel Pierre Van Cortlandt. COLONEL JAMES CLINTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Fort Constitution, July 13, 1776. May if PLEASE Your ExceLiency: Your express of the 12th I just now received, and will endeavour to comply with the contents. We had a most unfortunate accident happen here yes- terday. As Lieutenant Bryant and one Nicoll, both of the Artillery, were scaling out a couple of cannon which we had just mounted, before having flashed a little powder out of one of them, and not spunging her properly, when the Lieutenant was putting in the wad, the cannon went off, shot off his hand, and blew Nicoll several yards, as he was standing by to ram down the charge. Nicoll was mortally wounded ; the Lieutenant had his right arm cut off. We want more officers of the Artillery here very much, as Lieutenant Bryant is a great loss to us. We are scarce of gun-flints and good arms. l am, your Excelleney’s most obedient, humble servant, James Curnron, Colonel. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO JOHN LANGDON. Albany, July 13, 1776. Sir: By Captain Wentworth I was favoured with yours of the 2d instant, who also delivered me £806 Qs. 6d., lawful money, for which I have given him duplicate receipts. Captain Wentworth’s immediate return puts it out of my power to pay him that attention which your recommendation, and, I dare say his merit, would entitle him to. I have pressed him, but in vain, to accompany me to a treaty, to be held with the Stx Nations, at the German-Flats. General Sullivan is on his way down. He thinksa slight has been put on him, by appointing General Gates to the command of the troops that were then supposed to be in Canada, and talks of quitting the Army. I should be sorry if he did, because I have reason to believe him a good officer. His retreat from Canada, where he could not possibly have remained with an Army so miserably broken as that he com- manded, has been judiciously made, and reflects honour on him. Adieu, and believe me, with respect, sir, your most obedi- ent, humble servant, Pu. Scuvy er GENERAL SCHUYLER TO JEREMIAH POWELL. Albany, July 13, 1776. Sir: Your letters of the 29th ultimo, and Ist instant, I had the honour to receive at Ticonderoga a few days ago. I deferred answering them until I should be able to give you some account of the measures taken to prevent that dreadful malady, which has so greatly reduced our Army, from infect- ing the Militia intended to reinforce it. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 260 The main body of the Army is removing to Ticonderoga, when they will be immediately employed in constructing such fortifications on the west side of Lake Champlain as may be necessary to prevent the enemy from drawing over their boats into Lake George, should they obtain a naval superiority; which, however, I have not the least apprehen- sion that they will be able to effect this campaign. On the east side of Lake Champlain, and opposite to Ticon- deroga, the grounds are remarkably strong; and it is con- cluded to be the place for a fortified camp, to be occupied by the Militia to prevent the enemy penetrating the Colonies in that quarter; and by means of our batteaus, both bodies may reciprocally support each other, as the distance from shore to shore is only half a mile. This disposition will effectually prevent the small-pox from being conveyed to the Militia by the now infected Army; and we hope that in a few weeks both bodies may join without danger, should there be occasion, as all the sick and infected are removing to Fort George, to which place every one hereafter seized with the small-pox will be sent, and there kept until they are perfectly cleansed. : Our Army is much recovered since their return to Crown- Point, and I hope in a little time to find it healthy and fit to give the enemy a warm reception, should they be able to cross the Lake and attempt an attack. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Puitie SCHUYLER. To the Hon. Jeremiah Powell, Esq., President of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, &c. P.S. When I was at Crown-Point, I proposed to a council of officers an expedient to procure the return of the deserters from the northern Army; and it was unani- mously agreed that I should write to the different Govern- ments from whence troops had been sent, entreating the Governours and Commanders-in-Chief to issue their Procla- mations promising pardon to all such as should return by a limited time, to be fixed by such Governours, &c.; and to require all officers, civil and military, in their respective Governments, to apprehend all such deserters as. should not comply with the terms offered. May I be permitted to entreat your Honour to issue such Proclamation in your Colony. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, July 13, 1776. Dear Genera: J arrived here at two yesterday after- noon. The latest accounts from New-York are of Tuesday last. The enemy were landed on Staten-Island to the num- ber of about seven thousand, and, it is thought, were waiting for reinforcements. A body of them also debarked on Long- Island, but did not remain long, being apprehensive of an attack from some of our troops who were on their march to- ward them. A small tender of theirs, in going up the Kells between Bergen-Point and Staten-Island, has beén sunk, either by our batteries or some craft we had there. The Mayor of New-York, Forbes, and the other conspir- ators, are still confined. J cannot learn what is to be their fate. I have this morning sent you three hundred and forty-eight felling axes and fifty spades, and have written to Connecticut and the western towns of the Massachusetts, to collect and immediately forward whatever they can. All the blacksmiths are at work in this place and in Schenectady, and I hope to collect some in the country, having given orders for that purpose. On the 2d instant, Congress declared the American Colo- nies free and independent States; and it is said that there was not one dissenting Colony. No lead is yet arrived here. I have again requested General Washington to send whatever he can spare. I have repeated my orders for a full supply of fresh provisions to be immediately sent; pray let the pork be husbanded as much as possible, as I fear we shall not be able to procure much more. Permit me to remind you to order all the brick from Crown-Point, as well those wrought up into chimnies as the others. The bearer, Major Ely, is sent by the Colony of Connec- tecut to give his assistance as a physician who has had much experience in the fatal malady which so greatly distresses us. Permit me to recommend him to your attention. 261 I have written Governour Tyumbull and President Powell, and pointed out the disposition we have made of the Army, and observed on the good prospect we have of eradicating the small-pox and preventing its seizing the Militia. A quantity of lead is just arrived and shall be forwarded to you without delay. We are this moment informed by Mr. Wray, who left New-York on Tuesday, that a fleet of seventeen French men-of-war was arrived at Rhode-Island, with Mr. Deane on board. The account has been repeated to him on his way up. I hope for the pleasure of a confirmation of this account. I shall desire the Postmaster here to send you all the letters for the Army, with a blank commission for a Post- master, to be filled up by you. Pay my respects to General Arnold. _I am, dear sir, with great truth and sincerity, your most obedient humble servant, Puitie ScHUYLER. To the Hon. General Gates. P. VAN RENSSELAER TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, July 13, 1776. Sir: General Schuyler desired me to acquaint you that I have sent two sets of carpenter’s tools and two of black- smith’s tools to Fort George, and to be forwarded to Ticon- deroga. 1 also sent this day three hundred and fifty-one axes, fifty-one spades, eight boxes of musket ball, containing eleven hundred and thirty-five pounds, and two tuns of bar lead. Eight tuns remain in store. I am, sir, with respect, your most humble servant, P. V. RenssELAER. To the Hon. Major-General Gates, Ticonderoga. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL ARNOLD. Head-Quarters, Ticonderoga, July 13, 1776. Dear Sir: I am anxious to have you here as soon as possible, as maintaining our naval superiority is of the last importance. I labour continually to get the Commodore to Crown-Point with the vessels, but am baffled by the lazi- ness of the artificers, or the neglect of those whose duty it is to see them diligent at their work. I hourly expect one or two more gondolas from Skenesborough, and shall labour all in my power to get them rigged and armed. I am certain you will not lose a moment in forwarding the troops and stores from the Point. We shall be happy or miserable, as we are or are not prepared to receive the enemy. I am your affectionate humble servant, Horatio Gates. To Brigadier-General Arnold. COLONEL BEDEL TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 13, 1776. Sir: I have just received intelligence by letter from the frontier towns on Connecticut River, viz: Cohos, that the inhabitants there are, in general, in great terrour on account of the savages, and a great number of them have left their farms with their families ; some remain, making stockade forts round their houses to defend themselves. And as the savages from St. Frangots, &c., are the only ones near them at present, | am, in a great measure, inclined to think that I could in a short time raise such a number of them as would be able to defend that part, as the savages from other parts would never venture that way when they found friend] savages protecting us. The savage who comes with this will be able to inform your Honour more particularly relating to the disposition and nature of savages in such cases. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Tivoruy Bepet. To Major-General Gates. EE Providence, Rhode-Island, July 13, 1776. Since the 6th instant some Officers of the British Fleet, who had broken their parole of honour by going beyond the limits prescribed by the General Congress, were brought to town and secured in Jail. 7 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 262 GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Lebanon, July 13, 1776. Sir: In conformity to a resolve of Congress of the 27th ultimo, I sent to Mr. Shaw for an account of the cannon left at New-London by Commodore Hopkins—their num- ber, size, bore, and weight; and also an account of the other cannon there. Enclosed is a copy of his return made me, by which it appears, that if the fourteen heaviest cannon had been sent to Philadelphia, there would not have been one twenty-four-pounder in our,fort, and only one eighteen of those left by the Commodore. ‘The ten of nine are old. We have been necessitated to make use of them for the present: one of them unfit for use. The plan sent, and other representations, show the situ- ation and advantages of the harbour of New-London. Hitherto the Sound has not been invested by the enemy. Yesterday I received your letter of the 6th instant, en- closing the Declaration of the United States of America. I shall have it proclaimed in the Colony in such a manner that the people may be universally informed of it. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JonaTHAN TRUMBULL. To the Honourable President Hancock. Cannon received from Commodore Horxins, and to whom delivered. Cwt. qrs. Ibs. 1 Cannon....35 2 18 Twelve. Vi CONG ee ae chy ale! do. i) COseue: os SY ee do. Ie ogee ste of ON LE do. je . Odes thee igh ’ j Cwl. grs. tbs. ; a ae re 3 = yk ¢392 2 17, Groton Fort. le Wipieaeee 50 1 4 Twenty-four. Li dostiae Sta) |) # do. ek d Os sratcie 52410 16 do. 10 Ja dO, cfu. [Sa Seos Ning: 6 Cannon, twenty-fours..........+0+++..308 0 6, Philadelphia. LR dow terre. 51 2 3 Twenty-four. ) 1 doy sce. Some Oeeen dO. UM OSs cceiey Sie ele 19 do. LUG ae 40 0 5 Eighteen. ‘ Lepe’'d Oxf. atarets 3925-20 do. 373 2 14, Mamecock Ft. IW dito. en 34 3 25 Twelve. | ’ T—l “docens- Belew iho ts: do. 1 LPdos Pare: Bon 2 4 do.* nak Gtavefotore SOmOmEt, do.* 25 [ Shark. Ae AO. gs <= 75 0,20 Nine ) Row Galley Bag Oe 75 0 20 do +169 0 17. do. Crane. Qe dOse ce ctate lS shies do. j My Wharf. 34 Cannon. Weight, 1,243 1 26 * Mounted on travelling carriages. Account of Colony Cannon at New-Lonpon. Cwt. qrs. lbs. 1 Cannon....34 2 0 Twelve. ) i oe ‘ ‘ ; ; a 3 4 Pighien, | Mounted on ship car- Bi’ dolseey 2 ee PST | Hae: Wb CO svecetorsis = P=) =) Four: 7—2 do...... oF hows LOTR. Mounted on field carriages. Account of Colony Cannon at Groron. Cut. grs. lhs. 1 Cannon....40 1 10 Eighteen. TE LOS aer AR) 8} ali! do. Pe done: crete 34 3 10 Twelve. Mounted. ir Osta tar oo leno do. 2 do...old,nomark. Six. Lesanon, July 13, 1776. True copy from Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, Jun. Account per JONATHAN TRUMBULL. JOHN KEIGHLEY TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS. Boston Jail, July 13, 1776. May rr pLease your Honours: I am extremely sorry I have occasion to be so troublesome, but this distressed situation obliges me—health of body and peace of mind being so much impaired; and with humble submission, I cannot conceive any crime I have committed that could deserve three months’ close confinement in the room of a prison designed for felons. I have acted in no way preju- dicial to this country. If any accuse me of it, I beg to face them, that I may acquit myself to the satisfaction of all. I know it is not in the power of man to prove me, directly or indirectly, concerned in taking away the property of any person whatever, and desire to acquit myself of any charge of that kind also. 263 Honourable gentlemen, my case is truly bard, in being obliged to suffer so long in the miseries of a common jail, without having it in my power to prove (by being brought to examination and duly heard) that I do not merit it, unless in attempting to take my property to another part of the world is a crime that deserves such rigorous treatment. Therefore, I humbly beg your Honours that if any accusa- tion has been laid against me I may have an opportunity to clear myself, and induce your Honours to release me out of this unhappy, miserable situation. And am, with respect, your Honours’ most obedient humble servant , Epwarp KerigHLey. To the Honourable Council at Watertown. JOSEPH HAWLEY TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS. Northampton, July 13, 1776. May iT pease your Honours: The levies for rein- forcing the northern Army are making in the County of Hampshire as expeditiously, and more so, than could be expected. But in the town of Northampton, where its full quota is complete, (and [ am informed in some other towns,) there is a vehement desire to take small-pox by inoculation before they march. ‘The delay which will unavoidably be occasioned by such a step will be so great that I dare not give the least countenance to the proposal; besides, the Army is retreated to Crown-Point, and thereby the practi- cability or possibility of suppressing that distemper in the Army appears to me very probable; and it is also very probable, in my humble opinion, that the service of that Army, through the season, will be much more by detached bodies than it would have been if they had continued in Canada, and perhaps in parts where there will be but very little danger of the small-pox. From these considerations, I have great doubt whether your Honours will give leave for such a delay. If it be granted to any, the indulgence must be general ; and what destruction may befall that Army, in the mean time, for want of recruits, none can foresee ; per- haps a total defeat and dispersion of them. But it is insisted that I should ‘write to your Honours on this head, and I must beg an answer as soon as possible. I beg your Honours to pardon me if I suggest the absolute necessity of some person or persons being at No. 4, prepared to pay the men their mileage, and to deliver them their rations for their further march, as soon as any troops may arrive there; otherwise, it is easy to foresee that the greatest confusion will take place there. Sufficient care had not been taken in this most important particular when I left Court, and I can hear nothing of the matter since. ‘There is no advice here that any person has arrived at No. 4 as yet for that purpose. The Committee for Hampshire have not so much as received the resolve directing what route the troops shall take. I pray that it may be sent by the bearer, (Mr. Clark,) as also, if your Honours so please, your directions respecting inocu- lation. : I am, with most humble respects, your Honours’ most obedient humble servant, JosepH Hawtey. To the Honourable the Council of Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England. COLONEL J. HURD TO GENERAL SULLIVAN, Haverhill, (Cohos,) July 13, 1776. Sir: The bearer of this (Captain Samuel Paine) having made a voluntary offer of his services to go on a scout towards Canada, for the good of the common cause, I em- brace the opportunity of paying my respects to you from this part of the country, and to acquaint you something of our present critical situation. ; I was at Exeter about ten days ago, attending the publick business, where we were alarmed with repeated accounts of the ill success of our forces in Canada; that the Army under your command, having dismantled the fortress St. John, had retreated to Isle-aux-Noix, and from thence were going over the lake with all expedition to Crown-Point, which of course left the northwest parts of the New-Hampshire Colony open to the incursions of the enemy, and defenceless. This news, with the exaggerated accounts of the numerous Ministerial Army lately arrived at Quebeck, struck such a consternation and panick into our people settled along upon Connecticut CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 264 River, that they immediately began to pluck up stakes and remove with their effects and live stock from the Upper and Lower Cohos to the interior country. Those who determined to remain here set about building fortifications of some sort for the defence of their women and children, and a consider- able number of families live now in garrison, having quitted their plantations and risked the loss of the near harvest, though the finest appearance of crops, to their great damage. My own family (the better part) I met half way on the road as I was returning here, where I left them, and came on to encourage the people in this quarter what | could. Our Assembly have, in consequence of very pressing letters from the Continental Congress, resolved upon raising two battalions, of seven hundred and fifty men each, to march into Canada for your reinforcement; and have, for greater expedition, determined to draught the men proportionally from the several regiments of Militia, giving, at the same time, a bounty of £7 18s., besides a month’s advance wages, for encouragement. They have also determined upon raising two hundred men, particularly for the defence of this part of the Colony, to be kept on ranging duty between Connec- ticut River and Lake Champlain, and towards the head of Connecticut River, in which quarter we are most exposed while your Army is stationed at Crown-Point. .'This, sir, you must be so sensible of, that I need but hint it. You are also acquainted of the new road which was opening under care of Colonel Bayley, from Cohkos, on a northwest course, to Missisque Bay, and thence to St. John’s, by particular direction from General Washington; on which road there were upwards of fifty persons employed, and had got nearly thirty miles through when this news reached here; upon which Colonel Bayley desisted, and called off his workmen. I take the liberty to enclose you a sketch of this road, from a plan first draughted by Mr. Metcalf, which, if you have not seen; I thought might be of some service; and, if otherwise, your politeness, I trust, will excuse the trouble. You will please to give Captain Paine such advice and directions respecting his scout as you may think best. We shall be anxiously expecting his return, that we may know better what we have to depend upon; and if the multiplicity of your affairs will admit of a few minutes’ time, I shall think myself much honoured by a line from you. Wishing the hand of a kind Providence may cover you in every danger, preserve your valuable life and health, I am, with great esteem and respect, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Joun Hurp. To the Hon. Major-General Sullivan. P.S. I have had the pleasure to see a copy of your letter from Crown-Point, of 3d instant, to Colonel Hoising- ton, and to observe, though your Army was much weakened with sickness, you were not apprehensive of any immediate danger from the enemy, they having no vessels of force on the lake, nor boats in readiness for transporting. Our greatest danger, we fear, at present, is from small skulking parties of Canadians or Indians, should they take up the hatchet against us. Yet we have this good circumstance in our favour: the St. Francois tribe and Caughnawaga have still some of their children at Dartmouth College, under Doctor Wheelock’s tuition, which one would think they would cer- tainly remove before they begin hostilities. July 14.—Since writing the above, I have seen a letter from Captain Ira Allen, on Onion River, by one of our scouts, in which he writes that Colonel Waite, by your orders, was stationed there with two hundred men, and that he expected there would be a line of block forts from that river to Connecticut River. This may answer a good pur- pose, but will not be sufficient. ‘The northern parts of our Colony will still be exposed, our settlements extending seventy miles on this river above the Lower Cohos; and it appears to us here that nothing but the enemy’s ignorance of the country and our weak situation, or their want of men, prevents them from forcing their way into these parts ; the consequence of which, (should such a plan take place as recommended by the notorious Mr. Brush) you can easily conjecture. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN EAMES. In Committee of Safety, July 13, 1776. You are hereby authorized to inlist fifty good, able-bodied, and effective men, officers included, to serve as soldiers under 265 you for three months, (unless sooner discharged,) as scouting parties, to make their Head-Quarters at Great Cohos; not taking more than ten of the inhabitants of said Great Cohos in the number. And you are to make return, as often as you can conveniently, of your routes, discoveries, &c., &c., to Colonels Bayley, Hurd, and Charles Johnson, at Lower Cohos, and take their instructions from time to time for your future conduct. The men you inlist are to be paid thirty shillings as a bounty, and assure them they shall receive forty shillings per month when your roll is made up. And the Company are to choose a Lieutenant, Ensign, and two Sergeants. You, as Captain, shall receive £6, your Lieutenant £4, and Ensign £3, each Sergeant 48s. per month. ‘The Captain, Lieutenant, and Ensign, to receive no bounty. To Captain Jeremiah Eames. CAPTAIN ROBERT PARKER TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Lee, July 13, 1776. GentiEmMEN: I am to inform you that I have just received a letter from Peter Bigerat, Esq., merchant in Martinico, who informs me that there has been a great scarcity of pro- visions there, owing to a number of vessels being detained in France on account of contrary winds. On the 6th of May MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 266 was the first arrival for a long time ; and since, unto the 14th of the above month, fourteen sail have arrived, and brought one hundred thousand weight of gunpowder, a great many chests of firearms, and great quantities of coarse woollen cloths. ‘There are likewise twelve sail expected hourly, with ten thousand or twelve thousand weight of powder in each vessel. He further adds, there is not a board or codfish in the Island, and you may have immediate despatch and a great price for the above articles ; therefore, if your Honours think fit to send a vessel with fish and lumber, I think there is a great prospect of making a good voyage, and little or no danger of being taken, as there are no cruisers on this coast, they being chiefly traced up in the West-Indies on account of the hurricane months. If your Honours see fit to hire a vessel and send it for the above purpose, I know of one that is a good sailer and will answer, and shall be glad to serve you in so good a cause if you think me worthy of being trusted as master. And am, with respect, your most obedient, humble servant, Roserr Parker. N. B. My letter was dated the 14th of May. He says powder was 5s. 10d., on account of our vessels waiting there so long, but it has since fallen a great deal, and he thinks it will be low. The woollen goods are cheap, and I fear they will be much wanted in our Army next winter. RR, P. RESOLVES OF MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Resolves of the General Assembly of the Colony of Massa- cuusetts-Bay, begun and held at Warerrown, in the County of MippLesex, on Wepyespay, the twenty-ninth day of May, being the last Wepnespay in said month, Anno Domini, 1776. Resolve for supplying the Town of GLoucesterR with Can- non, &c., passed May 31, 1776. Whereas the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston are doubtful whether the safety of the Colony will admit of Peter Coffin, Esq., being supplied by the Commis- sary-General with two pieces of Cannon, eighteen-pounders, agreeable to a Resolve of Court of the 8th instant: Therefore, Resolved, That said Commissary be directed to deliver to the said Peter Coffin, Esq., either two pieces of Cannon, eighteen-pounders, or two other Cannon, such as said Com- mittee may judge may be best spared, consistent with the safety of the Colony, agreeable to the spirit and intention of said Resolve of the 8th instant ; together with the Carriages, Spunges, and all other appurtenances, and one hundred Balls for each Cannon, suitable for the same. Resolve for filling up the four Companies at DorcuesteR, passed JuNE 3, 1776. Whereas an Order passed the late General Court, direct- ing that the four Companies which had done duty at Dor- chester, Braintree, Weymouth, and Hingham, should be immediately filled up, and commissionated by the Council, and should be upon the sea-coast establishment; but no Inlisting Orders were delivered out; for want of which, and from the apprehension of their services being required with- out the limits of said Towns, the Order of Court has not been complied with: Therefore, Resolved, That Inlisting Orders, agreeable hereto, be im- mediately delivered out, and signed by the Honourable Joseph Palmer, Esq., and that said Companies, when full, or nearly full, shall have their Officers commissionated by the Coun- cil; and if they should be required to do duty out of said ‘Towns, in other parts of this Colony, they shall, during the time of their so doing duty, be entitled to the same pay that other ‘Troops employed in said service may be entitled to. Resolve for paying Colonels Marsnati and Wuitney one month’s advance Wages, &c.; passed June 3, 1776. Resolved, That David Jeffries, Esq., be, and he hereby is, ordered and directed to pay to each Non-Commissioned Officer and Private Soldier (or his order) in the Regiments under the command of Colonel Marshall and Colonel Whit- ney, and in the seven Companies of Matrosses commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Crafts, on their passing muster, one month’s advance wages, and 13s. 4d. in lieu of a blanket, together with one penny per mile from his usual place of abode to Boston: Provided, 'That the Captains of the several Companies shall exhibit to said Paymaster a roll, on oath, expressing each man’s name, the town wherein he has been last a resident, and the number of miles from thence to Boston; and that there be paid out of the publick ‘Treasury of this Colony to the said David Jeffries, the sum of £2000, for the purposes aforesaid—he to be accountable to this Court for the same. poi Resolve to supply Captain WiceLeswortu with seven Fire- Arms; passed June 3, 1776. Resolved, 'That the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver unto Captain John Wiggles- worth, commander of a Vessel fixed out by this Colony, to cruise to observe the motions of the enemy’s ships, the num- ber of seven Smallarms and appurtenances, for those men that are not able to procure them themselves—the said Wigglesworth giving his receipt to be accountable to this Court for the same. And it is further resolved, That the Honourable the Council be, and they hereby are, desired to give the said Wigglesworth a commission as Captain of said vessel, to cruise against the enemy’s ships. — Resolve appointing a Committee to purchase Cannon for the armed Vessels; passed June 3, 1776. Resolved, That Captain Batchelor, Mr. Durfee, and Brigadier Palmer, be a Committee, with the Commissary- General of this Colony, to purchase and provide what Can- non are necessary for the armed Vessels of this Colony, with all expedition. es Resolve on the Account of Jacoz BoarpMan; passed June 3, 1776. On the Account of Jacob Boardman, for fitting out the Schooner Britannia: Resolved, That there be paid to him, out of the publick Treasury, the sum of £11, in full of his Account. Resolve to erect a F ortification at PuymourH; passed JUNE 4, 1776. Resolved, That a Fortification be erected on the Gurnet, at the entrance of the Harbour of Plymouth, and a number of men posted there, to secure that Harbour against the enemy’s ships going in to land men there, or securing them- selves against the danger of the sea, and for securing a place of rendezvous for the Continental and Colonial vessels, and a retreat for their prizes when they cannot get into the northern Harbours. 267 Resolve for adjourning Worcester Court; passed June 4, 1776. Whereas the Court of General Sessions of the Peace and Inferior Court of Common Pleas, in and for the County of Worcester, is by law to be holden at Worcester, in said County, on Tuesday, the eleventh of June, instant; and whereas many people are called away by the unbappy war that this Continent is engaged in, whose business cannot be acted on at that time; and by reason that many persons who are members of the General Court must give their attendance, if the Court should sit as by law appointed: Therefore, : Resolved, That the said Courts be, and hereby are, adjourned to the first Tuesday of September next, being the time at which the Court of General Sessions of the Peace and Inferior Court of Common Pleas, are by law to be holden at Worcester, within and for said County of Worces- ter; and that all Pleas, Processes, Writs, Actions, Suits, issued or to be issued, Complaints, Precepts, Recognisances, and all other matters and things, returnable and having day, and that should have had day in the said Courts, if the same were holden on Tuesday the eleventh of June, instant, shall be returnable and have day in the said Courts on the first Tuesday of September next, and shall abide and continue unto that time, and shall then be proceeded on, heard, and determined, to all intents and purposes, as effectually as if said Courts were held on the day by law appointed as aforesaid. Committee to correspond with Congress, appointed June 4, 1776. Resolved, That Brigadier Palmer, Mr. Appleton, and Mr. Pitts, with such as the honourable Board shall join, be a standing Committee of Correspondence, whose duty it shall be to transmit to our Delegates at the honourable Con- gress, the Journals of the House of Representatives, and the Acts and Laws that may from time to time be enacted by the General Assembly, together with such other interesting intelligence as may any way affect this or any of the United Colonies. Report of the Committee of both Houses, appointed to repair to the Town of Menvon, to hear a number of Petitioners relatwe to some uneasiness subsisting in the Regiment there; accepted by both Houses, June 4, 1776. Notice being given to the Petitioners, and all others con- cerned in said Regiment, of our appointment, and the Order of Court respecting the same, two Committees from the Company in the Town of Uxbridge, and a Committee from each of the other seven Companies in said Regiment, were present before your Committee, and were severally fully heard; after which, it appeared to your Committee that six of said Companies, and at least one-half of the Company in Uxbridge, appeared much dissatisfied with the appointment of Mr. Joseph Chapin for Lieutenant-Colonel, and Mr. Caleb Whiting for Second Major, in said Regiment, who were recommended without the knowledge, and contrary to the inclination of said Regiment, the Officers of which had met and agreed to recommend Captain Nathan Tyler for Lieu- tenant-Colonel, and Ezra Whiting, Esq., for Second Major, which they appeared to be highly in favour of. The other part of the Company in Uxbridge appeared well pleased with the appointment of Messrs. Chapin and Whiting, and doubtless will be uneasy should their appointment be super- seded. ‘The remaining eighth Company, being the south Company in Douglass, it appeared to your Committee that they were somewhat divided, but not strenuous. ‘This being the state of facts, as near as your Committee has been able to collect, and there being more than seven to one dissatis- fied with the present appointment of Lieutenant-Colonel and Second Major, your Committee are humbly of opinion, that the most likely method to restore harmony to said Regi- ment, will be to indulge the Petitioners with a new appoint- ment of Lieutenant-Colonel and Second Major, agreeable to their request; and in case that part of the Company in Uxbridge, who are against a new appointment, should renew their request to be joined to the Reviment to which Sutton belongs, that they also be indulged in their request, and be joimed accordingly. All which is humbly submitted. Jasez Fisuer, per order. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 268 Establishment for Gunners on board armed Vessels, &c.; passed June 4, 1776. Resolved, That the Gunners in the service of this Colony, ' on board the armed Vessels thereof, be allowed and paid £3 per month; and in the distribution of the Prize Money have the same number of shares as are, by the establishment of this Colony, allowed to the Carpenter; the former estab- lishment of this Colony notwithstanding. Resolved, That the Commanders of said Vessels be al- lowed to inlist men to the last of December next, who may not incline to inlist for the time proposed by the last estab- lishment. Adjutant for Third Regiment in Surrouk, chosen, June 4, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Enoch Leonard, as Adjutant to the Third Regiment of Militia, in the County of Suffolk. Concurred in Council same day. Joun Crouston appointed to command the Sloop Frre- pom, June 4, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Captain John Clouston to command the armed Sloop building at Swanzy, called the freedom. Concurred in Council same day. Jacos Mituer appointed Major, June 5, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Jacob Miller as Major of Colonel Josiah Whitney’s Regiment. Concurred by Council same day. Adjutant for Fourth Regiment Worcesrex, appointed, JuNE 5, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Ebenezer Foster, of Oakham, as Adjutant to the Fourth Regiment of Militia, in the County of Worcester. Concurred by Council same day. Adjutant for Second Regiment Hampsuire, appointed, June 5, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of James Sheppard, of Northampton, as Adjutant to the Second Regiment of Militia, in the County of Hampshire. Concurred by Council same day. Adjutant for Seventh Regiment in Worcester appointed. The House made choice, by ballot, of Wilam Clark as Adjutant of the Seventh Regiment of Militia, in the County of Worcester. Concurred in Council, June 5, 1776. Resolve to suspend sinking Hulks in the Harbour of Bos- Ton; passed June 5, 1776. Resolved, That the Hulks which have been prepared by order of the General Court to be sunk in the Harbour of Boston, be in every respect fitted for that purpose, and an- chored as near as may be, with convenience and safety, to the places where it is proposed they should be sunk; and that the sinking said Hulks as aforesaid be suspended until the further order of this Court; any order or resolve to the contrary notwithstanding: Provided, nevertheless, That if the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston shall, upon any sudden alarm or appearance of danger, judge it necessary that the said Hulks should be then sunk imme- diately, before any order of this Court can be taken there- upon, the said Committee be, and hereby are, fully empow- ered to cause the said Hulks to be sunk aecordingly. Resolve to supply the Town of Beverty with Shot; passed June 5, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver to the Selectmen of the ‘Town of Beverly, or order, sixty eighteen-pound Shot, and one bundred and twenty nine-pound Shot, to be by them applied for the use of said Town; they to be accountable to the General Court for the same. 269 Resolve appointing a Committee on Accounts; passed June 6, 1776. Whereas a necessary attention to the more important affairs of the Government, in the present extraordinary times of difficulty and distress, renders it impracticable to receive, examine, and pass upon the numerous Accounts now daily exhibited against the Government, agreeable to the mode heretofore usually practised, and the payment thereof has been greatly delayed, to the detriment of individuals, as well as to the injury of the credit of the Government: Therefore, Resolved, That Abraham Watson, Thomas Plympton, Jonathan Webster, Thomas Durfee, Aaron Wood, John Bliss, and Isaac Lothrop, Esqs., with such as the honour- able Board shall join, be, and they hereby are, appointed a Committee, until the further order of the Great and General Court or Assembly of this Colony, to receive, examine, and finally to pass upon all Accounts, not otherwise committed, which shall be presented to them for payment of services done and articles supplied by order of the late Provincial Congress, or of the General Court, and properly vouched ; and the doings of said Committee shall be considered as valid as any vote or resolve of the General Court, touching said Accounts, as well in the recess of the Court as during any session of the same; and said Committee, or any six of them, who are hereby appointed a quorum, are hereby directed to assign an office, and advertise the publick there- of, and of this resolve, that the business may be constantly attended and effectually performed; and that a true copy of all such Accounts which shall be passed upon and allowed by them, shall, after payment thereof, be kept in a book, with an alphabet thereto, which shall be laid before either House for perusal and inspection, once or oftener in each session, as they shall severally order; and that the said Committee be, and are hereby, authorized to appoint some suitable person or persons for that purpose. Also, Resolved, ‘That the Secretary be, and he hereby is, directed to keep such Accounts as shall be passed by said Committee; and in consequence thereof, ordered to be paid by the honourable Board, in separate files. And, in order to prevent any delay in the payment of such of said Ac- counts as shall be passed upon and allowed by said Com- mittee, , Be it Resolved, That the honourable Board be, and they are hereby authorized, from time to time, to issue their War- rants, requiring the Treasurer of this Colony to pay into the hands of said Committee such sum or sums of money as the honourable Board shall judge proper, for the purpose of dis- charging and paying such Accounts, the said Committee to be accountable therefor: Provided always, 'That the fore- going method of passing upon and allowing said Accounts shall be taken to be adopted, merely from the necessity of the present times, and not considered as a precedent for the future. Resolve empowermg Timoruy Epwarps, Esq., to receive Seventeen Hundred Pounds of Marx Hopkins, Esquire, and to pay the same to General ScnuyLer; passed JuNE 6, 1776. Resolved, That Timothy Edwards, of Stockbridge, be, and hereby is empowered, to receive the sum of £1,700, lawful money, in Silver and Gold, of Mark Hopkins, Esq., being so much left in said Hopkins’s care by Eldad Taylor, Esq., to whom it was committed by the Council, in order to be transmitted to General Schuyler for the use of the Army in Canada. And the said Mark Hopkins, Esq., is hereby directed to pay the said sum of £1,700 into the hands of Timothy Edwards, Esquire, accordingly, who, as soon as he shall have received the same, is hereby empowered and directed to convey and pay the sum before mentioned into the hands of General Schuyler, as soon as may be, for the purpose aforesaid; for which he is directed to take duplicate receipts of General Schuyler, and return one of them into the Secretary’s Office. And he is further directed to take such a guard with him as he shall deem necessary. Resolve for further fortifying the Harbour of Boston; passed June 6, 1776. As the fortifying the upper part of the Harbour of Boston is now nearly completed, and it 1s necessary that other places in the lower parts thereof should also be fortified for MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 270 the security of the Town of Boston, and other Towns in the vicinity thereof: It is therefore, Resolved, ‘That a Redoubt be immediately raised upon a place called Moon-Island, in the said Harbour, near the main, in order to keep open our communication with Long- Island, and that four pieces of Cannon, nine-pounders, or such others as can be obtained, be placed therein; and that such Ammunition, Ordnance Stores, and Spears, be provided as shall be necessary. And that a Redoubt be also immediate- ly raised upon Hoff’s Neck, in said Harbour, to keep open our communication with Pettick’s Island ; and that the like number of Cannon, Ammunition, &c., be provided for the same. And that the four Independent Companies stationed at Dorchester, Braintree, Weymouth, and Hingham, be em- ployed in this service, under the direction of the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston. It. is also Resolved, That a Redoubt on the east head of Long-Island, another on the east head of Pettick’s Island, and one on Nantasket Hill, with such outworks as the safety of those posts may require, be erected as soon as the Com- mittee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston shall judge expedient; and that three pieces of Cannon, of eighteen or twenty-four-pounders, be placed in each of the three Fortifi- cations last mentioned, and that such Apparatus, Ammuni- tion, Spears, and Intrenching ‘Tools, be provided as shall be necessary. It is further Resolved, That the Committee aforesaid be directed to apply to General Ward, or his successor in com- mand of the Continental Troops left in this Colony, for Cannon, and the apparatus necessary, with Ammunition, Spears, and a sufficient number of Intrenching Tools; and that the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he is hereby, directed to supply the said Committee with such articles aforesaid as cannot be obtained from the said Com- mander. Resolve for supplying the Committee for procuring Salt- petre with Money to pay for the same; passed June 6, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of the Colony the sum of £5,000 to Tristram Dalton, Esq., to be by him delivered to Messrs. Sayer and Tufts, to en- able them to pay for such Saltpetre as has been tendered to them agreeable to the Resolves of the General Assembly ; and also that there be paid out of the publick Treasury the sum of £2,800 to Mr. Samuel Phillips, Jun., to be by him delivered to Mr. Zebediah Abbot, of Andover, to enable him to pay for such Saltpetre as has been tendered, agreeable to the Resolves of the General Assembly ; he, the said Addot, together with the aforementioned Sayer and T'ujfts, to be severally accountable to this Court for the expenditure of those sums they shall receive. Also Resolved, 'That there be paid out of the said Trea- sury to Thomas Crane, Esq., the sum of £4,000, to enable him to pay for such Saltpetre as has been or may be tendered to him, agreeable to the Resolves of the General Assembly, he, the said Crane, to be accountable to the General Court for the same. Resolve to explain the Resolve of Court with respect to the price of a bounty on Saltpetre; passed June 6, 1776. Whereas it is represented that divers persons have manu- factured Saltpetre within this Colony before the Ist day of June instant, and have the same ready to be delivered to the Commissary-General of this Colony, or to such other person or persons as were appointed by the Great and Ge- neral Court to receive the same: And whereas doubts have arisen in the minds of many persons whether the bounty of 4s. a pound for Saltpetre manufactured but not delivered before the Ist day of June instant, ought to be now paid: It is Resolved, That for all Saltpetre manufactured within this Colony before the 1st day of June instant, and which shall be delivered on or before the 30th day of June instant to the Commissary-General, or such other person or persons as are or may be appointed to receive the same, there shall be paid the sum of 4s. a pound as a bounty: Provided, That the person or persons bringing and presenting the same, to be delivered as aforesaid, before he entitles himself by this Re- solve to receive the said bounty, shall, before the said Com- 271 missary-General, or such other person or persons as are or may be appointed to receive the same, take an oath in the words following, viz: « You, , do solemnly swear, that the whole process of the manufacture of the Saltpetre now presented by you was begun, carried on, and finished within the limits of this Colony before the Ist day of June instant, and that no foreign Saltpetre, or Saltpetre manufactured since the said ist day of June instant, is intermixed therewith.” Or otherwise shall produce a certificate from a Justice of the Peace in the County where the manufacturer is an inha- bitant or resident, that he hath taken a like oath before the said Justice; in which case the person presenting the Salt- petre to be delivered as aforesaid shall, before he receives the said bounty of 4s. per pound on the same, make oath before the receiver thereof that he took the same Saltpetre into his possession in presence of said Justice, and that the whole thereof is the same Saltpetre referred to in such cer- tificate ; which certificate shall be lodged with the person or persons who are or may be appointed to receive the same, who are hereby severally authorized and directed to adminis- ter the said oaths. And whereas doubts and difficulties may arise upon a Resolve of the Great and General Court, made and passed the 3d day of May last past, in the words following, viz: “That there be allowed and paid out of the Treasury of this Colony the sum of 5s. (inclusive of the 3s. before en- gagéd) a pound for every pound of good and merchantable Saltpetre that shall be manufactured in this Colony from and after the Ist day of June next until the Ist day of Oc- tober next, and delivered to such persons as the General Court shall appoint to receive the same:” ‘To prevent which, it is further Resolved, That said sum of 5s. per pound shall not be paid for any Saltpetre manufactured in this Colony between the said Ist day of June instant and the said Ist day of October next, unless the same Saltpetre shall be actually delivered before the said 1st day of October next, to such person or persons as are or may be appointed to receive the same. Commissary directed to deliver sixteen bolts of Duck to Ricu- arD Dersy, Esq.; passed June 7, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver sixteen bolts of Jussta Duck to the Hon. Richard Derby, Esq., or order, to be by him ap- plied for the use of the armed Brigantine now building at Salisbury for the service of this Colony. Officers for the Company at GLoucrster, appointed, June parse The House made choice, by ballot, of William Ellery Captain, and Beryamin Somes First Lieutenant, of the Com- pany of Matrosses to be raised and stationed at Gloucester. Resolve for raising a Company of Matrosses, to be stationed at Faumourn; passed June 8, 1776. Resolved, 'That a Company of Matrosses, to consist of fifty men, including Officers, be raised and placed at Fal- mouth, to be under the command of Colonel Jonathan Mitch- ell, and to be upon the same pay and regulations as the Company of Matrosses stationed at Marblehead, said Com- pany to be inlisted to serve till the last of December next, unless sooner disbanded by this Court. And it is further Resolved, That the Commissary-Gene- ral be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to Brigadier Preble, for the use of the men stationed at Malmouth, nine hundred pounds of Gunpowder, three hundred weight of leaden Balls, and one thousand Flints, he, the said Preble, to be accountable to this Court for the same. It is further Resolved, That Dr. Russell be directed to deliver to the said Preble, for the use of the men aforesaid, fifty F'ire-Arms that were delivered to him by order of the last General Court, he, the said Preble, to be accountable to this Court for the same, and that such of the men stationed there as shall receive and use these Arms have deducted from their wages, for the use of this Colony, at the making up of the Muster-Roll, 6s. for each Fire-Arm; and the several Cap- tains are hereby directed to observe this order. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 272 Resolve to remove the Apparatus, &c., of Harvarn College, from Concorp to Campringe ; passed June 8, 1776. Resolved, That the Committee appointed by this Court April 24, 1776, to estimate the damages sustained by Har- vard College for the accommodation of the Continental Army, and by means of the British forces, and to make such repairs immediately as may be necessary for the com- fortable accommodation of the members of said College, be further empowered to estimate the damage sustained by the loss of the kitchen utensils belonging to the said College, which were taken for the use of the Army, and replace the same immediately, and do such other things as are neces- sary for reéstablishing the College in its former situation ; and that the governours of the College have power to remove the Apparatus, and such part of the Library as they think necessary, to Cambridge as soon as they shall judge the College buildings prepared for a removal from Concord, and lay the accounts before this Court. Resolve for supplying Captain Jorpan, bound to F'au- mMoUTH, with a Guard; passed June 10, 1776. Resolved, That Colonel Whitney be, and he hereby is, directed forthwith to order.a Sergeant and ten men of his Regiment, properly equipped, to embark on board the sloop Betsey, Israel Jordan, Master, bound to Falmouth, in Casco Bay, as a Guard, he having on board six Cannon and other warlike stores for the defence of that Harbour, and to direct the said Sergeant and men to return to Boston, after their arrival at Falmouth, without delay; and the said Colonel Whitney is hereby directed to furnish the said men with sufficient Provisions for their passage to Falmouth and their return to Boston as aforesaid. Resolve relative to building a Powder-Mill in Sutton ; passed June 10, 1776. Resolved, That one person be joined to the Committee appointed for erecting a Powder-Mill in Sutton, and that Colonel Jonathan Holman be appointed for that purpose. Also Resolved, That the sum of £200 be paid out of the Colony Treasury to said Committee for forwarding said Mill, they being accountable to this Court for said sum. Resolve on the Petition from the Committee of Kirrery; passed June 10, 1776. On the Petition of the Committee of Correspondence and Inspection of the Town of Kittery : Resolved, That there be allowed and paid out of the Treasury of this Colony to Edward Cutt, Msq., the sum of £43 11s. 5d., for the use of the Committee of Correspond- ence and Inspection for the Town of Kittery, by whom said Petition was presented, in full discharge of their account in building Carriages for two Cannon (twelve-pounders) be- longing to this Colony, which are placed in the Battery at Kittery Point. Also Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver to the Committee of Corre- spondence, Safety and Inspection, of Kettery aforesaid, five hundred pounds weight of Gunpowder, and eighty Shot, suitable for twelve-pounders, and eighty ditto, suitable for nine-pounders, to supply the Cannon in the Battery afore- said, for which the said Committee or Town of Kittery shall be accountable to the General Court. — Resolve appointing a Committee of Fortification; passed June 11, 1776. Resolved, That the Honourable Benjamin Lincoln, Esq., the Honourable Joseph Palmer, Esq., the Honourable Moses Gill, Esq., the Honourable Ebenezer Thayer, Jun., Esq., Solomon Lovell, Esq., John Brown, Esq., and Major John Batcheler, be a Committee of Fortification, whose duty it shall be to lay out and constantly superintend and direct the erecting and perfecting all the Fortifications necessary for the defence of the Town and Port of Boston, at such places as have been, or shall be, ordered by the General Court. To inspect and direct all such Colonial Troops as are or may be ordered by the General Court, as well as such Con- tinental Troops as are or may be ordered by the Comman- der of the Continental Troops resident at Boston, upon this 273 service, while so employed. And to employ all such Arti- ficers, for effecting said works, as they may judge necessary. And to erect, repair, and perfect all such other Works and Buildings as have been or may be ordered by the Court. And to give orders to the Commissary-General for the de- livery of all such Cannon, with their Apparatus and Am- munition, and all such Intrenching ‘Tools and implements as said Committee may judge necessary for the erecting and finishing the Works Yond and for the effectual defence of the same. oe Resolve for supplying the Town of GioucesteR with Can- non; passed June 11, 1776. Resolved, That the Town of Gloucester be supplied with the following pieces of Cannon, viz: four twenty-four-poun- ders, four nine-pounders; and out of those that have one or both trunnions off, four six-pounders, properly stocked, with the necessary apparatus for each Cannon; also with forty rounds of Shot, ten of which to be double-headed, for each Cannon, and likewise with ten barrels of Gunpowder; and that the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver the same to Peter Coffin and John Low, Esqg., they giving a receipt to be accountable to this Court for the same. And it is further resolved, That a Company of Ma- trosses, to consist of fifty men, including Officers, be raised to manage the Cannon stationed there, to be under the com- mand of Colonel Foster, and on the same pay and regula- tions as the Company of Matrosses stationed at Marble- head; said Company to be inlisted to serve till the last day of December next, if not sooner disbanded by this Court. Resolve to pay the Committee for procuring Wood, two hundred Pounds ; passed June 11, 1776. Resolved, That the Committee appointed to assist the Quartermaster-General to procure Wood for the Continental Army, be allowed to receive out of the Treasury of this Colony the sum of £200, to enable them to discharge the debt of said Committee, they to be accountable to this Court for the same. fe Resolve on the Petetion of Epwarp Barser; passed June 11, 1776. On the Petition of Edward Barber, Resolved, 'That Thomas Cook, Esq., be appointed by this Court to appraise the four Cannon and Carriages ordered to be removed from -Trure to the Elizabeth Islands, and to make returns to this Court as soon as may be; and that the Petitioner have liberty to appoint one person on his part (if he thinks proper) to join with the above Thomas Cook, Esq., in appraising said Cannon and Carriages, and in case of disagreement in judgment, they to choose a third person. ye Resolve on the Petition of Bensamty Surry; passed June 12, 1776. Whereas it appears that certain persons were concerned in taking and bringing into this Colony the Ship mentioned in said Petition, a number of whom were of a Sea-Coast Company, in the pay of the Colony; and it further appear- ing that the Vessel which attacked and took the said Ship was procured by, and was at the risk of, the said Petitioner: It is Resolved, 'That after the charges of trial and con- demnation are deducted from the gross produce of the said Ship, her cargo and appurtenances, and the shares of the other captors have been assigned them, the Colony shall receive one-third part, and the said Sea-Coast Men, two- third parts of the residue. Resolve on the Petition of Trimoruy Epwarps and Samven Brown, Jun. ; passed June 11, 1776. ; On the Petition of Timothy Edwards and Samuel Brown, un., Resolved, That each Non-Commissioned Officer and Sol- dier that were regularly inlisted into the service, in Colonel James Easton’s Regiment, and were regularly discharged before the 25th of October last, be paid the sum of 25s., in lieu of a Coat; and that said Edwards or Brown be hereby directed to pay the same, and make return to this Court, and settle their Accounts as soon as may be. Firtu Series.—Vot. I. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 274 Resolve to supply Ricuarv Dersy, Jun., Esq., with Can- non; passed June 12, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver to the Honourable Richard Derby, Jun., Esquire, one of the Committee for fixing out armed Vessels fitted out by this Colony, two pieces of Cannon, six- pounders, made use of by Colonel Crafts in Boston; and that the said Richard Derby, Esq., be also furnished by the said Commissary with eight more six or four-pounders, out of the Cannon now at Boston, with one or both trunnions on, for the use of the Sloop Tyrannicide. Resolve on the Petition of Reusen Hicerns; passed June 12, 1776. On the Petition of Reuben Higgins, Resolved, 'That there be allowed and paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony, to the said Reuben Hig- gins, the sum of £25, to enable him to procure and pay for the Powder and Ball therein mentioned, for the use of ‘the said Town of Truro—he, the said Higgins, to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve on the Petition of Wituiam Wurtney, of Weston ; passed JuNE 12, 1776. On the Petition of Wiliam Whitney, of Weston, Resolved, 'That there be paid out of the Colony Treasury unto Braddyl Smith, Esq., the sum of £2, for the use of William Whitney, in full for his boarding and nursing Caleb Chadwick, a wounded Soldier in Colonel Patterson’s Regi- ment. a 4 Officers for the Company at Fatmourn; appointed June 13, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of the following gen- tlemen, Officers for the Company of Matrosses, to be raised and stationed at Falmouth, viz: John Preble Captain, Levi Loring First-Lieutenant, Isaac Battle Second-Lieutenant. Concurred by Council. Resolve on the Petition of Sreruen Hatt and Priee Crocker; passed June 13, 1776. On the Petition of Stephen Hall and Peleg Crocker, Resolved, That the Prayer of the Petition be granted, and that the Sloop Nancy be accordingly released to the Owners, on their paying the charges that have arisen thereon. Resolve for placing Cannon on the Gurnet, and for raising one hundred Men, to be stationed there; passed June 13, 1776. Resolved, That there be placed upon the Gurnet, at the entrance of the Harbour of Plymouth, which was, by this Court, ordered to be fortified, six pieces of Cannon, two of twelve, and four of six-pounders, properly fixed, with the necessary apparatus; and that a Company of a hundred men be raised, and that a Captain and two Lieutenants be appointed by this Court, one half of which number to be Matrosses, to be under the same pay, and on the same establishment, in all respects, with other forces stationed on the sea-coast, and continued in the service till the last day of December next, unless sooner discharged by order of this Court; said Company to be under the direction of the Com- mittee of Correspondence, &c., for the Town of Plymouth, and to serve and do duty on the said Gurnet. And that the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to the Honourable James Warren, Esq., the: Guns aforesaid, four barrels of Powder, and forty rounds of Shot for each Gun, he to be accountable to this Court for the same. Committee appointed to make inquiry relative to casting Cannon; passed June 13, 1776. Resolved, That Mr. Durfee, Colonel Mitchell, and Mr. Orr, be a Committee, whose business it shall be imme- diately to repair to those places where they imagine the best information may be obtained relative to the business of cast- ing Cannon, and the materials necessary for that purpose, together with a place most convenient for carrying on that business ; and that they prepare an estimate of the expenses of erecting, or otherwise procuring, a Furnace convenient for casting said Cannon, and make a report to this Court as soon as may be. 18 275 MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. Resolves to pay for Losses at Bunxer-Hiux, &c.; passed June 14, 1776. Resolved, That the following Sums be paid to the per- sons whose names follow, in discharge of the Account’ exhibited to this Court, for losses sustained in Battle, on and since the nineteenth of April, one thousand seven hundred to— and seventy-five, viz: Joseph Bread, - Daniel Hardy, - Jonathan Stickney, for Mary Easty, 4 Lieut. John Mosher, 2 Samuel Cory, - Josiah Haynes, - Eliphalet Hardy, - Joshua Haynes, - Paul Hardy, - - John Hoyt, - - Executors of John Bacon,- - Aaron Haynes, - Lieutenant Brewer, John Maynard, - Isaac Moor, - - Peter Cuddy, - Levi Hosman, - Samuel Hill, - - Josiah Danforth, - William Whittier, Elizabeth Moor, for Willard Moor’s loss, - - - Joseph Adams, - Moses Pike, - - John Smith, - - Benjamin Merrill, Samuel Carr,- - John Stevens, Jr., William Hackett, Aaron Chandler, - Robert Merrill, - Richard Osgood, - Jonathan Wingate, Jacob Bayly Cumer, 1 Benjamin Stevens, 0O Jonathan Greely, 0 Jacob Currier, - O John Barker, 3d,- 0 Jonathan Stevens, 1 Spafford Ames, - 0 Stephen Farrington, 0 Samuel Phillips, for Stephen Chandler, Nathaniel Wade, Aaron Perkins, - Nathaniel Baker, Philip Lord, - - Joseph Wise,- - Isaac Giddings, - Benjamin Ross, ,- John Fowler,- - Thomas Farmer, - Nathaniel Choat, Abraham Knowlton, 0 Samuel Hayward, 2 Zaccheus Wright, for the use of the heirs of Cesar Baron, deceased, - - 4 Captain Oliver Par- ker, for the use of £ 2 1 COWMR KH wOuoddre Ree CO oooocoooonwnowoo 0 1 0 2 2 1 1 ] 0 0 0 Samuel Taylor, 1 Heirs of Wm. War- ren; |= p=) = Benjamin Perkins, 2 Joseph Whittemore, 2 Samuel Foster, - 0 Thomas Weskom, 0 John Braizer,- - 1 lsat eed) oo°* — — AWW WOK WWD — met et ee) oonooooo°oc°o w= 1 a BDAAKH GCOCAaAOOR ees Cooconoancooeoaaanoagocoe MOCDCOCOCO OA orc So CO C10 OO O70 oooo coc © = eo NAROWWWOWUWWWWNOODkKDO-+IW’ Jabez Carter,- - Jonathan Frost, - Jonathan Beard, - Heirs of Jacob Frost, Daniel Wood, - Ezekiel Nutting, - Samuel Lovejoy, - Ezekiel Spaulding, Simeon Williams, David Wetherbee, Simeon Green, - Joel Porter, - - John Hasen, - - Solomon Gilson, - Jonathan Lewis, - John Ribburn, - Heirs of John Meeds, Jonathan Evans, - Stephen Temple, Heirs of Corneny Fairbank, - - 1 Eliphalet Wharf,- 2 4 Alexander Panan, 0 4 Daniel Collins, - 1 4 Andrew Bray, - 1 18 Jonathan Woodman,O 6 Lary Tregay, - O 4 — — HKWOMNOoOoooorcoocowonooson — — Nathan Glover, - 0 12 Capt. Nath’l Gage, 2 12 Annis Merrill, - O 5 Oliver Goodridge, O 6 Heirs of Amos Mills, deceased, - - 1 10 John Beeten,- - 018 Peter Page, - - 2 O Aaron Wood,- - 3 4 Deborah Mills, - 4 2 Barnabas Richard- son,- - - - Nathaniel Warner, Heirs of Ebenezer Laughton, - - James Davis,- - Nathaniel Monroe, Rachel McIntosh, Samuel Farrar, - Samuel Bailey, - William Davis, - William Foster, - Thomas ‘Thompson, 0 1 Ebenezer Wytham, 0 1 Joshua Row,- - 01 1 i _ — _ Ooo oM oO = — Ww H 1 3 5 2 3 3 2 | 0 2 Obadiah Atkins, - 0 Francis Lane, - 0 Samuel Sprake, - 0 Benjamin Ames, - 3 Capt. John Nutting, 2 Nathaniel Lakin,- 0 John McFulsom, 0 Aaron Davis,- - 1 Philip Johnson, - 0 Patrick Harrington, 2 Q 1 3 Q 5 0 6 1 5 — — WACO KHRAOARWOKEANWNWWNWWD Samuel Wyatt, - William Eliot, - William Page, - Jonathan Norton’s hers, - - - Benjamin Read, - Waldron Stone, - Wells Chace,- - William Whiting, Capt. Joseph Moore ? d. 6 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 6 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 276 & Ss. d. £ 8. d Timothy Dutton,- 0 136 John Hadley,- - 5 9 John Welsh, - - 01811 Heirsof Philip Fow- Eliphalet Manning, 0 12 0 ler, "=" = Paeboae rey David Bailey, - 0136 Cyrus Marble, - 2 5 John Adams,- -: 2 20 Elisha Marsh, - 3 4 Joseph Baker, - 3 30 Ezekiel Biggelow, 1 12 Samuel Bailey, - 1 06 Jotham Blanchard, 1 14 Malachi Allen, - 1 60 Josiah Wright, - 1 8 Joseph Phelps, - O 16 Isaac Pierce,- - 1 8 John Hall, - - 0 76 Daniel Davis, - 1 10 Eliakim Walker,- 0 18 6 Spafford Ames, - 2 4 John Flint, - - 0 120 Thomas Kenny and Heirs of Ph. Fowler, 4 10 0 others, - - - 118 Obadiah Wetherell, 2 00 Josiah Burk,- - 0 3 Oliver Patch,- - 1 14 6 Joseph Howard,- 1 4 Levi Parker,- - 0 60 John Burnham, - 0 3 Benjamin Peirce, 0 120 Amos Poor, - - 0 16 Jonathan Stevens, O 60 Benjamin Carr, - 0 5 Lemuel Blood, - 2 80 James Mosely, - 0 12 Nehemiah Parker, 1 70 William Linnihan, 1 5 Joseph Tarbell, - O 5 0. Eleazer Johnson, for Jacob Williams, - 0 3 0 useofSarah Flint,2 6 David Prescott, - 0100 Francis Mitchell,- 5 2 Daniel Shed,- - 115 0 Bartholomew Rich- Joseph Shed,- - 1 150 ardson,- - - O 12 Benjamin Farnum, 3 13 0 Peter Sergeant, - 4 15 John Eaton, - - 3 90 Joshua Haynes, - 3 O Heirs of Simeon Col. James Bricket, 4 18 Pike, - - - 5 92 William Hudson Bal- Thomas Townsend, lard, = 3 13 adm. of Daniel Bledzer Butterfield, 1 eooooooonneo Oo eceoooqoooovuoo oo°oco Qo ooooqoooceo eoooocorRPF O- Townsend, - -2 14 0 David Parks,- - 2 16 Moses Harrington, 2 20 Daniel-Sharwin,- 2 14 Heirsof Benj.Smith,4 4 0 Daniel Barker, - 2 2 Daniel Coolghan’s William Hastings, O 6 heirs, - - - 5 40 Jonathan Row, - O 12 Nymphas Stacey, 2 00 Henry Parsons, -- 0 12 Nathaniel Bennet, 1 4 0 Joseph Parsons, - 0 12 John Dunken, - 2120 Joseph Dresser, - 2 8 Sarah Hill, for her Thomas Dresser,- 0 15 late husband’s loss,4 OO Heirs of Francis Simeon Senter, - 2 84 Pool, Jr...) 0) 195 Joseph Osgood, - O 16 Heirs of Wm. Par- Josiah Blood, - 0 16 sons, deceased, 4 3 Jacob Ames,- - 0136 Jonathan Minot,- 5 10 John Bayly, - - 0136 Timothy Johnson, 1 14 James Bayly, - 0136 Isaac Abbott,- - 2 8 David Putnam, - 111 0 John Hemmenway, 2 1 Thomas Treadwell, 0 18 0 Daniel Kidder, - 1 14 David Walker, - 1 86 William Danforth, 1 16 HezekiahThorndike,2 5 0 John Jacques, - 1 16 Josiah Kidder, - 0 13 6 MosesGray,- - 1 14 Heirs of Josiah Timothy Carlton, 2 16 Breed, - - - 4 80 Jonathan Stephens, 2 10 Resolve establishing a form of Beating Orders and Inlist- ment for raising three Companies of Matrosses; passed June 14, 1776. Resolved, 'That the form of the Beating Orders and Inlist- ment of three Companies of Matrosses, to be stationed at Gloucester, Falmouth, and the Gurnet in Plymouth, be as follows, viz: Beating Orders. “'To , Gentleman, greeting: “Str: You are hereby empowered immediately to inlist a Company of Matrosses, to consist of able-bodied and effective men, including Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates, and cause them to pass muster before as soon as possible; which Company of Matrosses, when inlisted and mustered, are to obey you as their Captain, and agree- able to a Resolve of this Court, the of June instant, are to be stationed at for the defence and security of the same.” Inlistment. “We, the subscribers, do hereby engage to inlist ourselves as Matrosses in the service of the Massachusetts Colony, from the day of our inlistment to the last of December next, on the Sea-Coast establishment, unless the said service shall 277 admit of a discharge of a part or the whole sooner, which is to be determined by the General Court of said Colony. And we do hereby oblige ourselves to submit to all orders and regulations of the Army, and faithfully to observe and obey all such orders as we shall from time to time receive from our superior Officers.” Resolve for supplying the Companies of Matrosses at Guov- cester and Faumoutu; passed June 14, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissaries appointed to supply the men stationed at Gloucester and Falmouth, are hereby severally empowered and directed to supply the Companies of Artillery lately ordered to be raised for the defence of those towns, in the same manner as the sea-coast men, station- ed in those places; and that the honourable Board grant their Warrant on the Treasurer for money to enable them so to do. Mustermasters appointed, June 14, 1776. Ordered, That Colonel Peter Coffin muster the Com- pany of Matrosses to be stationed at Gloucester ; that Cap- tain Joseph Noyes muster those to be stationed at Falmouth ; and that Isaac Lothrop, Esq., muster those to be stationed on the Gurnet at Plymouth: also, that Major Whittemore sign the Beating Orders for raising the three Companies aforesaid. Resolve on the Petition of Tuomas Coox, Esq.; passed JunE 14, 1776. On the Petition of Thomas Cook, Resolved, That there be allowed and paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony, the sum of £31 6s. to the ‘Town of Edgartown, on the Island of Martha’s Vineyard, for their expenses in victualling large numbers of men, who at sundry times, between the 19th of April and the Ist of October, 1775, appeared on alarms to defend said Town and Island against the hostilities wherewith they were threatened by British men-of-war. Resolve empowering Wiitu1am Wurrine, Esq., to receive a sum of Money of Marx Horxtiys, Esq., and to pay the same to General Scuuyier; passed June 14, 1776. Whereas Timothy Edwards, Esq., of Stockbridge, was, on the 6th instant, by a Resolve of this Court, empowered to receive the sum of £1700, in Silver and Gold, of Mark Hopkins, Esq., in whose hands it was lodged by Eldad Taylor, Esq.; and was further empowered to convey and deliver the same to General Schuyler, for the use of the Army in Canada: And it having been represented to this Court, that the said Timothy Edwards is now out of the Colony, on a journey to Philadelphia ; and it being of great importance that the money aforesaid should be forwarded to Canada as soon as possible: Therefore, Resolved, That William Whiting, Esquire, of Great Barrington, be, and he hereby is, empowered to receive the money above referred to, of Mark Hopkins, Esquire, who is hereby empowered and directed to deliver him the same; and the said William Whiting, Esq., is further em- powered and directed to convey and pay into the hands of General Schuyler the sum before mentioned as soon as may be, for the purpose aforesaid ; and the said William Whiting is also empowered to receive of Henry Gardner, Esq., the Receiver-General of this Colony, the sum of £75, in Silver and Gold, and to convey and pay the same also into the hands of General Schuyler, for the purpose before mentioned ; for which, together with the sum first mentioned, (which, added together, amount to the sum of £1775 lawful money,) he is directed to take duplicate receipts of General Schuyler, and return one of them into the Secretary’s Office; and he is further directed to take such a Guard with him as he shall deem necessary. A Resolve on the Petition of Luwis Aue, in behalf of his brother Jouuey ALLEN; passed June 14, 1776. Resolved, ‘That the prayer of the Petitioner be so far granted that he have liberty to take the seven children of the said Jolley Allen, for which he shall be paid out of the proceeds of the sales of the goods and effects of the said Jolley Allen £36 8s., lawful money, for the maintenance and support of the same: the Petitioner to give bonds in the sum of £100, that they shall not become chargeable to * MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 278 the community for any further support or maintenance ; and that he shall receive and support the said Jolley Allen; and that he shall not depart the County of Worcester, of hold correspondence with any persons, knowing them to be ene- mies to the liberties of America, till the further order of this Court. That Mr. Nye, Mr. Kendell, and Mr. Thomas, be a Com- mittee to receive all the goods and effects of the said Jolley Allen that can be found, and deliver the Petitioner, at Bos- ton, the children’s four feather-beds and bedding, and the wearing apparel of the children and late wife of the said Jolley Allen, also his own wearing apparel ; and the remain- der of said goods and effects to be disposed of by said Com- mittee, at publick auction; who are to pay the above sum of £36 8s. to the said Lewzs Allen; also all necessary charges that have arisen or may arise in collecting and trans- porting said goods and effects; also the charges for support- ing the said Jolley Allen and family at Provincetown, and to be accountable to the General Court for the same. —— Resolve for adding an Ensign to, and supplying the Men stationed on the Gurnet in Puymoutu; passed June 15, 1776. Whereas the Company ordered by a Resolve of this Court to be raised and stationed on the Gurnet consists of one hundred men, and one-half of them are to be Matrosses, and but three commissioned Officers are appointed to said Company, which are not sufficient ; and whereas no provision is made for the support of said Company: It 1s Resolved, That there be one Ensign added to the other Officers, whose pay shall be the same as that of the Second Lieutenant on the sea-coast establishment. And that the Commissary appointed to supply the sea-coast Company, now at Plymouth, be empowered and directed, in the same manner, to supply the Company to be stationed on the Gurnet. And that the Council be desired to issue blank commissions to the Hon. James Warren, Esq., Isaac Lothrop, Esq., and George Partridge, Esq., to be given to such persons, for Officers, as in their discretion they, or the major part of them, shall judge most suitable. Commissary-General directed to secure the Colony’s Stores; passed June 15, 1776. Whereas sundry Stores and Implements belonging to the late Light-House, having been left by the British Troops on the Island upon which the said Light-House was erected : Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he here- by is, directed immediately to take some effectual measures to secure the Stores and Implements before mentioned, as also any other Stores belonging to the Colony that may have been left by the enemy on any other Island in the Har- bour of Boston. Commissary-General and others appointed to receive and pay for Saltpetre; passed June 15, 1776. Resolved, 'That the Commissary-General, at his Store, and Zebediah Abbot, at the Powder-Mill at Andover, and Thomas Crane, Esq., at the Powder-Mill at Stoughton, be, and they hereby are, appointed and empowered, in behalf of this Colony, to receive, examine, and pay for all good and merchantable Saltpetre that shall be brought and actually delivered to them, respectively, before the 1st day of Octo- ber next, with such evidence as is required by a Resolve of the General Court, of the 6th instant, that the same was manufactured within this Colony. And that there be paid to each of the above mentioned persons, out of the ‘Treasury of this Colony, the sum of £1000, and the Treasurer is directed to pay the same accordingly, to enable them to pay for the same; they to be respectively accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for bringing forward all Causes which were pending at the Superior Court, &c.; passed June 15, 1776. Whereas, by reason of the difficulties raised in this Colony through the wicked designs of the enemies of our liberties, an interruption took place in the administration of civil dis- tributive justice in this Colony, and, by a necessary act of the General Court for the removal of all officers from their offices, many civil suits, which have been before commenced 279 in the several Counties of this Colony, and were pending at the Superior Court, and other actions which had been appealed from the respective Inferior Courts in the several Counties, have not been prosecuted to final judgment, and much injury will happen if an adequate remedy is not provided : It is Resolved, That all causes which were pending at the Superior Court in,any of said Counties, and on which judgment has not been given, shall be brought forward at the next term of the said Court for each respective County, and the same proceedings had thereon as though such causes had been regularly continued to such term, from the term where the same were pending when such interruption took place. And in any causes appealed from any Inferior Court, and not entered at the Superior Court, by reason of said interruption, the Appellants may have liberty, if they see cause, to enter their said appeal at the next term of the Superior Court, to be holden in each respective County, as though the appeal had been originally to the same term. And if any Appellants shall neglect to enter their appeals, as aforesaid, the Appellees in such case may, if they see cause, enter their complaints, and the judgments of the Infe- rior Court shall be affirmed thereon, as though said com- plaints had been entered in due time: Provided, always, That no Execution or Writ of Possession shall issue on any judgment given in any of the cases aforesaid, until three months after such judgment; and where any causes were tried by a Jury, the Justices of said Superior Court, in such causes, shall, and in all others where it shall appear to them to be expedient, may continue the same, and cause the absent parties to be notified of the suits against them; and where any of the party shall be out of the County, and in the Con- tinental or Colonial service, they shall have liberty to bring forward their suits at the next Superior Court held in said County after their return, and no action or complaint shall be entered against them while such person continues in said service, any law, usage, or custom, to the contrary notwith- standing. Resolve on the Petition of Wiu1am Tupper, respecting Captures; passed June 17, 1776. Whereas it is provided, by a certain Act of the General Assembly of this Colony, that every person who shall make capture of any Vessel, shall, within twenty days from the 15th of April last, or within twenty days after the capture and bringing in of said Vessel, either by himself, his agent, or attorney, file a bill before the Judge appointed to try the justice of such capture, giving a full and ample account of the time, manner, and cause of the taking of such Vessel : And whereas captures of several Vessels have been made within the Eastern District of this Colony, or may have been made at sea and brought to any port within the Eastern District of this Colony, which could not be proceeded with agreeable to the requisition in said Act: Wherefore, Resolved, That bills of the captures of all Vessels, their apparatus and cargoes, which captures have been already made within the Eastern District of this Colony, or made at sea and brought to any port within the Eastern District of this Colony, hitherto not filed before the Judge appointed to try the justice of such captures, may and shall be filed before said Judge, on any day preceding the first day of August next, anything in the aforesaid Act, made for the trial of the justice of such captures, notwithstanding. Resolve to supply the Town of Hincuam with Powder, &c.; passed June 17, 1776. Whereas there is a Cannon provided at Hingham, at the charge of the Town, for the defence of the Harbour: Resolved, That two half-barrels of Powder and twenty Shot—viz: six-pounders—be delivered to the Committee of Correspondence of the ‘Town of Hingham by the Commis- sary-General, said Committee to give a receipt to the Com- missary, to be accountable for the same. Resolve on the Petition of Issac Metoon; passed June 18, 1776. On the Petition of Isaac Meloon, Resolved, That there be paid to him, out of the publick Treasury, the sum of £2 8s., in full for the loss of his Gun in the Bunker-Hill fight, as mentioned in his Petition. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 280 Resolve for procuring two Decoy Ships, &c.; passed June 18, 1776. > On the Report of the Committee for, fortifying the Har- bour of Boston, Resolved, ‘That the said Committee be, and they hereby are, empowered to procure, on the best terms, two Ships at the expense of this Colony, and man and fix them in such way and place them at such station, as may appear to the said Committee best calculated to serve as a decoy to the enemy’s Ships and Vessels that may at any time be coming into the Harbour of Boston. And the aforesaid Committee are further empowered and directed to erect such Lights, where the Light-House stood, without erecting a Light-House, as may serve further to decoy and bring into the Harbour of Boston Ships and Vessels of the enemy aforesaid. And the Commissary-General of this Colony is hereby directed to supply the said Committee with those articles that may be necessary for the above purposes. And the Committee on the Report of the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston have leave to sit again. Instructions to the Committee on the Abstracts; passed June 19, 1776. Resolved, That the Committee on the Abstracts are hereby directed not to allow to any Commissioned or Staff Officer, of whatever rank, more than three days’ pay as an Officer, from the time of their engaging to the time of their marching; and that there be allowed to each Non-commis- sioned Officer and Private Soldier pay from the time of inlist- ment till they marched for the Camp. Honourable James Warren, Esq., appointed Second Major- General; June 19, 1776. The House, according to the Order of the Day, made choice, by ballot, of the Honourable James Warren, Esq., as Second Major-General of the Militia of this Colony. Concurred by Council, June 19, 1776. JonatHan Parmenter appointed Second Major of the Fourth Regiment in Mipp.esex; June 19, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Jonathan Par- menter as Second Major of the Fourth Regiment of Militia, in the County of Middlesex, in the room of Major Joseph Smith, who declines serving. Concurred by Council the same day. Resolve for payment of Colonel Joun Roserrson’s Ab- stract ; passed June 19, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick ‘Treasury of this Colony, unto Colonel John Robertson, for himself and Staff and Field Officers mentioned in his Abstract, the sum of £11 6s.; also, for Captain John Ford the sum of £47 1s.; and for Captain John Lemont the sum of £26 3s. 7d.; and for Captain Asahel Wheeler the sum of £51 5s.; and Cap- tain Benjamin Edgell the sum of £15 138s. 94d. Resolve to prevent the exportation of Provisions till the 10th November next ; passed June 19, L776. Whereas many inconveniences and dangerous conse~ quences may, and in all probability will, accrue to this Colony in the course of its defence against its unnatural enemies, if a speedy and effectual prohibition of the exporta- tion of Provisions from each and every Port, Harbour, and lace within the same, to any other Harbour or place without ee limits of the said Colony, is not immediately effected: Wherefore, it is Resolved, That from and after the 21st day of this instant June, no person or persons whatsoever presume to lade on board any ship or vessel within this Colony any kinds or articles of Provisions, except Jamaica and Pickled Fish, with intent to convey the same out of this Colony by water, until the 10th day of November next, unless the same be laden on board such ship or vessel with intent to supply the fleets and armies of the United Colonies, or the inhabitants of some other part or parts of this Colony: Provided, always, That any person or persons who have, agreeably to, and in consequence of, a resolve of the American Congress for encouraging the importation of warlike stores into the United Colonies, imported any such stores, and have not already 281 exported Provisions or other Merchandise to the amount thereof, or may hereafter import such stores, such person or persons may lade on board any ship or vessel, and convey and send out of this Colony to any other place, except to the dominions of Great Britain, any kind of Provisions to the amount or value of such warlike stores, imported as aforesaid: Provided, also, That nothing in this resolve shall be construed to extend to the preventing so much Provisions as in the judgment of the Committee of Safety, &c., may be sufficient for the persons on board for the intended voyage, being put on board any ship or other vessel arriving at, trading with, or sailing from, any port, harbour, or other place in this Colony, such voyage not being prohibited by any resolve of Congress, or law or resolve of this Colony. And the Committees of Safety, &c., in the several ‘Towns and other places within this Colony are hereby ordered and directed to see that this resolve be effectually carried into execution. AMS Resolve on the Petition of Girpertr Harrison; passed JuNE 19, 1776. On the Petition of Gilbert Harrison, showing his right to claim the property of certain goods on board the Schooner Volante, lately condemned in the Maritime Court held at Plymouth, and the impossibility of making that claim in the time by law prescribed: Resolved, That the Judge in said Court and the captors stay all further proceedings on said condemnation, and that the said Gilbert Harrison be allowed to file his claim on the goods aforesaid, before the said Judge, within five days after the passing this resolve ; and that thereupon the said Judge notify the trial of said claim in like manner as original trials of captures are by law to be notified, and that the said Judge be served with a copy of this resolve. Adjutant for the First Regiment in Hamesuire, chosen ; June 19, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Solomon Brewer, as an Adjutant to the First Regiment of Militia, in the County of Hampshire. Concurred by Council the same day. Adjutant for the First Regiment in Prymourn, chosen ; June 19, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of John Torrey, Jun., as an Adjutant to the First Regiment of Militia, in the County of Plymouth. Concurred by Council the same day. Resolve on the Petitionof Naruan Surry; passed June 20, 1776. On the Petition of Nathan Smnith : Whereas it appears to this Court that certain persons were concerned in taking and bringing into this Colony a certain Schooner, mentioned in said Petition, a number of whom were of a sea-coast company in the pay of this Colony; and it further appearing that the Vessels or Boats which attacked and took the said Schooner were procured by and at the risk of the captors: Therefore, it is Resolved, That after the charges of trial and condemna- tion are deducted from the gross produce of the said Vessel, cargo, and appurtenances, and the shares of the other captors have been assigned, the Colony shall receive one-third part, and the sea-coast men two-thirds part of the residue. Resolve on the Account of Jeremtan Putnam; passed June 20, 1776. On an Account of Jeremiah Putnam, for losses of his brother Perly Putnam, in battle on the 19th April, 1775, Resolved, ‘That there be paid out of the Treasury of this Colony to Samuel Epes, the sum of £5 10s., for the use of the heirs of Perly Putnam, in full of said Account. Adjutant for the Eighth Regiment in Worcester chosen; ‘ June 20, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Mr. Ebenezer Co- nant, Jun., as an Adjutant to the Eighth Regiment of Militia in the County of Worcester. Concurred by Council the same day. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 282 Resolve for supplying Colonels Marswauy’s, Wurrney’s, and Crart’s Regiments with Medicines; passed June 20, 1776. Whereas application has been made to this Court request- ing that the three Regiments now in the service of this Colony, viz: Marshall's, Whitney’s, and Crafts, be sup- plied from time to time with such Medicines as may be necessary for the sick and wounded: Therefore, Resolved, That Dr. John Greenleaf, of Boston, be re- quested to supply the chief Surgeon of such Regiments respectively, with such Medicines as may be necessary for the sick and wounded aforesaid, during the continuance of said Regiments in or near Boston; that he be directed to take the Surgeons’ receipts for all such Medicines as he may deliver, and that he exhibit his Accounts to this Court for payment. And the said Surgeons, before they shall be empowered to receive of the said Greenleaf any such Medi- cines as aforesaid, shall take an oath before some Justice of the Peace, that all the Medicines that he shall receive of the said Greenleaf, for the purposes aforesaid, shall be used for the sick and wounded persons in the Regiment to which he is Surgeon, and that he will account with the General Court of this Colony for all such Medicines as shall remain in his hands, after his being discharged as Surgeon of said Regi- ment ; and the said Surgeons are required to produce a cer- tificate from a Justice of the Peace of their being sworn to the faithful discharge of the aforesaid trust, before the said Greenleaf shall be empowered to deliver them any such Medicines as aforesaid. Commissary-General directed to receive all the Powder due from the Continent ; June 21, 1776. Resolved, 'That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed to receive all such Powder as is due to this Colony from the Continent, and to give his discharge therefor in behalf of this Colony. Resolve for supplying the several Towns with Powder ; passed June 21, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and hereby is, directed to deliver out of the Colony Store to each of those Towns that have lent Powder to the Colony, such quantity as may to them respectively remain due, and to pay reasonable charges for transportation of the same; and that there be paid to said Commissary, out of the publick Treasury of this Colony, the sum of £20 for that purpose, he to account therefor with this Court; the Selectmen of such Towns leaving with the said Commissary those receipts whereby they support their claim to such Powder, and also certifying that they have not received recompense therefor. It ts further Resolved, That each Town and unincorpo- rated Plantation in this Colony, not having such a quantity of Powder in their publick stock as will furnish the men borne on the ‘Training-Band and Alarm-Lists with half a pound to each man, be allowed to purchase, at either of the Powdet- Mills in this Colony, so much Powder as will make up the quantity aforesaid, which shall be sold to the Selectmen of said ‘owns, or Committees of unincorporated Plantations, (as fast as it can be spared,) at 5s. per pound; said Select- men and Committees respectively certifying to the keeper of such Powder-Mill the number of men borne on the Lists aforesaid, together with the whole Powder they have in stock—preference being given to Sea-Coast Towns and unincorporated Plantations adjoining the Sea, when more apply than can be supplied. Resolve relative to delinquent Collectors ; passed June 21, Lii0. Resolved, That the Treasurer of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed immediately to give notice in the publick Prints, that all Collectors of ‘Taxes or Constables that are delinquent in paying the several sums committed to them to collect from the year 1769 to the year 1774, inclusively, pay him the several sums due from them immediately; and that he issue out his Execution against all such Collectors or Constables as shall neglect to pay the same after the last day of August next. 283 Resolve relative to Dr. Stocxsrince and others, and Per- sons who, having fled to Hauirax, &c., shall return to this Colony; passed June 21, 1776. Resolved, That Dr. Benjamin Stockbridge, John Tilden: Ephraim Little, John Baker, Elisha Ford, Sylvanus Whate, and Cornelius White, remain under confinement in Plymouth’ Jail, at their own cost and charge, until the further order of this Court; and that Nathaniel Garnet, Warren White, Ste- phen Tilden, and Joseph Tilden, be put under the care of the Committees of Correspondence for the Towns of Scit- uate, Pembroke, and Marblehead, to be by them put out to labour to some proper person or persons, who live remote from the sea-coast, and there to remain within the limits of such Towns where they shall be placed, until they shall be discharged by order of this Court, or to inlist on board some armed Vessel fitted out by this Colony or Continent, for the defence of the same; and that Joseph Younk, a minor, be ordered by the aforesaid Committee to return to his father in the Town of Scituate, his said father giving them bonds for his said son’s future good behaviour. And it is further Resolved, That those persons who have been inimical to the liberties of this Colony and the Conti- nent of America, and have fled to Halifax, or elsewhere, in order to join the British Army, that on their arrival into any Port or Town within this Colony, the Committee of Correspondence in the Town or Towns where they shall so come, be, and they are hereby, directed and empowered to take them up and confine them immediately in any Jail within the same County; and the keeper or under-keepers of any of the Jails within this Colony are directed to receive them by orders from the Committees of Correspon- dence where they are taken up, and them safely keep tll further orders of this Court; and the said Committee or Committees are directed to inform this Court of their pro- ceedings. Resolve on the Petition of Joun Stepman; passed June 21, 1776. On the Petition of John Stedman, Resolved, That there be paid to John Stedman, out of the Colony Treasury, the sum of £4, in full of the extraor- dinary expenses he was at in his sickness while belonging to the Army in Roxbury, and after his return, for doctoring and other extra charges home. Mr, AuexanpeR Suepparp directed to receive Saltpetre ; JuNE 21, 1776. Ordered, That Mr. Alexander Sheppard, Jun., be, and he hereby is, directed to receive Saltpetre into the Commis- sary-General’s Store, he observing the Resolves of this Court relative to receiving in that article. Resolve on the Petition of the Committee of Brunswick ; passed JUNE 22, 1776. On the Petition of the Committee of the Town of Bruns- wick, Resolved, 'That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to Mr. Samuel Stanwood one barrel of Gunpowder, for the use of the inha- bitants of the Town of Brunswick, he paying him after the rate of 5s. per pound for the same. Resolve for supplying the Brig Ristne Empire with Can- non, &c.; passed June 22, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to Thomas Durfee, Esq., out of the Colony Stores now at Dartmouth, in the care of Mr. Lemuel Wilhams, 4 Cannon, (four-pounders,) 14 Swivel- Guns, 12 Blunderbusses, 80 Cutlasses, 2,000 pounds of Gunpowder, one ton and a half of four-pound Shot, 600 Swivel-Gun Shot, 70 Hand-Grenades, 60 Small-Arms, and 700 pounds of Sheet-Lead, for the use of the Brig called the Rising Empire. Resolve on the Return made to the Court by Major Bara- cHiaH Basser; passed June 22, 1776. } T ie . . . Whereas the four Cannon mentioned in said Return are proper for the sea service, and the armed Brig belonging to MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 284 this Colony at Dartmouth is in want of the same, and with them can proceed on a cruise: Therefore, Resolved, That Thomas Durfee, Esq., one of the Com- mittee for fitting out the said Brig, be, and he hereby is, empowered and directed to cause the said Cannon forthwith to be removed and put on board said Brig, and the said Committee are also directed to get the said Brig in readi- ness for a cruise as soon as may be. Also Resolved, That in lieu of the said four Cannon, there be placed at Tarpaulin-Cove Harbour two pieces of Can- non, (nine-pounders;) and the Commissary-General is hereby directed to deliver the same to Mr. Durfee, or his order, to be conveyed to Major Basset; and also to deliver one hun- dred and nine pounds weight of Shot, together with Ladles and the necessary apparatus for the said two Cannon, and that the said Basset cause the same to be fitted and mounted as soon as may be for the defence of said Harbour. And it is also Resolved, That the Hon. Walter Spooner, Esq., be, and hereby is, directed and empowered to provide ten old Whale-Boats, that are fit to be used for the protec- tion of the neighbouring Islands and the shipping coming in and going out, and also purchase twelve Shovels, six Spades, and four Pick-Axes, the same to be for the use of said Basset and men under his command in the services aforesaid ; and the said Walter Spooner, Esq., is directed to lay his account before this Court for payment thereof. Additional Resolve relatiwe to supplying the three Colonial Regiments with Medicines ; passed June 22, 1776. Whereas, by a Resolve of this Court of the 19th current, directing how several Regiments raised by this Colony shall be supplied with Medicines, among other things it is resolved that all the Medicines that shall be received by the Surgeons of said Regiments shall be used for the sick and wounded persons in the Regiment to which he is Surgeon, which may be attended with some inconvenience in cases of neces- sity, and put said Surgeons to unnecessary trouble: 'There- fore, Resolved, That when it shall so happen that any of the aforesaid Surgeons shall be called to give his assistance or advice for any sick or wounded person or persons in either of said Regiments, and he should find it necessary to make use of some of the Medicines delivered for the Regiment to which he is Surgeon, in such case he is directed to make use of such Medicines as are necessary, in the same manner he could if the sick or wounded person or persons belonged to the Regiment to which he is Surgeon; and in case it should at any time appear necessary to either of said Surgeons to make use of any Medicines for immediate relief of any per- son belonging to the Continental Army, he is directed to make use of the same, he keeping an account of all such Medicines as he shall make use of for the sick and wounded in said Army. And it is further Resolved, That instead of the oath required to be taken by the Resolve afore recited, the Sur- geon of each Regiment shall make oath before some Justice of the Peace that the Medicines he shall receive of Doctor Greenleaf shall be applied agreeable to the Resolves of this Court. Resolve on the Abstract of Colonel Isaac Surry; passed JunE 22, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony unto Colonel Isaac Smith the sum of £9 12s. Sd., for himself and Field and Staff Officers borne on his Abstract ; also for Captain Robert Dodge and Company the sum of £42 17s. 11d.; also for Captain Daniel Litile- field and Company the sum of £67 Os. 4d.; and for Captain William Rogers and Company £81 6s. 11d.; and for Cap- tain Henry Merrill and Company the sum of £38 19s. 43d. ; and for Captain Benjamin Farnum and Company the sum of £42 6s. 84d.; and for Captain Timothy Johnson and Company £16 15s. 5d.; and for Captain Beryamin Epes and Company £40 16s. 6d. Treasurer directed to receive two boxes of Money of Mr. Georce Sprices; passed June 24, 1776. Resolved, That the Treasurer and Receiver-General of this Colony be, and he is hereby, directed to receive of Mr. George Spriggs two boxes of Money, marked “Massachu- 285 setts,” brought by said Spriggs from Philadelphia, with directions to deliver the same to the order of the General Assembly of this Colony, and that the Treasurer and Re- ceiver-General give the said Spriggs a receipt therefor. Resolve on the Petition of Georce Lanerorn; passed June 24, 1776. On the Petition of George Langford, Resolved, That there be paid to him out of the publick Treasury of this Colony the sum of 15s., in full for the damage done to his Gun by a cannon ball fired from the enemy at Boston Neck on the 17th of June, 1775. . Order on the Complaint of Samurt Rice; passed June 24, 1776. On the Complaint of Samuel Rice, of Lancaster, setting forth fraud in the Muster-Roll of Lieutenant Seth Heywood, of said Lancaster, &c.: Ordered, That the Secretary be, and he hereby is, directed to serve the said Lieutenant Seth Heywood with a copy of said Complaint and this Order, that he show cause, if any he has, on the second Wednesday of the next session of the General Court why he should not be prosecuted for fraud and perjury respecting said Roll; and that the Secre- tary be directed in like manner to serve the said Samuel Rice with a copy of his Complaint and this Order, that he have opportunity on the said second Wednesday of the next session of the General Court to support his complaint against said Heywood. Commissary for the Forces at 'Truro chosen; June 24, 1776. The House made choice of Mr. John Sellew as a Com- missary for the Company stationed at Truro, in the room of Mr. Harding, excused. Concurred by Council same day. Adjutant for the Third Regiment in Yorx; chosen June 22,1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Mr. Theodore Ly- man as an Adjutant to the Third Regiment of Militia in the County of York. Concurred by Council June 24, 1776. Adjutant to the Second Regiment in Cumprrvann chosen; June 22, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Joseph Ludden as an Adjutant to the Second Regiment of Militia, in the Coun- ty of Cumberland. Concurred by Council, June 24, 1776. Adjutant to the Third Regiment in Cumpervann chosen; JuNE 22, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Gideon Meserve as an Adjutant to the Third Regiment of Militia, in the County of Cumberland. Concurred by Council, June 24, 1776. Resolve to supply Davin Jerrenties, Esquire, with fifteen hundred Pounds ; passed Junn 24, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony to David Jefferies, Esquire, Paymaster to the Regiments of Colonels Marshall, Whitney, and Crafts, the sum of £1,500, towards paying those Regiments, according to their establishment, so far as it respects Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates; said Paymaster to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve directing the Selectmen of the several Towns to lend Military Tools ; passed June 24, 1776. Whereas, by a late Act of the General Court, intituled “An Act for forming and regulating the Militia within the Colony, &c.,” the Selectmen of each and every Town are directed to provide, at the expense of the Colony, a number of Spades or Iron Shovels, Narrow Axes, and Pick Axes; and the same to deposite and keep in some safe place, for the use of the Militia upon an alarm: And whereas it may MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 286 be found expedient to make use of such Tools in erecting Fortifications, or for other necessary purposes: Therefore, Resolved, That the Selectmen of each and every Town within this Colony be, and they hereby are, severally em- powered and directed, upon application being made, to deliver the whole, or any part of the Tools provided agree- ably to the Act aforesaid, to any Commissioned Officer, com- manding any number of Soldiers, employed in fortifying against the enemy, in any ‘Town in this Colony, taking their receipts for the same, particularly mentioning the number of each Tool so delivered ; and said officers are hereby directed to return said Tools to the said Selectmen as soon as con- veniently may be, after they have done using them in forti- fying as aforesaid, the aforesaid Act notwithstanding. Resolve for payment of Accounts for losses in battle, passed June 24, 1776. Resolved, That the following Sums be paid to the persons whose names follow, in full, for their accounts for losses in battle, on and since the 19th of April, 1775, viz: t co) EP RBM EL ches Sous Capt. Peter Coburn,5 10 0 Jonah Emmerson,- 1 0 0 Thomas Cummings,O 9 0 Reuben Carlton, - 2 8 0 Francis Darison, - 3 18 0 Daniel Keyes, - 1 18 0 William Chambers, 1 18 0 William Campfield, 1 13 0 James Spaulding, - 1 OO Isaac Green, - - 2 80 Jedediah Thayer, - 2 14 0 Lieut. Isaac Brown,2 10 8 Samuel Walker, - 3 3 2 Jeremiah Macho, - 1 16 0 Eli Lewis, - - - 0160 David Adams, -0 40 Joseph Thatcher, - 2 60 P.Dudley Sergeant,0 12 0 Samuel Basset, - 014 0 Asahel Nim’s heirs, 4 14 0 Maj. Stephen Cross, 2 6 0 Nathan Newell, - 0 60 David Livestone, - 3 11 3 Lt. Benjamin West, 3 16 0 Thomas Baker, - 2 14 3 Heirs of W. Fish,- 5 17 0 Thomas Pike, -1 70 Edward Elsworth, 1 16 0 Ephraim Hidden,- 0 8 0 Moses Morss, - - 1 10 0 Stephen Palmer, - 1 16 0 Jacob Lane, - -2 8090 Resolve making provision for the Families of such Tories as have left the Colony ; passed June 25, 1776. Whereas a Resolve passed this Court, dated the 19th of April, 1776, directing the Committee of Correspondence, &c., in this Colony, to lease out the Real Estates of 'Tories who have fled to the British Fleet or Army for protection, and to take an Inventory of their Personal Estates, &c., wherein no provision is made for their families which are left on those Estates, whereby great expenses may accrue to the Towns to which they respectively belong: It is therefore Resolved, That the Committees of Corre- spondence, Inspection, and Safety, in those ‘Towns in this Colony wherein there are Estates which, in pursuance of said Resolve, come under their cognisance, be, and they hereby are, directed to allow to the families of those enemies to their country, described in said resolve, so much of the improvement of said Estates as, in their opinion, is necessary, together with the industry of said families, for their comfort- able support, and account with this Court, as by said resolve is provided; and the Selectmen (or Overseers of the Poor, where such are appointed) are hereby empowered to bind out the children of such Tories, in like manner as they are by law empowered to bind out the Poor of their Towns. And it is further Resolved, That the Committees afore- said be, and they are hereby, empowered to dispose of any perishable goods belonging to said Estates, and which are otherwise in danger of being lost, for the most they will sell for. Resolve for raising one hundred Men, to be stationed at Marrua’s Vineyarp; passed June 25, 1776. Resolved, That there be raised on the Sea-Coast Estab- lishment, in addition to the Companies stationed at Martha’s Vineyard, one Company of one hundred Men, to be inlisted from the main, and to serve till the last day of December next, unless sooner discharged by order of this Court ; and that one piece of Cannon (a six-pounder now at Elizabeth Islands) be removed from thence, and placed at Martha’s Vineyard, and that they be supplied with two nine-pounders now at Boston ; and that the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver the same to Joseph Mayhew, Esquire, or order, and also for the use of the Cannon and Men, station- ed at the Vineyard, four barrels of Powder, forty rounds of 287 Shot for each of said Cannon, and three hundred weight of Leaden Balls; he, the said Mayhew, to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for raising five thousand Men, to cooperate with the Continental Troops at Canapa and New-York; passed JUNE 25, 1776. As the unrelenting spirit which possesses the King and Parliament of Britain has pushed them to leave no measures unessayed to accomplish our destruction, and, with infinite disgrace to themselves, are about to pour in upon us a num- ber of foreign Troops, with intent, this year, to decide the contest, and to enslave us forever; and as such a manly and brave resistance, as, with the smiles of Heaven, we are able to make, will, in all human probability, utterly defeat their haughty and unrighteous designs, and establish our liberty ; the Honourable American Congress have called upon this Colony for five thousand of its Militia, to codperate with the Continental Troops at Canada and New-York; and as it is absolutely necessary that a proper number of men should be reserved for the defence of the sea-coasts against the attacks which may be made upon them, it renders it un- avoidable that the levies should be made on the Towns least exposed to invasion from the sea; and although the numbers are large, yet the exertions now called for are to be disregarded when compared to the great and noble ob- jects for which we are contending: this Court, therefore, have the fullest assurance that their brethren, upon this occasion, will not confer with flesh and blood; but being convinced of the necessity of the measure, will, without hesitancy, and with the utmost alacrity and despatch, fill up the numbers proportioned on the respective ‘Towns, and in that case we shall have the highest prospect of defeating the bloody designs of our unjust and cruel adversaries. We derive the greatest confidence from the spirited and distin- guished part our constituents have taken upon all important occasions. We flatter ourselves that a noble defence this campaign will put an end tothe war. Everything, therefore, calls for their exertions on this occasion; not only the safety of their wives, children, and properties, but the security of the rights of the present and future generations: Therefore, Resolved, That the five thousand men from the Militia of this Colony, requested by Congress to be immediately raised and marched for reinforcing the Army in Canada and in New- York, be raised from the Militia on the Alarm and Training-Band Lists of the several Towns, and in the several proportions expressed in the schedule hereto an- nexed; and that those that are proportioned on the several Towns in the Counties of Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, Hampshire, York, and Cumberland, be destined and march for Canada; and that those which are proportioned on the several Towns in the Counties of Plymouth, Bristol, Wor- cester, and Berkshire, be destined and march for New- York. And that each man furnish himself with a good Firearm, and Bayonet fitted to the same, or, stead of a Bayonet, a Hatchet or Tomahawk, a Cartouch-Box, Knapsack, and Blanket; and for their encouragement readily to enter into the service of their country on this pressing exigency of affairs, there shall be paid to each non-commissioned Officer and private Soldier destined for Canada, at the time of his passing muster, £7; and to each non-commissioned Officer and private Soldier destined for New-York, at the time of his passing muster, £3—the better to enable him to furnish and prepare himself for the service on so sudden a call; and 6s. for the use of the Arms of each non-commissioned Officer and private Soldier destined to either of the places aforesaid, and 12s. to purchase a Blanket, and one month’s advance pay on his passing muster, equipped as aforementioned. And it is further Resolved, 'That Jonathan Metcalf, Esq., Benjamin Guild, Esq., Colonel Aaron Davis, Nathaniel Bailey, Esq., and Mr. Daniel Perry, be a Committee to go into the County of Suffolk; and that Aaron Wood, Esq,., Major Samuel Epes, Mr. Nehemiah Abbot, Colonel Daniel Spafford, and Dudley Carlton, Esq., be a Committee to go into the County of Essex; and that Jonas Dix, Esq., Major Timothy Walker, Colonel Josiah Sartel, Colonel Simeon Spaulding, Mr. George Brigham, Captain Joseph Hosmer, Colonel Jonathan Reed, Colonel William Thompson, and Josiah Stone, Esq., be a Committee to go into the County of Middlesex; and that Joseph Hawley, Esq., Noah Good- MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 288 man, Esq., Major William Pincheon, Jun., Mr. David Sax- ton, Mr. Luke Hitchcock, and Captain Israel Hubbard, be a Committee to go into the County of Hampshire; and that William Drew, Esq., Hugh Orr, Esq., Colonel Mitchell, Colonel Ebenezer White, and Captain Robert Lenthal Eels, be a Committee to go into the County of Plymouth; and that Captain John Stevens, Colonel Shubael Peck, and Colonel Nathaniel Leonard, be a Committee to go into the County of Bristol; and that Captain Seth Washburn, Cap- tain Nathaniel Wilson, Mr. Abner Rawson, Captain Wil- liam Page, Amos Singletary, Esq., Mr. John Ball, Captain John Haven, Captain Nicholas Dyke, and Major William Learned, be a Committee to go into the County of Worces- ter; and that Mr. Azariah Root, Major Caleb Hyde, and Captain Isaac Stratton, be a Committee to go into the County of Berkshire; and that Joseph Storer, Esq., and Colonel Ichabod Goodwin, be a Committee to go into the County of York; and that Captain Joseph Noyes be a Com- mittee to go into the County of Cumberland ; whose business it shall be to endeavour to have the inlistments of the men apportioned by this Resolve on the several Counties made without delay, to form the men into Companies, to muster and pay them their bounty, and for the use of their arms, and blanket money, and for one month’s advance pay, and to appoint meet persons for Captains and Subalterns of the Companies to be raised in their respective Counties; the non-commissioned Officers to be appointed by the respective Captains and Subalterns; no man to pass muster without being equipped as aforesaid. And it is further Resolved, 'That this Court, as soon as may be, proceed to the choice of two Brigadiers as recom- mended by Congress, and of the Field-Officers for the several Battalions. And it is further Resolved, That there be paid out of the Treasury of this Colony to the said Committees, to enable them to pay the Bounty aforesaid, and for the Blankets, and for the use of the Arms, and for a month’s advance pay, to non-commissioned Officers and private Soldiers, the several sums following, viz: To the Committee appointed to Suffolk, the sum of £4,190. To the Committee appointed to Essex, the sum of £4,280. To the Committee appointed to Middlesex, the sum of £10,070. To the Committee appointed to Hampshire, the sum of £7,100. To the Committee appointed to York, the sum £965. To the Committee appointed to Cumberland, the sum of £365. To the Committee appointed to go Plymouth, the sum of £2,120. To the Committee appointed to Bristol, the sum of £2,020. To the Committee appointed to Worcester, the sum of £6,380. To the Committee appointed to go into the County of Berkshire, the sum of £1,400. Each of said Committees to be accountable for the sum they shall severally receive. It is further Resolved, That the pay and establishment of these Forces shall be the same as for those in the Con- tinental service; that they be engaged to the first day of December next, unless sooner discharged by Congress; that their pay commence three days next preceding the day of their marching from home; and that they be allowed one penny, lawful money, a mile, in lieu of rations, for travelling expenses, and one day’s pay for every twenty miles between home and the general rendezvous, going and returning. Tt is further Resolved, That Edward Mitchell, Esq., Theophilus Cushing, Esq., and William Drew, Esq., be a Committee to provide suitable Camp-Kettles or Pots, and Canteens or Wooden Bottles, and transport them to suitable places, for the accommodation of the ‘Troops. And be it further Resolved, That the Committees to go into the several Counties receive Blank Commissions, to fill up and deliver to such Captains and Subalterns as they shall appoint. And it is further Resolved, That the men to be raised and destined for Canada, be formed into four Battalions, of go into the County of go into the County of go into the County of into the County of into the County of into the County of into the County of into the County of go into the County of 289 nearly seven hundred and fifty men each, including Officers, and each Battalion to consist of eight Companies; each Company of one Captain, one First Lieutenant, one Second Lieutenant, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drum, and one Fife, and as near as may be of seventy-nine Privates. And that the men to be raised and destined for New-York be formed into three Battalions, each to consist, as near as may be, of six hundred and sixty-six men, including Officers ; and also each Battalion to consist of eight Compa- nies, and each Company of one Captain, one First Lieute- nant, one Second Lieutenant, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drummer, one Fifer, and as near as may be of sixty-nine Privates. And the several Militia Officers in the several Counties are hereby required to afford their utmost aid to the said Committees in raising the men afore- said, by calling together the men under their command, and in any other way the said Committees shall request. And it is further Resolved, That the four Battalions destined to Canada shall be constituted in the manner fol- lowing, that is to say: The first of said Battalions of all the men to be raised in the County of Suffolk, and of all the men to be raised in the following Towns in the County of Middlesex, viz: Cambridge, Watertown, Charlestown, Med- ford, Malden, Waltham, Sherburne, Hopkington, Holliston, and Natick; and the second of said Battalions shall be con- stituted of all the men to be raised in the Counties of Essex, York, and Cumberland; and the third of said Battalions shall be constituted of all the men to be raised in the County of Middlesex, except the Towns in the same County joined with the County of Suffolk, as above expressed; and that the fourth of the said Battalions shall be constituted of all the men to be raised in the County of Hampshire. And it is further Resolved, ‘That the three Battalions destined to New-York shall be constituted in the manner following, that is to say: The first of the said Battalions of all the men to be raised in the Counties of Plymouth and Bristol; and the second of the said Battalions shal] be con- stituted of all the men to be raised in the several Towns in the County of Worcester, excepting the owns hereinafter named ; and the third of the said Battaliqns shall be consti- tuted of all the men to be raised in the County of Berkshire, and the following Towns in the County of Worcester, viz: Lancaster, Bolton, Harvard, Mendon, Upton, Southborough, Grafton, Northborough, Westborough, Shrewsbury, Lunen- burgh, and Leominster. . And it is further Resolved, That the several Battalions which shall be raised agreeably to, or in consequence of the foregoing Resolves, shall march to their respective places of destination by such routes as may be ordered by the General Assembly of this Colony; and in case no order is made for that purpose by the General Assembly, then by such routes as the Council of this Colony, or the major part of them, shall order and direct. Also Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony, to the Committee appointed to procure Camp-Kettles, &c., the sum of £400, to enable them to purchase those articles, to pay for their transporta- tion, and any other charges that may attend their doing said business; and that said Committee duly account with this Court for the expenditure of the sum or sums which they may receive for the purpose before mentioned. Suffolk. Essex. Roxburyy -)- - -, 42 Danvers, - = - - 50 Dorchester,- - - - 8 Ipswich, - - - - 10 Milton, - - - - - 23 Newbury, - - - - 30 Braintree; - - - - 20 Lynn, - - - - - 10 Weymouth,- - - - 10 Andover, - - - - 64 Hingham, - - - - 15-Rowley, - - - - 20 Dedham, - - © = 65° Salisbury;:-»- »-.-':18 Medfield;""= =""=395.°26 2 Haverhill) - 3) \-4:-) 43 Wrentham, - - -° - 65 Topsfield, -. - - - 30 Brookline, *- .-.-- + «17 Amesbury, + *- .- -» 37 Neediiam, =) ~ 2 G26 eRemdfordwen2! by means of his being apprehended and confined. es Resolve to supply the Committee for raising Men with more Money; passed June 29, 1776. Whereas, by a Resolve of this Court of the-25th instant, several sums of Money were ordered to be paid to the several Committees appointed to go into the several Counties in this Colony, to enable them to pay the Non-Commissioned Offi- cers and Soldiers the several sums mentioned in said Resolve ; and whereas, through some mistake, the several sums ordered to be paid said Committees fall short of the sum intended to be put into their hands for the purpose aforesaid: There- fore, Resolved, That there be paid out of the Treasury of this Colony, to the said Committees, for the purposes mentioned in said Resolve, the further sums following, viz: To the Committee appointed to go into the County of Suffolk, the sum of £59 8s. To the Committee appointed to Essex, the sum of £61 6s. To the Committee appointed to go Middlesex, the sum of £112. To the Committee appointed to Hampshire, the sum of £37 14s. To the Committee appointed to York, the sum of £27 8s. To the Committee appointed to Cumberland, the sum of £12 8s. To the Committee appointed to Plymouth, the sum of £123 4s. To the Committee appointed to Bristol, the sum of £101 16s. To the Committee appointed to Worcester, the sum of £86 12s. To the Committee appointed to Berkshire, the sum of £41 12s. KEach,of said Committees to be accountable to this Court for the sum they shall severally receive. into the County of into the County of into the County of into the County of into the County of go into the County of into the County of into the County of into the County of MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JUNE, 1776. 302 Resolve on the Account of ALEXANDER GRAY; passed JUNE 29, 1776. Resolved, That the Treasurer of this Colony be, and*he is hereby, directed to pay out of the publick Treasury the sum of £5 5s., to Alexander Gray, in full discharge of his Account. Resolve for supplying the Town of Arunven with Powder, &c.; passed June 29, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he here- by is, directed to deliver to Mr. Benjamin Durril, or order, one barrel of Gunpowder, and one hundred weight of Leaden Ball, for the use of the said Town of Arundel, he to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for paying James Minor for numbering the People; passed June 29, 1776. Resolved, That the Receiver-General be, and he hereby is, directed to pay out of the publick Treasury to Mr. James Minot, or order, £6 19s. 4d., in full for his services in taking the number of the People on the eastern side of George’s River. Resolve for procuring Stockings for the Army; passed June 29, 1776. Resolved, That Abraham Watson, Esq., of Cambridge, Jonathan Brown and Samuel Fisk, Esqs., of Watertown, Mr. John Nazro, of Worcester, Joseph Nye, Esq., of Sand- wich, and Mr. James Sheppard, of Northampton, be, and they hereby are, appointed a Committee to collect a quantity of Yarn Stockings, not exceeding four thousand pair; and that the Committee apply to the Selectmen of the several Towns in this Colony most likely to procure them, request- ing their immediate assistance in effecting the above business ; and the said Committee are hereby directed not to allow more than 5s. a pair for good Stockings. And it is further Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony the sum of £1000, to en- able them to purchase said Stockings; and that the said Com- mittee be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for supplying the Town of Harrsweiy with Fire- Arms and Powder; passed Junz 29, 1776. Resolved, 'That twenty-five of the Firearms delivered by order of this Court to Doctor Edward Russell, be now de- livered to Lsaac Snow, or order, for the use of the said Town of Harpswell, he to be accountable to this Court for the same. And that the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to the said Isaac Snow, or order, one hundred pounds of Gunpowder and one hundred weight of Leaden Ball, for the use of the said Town; he, the said Snow, to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for paying Bensamin Epes, Post-Rider; passed June 29, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Trea- sury of this Colony to Major Samuel Epes, for the use of Benjamin Epes, the further sum of £4, for his service as Post-Rider from Falmouth to George-Town six months, in the year 1775. Resolve for paying Joseru Bernarp, Post-Rider; passed June 29, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Trea- sury to Joseph Bernard, or order, the further sum of £13 4s. Ad., for his service as Post-Rider from Portsmouth to Fal- mouth, four months and five days, in the year 1775. Resolve for payment of losses in Battle on the 19th Aprit and 17th of Junr, 1775; passed June 29, 1776. Resolved, That the following sums be paid out of the publick Treasury to the persons hereafter mentioned, in full for their accounts for losses in Battle on the 19th of April, and 17th of June, 1775, viz: 'To the heirs of Jeremiah Shattuck, Jun., £4 19s.; to the heirs of Jonathan Jenkins, £5 6s. 9d, ; to Lieutenant Joseph Gilbert, £2 6s.; to Cap- tain Ebenezer Battle, for the use of Jemima Haven, £3 7s. Gd.;.to Isaac Green, £2 2s. 303 Officers for the Company of Matrosses at Newsuryport chosen; June 29, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of the following gen- tlemen, as Officers for the Company of Matrosses to be stationed at Newburyport, viz: Edward Wigglesworth, Captain; Michael Hodge, First Lieutenant; Joseph Whit- temore, Second Lieutenant. Concurred by Council same day. Officers for Sea-Coast Men at Newsuryrort chosen; June 29, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of the following gen- tlemen as Officers for the Company of Sea-Coast Men, to be stationed at Newburyport, viz: Moses Nowell, Captain ; Elias Davis, First Lieutenant; Moses Greenleaf, Second Lieutenant. Concurred by Council same day. JosepH Mavuew, Esq., appointed to sign Beating Orders, &c.; June 29, 1776. Resolved, That Joseph Mayhew, Esquire, be, and hereby is, empowered and directed to sign Beating-Orders, directed to John Russell, Gentleman, appointed Captain of a Com- pany now to be raised, and to be stationed on Martha’s Vineyard, for the defence of that Island, empowering and directing said Captain Russell to inlist a Company for the ‘ purpose before mentioned. Resolve for payment of the Overseers of Reaptne ; passed JuNE 29, 1776. © Resolved, That there be allowed and paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony, to the Overseers of the Poor of the Town of Reading, the sum of £3 6s., in full of their Account. ——— Resolve for procuring a Company of Ship-Carpenters, to go to ALBany; passed Juuy 1, 1776. Resolved, That there be a Company of fifty Ship-Car- penters immediately agreed with to enter into the Conti- nental service, and ordered to Albany, there to be under the direction of General Schuyler, or other Commanding Officer; that they provide themselves with suitable tools, at their own expense, and that necessary wagons be provided to transport their tools and baggage to Albany; and that £3 per man be advanced in part of his wages, to enable him to equip himself and march to Albany; and that those Carpenters who have no tools be provided therewith, deduct- ing the cost thereof from the wages of such deficient Car- penters; and that a master workman be appointed to command this Company, whose wages and allowance, to- gether with the Company, be conformable to a memorandum of an Agreement transmitted by General Schuyler the 25th instant. Resolve relative to procuring a Company of Ship-Carpen- ters to go to ALBANY ; passed Juty 1, 1776. Resolved, That the following form of an Inlistment or Agreement be the form of the Agreement with the Company of Ship-Carpenters this day resolved to be raised for the Continental service, viz: “An agreement made the day of , 1776, between the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay of the first part, and of , and the several persons whose names are here- unto subscribed, of the second part. The several persons of the said second part, each for himself, do hereby agree that they severally will immediately repair to Albany, or to such other place 4s General Schuyler, or the Commander- in-Chief in that department for the time being, shall direct, and there employ themselves in constructing and building such and so many batteaus, other vessels, and buildings, as the said Commander-in-Chief, or his appointed Superintend- ent, shall direct, from the day of their engagement till the first day of December next, unless sooner discharged ; that they will, during the time they shall be employed, contmue each day at their said work and employment between the times following, viz: to begin their work at. sunrise, and continue at it till sunset, excepting one hour at breakfast, and one and an half hour at dinner; that each and every of MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 304 them shall and will find and provide themselves proper tools and implements for the carrying on the saidswork ; and that if any of the said persons of the second part shall leave the said work, and go from the post where he shall be employed, without the leave of the Commanding Officer of such post first had and obtained, the person so going off shall forfeit all the wages which otherwise would be due to him. “In consideration whereof, the said Colony promises and agrees, with each and every person of the said second part, that they shall severally have and receive the wages follow- ing, viz: the said , at and after the rate of one dollar and a quarter; and each and every other person of the said second part, at and after the rate of one dollar, for each and every day they shall be in actual service as aforesaid ; and that, over and above said sums, they shall severally receive one anda quarter pounds of pork or beef and one pound and a half of flour per day, four pints of peas per week, one pint of molasses per week, and half a pint of rum per day; that said wages shall commence on the day they shall leave their homes to proceed on their journey; that they shall, each of them, receive ten dollars advance pay, in part for their wages, before they march ; and shall also be allowed one day’s wages for each and every twenty miles travel, on their return to their homes; and upon their travel, both out and home, they shall severally be allowed, instead of their rations afore- said, one-third ofa dollar for every twenty miles travel, to bear their expenses on the road; and if any person of said second part should be taken sick during the time in which they shall be in employ as aforesaid, they shall not be entitled to any wages for the time they abstain from working, unless the Commanding Officer of the post where they shall be station- ed shall, on application to him made, refuse to discharge the persons so taken sick; in which case, they shall be entitled to wages, in the same manner as thouch no such application and refusal had taken place, or they had not been taken sick.” Also, Resolved, That Colonel Bagley, Mr. Webster, and Mr. Litile, of Newbury, be a Committee to agree with the Carpenters as aforesaid, and to hire Wagons to carry their Tools and Baggage, and to pay their advance wages as afore- said; and said Committee are hereby empowered to draw upon the Colony Treasurer for the sum of £170, for the purposes aforesaid; and the ‘Treasurer is hereby directed to pay said sum to said Committee, they being accountable for the expenditure of the same. — Resoive vesting certain Powers in the Council during the recess of the Court; passed Juty 1, 1776. Whereas it is necessary that in the recess of the Court certain Powers should be vested in the Council, or Com- mittee of Council, for the publick good: Therefore, Resolved, ‘That the honourable Council, or such part of them as they shall appoint, be a Committee of Safety, whose business it shall be, during the recess of the General Court, to direct the Commissary-General of this Colony respecting the taking in and delivering out the Warlike Stores of this Colony to and from the publick Magazines as they may think necessary; and that said Council, or Committee of Council, have power to appoint Agents for, and in all respects provide for and give out such Instructions to the Commanders of the armed Vessels that are or may be fitted out on the account of this Colony as shall be necessary for the defence and interest of this Colony, or of the United Colonies, such Instructions not being contrary to any law or resolve of the General Court, or the resolves of the Conti- nental Congress; and that the Council, or said Committee of Council, have power to direct the Commissary-General of this Colony to procure such Warlike Stores and Provi- sions as they may find necessary; and that they be empow- ered to grant Warrants on the Treasury for such sum or” sums of Money as there may be occasion for, for the purposes aforesaid, such Moneys to be accounted for by the persons who shall receive the same; and that the three Regiments of Colonel Marshall, Colonel Whitney, Colonel Crafts, and the four Companies that have been doing duty in Dorchester, Braintree, Weymouth, and Hingham, and the other Com- panies of sea-coast men, be under the direction of the Coun- ‘cil, or said Committee of Council, who may, if occasion should require, put them under the command of such person or persons as they shall think proper; these powess to con- tinue until the next meeting of the General Assembly. 305 And it is further Resolved, That the Council, during the recess of the Court, be empowered and authorized to treat with any Indians that may arrive, and make such provision for them as the Council may think best; and that the Council be further authorized to appoint and commissionate such Field Officers as may be necessary to fill up any vacancies which may happen in any of the Regiments which are now raising ; and ifthe Council shall not be sitting, that the said Committee of Council have the same power in these respects. Resolve on the Petition of Resecca Briver and LemMuen Curip; passed Jury 1, 1776. On the Petition of Rebecca Bridge and Lemuel Child, Resolved, That the prayer of the Petition be granted; and that the Petitioners be, and hereby are, empowered to make sale of all the Real Estate therein mentioned, for the most it will fetch, and:-make and execute a good deed or deeds thereof, observing the rules of the law respecting the sales of Real Estates by Executors and Administrators, and giving security to the Judge of Probate for the County of Suffolk that the proceeds be applied as follows, viz: The said Widow of Edward Bridge to have the income of one- third part annually during her natural life; the other two- thirds to be appropriated to the payment of the said deceased’s just debts; and the remainder (if any there shall be) to be put to interest, for the benefit of said deceased’s heirs, to be paid to them, respectively, in legal proportion, when they shall be of age; also, that said heirs shall have and enjoy said Widow’s thirds, after her decease, in case the debts of the said Edward Bridge be all first discharged. Resolve empowering the Commissary to deliver out Powder, &c., to the Forces bound to Canava; passed Juty 1, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver fifteen hundred weight of Gunpowder and three thousand five hundred weight of leaden Musket-Balls, and nine thousand Flints, to Mr. Ezra Sargeant, for the use of the Forces of this Colony bound to Canada, and that said Sargeant procure a sufli- cient number of ‘Teams and Drivers for the same, to carry said Powder, Ball, and Flints, to Charlestown, in New- Hampshire Colony, to be there delivered to Mr. Samuel Hunt, for the use of the said Forces. And be it further Resolved, That Mr. Samuel Hunt be, and is hereby, directed to deliver, out of the said Powder, Balls, and F'lints, to each officer and private soldier of the said Forces, half a pound of Powder and twenty Balls and three F'lints. And it is further Resolved, That Mr. Ezra Sargeant be, and hereby is, appointed and directed to guard said Teams, with sixteen men, to Charlestown aforesaid. And it is further Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony £40, to enable him to procure and pay for said ‘Teams and Drivers; and that he be accountable to this Court for the sum or sums he may receive for the purpose aforesaid. Resolve for appointing an Engineer to direct in the Works carryiug on at the Gurnet, &c.; passed Juty 1, 1776. Whereas a few days since a Resolve passed this Court appointing Major Thomas Dawes, for the purpose of repair- ing to the Gurnet, at the entrance of Plymouth Harbour, and to direct in the Fortifications to be there erected: and it was at the same time resolved, that seven of the Colonial Boats should be furnished for said service; but as Major Dawes cannot attend said service, and no Colonial Boats are to be had: It is, therefore, Resolved, That Major-General Lincoln be desired to procure and send forward, without loss of time, a suitable person to direct in the Works aforesaid; and that Major- General Ward be also desired to furnish seven of the Con- tinental Whale-Boats for said service; which Boats shall be returned in good order, as soon as the service will admit of it. Resolve relative to the Accounts of the Guardians of the Dunotey Inpians; passed Jury 1, 1776. On the Accounts of the Dudley Indians, Resolved, That it appears the said Accounts are rightly cast and well vouched; and that the said Guardians, at their Firtu Serres.—Vot. I. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 306 last settlement, on the 24th February, 1774, were in advance the sum of £6 7s. 34d., and since have paid for said Indians’ benefit the sum of £13 14s. 9d., and that they have received two years’ income, at £9 per year, and that the said @uar- dians are in advance the sum of £2 Qs, Ohd. Resolve directing the Committee of Mivron to take into pos- session the Estates of Tuomas Hurcurnson and Henry Luoyp; passed Jury 1, 1776. Resolved, That the Committee of Correspondence, Safety, and Inspection, of the ‘Town of Milton, be, and they are hereby, empowered to take into their possession all the Personal Estate of Thomas Hutchinson, late of said Milton, which is in the possession of Colonel Taylor, in said Milton, or wherever it may be found, excepting such as may have been otherwise disposed of by order of the General Court, and to follow the directions of this Court respecting the same, as in similar cases provided. And further Resolved, That said Committees take into their care the Estate let to Captain Daniel Vose by Henry Lloyd, late of Boston, who fled with the Ministerial Fleet, observing the directions of Court with respect to the Estates of Refugees. “ Resolve relative to the Commissary’s receiving Saltpetre ; passed Juty 1, 1776. Whereas the Orders of the late General Assembly of this Colony, directing the Commissary-General to receive and pay for Saltpetre at Watertown, manufactured in the said Colony, is found to be very defective in this respect, that he is empowered to receive the said article on two days in each month only, which restriction is found greatly inconvenient for manufacturers of that commodity, and tends much to the discouragement of the manufacturing of that article: It ts therefore Resolved, ‘That the Commissary-General of this Colony, by himself or his Deputy, immediately examine such Saltpetre as has been manufactured in this Colony before the first of June last, and brought to Water- town aforesaid within the time limited by this Court for the delivery of the same, in all instances when the manufacturer or any one in his behalf is attending to deliver the same, and to accept and pay for such Saltpetre, if in his power, in case he shall find that the manufacturer or manufacturers are entitled to be paid for the same by any Resolve or Re- solves of the General Assembly now in force; and that for the future, until the first of October next, he, the said Com- missary-General, by himself or some sufficient Deputy in his stead, give his attendance at some proper place in Water- town aforesaid, at least two days in a week, for the examin- ing, receiving, and paying for such Saltpetre as shall be brought and offered to the said Commissary by such persons as may be entitled to be paid therefor by any Resolve or Resolves of the General Assembly of this Colony, which are now or shall be in force before the said first day of Octo- ber next; and that the said Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to notify the publick of the particular days of the week on which he will give such attendance. Resolve on the Return of Estates in Wosurn; passed Juty Taluio, Resolved, That the proceedings of the Committee of Correspondence, Safety, and Inspection, for the Town of Woburn, in taking into possession and leasing out the Estate of Mr. Coffin, is conformable to a late Act or Resolve of the Great and General Court in that case made and provided, &c.; and the inhabitants of the Town of Woburn are hereby required to aid and support their Committee in their doings with regard to said Estate, said Committee conforming their proceedings to the Acts and Resolves of this Court in such case made and provided. Resolve for discharging the Schooner CuarLestown Cur- rer; passed Jury 2, 1776. Resolved, That Captain Batcheldor be directed to dis- charge the Schooner called the Charlestown Cutter, and her crew, from the service of this Colony, and deliver the said Schooner to her Jawful owner, and pay him the hire that may be due to him for her service. Also to settle the Port- lidge Bill, and pay the master and people that belong to said Schooner the wages that are due to them, and to 20 307 receive and take care of all the publick stores now on board said Schooner that belong to this Colony, and lay his accounts before this Court for allowance and payment of the. game. Resolve to fit out a Vessel of Observation; passed Jury 2, 1776. Resolved, That Captain Batcheldor be directed to hire and fit out a small Vessel, and employ a master and a suit- able number of men to man her, for the purpose of cruising, obtaining and giving intelligence of the enemy’s fleets, &c.; and when said Vessel is fit for the sea, the said Batcheldor is directed to send the master to the Council or Committee of Council, to receive such orders and instructions as will be necessary. It is further Resolved, That the Receiver-General be, and he is hereby, directed to pay out of the publick ‘Treasury the sum of £50 to said Batcheldor, to enable him to carry this Resolve into execution, he to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for raising a Company of Matrosses to be stationed at SaLem; passed Juty 2, 1776. Resolved, That a Company of Matrosses, to consist of fifty men, including Officers, be raised and placed at Salem, to be under the direction of the Committee of Correspon- dence, Safety, and Inspection, at Salem, and to be upon the same pay and regulations as the Company of Matrosses stationed at-Marblehead—said Company to be inlisted to serve till the last of December next, unless sooner discharged by this Court. ' Resolve for supplying the Selectmen of Boston with eighty Pounds, §c.; passed Jury 2, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury of this Colony the sum of £80, towards defraying the ex- penses incurred by removing persons to the Province Hos- pital at Boston, and supporting them while sick with the small-pox; and that Mr. Olver Wendell be appointed to receive and pay said Moneys to the Selectmen of Boston, and be accountable to this Court for the same. Committee for procuring Flour, directed not to purchase any more; JuLy 2, 1776. Resolved, That Deacon Elnathan Curtis, Gideon Whee- ler, Esquire, and Mr. Benedict Dewey, the Committee an- pointed February 20, 1776, to purchase a quantity of Flour in the western parts of this Colony, not exceeding two thou- sand barrels, (and who have given information that they have purchased about fifteen hundred barrels,) be, and they are hereby, directed not to purchase any more on account of this Colony, until the further order of this Court; and that Captain Noah Goodman and Major William Pyncheon be, and they are hereby, directed to pay the moneys they have received from this Court to the several persons that have supplied them with Flour, and apply to this Court for any further sum that may be wanting to complete said payments, and account with this Court for the same. Establishment for the Row-Galleys; passed Jury 2, 1776. Whereas there are two Row-Galleys now building in this Colony, which are nearly ready for the Sea, but no estab- lishment having been made for them, and a recess of this Court is likely soon to take place: Therefore, Resolved, That the establishment for the Row-Galleys shall be the same with that for other vessels of war belonging to this Colony, and that the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston be a Committee, during the next recess of this Court, to recommend to the honourable Council suit- able persons to command said Galleys, which persons shall be commissionated by the honourable Council. Resolve relative to Leaden Window Weights; passed Jury We oN he ys Whereas it is of great importance for the defence of this Colony, in the present struggle with Great Britain, that a sufficient quantity of Leaden Balls be immediately procured: Therefore, : MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 308 Resolved, That it be recommended to the inhabitants of the several ‘Towns in the Colony, that they spare their Leaden Window Weights for that purpose, and the Com- missary-General is directed to receive and pay for all such Lead, and have it cast into Balls. Resolve for supplying the Town of Favmours with four ’ Cannon, &§c.; passed Jury 2, 1776. Whereas a grant of ten Cannon was made by the last General Court to the Town of Falmouth, for the defence thereof, and only six have already been provided: There fore, Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to Samuel Freeman, Esq., or his order, four pieces of Cannon, either twelve, eighteen, or twenty-four- pounders, or any other sizes that he thinks can be best spared from the Cannon now in or near Boston, having one or two trunnions off; the said Freeman to get them properly fixed at the expense of the Colony as soon as possible. And the said Commissary is hereby directed to deliver the said Freeman, or his order, forty rounds of Shot for each Cannon, suitable for the same. ~ Resolve appointing Mr. Dantex Hopxiys a Signer of Bills; passed Jury 2, 1776. Ordered, That Mr. Daniel Hopkins be of the Commit- tee to sign the Bills of Credit, in the room of Mr. Dalton, absent. Captain and Lieutenants appointed for the Company of Matrosses at Sauem; Jury 2, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of the following gen- tlemen as Officers for the Company of Matrosses to be stationed at Salem, viz: John Symonds, Captain; Richard Masury, First Lieutenant ; Daniel Felt, Second Lieutenant. Concurred by Council the same day. Resolve relative to the Test Act; passed Jury 2, 1776. Resolved, That the Committees of Inspection and Safety of each and every Town and place in this Colony be, and they hereby are, directed to omit tendering the Declaration prescribed by an Act passed in the last session of the Gen- eral Court of this Colony, commonly called the Test Act ; and also to refrain from requiring the inhabitants of this Colony, severally, to subscribe said Declaration; and all proceedings against such persons as have already refused or neglected to sign the same Declaration, be stayed till the further order of this Court. \ Resolve relative to the Form of an Inlistment for a Company to be stationed at Sauem; passed Juty 2, 1776. Resolved, That the Form of the Beating Orders and Inlistment of the Company of Matresses to be stationed at Salem, be the same with that ordered for the like Compa- nies to be stationed at Gloucester, Falmouth, and the G'urnet; and that the person to whom said Beating Orders are or may be directed, cause said Company to pass muster before Timothy Pickering, Jun., Esq., as soon as possible after their inlistment. Resolve to encourage the manufacture of Firearms and Cannon; passed Jury 2, 1776. Whereas, notwithstanding the encouragement hitherto given by this Government for the manufacturing of Fire- arms, a sufficient number has not yet been obtained: Thére- fore, ftesolved, That for every effective and substantial Fire- arm which shall be manufactured in this Colony, with a barrel of three feet and nine inches in Jength that will carry an ounce ball, a good bayonet with a blade not less than eighteen inches in length, a steel ramrod, with a spring to retain the same, two loops for gun-strings, and the maker’s name stamped or engraved on the lock, and which shall be delivered at Boston or Watertown, to Richard Devens, Esq., Commissary, on or before the Ist day of January next, there shall be allowed and paid out of the publick ‘Treasury to the owner thereof, the sam of £3 12s.: Provided always, That the owner of each Firearm which shall be received for; 309 the Colony, shall prove the same at his own risk, by four inches and a half of powder, a ball, and wads on each, in présence of the said Commissary or some other person or persons appointed by him for that purpose. — And whereas the casting and manufacturing of Cannon, for the service of this Colony, bas become absolutely neces- sary: : Be it therefore further Resolved, That Dr. Lewis Sweet- ing be a Committee to repair to the Furnaces in Abington and Providence, in order to obtain all possible insight and knowledge in this very necessary branch of business, and make report to this Court as soon as may be. — Resolve for procuring Teams, &c.; passed Jury 2, 1776. Resolved, That the Committees appointed to go into the several Counties to raise men to go to Canada, be directed to provide suitable carriages for the conveyance of the bag- gage of the Officers and Soldiers from their several Towns to Charlestown, in New-Hampshire; said Committee to bring in their Accounts to this Court for payment. Resolved, That the Committees appointed to go into the several Counties to raise the men destined for New-York, be directed to provide suitable carriages for the conveyance of the baggage of the Officers and Soldiers from their several Towns to New-Haven, in Connecticut, excepting the troops to be raised in the County of Berkshire, the Committee of which County is hereby directed to convey the baggage of the troops to be raised in that County to New-York; the said Committees to bring in their Accounts to this Court for payment. A Mustermaster appointed for the two Companies of Matrosses in Newburyport; passed Juty 2, 1776. Resolved, That Jonathan Titcomb, Esq., be, and hereby is, appointed Mustermaster in the Town of Newburyport, to muster the two Companies of men lately ordered to be raised by this Court for the defence of said ‘Town. Resolve for procuring Coats, Blankets, Hats, &¢.; passed JuLy 2, 1776. Whereas it is of the greatest importance that the Army of the United Colonies should be well supplied with ne- cessary Clothing agreeable to the requisition of Congress : Therefore, | Resolved, That Mr. Samuel Allyn Otis, of Boston, Major Richard Godfrey, of Taunton, Joseph Nye, Esq.,of Harwich, Samuel Osgood, Esq., of Andover, Wilham Stickney, Esq., of Billerica, Mr. Ephraim Wright, of Northampton, William Drew, Esq., of Kingston, Captain Benjamin Rice, of Brook- field, Mr. Elnathan Curtis, of Stockbridge, and Thomas Cook, Esq., of Edgartown, be a Committee to procure, as soon as may be, as many Coats, Waistcoats, and Breeches, Blankets, Felt Hats, Shirts, Hose, and Shoes, as they may be able to procure before the Ist of December next, and cause them to be baled, invoiced, and stored in suitable places, to be delivered to the order of Congress, or the Commander-in- Chief of the American Army. Resolve on the Petition of Davin Curever, Esq.; passed Juty 3, 1776. Whereas the late Committee of Supplies did, on the 29th day of March, 1775, give to David Cheever, Esq., an order on the Colony ‘Treasurer for the sum of £350, and charged said Cheever for the same, which order said Cheever endorsed and delivered to said Treasurer, in confidence that the Town of Charlestown would immediately pay him the said sum, it being due to the said Treasurer from the Town of Charles- town, as Province Tax, on which the Treasurer gave credit to said Town for that sum; but the Town of Charlestown aforesaid has paid only £31 16s. 6d. of the same: There- fore, Resolved, ‘That the Colony Treasurer be, and he hereby is, directed to charge the Town of Charlestown with the sum of £318 6s. 6d., and call on the Collectors of said Town for that sum; and the Committee appointed to settle the Ac- counts remaining unsettled on the books of the late Com- mittee of Supplies, &c., is hereby directed to credit David Cheever, Esq., for that sum, on the books of the late Com- mittee of Supplies. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. . 310 Resolve lending Cannon to the Colony of New-Hamr- sHIRE; passed Juty 3, 1776... Resolved, That the Council, or Committee of Safety who may be appointed by Council to sit in the recess of @ourt, be, and hereby are, empowered to deliver to the order of the President of the Council of the Colony of New-Hampshire, for the use of said Colony, such Cannon as he may desire, if they, in the opinion of said Council or Committee, can be spared without endangering the safety of this Colony. Resolve for sending Prisoners from 'Truro to Boston; passed Juty 3, 1776. Resolved, That Captain Joseph Sinith, who commands the forces stationed at Truro, be, and hereby is, directed to send a master.of a vessel cast on shore in March last at Cape Cod, with all the men cast away as aforesaid, who are now there with him, in different vessels, to Boston, as soon as may be, to be delivered to those Justices residing in or about Boston, who are appointed and empowered by this Court to hear afd examine all persons in said Town who are suspected of being inimical to the rights and liberties of America; and the said Justices are hereby directed and empowered to hear, determine, and dispose of them, as they shall think proper. And it ts further Resolved, 'That the said Captain Smith be, and he hereby is, directed to permit the women and children to repair to their respective places of abode. Resolve desiring the Council to appoint a Day of solemn Humilhation and Prayer; passed Jury 3, 1776. It having been the laudable practice of this Government to recommend and appoint days for Fasting and Prayer upon solemn and special occasions; and as this Court ap- prehend that the present time is big with the most important events to this and the other Colonies, and that these events are at the disposal of the Supreme Governour of the Universe: Therefore, Resolved, ‘That the honourable Council be, and hereby are, desired to set apart Thursday, the last day of July instant, to be observed as a day of solemn Humilia- tion and Prayer, devoutly to implore of Almighty God, that the monitory dispensation of Providence, in the drought wherewith some parts of the land has been visited, and the humbling events which have lately taken place in Canada, may, accompanied with a Divine influence, produce a sin- cere repentance and thorough reformation of manners among all orders and degrees of persons; that He will command his blessing on our councils and arms at this important crisis of our publick affairs, and that this People, placing their hope and confidence in that G'od in whom their fathers trusted and were not made ashamed, may be moved and encouraged manfully and freely to offer themselves for the defence of those rights, civil and religious, upon the enjoyment of which the peace and happiness of the present and future generations absolutely depend; that He will, at a time of increased demand of provisions for the support of our brethren in the field, and when the usual foreign supplies are not to be obtained, be graciously pleased so to order the seasons as that we may have, in the course of this year, a sufficiency of the fruits of the earth, both for man and beast. And that they cause a Proclamation to be immediately issued and sent to the Ministers and Pastors of the several denominations of Christians in this Colony, for the purposes aforesaid. Resolve for supplying the County of Lixcoin with Gun- powder, &c.; passed Jury 3, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and hereby is, empowered to deliver to Captain Samuel Nichols, of New-Castle, in the County of Lincoln, or his order, for the use of the inhabitants of said County, ten hun- dred weight of Gunpowder, twenty hundred weight of Balls, and thirty hundred Flints; he, the said Samuel, giving secu- rity to the said Commissary, for the use of said Colony, for the payment of the same, in twelve months from the delivery thereof. — Resolve relative to Men’s inlisting out of other than their own Towns ; passed Juy 3, 1776. Whereas, by a late Resolve of this Court, the number of five thousand men are,apportioned on, and to be raised in, dli the several Towns in this Colony, agreeable to a schedule thereto annexed, and as some, persons may be induced to inlist from other Towns than those in which they have their usual place of abode: Therefore, Resolved, That all persons who shall inlist into any of the Battalions destined for Canada or New-York, shall be con- sidered as a part of the levy on their respective Towns, until such time as those Towns to which they respectively belong have inlisted their full domplement of men, and not to those Towns in which they shall so inlist. Resolve for advancing one month’s Pay to the Officers des- tined to Canapa and New-York; passed Juty 4, 1776. Resolved, That one month’s advance pay be paid unt® all the Commissionated and Staff Officers of the several Regiments designed for the service of Canada and New- York. And the Council are hereby empowered to draw warrants on the Treasurer of this Colony for such sums as they shall think necessary, to be paid, for the purpose afore- said, into the hands of the Committees appointed to forward the raising of said Regiments. Resolve appointing a Court to try certain persons suspected of being inimical to the American Colonies; passed JuLy 4, 1776. Resolved, That Samuel Niles, Samuel Pemberton, Joseph Greenleaf, Joseph Gardner, and Theophilus Cushing, Esqs., Justices of the Peace within and for the County of Suffolk, residing at or near Boston, be, and hereby are, authorized and empowered to cause to come before them, or any three of them, at such time and place in the Town of Boston, and by such methods as the Justices in the former Resolve were authorized to do, such of the said persons in the former Re- solve named as to them may appear expedient; and that they have power likewise of convening witnesses before - them, or any three of them, in the same manner the former Court of Inquiry had, and such of the said persons as, from their past conduct, the said Justices conceive would probably take and act an inimical part against this or any of the United Colonies if they had a convenient opportunity for so doing, they the said Justices, or any three of them, may restrain, by causing them to find good and sufficient sureties for their good behaviour; and in that behalf more especially for any term of time not exceeding twelve months; and to commit such persons until they find such surety. And such others of the said obnoxious persons, whose continuance under bonds in the Town of Boston, shall to them or any three of them, appear incompatible with the safety of this or the other United Colonies, they may commit to prison, or may order in some inland Town in this Colony, for a term not exceeding four months, there to remain within the limits of such Town, he or they finding sureties for their duly observing such order, as well as for their good behaviour for a further term not exceeding twelve months in the whole; such removal and continuance to be at the expense of the person removed, if of ability, and in want thereof, at the charge of this Colony; and, in default of their recognising with sufficient sureties as aforesaid, in reasonable sums, him or them to commit to prison until he or they shall find such sureties. And the Committee of Safety, &c., in the ‘’owns where such persons may be sent in consequence of this Resolve, are directed to receive them, to inspect their con- duct, and to prevent their consorting or associating with any prisoners of war that are or may be placed in such ‘l'own. And the said Justices are hereby authorized, if they or the major part of them, upon deliberation, think it may be done consistently with the publick safety, to send into some inland Town in this Colony such of the said five persons now con- fined in Boston Jail by the Justices of the former Court, under the restrictions aforesaid; and also to continue under bonds any or all the said other five persons now bound for their appearance before the Superior Court, for a term not exceeding twelve months, and them to release and discharge from the present recognisances. And the said Justices, or any three of them, are also directed to disarm all and every person they shall judge ex- pedient to restrain as aforesaid; and that all bonds taken in pursuance of this Resolve be to the Treasurer of this Colony. And the said Justices are directed to sit from day to day, or as often as they conveniently can, till they have discharged MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776, 312 the trust reposed in them by this Resolve; and on or before the last day of August next, make a particular report of their proceedings herein to this Court, and that a proper compensation be made to them, as well as to the Justices that constituted the former Court. Resolve for supplying BartHoLomew Pornam with Powder; passed Jury 4, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he is hereby, directed to sell and deliver to Captain Bartholomew Putnam three hundred pounds weight of Gun- powder out of the Colony stores, and that he receive of said Putnam 5s. a pound for the same. Resolve to sell the Tories’ Chaises and other Carriages ; passed Jury 4, 1776. Resolved, That John Brown, William Cooper, John Pitts, Josiah Sartel, and Edward Rawson, Esqs., being a Com- mittee for taking Inventories, &c., of the Estates within the Town of Boston which have been left or deserted by sundry persons supposed to be inimical to the rights and liberties of America, be, and they hereby are, directed to make sale of all Chaises and other Carriages belonging to such Estates, they first having the same appraised by the most suitable persons, and then advertising the same for sale at such appraisements; and all that may remain unsold at a day that said Commit- tee may appoint, shall then be advertised to be sold at pub- lick vendue. All which shall be carried into effect by said Committee as soon as conveniently may be, they to be ac- countable to the General Court for the proceeds of such sales. Resolve for supplying the Company stationed at Sate; passed Jury 4, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary appointed to furnish the sea-coast men stationed at Salem be, and he hereby is, directed to furnish the Company of Matrosses, to be raised and stationed at Salem, with all necessaries, agreeable to the sea-coast establishment. Also, Resolved, That the said Company, when raised, be under the direction of Timothy Pickering, Jun., Esq. Additional power given to the Court appointed to try sus- pected persons, Jury 4, 1776. Resolved, That in the stead and place of Samuel Niles and Theophilus Cushing, Esquires, who have not had the small-pox, that John Hill, Esq., and Edmund Quincy, Esq., be appointed Justices of the Court of Inquiry, with the same power the said Niles and Cushing were vested with. And it is also Resolved, That the Committee of Corre- spondence, &c., in the Town of Boston, or the major part thereof, be and hereby are, directed to file information or informations against any person or persons suspected of being unfriendly to the rights and liberties of America, before the major part of the Justices of the Court of Inquiry, which Justices, or any one of them, are hereby directed forthwith to issue his or their warrant against such person or persons against whom information shall be filed as aforesaid, directed to some Jawful officer, commanding him forthwith to appre- hend the body or bodies of any such person or persons, and secure him or them by imprisonment or good and suflicient bail, against the time of trial; and the said Committee, or the major part thereof, are hereby further directed to pro- duce the witnesses, and bring forward and prosecute the trial of every such person or persons to effect. Resolve appointing a Committee on Accounts; passed Jutx 4, 1776. ; Whereas, a necessary attention to the more important affairs of the Government in the present extraordinary times of difficulty and distress renders it impracticable for this House to receive and examine the numerous Accounts now daily exhibited against the Government, agreeable to the mode heretofore usually practised, and the payment thereof has been greatly delayed, to the detriment of individuals, as ~ well as to the injury of the credit of the Government: Therefore, Resolved, That Abraham Watson, Jonathan Webster, Thomas Durfee, Aaron Wood, John Bliss, and Isaac Le- - 313 throp, Esqs., and Captain Woodbridge Brown, be, and they hereby are, appointed a Committee, until further order of this House, to receive, examine, and, in behalf of this House, . finally to pass upon all Accounts not otherwise committed which shall be presented to them for payment of services done and articles supplied by order of Congress or the General Court, and properly vouched ; and the doings of said Committee shall be considered as valid as any Vote or Resolve of the House touching said Accounts, as well in the recess of the Court as during the sitting of the same. And said Committee, or any four of them, who are hereby ap- pointed a quorum, are directed to open an office, and adver- tise the publick thereof and of this Resolve, that the business may be constantly attended and effectually performed. And a true copy of all Accounts which shall be passed by them and sent toa Committee of the Board for concurrence shall, after concurrence and payment, be kept in a book, with an alphabet thereto, which shall be laid before the House for perusal and inspection once or oftener in each session, as the House shall order ; and the Committee of the honourable Board are desired to employ some suitable person for that purpose. Also, Resolved, That the Secretary be, and he hereby is, directed to keep such Accounts as shall be passed by said Committee, and in consequence thereof concurred and or- dered to be paid by the honourable Board, in separate files. Also, Resolved, That the honourable Council, or such Committee of Council as they shall appoint, be, and they hereby are, empowered, both in the sitting and recess of the Court, to concur all such Accounts as shall have been passed by the Committee aforesaid ; and the payment of said Ac- counts, thus passed and concurred, shall be ordered in the manner which the Charter directs: Provided, always, That the foregoing method of allowing Accounts shall be taken to be adopted merely from the necessity of the present times, and not considered as a precedent for the future, anything in the Resolve of this Court of the 7th June last appomting a Committee to receive, examine, and finally pass upon all Accounts not otherwise committed, to the contrary notwith- standing. Resolve relative to Dr. Geiston; passed Jury 5, 1776. Whereas it appears that Dr. Samuel Gelston is now in the custody of Berachiah Basset, Esquire, at the Elizabeth Islands, and as he appears to have in divers instances acted a part inimical to the liberties of this Colony: Be it therefore Resolved, That the said Berachiah Basset, Esq., be, and he hereby is, directed to send the said Dr. Samuel Gelston, under a proper Guard, to the five Justices in the County of Suffolk, appointed a Court to inquire into the conduct of persons suspected to be enemies to the liber- ties of this Colony, who are hereby directed and empowered, to examine into the conduct of the said Dr. Samuel G'elston, and to proceed with him according to the directions of the Resolve appointing them a Court of Inquiry as aforesaid. Resolve relative to procuring Hard Money; passed Jury 5, 1776. For the more effectual carrying into execution a Resolve of this House of the 27th of June last, relative to exchanging of Continental Bills for Hard Money for the use of the Con- tinent: It is Resolved, That the Treasurer of this Colony pay out to the several Committees of Correspondence, &c., for the several Towns, upon their producing a subscription for Hard Money, such a sum in Continental Bills as the same shall amount to, taking a note of two or more of the said Committee, including a promise that they shall return that sum or the amount ja Hard Money on demand; and the Treasurer, on their fulfilling the said promise, is directed to deliver up their said security. Resolve on the Petition of Jonaruan Caren; passed Jury 5, 1776. On the Petition of Jonathan Capen, Resolved, That the prayer of the Petition be so far granted as that Jonathan Capen, Guardian to the Puncapaug In- dians, be, and he is hereby, empowered to sell so much of said Indians’ unimproved Lands, where it will be the least prejudicial to the whole, as to satisfy their just debts and MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 314 the necessary charges arising by such sale, he observing the rules and directions of an Act of this Colony respecting the sale of Lands taken by execution, and to execute good and lawful deed or deeds therefor, he, the said Guardian, to be accountable to the General Court for his doings upon the matter. Resolve for supplying Daviv Jervertes, Esq., with fifteen hundred Pounds; passed Jury 5, 1776. Resolved, That there be paid out of the publick Treasury to David Jefferies, Esq., or order, the sum of £1,500, for the purpose of discharging the advance pay of the Non- Commissioned Officers and Soldiers in Colonel Whitney’s, Colonel Marshall's, and Colonel Crafi’s Regiments, he to be accountable to the General Court for the same. James Bricxet, Esq., appointed Colonel of a Battalion to be raised in the Counties of Essex, &c.; passed Jury 5, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of James Bricket, Esq., as Colonel of the Battalion to be raised in the Coun- ties of Essex, York, and Cumberland, for the Continental service, agreeable to a Resolve which passed the House the 25th of June last, in the room of Colonel Whittier, who declines serving. Concurred by Council. Resolve desiring the Council to write a Letter to General Wasuinaton, relative to raising Men, &¢.; passed Juty 5, 1776. ; Resolved, That a Letter be immediately sent, by express, to His Excellency General Washington, setting forth the real state of this Colony respecting raising men, and recom- mending that he instantly order two of the fullest Regiments upon the Boston station to march immediately to Canada, and to give His Excellency the strongest assurance that this Colony will take effectual measures that there be a sufficient number from the Militia upon the Continental account brought in upon the Boston station to do duty in the stead and place of said Regiments. Also Resolved, That two other Regiments, upon the Continental establishment, be raised as soon as possible, to relieve the Militia that may be brought in upon the Boston station as aforesaid. And also Resolved, That the honourable Council be desired to order such and so many of the Militia as they may judge proper, to be and hold themselves in readiness to march upon the Boston station at an hour’s notice, to do duty in the stead and place of such Continental Troops as may be ordered from thence upon the Canada service; and that said Council have full power in the recess of this Court to do everything relative to the raising and officering the said Militia, and the said two Regiments to be raised, in as full and ample manner as might or could have been done had the whole Court been sitting. Resolved, That the Council be desired to write the Letter before mentioned to General Washington, and also to inform the honourable Congress of this Resolve. Resolve desiring the Council to defer ordering any Moneys to Captains O'Brian and Lampert; passed Jury 5, 1776. Resolved, That the honourable Board be desired to defer ordering any Moneys to Captains O’ Brian and Lambert, and their Companies, that may be due to them from the Colony, till determination shall be had on the Petition of William Hazen, praying that he may be enabled to obtain satisfaction for waste of Goods committed on board a certain Schooner belonging to said Hazen and others, and for the illegal cap- ture and detention of the same. Resolve to supply Dr. Joun Greenear with fifty Pounds, for purchasing Medicines; passed Jury 5, 1776. Resolved, That a sum not exceeding £50 be paid out of the Colony Treasury to Dr. John Greenleaf, for the pur- chasing such Medicines for Colonels Whitney’s, Marshall's, and Craft’s Regiments as he cannot supply from his own stores, he being accountable for the expenditure of the same. 315 Resolve relative to a number of Masts at Grorarrown ; passed JuLy 5, 1776. Whereas it has been represented to this Court that a large . number of Masts, procured for the use of the British Navy, or some British Merchants, are now lying in Georgetown, in the County of Lincoln, and are in danger of being taken away or destroyed: It is therefore Resolved, That Mr. Freeman, Colonel Lithgow, and Colonel Cushing, be a Committee to inquire into the circumstances relative to said Masts, of their num- ber, value, for what purposes fit, and by whom they were procured; that they take effectual care to preserve the same, and in case of danger from our enemies, that they cause the same to be removed to some place of safety, if it can be done without great difficulty, otherwise to render them unfit for the use of our said enemies, and make report of their doings to this Court at its next session. Resolve on the Petition of Joun Couxas, and others, Pri- soners in SaueM Jail; passed Jury 6, 1776. On the Petition of John Collas, Joseph Temple, and Peter Larchee, Resolved, That the prayer of said Petitioners be so far granted as that the said John Collas, Joseph Temple, and Peter Larchee, be set at liberty from their present confine- ment in Salem Jail, upon any person or persons appearing to contract with, and shall actually hire said Prisoners, and engage to employ them in some inland Town in this Colony; and the Committee of Correspondence of the Town in which they may be employed are hereby ordered to inspect the conduct of the’ said John Collas, Joseph Temple, and Peter Larchee, and to take care they do not depart the limits of the Town they may be employed in; and the Keeper of the Jail in Salem is hereby ordered and directed to discharge said Prisoners from his custody accordingly. Resolve for employing two persons to ride Post to Crown- Point; passed Juty 6, 1776. Resolved, That Jonathan Brown, Esq., Dr. Moses Morse, Mr. Benjamin Guild, Oliver Wendell, Esquire, and Major Jacob Davis, be a Committee to agree with two suitable persons to ride Post to Crown-Point once a week, until the last day of November next; and that the said Posts take such routes as the Committee aforesaid shall think best: the said Post to set out from and return to Watertown, until the further order of this Court. And it is further Resolved, That some person be ap- pointed at Watertown, by the Committee aforesaid, to receive and deliver all such Letters as shall not be delivered before said Post’s arrival at Watertown; and that all Letters to or from any ‘persons in the Army be carried free of charge. Additional Resolve relative to paying the Officers of the several Regiments destined to Canapa and New-York one month’s advance Wages; passed Jury 6, 1776. Whereas by a Resolve of this Court of the 4th instant it is resolved that one month’s advance Pay be paid unto all the Commissionated and Staff Officers of the several Regi- ments designed for the service of Canada and New-York, and the Council are empowered to draw Warrants on the Treasurer of this Colony for such sums as they shall think necessary to be paid for the purpose aforesaid into the hands of the Committees appointed to forward the raising of said Regiments; but no directions are given how the said Council are to proceed in giving Warrants to said Committees where Officers are appointed for a Regiment raised partly in one County and partly in another, and said Officers living some in one County and some in another: Therefore, Resolved, ‘That the Council be, and they hereby are, empowered and directed to give Warrants to either of said Committees to pay any of said Officers living in either of the Counties, but belonging to the Regiment to which they were appointed, said Committees to be severally accountable to this Court for all such sums of money as they shall receive in consequence of this Resolve. Resolve on the Petition of Hannan Maruer; passed Jury 8, 1776. On the Petition of Hannah Mather, Resolved, That whereas it appears that the facts set forth MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 316 in the Memorial of: Mrs. Hannah Mather, of Boston, with respect to the loss which’she and her family have sustained by the cruel burning of Charlestown, are true, and she apprehends that some balance is justly due to her from her brother Hutchinson’s Estate: that therefore, agreeable to the request of said Mrs. Mather, leave and liberty be, and hereby is, granted to her to take into her possession such of the Household goods of her brother Hutchinson as she ma stand in need of, now in the possession of Colonel Taylor, or the Committee of Correspondence of Milton, or wherever they may be, not disposed of by this Court; she delivering an inventory of the same, and the Reverend Doctor Mather giving sufficient security for the return of said Goods to the order of this Court. a Resolve for supplying Wiiu1am Upnam with Powder, &c.; passed Jury 8, 1776. 7 On the Petition of William Upham, . Resolved, That the Commissary-General be directed to deliver the Petitioner, William Upham, or order, fifty pounds of Powder, thirty-five rounds of Ball, and seven dozen of Flints, he paying for the same. Resolve to adjourn the Maritime Court for the Middle Dis- trict; passed Jury 8, 1776. Whereas the Maritime Court for the Middle District of this Colony is advertised to be held at Boston, on the 23d day of July instant, for the trial of the justice of the captures of the Ships named the Lord Howe, George, Anne, and Lady Juliana, and the Brigantine named the Annabella, and the Judge of said Court has, in his Petition to this Court, shown that, since the advertisement aforesaid, he finds it will be inconvenient, if not impracticable, to hold his Court at Boston as aforesaid, and prayed this Court to enable him to hold the same Court at Salem, in the County of Essea, on the said 23d day of July: Resolved, ‘That the Maritime Court aforesaid, for the trial of the captures aforesaid, be held at Salem, in the County of Essex, on Tuesday, the 23d day of July instant, at the Meeting-House of the Reverend Messrs. Barnard and Dunbar. at the hour of ten in the forenoon; and that all proceedings at the same Court shall be valid and effectual in law, in ike manner as if it had been held at Boston on the same day, according to the original advertisement thereof, of which all persons concerned will take notice, and govern themselves accordingly. Resolve for furnshing Forces stationed on EvizaBeTu Isuanps with Powder, §c.; passed Jury 8, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, ordered to deliver to Mr. John Reed, for Major Basset, for the use of the men stationed on the Elizabeth Islands, and the Cannon there placed, the quan- tity of one hundred and fifty weight of Powder, one hundred and fifty weight of leaden Balls, and three hundred Flints, he, the said Basset, to be accountable to this Court for the same. tks Resolve for draughting Men to make up the five thousand to reinforce the Army in New-York and Canada; passed Juty 9, 1776. Whereas this Court have been informed that some of the Towns and Plantations in this Colony have not as yet raised the proportion assigned them of the five thousand Men for the reinforcement of the Continental Army in New-York and Canada, and it is of great importance that those rein- forcements should be immediately raised and sent forward: Therefore, , Resolved, That where any 'Town or Plantation shall be delinquent as aforesaid, the Commanding Officers, where there is a Field Officer, or where there is no Field Officer, the Commanding Officers of the Company, and where the Militia is not settled, the Committees of Correspondence, &c., of such Town or Plantation, and where no such Com- mittees are, the Selectmen, shall forthwith call together all the men borne on the Training List and Alarm List in such ‘Town or Plantation; and if a sufficient number to complete their complement do not then inlist for the service aforesaid, the said Officers, Committees, or Selectmen, shall proceed to draught out so many men as shall be necessary to com=- 317 plete the proportion assigned to such Town or Plantation, in order that the men so inlisted or draughted out may march without delay to the places of their destination. And in case any person, either on the Training or the Alarm List, shall neglect to attend at such time as he shall be notified, not having sufficient reason therefor, in the judgment of the Officer, Committee, or Selectmen, he shall forfeit and pay the sum of £10. And in case any person draughted as aforesaid shall neglect or refuse to go upon the service required, either in person or by procuring some able-bodied effective man in his stead, he shall forfeit and pay the sum of £10; said forfeiture to be paid within twenty-four hours to the Officers, Committees, or Selectmen, aforesaid ; and on failure hereof, he shall forfeit and pay the further sum of £3, both of said forfeitures to be recovered in the same manner as is prescribed in an act lately passed for regulating the Militia of this Colony, for the recovery of fines and forfeitures that may be incurred by a failure of attendance on regimental musters therein required. And the Officers, Committees, or Selectmen, shall proceed in draughting, in manner as is before directed, till the moneys collected shall be sufficient to hire men to complete the number required of such Town or Plantation; which money the said Officers, Committees, or Selectmen, are hereby required to expend for this purpose; and if there shall be any overplus remain- ing, it shall be employed for the benefit of the Company to which such delinquent or delinquents belong, in such manner as said Company shall agree. —_— . Resolve for lending the Selectmen of Sarem two Field-Car- riages; passed Jury 10, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver, or cause to be delivered, to the Selectmen of the Town of Salem, two of the Field-Carriages belonging to the Colony, now at that Town, viz: one for an eighteen-pounder, one for a twelve- pounder, or one for a nine-pounder, to be used in said ‘Town for their defence till the further order of this Court, or of the Council, or such Committee of this Court as they may appoint to direct in the military concerns of this Colony in the recess or recesses of this Court. Resolve for furnishing the Colonial Regiments with neces- sary articles for the Sick; passed Juty 10, 1776. Whereas the Commissary-General of this Colony is directed, by a Resolve of this Court, to serve out the Rations to the Regiments of Colonels Whitney, Marshall, and Crafts, “Conformable to the proportions stated in the establishment for said Regiments; and whereas numbers of the men are now sick and daily falling sick: Therefore, Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, authorized and permitted to furnish said Regi- ments with such articles as may be more suitable for the sick than Fresh or Salt Provisions, provided that said Sup- plies do not exceed the value of the Salt Provisions allowed in said establishment. And the Commissaries of the several Companies upon the sea-coast are hereby directed to furnish the sick of the said Companies in like manner, provided that the said Supplies do not exceed the value of the Salt Provi- sions allowed in said establishment. Resolve for raising every twenty-fifth Man to reinforce the Northern Army; passed Jury 10, 1776. Whereas the honourable the American Congress have lately made upon the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay a most urgent requisition for a further reinforcement by two Regiments of its Militia, to support our Army in the North- ern or Canada department: And whereas the reinforcements Jately received by the enemy in that quarter render it of the last consequence to the safety of the United Colonies, and of this in particular, that the readiest compliance be made herewith : :; Resolved, That there be immediately raised two Regi- ments, in the following manner, viz: That the Commanding Officer in every Town and Plantation where there is a Field- Officer, or where there is no Field-Officer, that the Com- manding Officers of the Companies, or where the Militia is not settled, that the Committee of Correspondence, Inspec- tion and Safety, or where there is no such Committee, the Selectmen, cause the whole Militia of such Town or Plan- MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 318 tation, consisting of the Training Band and Alarm Lists, to be immediately mustered, and one man out of every twenty- five, exclusive of those already raised or ordered to be raised, of all the persons borne on both the aforesaid Lists, to be inlisted into the service of the United Colonies, to serve until the first day of December next, unless sooner duly discharged. And in case of a fraction in the number on the said Lists, if it amounts to more than half of twenty-five, an additional man shall in that case be inlisted; but if less, no such additional inlistment shall be made.» Each man to be furnished with a good Firearm and Bayonet fitted thereto, a Cartouch-box, Knapsack, and Blanket; or instead of a Bayonet, a Hatchet or ‘Tomahawk. And for their encou- ragement readily to enter into this important service, there shall be paid to each Non-Commissioned Officer and Pri- vate Soldier, equipped as aforesaid, on his passing muster, 12s. to purchase a blanket, 6s. for the use of his arms, and one month’s advance pay. ‘Their further pay and estab- lishment shall be the same as is for Non-Commissioned Offi- cers and Soldiers in the Continental Army. Their monthly pay to commence three days next preceding the day of their marching from home. ‘They shall be allowed one penny, lawful money, per mile, in lieu of rations, to support them on their march going and returning, and one day’s pay for every twenty miles between their home and the general rendez- vous, and also from the place of their discharge back again to their homes. It is further Resolved, 'That there be appointed a Com- mittee for each County in the Colony, whose business it shall be to see the aforementioned inlistments completed without delay, to form the men into Companies, to muster and pay them for their blankets, and for the use of their arms ; also to pay all the Commissioned, Non-Commissioned, and Staff - Officers, and Privates, one month’s advance pay; and to appoint meet persons for Captains and Subalterns of the Companies to be raised in their respective Counties ; to fill up and deliver to said Captains and Subalterns their Com- missions accordingly, for which purpose they shall receive blanks from the honourable Council. It is further Resolved, That to each Regiment there shall be appointed and commissioned by the honourable Council, one Colonel, one Lieutenant-Colonel, one Major, and such Staff and other Officers, as are ordered for the other Regiments destined for Canada; that each of said Regiments consist of eight Companies; each of said Com- panies, of one Captain, one First Lieutenant, one Second Lieutenant, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Drum, one Fife, and as near as may be, of seventy-seven Privates—the Non-Commissioned Officers in each Company to be appointed by the Commission Officers of the same. It is further Resolved, ‘That the Regiments be formed in the following manner, viz: Beginning at the westerly part of the County of Berkshire, and proceeding from west to east, the eight first Companies shall make one Regiment ; then proceeding in the same course, the eight next Compa- nies shall make another Regiment; each of said Regiments to march for the Northern or Canada Department at such time, in such manner, and by such routes, as the Council shall order; and each Non-Commissioned Officer and Private belonging to the said Regiments to be paid a bounty of £7 on receiving said orders, by the Committees aforesaid. And in case there shall be any supernumerary men, they shall be forthwith marched into the Works or Forts in or near Boston, and shall be subject to the regulation and orders of Council. And notwithstanding this Court entertain a high confidence in the readiness of the good people of this Colony to comply with a request so important, yet in case there should be any individual who should be so far divested of regard for his own and country’s salvation, as to refuse to bear his part in its defence, this Court consider themselves under the hard necessity, in duty to the whole, to Resolve, and it is accordingly . Resolved, That in case the number required by the afore- mentioned Rule of any Town or Plantation ts not inlisted without delay, and every other attempt for this purpose prove ineffectual, the Commanding Officer in such Town or Plantation, if there is a Field Officer, or if there is no Field Officer, the Commanding Officer of each Company, or where the Regiment is not settled, the Committee of Correspond- ence, Inspection, and Safety, or where there is no such Com- mittee, the Selectmen, shall, within forty-eight hours after 319 receiving these orders, proceed to complete the number required of such ‘Town or Plantation by the Rule before mentioned, by a draught on the whole Militia of said Town or Plantation, consisting of the Alarm List, as well of the Training Band. And in order hereto, the aforesaid Officers, Committees, or Selectmen, respectively, shall seasonably cause to be warned a muster of the whole Militia of said Town or Plantation; and in case any person, either on the Training Band or Alarm Lists, shall neglect to attend agree- able to such warning, not having any sufficient reason there- for, in the judgment of the Officers, Committee, or Selectmen, aforesaid, he shall forfeit and pay the sum of £10; and in case any person draughted as aforesaid shall neglect or refuse to go upon the service herein required, either mm person or by procuring some able-bodied effective man in his stead, he shall forfeit and pay the sum of £10; said forfeitures to be paid within twenty-four hours to the Officers, Committees, or Selectmen, aforesaid; and on failure hereof, he shall forfeit and pay the further sum of £3; both of said Forfeitures to be recovered in the same manner as is prescribed in an Act lately passed for regulating the Militia of this Colony for the recovery of Fines and Forfeitures that may be incurred by a failure of attendance on Regimental musters therein required. And the Officers, Committee, or Selectmen, shall proceed in draughting in manner as is before directed, until the moneys forfeited shall be sufficient to complete the num- ber of men required of such Town; which money the said Officers, Committee, or Selectmen, are hereby required to expend for this purpose; and if there shall be any overplus remaining, it shall be employed for the benefit of the Com- pany to which such delinquent or delinquents belonged, in such manner as said Company shal] agree. It is further Resolved, That the following persons be a Committee for the purposes before mentioned, for the several - Counties hereafter named, who shall receive out of the Treasury of this Colony such sums as the Council shall order, to enable them to discharge the duty herein required of them, who shall be severally accountable to this Court, viz: Jonathan Metcalf, Esq., Benjamin Guild, Esq., Colonel Aaron Davis, Nathaniel Bayley, Esq., Mr. Daniel Perry, and Olwer Wendell, Esq., for the County of Suffolk; Aaron Wood, Esq., Major Samuel Epes, Mr. Nehemiah Abbot, Colonel Daniel Spafford, Dudley Carlton, Esq., Thomas Gerry, Esq., and Captain Daniel Chute, for the County of Essex ; Jonas Dix, Esq., Major Timothy Walker, Colonel Josiah Sartell, Colonel Simeon Spaulding. Mr. George Brigham, Captain Joseph Hosmer, Colonel William Thompson, Josiah Stone, Esq., and Captain Joseph Reed, for the County of Middlesex; Joseph Hawley, Esq., Noah Goodman, Esq., Major William Pyncheon, Jun., Mr. David Savton, Mr. Luke Hitchcock, Captain Israel Hubbard, and Captain Elisha Cranston, for the County of Hampshire ; Wiliam Drew, Esq., Hugh Orr, Esq., Colonel Edward Mitchell, Colonel Ebenezer White, and Captain Robert Lenthal Eels, for the County of Plymouth; Mr. Amos Knowles, Jun., and Joseph Nye, Esq., of Sandwich, for the County of Barnstable; Captain John Stearns, Colonel Shubael Peck, Colonel Nathaniel Leonard, Edward Pope, Esq., and Colonel Seth Pope, for the County of Bristol ; Joseph Storer, Esq., and Colonel Ichabod Goodwin, for the County of York ; Thomas Cook, Esq., for the County of Dukes- County; Captain Seth Washburn, Captain Nathaniel Wilson, Mr. Abner Rawson, Captain William Page, Amos Singletary, Esq., Mr. John Ball, Captain John Haven, Captain Nicholas Dyke, and Major William Learned, for the County of Worcester; Captain Joseph Noyes, Joshua Fabyer, Esq., and John Lewis, Esq., for the County of Cumberland; William Lithgow, Esq., for the County of Lincoln ; Mr. Azariah Root, Major Caleb Hyde, and Cap- tain Isaac Stratton, for the County of Berkshire; Mr. Stephen Hussey, for the County of Nantucket. Resolve for furnishing the Town of Marsuenran with apparatus for eaght Cannon, &c.; passed Jury 10, 1776. Whereas this Court have granted to be supplied for the Town and Harbour of Marblehead eight pieces of Cannon, and the Commissary-General was directed to deliver the same to Mr. Jonathan Orne, or order, and the Commissary- General declines to deliver with said Cannon the apparatus, as Ladles, Spunges, Match-Rope, Port-Fires, and other articles necessary and fit for said Cannon: MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. : 320 It is therefore Resolved, That the Commissary be, and hereby is, directed to deliver to Mr. Samuel Giles, or order, such articles of the apparatus necessary for said eight pieces of Cannon, as the said Commissary has in his possession belonging to this Colony and not otherwise appropriated, he, the said Samuel Giles, to be accountable to this Court for the same. And it is further Resolved, That Colonel Thomas Crafts be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver to the said Samuel Giles, or order, a Fieldpiece belonging to and mounted by the Town of Marblehead, and now in possession of said Colonel Crafts. James Bricxet, Esq., appointed a Brigadier-General, to command the Forces to be sent to Canava; passed Jury 11, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of James Bricket, Esq.; as a Brigadier-General, to command the Forces to be sent to Canada, in the room of John Cummings, Esq., who declines serving. Concurred by Council. A Second Lieutenant chosen for the Company of Matrosses at Satem; Juny 11, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of John Berry, as Second Lieutenant of the Company of Matrosses, in the Town of Salem, in the room of David Felt, who declines serving. Concurred by Council. Resolve on the Petition of Natuan Puiutes; passed Jury 11, 1776. On the Petition of Nathan Phillips, Ordered, That the Petitioner serve the Committee of Correspondence, &c., of Boothbay, for 1775, with a copy of this Petition, that they show cause, if any they have, on the third Wednesday of the next sitting of this Court, why the prayer thereof should not be granted. Resolve on the Petition of Jostan Kine; passed Jury 11, 1776. On the Petition of Josiah King, Ordered, That the Petitioner serve the Committee of Correspondence, &c., of Boothbay, for 1775, with a copy of this Petition, that they show cause, if any they have, on the third Wednesday of the next sitting of this Court, why the prayer thereof should not be granted. a Resolve for paying James Oris, Esq., Interest on his Notes; passed Jury 11, 1776. Resolved, That the Receiver-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed to pay the said James Otis, Jun., Esq., or order, the Interest ofany Notes or Obligations payable to him, which he may exhibit to said ‘Treasurer, signed by Harrison Gray, in behalf of this Colony, as Receiver-Gene- ral of the same, according to the tenor thereof: Provided, said Notes appear to be signed before the 19th of April, 1775. th Resolve establishing the form of Inlistment for the twenty- fifth part of the Militia, &c. ; passed Jury 12, 1776. Resolved, That the form of the Inlistment for the twenty- fifth part of the Militia, ordered by this Court in their present session to be draughted from the Alarm and 'Training-Band Lists in this Colony, for the service of the United American Colonies, be as follows: “We, whose names are underwritten, do hereby severally inlist into the service of the United American Colonies, and severaly promise and engage to continue in such service until the first day of December, 1776, unless sooner dis- charged ; and to furnish ourselves each with a good effective fire-arm, and, if possible, a bayonet fitted thereto, a cartridge- box, and blanket, or, in lieu of a bayonet, a hatchet or tomahawk. We also, in like manner, promise and engage to obey all the lawful commands of the officers appointed, or to be appointed, over us, pursuant to the Resolves of the General Court of the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay ; and, under the direction of such Officers, to march, when ordered, with the utmost despatch, to the Northern Depart- 321 ° ment, or Canada, and to be subject to all such rules and regulations, in every respect, as are provided by the Conti- ‘nental Army. July, 1776.” 2 | Adjutant appointed for the Fourth Regiment of Militia, in the County of Lrxcoun ; Jury 12, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Abyah Waterman, as an Adjutant to the Fourth Regiment of Militia, in the County of Lincoln, Concurred by Council. Resolve for supplying the Town of Faumourn with Spunges, &c., for Cannon; passed Jury 12, 1776. Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony _ be, and he hereby is, directed to supply Samuel Freeman, Esq., or his order, with suitable Spunges, Ladles, and other apparatus necessary for the four Cannon which he was lately ordered, by a Resolve of this Court, to deliver to said Free- man, for the defence of the Town of Falmouth. Resolve on the Petition from Frysurcu and BRownsiIE Lp ; passed Jury 13, 1776. Resolved, That Mr. Samuel Phillips, Jun., of Andover, be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to Mr. Richard Kimball, of Fryburgh, or his order, ninety pounds of Gun- * powder, and twenty-five pounds of Gunpowder to Benjamin Epes, of Brownfield ; and that the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to the abovesaid Rich- ard Kimball, or order, two hundred and seventy pounds of Lead, three hundred Flints, and twelve good Fire-Arms ; “and to the abovesaid Benjamin Epes, seventy-five pounds of Lead, one hundred Flints, and eight good Fire-Arms; they, the said Kimball and Epes, to be accountable to this Court therefor. Resolve directing that the Maritime Court for the Middle District should be held at Sauem, Juty 30; passed Juty 13, 1776. Whereas the Maritime Court for the Middle District of this Colony is advertised to be held at Boston, on the 23d day of July instant, for the trial of the justice of the cap- tures of the Ships named the Lord Howe, George, Anne, and Lady Juliana, and the Brigantine named the Annabella; and the Judge of said Court presented a Petition to this Court, showing that since the advertisement aforesaid, he finds it will be inconvenient, if not impracticable, to hold his Court at Boston, as aforesaid, and praying this Court to enable him to hold the same Court at Salem, in the County of Essex, on the said 23d day of July; and this Court there- upon, by a Resolve passed the 9th day of July, instant, ordered the said Maritime Court to be held at Salem accord- ingly, but it now appearing to this Court that it will be most convenient that the said Maritime Court, for the trials afore- said, be held at Salem aforesaid, on the 30th day of July instant : Resolved, 'That the Resolve aforesaid of this Court, passed on the said 9th day of July, be, and hereby is, re- voked; and that the said Maritime Court, for the trial of the justice of the captures aforesaid, be held at the Court- House in Salem aforesaid, on Tuesday, the 30th day of July instant, at the hour of ten, in the forenoon; and that all proceedings at the same Court shall be valid and effectual in law, in like manner as if it had been held in Boston, accord- ing to the original advertisement thereof: of which all per- sons concerned will take notice, and govern themselves accordingly. Resolve for supplying Westminster, in the Province of New-York, with Powder, Lead, &c.; passed Jury 13, 1776. On the Petition of the Committee of Safety, of Westmin- ster, in the County of Cumberland, and Province of New- York, representing that said ‘Town is in an exposed situation, and destitute of Amrounition, &c., and praying for a supply, &c., &c., Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver to Major Abyah Lovejoy sixty pounds of Powder, one hundred and twenty pounds of Lead, Firru Series.—Vot. I. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 322 and one hundred Flints, he paying for the same at the stated price. Resolve on the Petition of the Committee of Safety of Cav- ENDISH, 7% New-York ; passed Jury 13, 1776. On the Petition of Phinehas Kimball, and others, Com- mittee of Safety of Cavendish, in the County of Cumber- land, in the Colony of New-York, praying for Powder and Lead, Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he is hereby, directed to deliver to Captain John Coffin fifteen pounds of Powder, thirty pounds of Lead, and thirty Flints. Resolve for forwarding Tents, &c., to the Army ; passed Juty 13, 1776. Resolved, 'That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed, as soon as possible, to trans- port such Tents as he has received from Philadelphia, and such others as he can provide, to the amount, in the whole, of nine hundred, to Crown-Point, for the use of the Forces raised by this Colony, and destined for the Northern Depart- ment, or Canada, to be delivered to the Cornmissary of the United Colonies there, or his order. Further Resolved, That Edward Mitchell, Esq., Theo- philus Cushing, Esq., and William Drew, Esq., be a Com- mittee to provide fifteen hundred Canteens, and two hundred and fifty Camp Kettles, and Camp Equipage, for the use of the last fifteen hundred men to be raised agreeable to the last Resolve of the honourable Continental Congress, and that they send them forward to the several places, and in like proportions with those by a Resolve of this Court ordered for the other Forces destined to the same place. Resolve for supplying Mr. Tiworny Newer with three boxes of Tin; passed Jury 13, 1776. Whereas this Court is informed that some boxes of Tin are in the hands of the Committee of this Court for securing the effects belonging to the enemies of this Colony who have left the Town of Boston since April 19, 1775; and as Camp Kettles are absolutely necessary for the men now going on the Northern Department: Therefore, ‘ Resolved, That the Committee aforesaid be, and they hereby are, directed to deliver to Mr. Timothy Newell, three boxes of said Tin, or such part thereof as may be sufficient for completing the number of ‘Tin Kettles ordered to be made—he giving his receipt to them to be accountable to this Court for the same. Resolve for supplying Baxer’s Town, in the County of CumBeranpn, with Powder, Sc. ; passed Juty 13, 1776. Resolved, ‘That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to Mr. Nathaniel Bailey, for the use and defence of the inhabitants of a plan- tation called Baker’s Town, in the County of Cumberland, twenty-seven pounds of Gunpowder, eighty pounds of Balls, and one hundred FJints—the said inhabitants to be account- able to this Court for the same. Resolve for appointing Gunners to the Companies of Ma- trosses; passed Juty 13, 1776. Whereas in the Resolve of the tenth of February last, establishing a Company of Matrosses at Marblehead, it is ordered, that the establishment for said Company be the same as the other sea-coast Companies; and as Gunners, Quarter-Gunners, &c., for Companies of Matrosses appear more proper than Sergeants and Corporals: ‘Therefore, Resolved, That there be appointed by the commissioned Officers of every Company of Matrosses, consisting of fifty men, including Officers, one Gunner, whose pay shall be 46s. per calendar month; one Gunner’s Mate, at 44s.; and eight Quarter-Gunners, at 42s. each. And whereas the above-mentioned Resolve of the tenth of February, for the establishment of the Company of Ma- trosses now stationed at Marblehead, directed that said Com- pany should be augmented to the number of one hundred, (by draughting troops to join it from the Companies of sea- coast men,) which makes it necessary that said Company should have a greater number of Officers: Therefore, It is further Resolved, ‘That so long as it consists of a 21 323 hundred men, including Officers, there be allowed to said Company, one Gunner, one Gunner’s Mate, and sixteen Quarter-Gunners, whose pay shall be as above; and that the Pay-Roll exhibited by Captain Fitteplace be paid accord- ingly. vis Adjutant appointed for the Sixth Regiment of Militia, in the County of Lincoun, Juty 13, 1776. The House made choice, by ballot, of Jonas Farnsworth, as an Adjutant to the Sixth Regiment of Militia, in the County of Lincoln. Concurred by Council. Resolve on the Petition of Israut Davis; passed Jury 13, 1776. On the Petition of Captain Israel Davis, Resolved, That the Commissary-General be, and he hereby is, ordered to deliver to David Reed, Commissary for the Company under said Davis, or his order; fifty weight of Powder, one hundred and fifty weight of Leaden Ball, one hundred Flints, and two Whale-Boats, all for the use of said Company—the said’ Reed to be accountable for said articles. Jt is likewise Ordered, That said Davis extend his guards to the east side of Boothbay Harbour; and that the said Reed apply to James Cargill for the Boat formerly belonging to Fort Pownall, who is hereby ordered to deliver the same to him, or his order; and if the Commissary- General cannot supply said Whale-Boats, the said Reed is hereby ordered to furnish the same, and lay his accounts before this Court for allowance. Resolve relative to the St. Joun’s and Micxmacx Inp1ans; passed Jury 13, 1776. Resolved, That Stephen Smith, the Truckmaster at Ma- chias, be, and hereby is, directed to trade with the St. John’s and the Mickmack Indians, and, in exchange for their Furs, _ to supply them, from time to time, with such goods as they may want; and the Council are desired and empowered to draw warrants upon the ‘Treasurer of this Colony for a sum not exceeding £1,000, in favour of said Stephen Smith, to enable him to purchase a sufficient quantity of goods for the purpose above mentioned. Resolved, That the Council be desired, and are hereby empowered to provide some ‘suitable person, of our own profession, to officiate as a Minister among them, and the Government will allow him a suitable compensation for his service. Resolved, That there be employed in the Continental service five hundred Indians out of the two Tribes above mentioned, which, together withytwo hundred and fifty of such of the English as may inlist, shall form one Regiment; the three Field-Officers to be English, the other commis- sioned Officers to be one-half English and one-half Indian, to be put upon such an establishment as the Court may order; each Indian to be allowed a Rifle Shirt, a Blanket, a pair of Shoes and Buckles, or Moccasins. “Resolved, That the honourable Council be, and hereby are, desired to order that a Silver Gorget, with proper devices, be provided; as also a Silver Heart, with proper devices on each side; and be presented to the Indians above men- tioned. ; Resolved, 'That the honourable Council be desired, and are hereby empowered, to make the same presents to the St. John’s and Mickmack Indians, as were the last year made to those Indians that represented the Penobscot Tribe; and that their expenses in coming up from or returning to their own country be also defrayed by the Council. Resolve to put the Companies at Saem under the direction of Colonel Pickerine; passed Jury 13, 1776. Resolved, That the Company of Sea-Coast men, and the Company of Matrosses stationed at Salem, be, and they hereby are, in future, till the further order of this Court, put under the order and direction of Colonel Timothy Pickering, Jun.; and in case of his absence from Salem, said Com- panies to be, during such absence, under the order and direction of Major Joseph Sprague ; any former Order or Resolve of this Court to the contrary notwithstanding. MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY, JULY, 1776. 324 Resolve on the Petition of Witt1am Tupper; passed Juty 13, 1776. Whereas it appears that five separate Accounts have been © exhibited to this Court by Mr. William Tupper, for sundry necessaries supplied the Schooner Diligentiand the Sloop Machias Liberty, in the Colony service, and that the several Committees that have examined the same have reported that the whole thereof should be paid, and that any longer delay of payment would be greatly to the damage of the parties by whom said articles were furnished: Therefore, Resolved, That the sum of £286 18s. 7d. be allowed and paid out of the Colony Treasury to the said William Tupper, or his order, in full of said five Accounts—he giving proper receipts to the Treasurer for the same. Resolve for procuring Wool; passed Jury 13, 1776. Whereas it may be very difficult to obtain such quantities of Clothing as will be necessary for the supply of our Army, unless a quantity of Wool is procured: Therefore, _ Resolved, That Thomas Durfee, Esq., of Freetown; Joseph Mayhew, Esq., of Chilmark ; Captain John Richard- son, of Templeton; Mr. Lemuel Williams, of Dartmouth ; Thomas Cook, Esq., of Edgartown; Mr. James Robinson, of Dorchester; Jonathan Bass, Esq., of Braintree ; and Stephen Huss, Esq., of Nantucket, be a Committee, imme- diately to purchase, on the best terms they can, and secure in some safe place or places, all the Sheep’s Wool they can obtain; and that the Committee report to this Court the names of all persons whom they shall find purchasing that article with an intent to monopolize, or obtain an advanced price on the same. Also, Resolved, That the honourable Council be, and hereby are, authorized and empowered to draw Warrants on the Treasurer of this Colony for such sums as they may judge necessary to answer the purpose aforesaid. Resolve on the Report of the Committee appointed to dis- tribute twelve hundred Pounds among the Inhabitants of the Eastern parts of the County of Lincotn; passed Juty 13, 1776. ‘ Whereas this Court, on the 11th of April last, did lend to the inhabitants of the easterly part of the County of Lin- colen, from Camden to Machias, inclusively, the sum of £1200, and committed the same to the Honourable John Taylor, Esq., Colonel William Jones, and Mr. James Noble Shannon, to be distributed by them equally among said set- tlements; and it appears to this Court that the said Commit- tee have distributed the sum of £1006 13s. 8d. thereof, for which they have Notes from the Committees of the several Plantations: Therefore, Ordered, That Mr. Shannon deliver the said Notes to the Treasurer of this Colony. And whereas it appears that the Settlements or Plantations of Camden, Majorbeggaduce, Fox-Islands, and the 'Town of Belfast, have not received their proportion of the said loan ; and it being represented by Colonel Jones and Mr. Shannon, that they can no longer attend to the duties of that appoint- ment: ‘Therefore, Resolved, That they deliver the sum of £193 6s. 4d., now in their hands, unto Major James Minot, of Camden, who shall give his Note therefor to the ‘Treasurer, and shall be accountable to this Court for the distribution thereof, and shall deliver the same to the order of the four places above mentioned, or any of them, in the proportions above refer- red to, taking their Notes, payable to the Treasurer, as for- merly ordered; and his receipt, together with that of the Treasurer, if amounting to the sum of £1200, shall be deemed sufficient to acquit the said Jones and Shannon from any obligation heretofore given by them to the Treasurer of: this Colony. And whereas the inhabitants of Camden, Majorbeggaduce, Fox-Islands, and Belfast, stand in need of a quantity of Ammunition for their defence: Therefore, Resolved, That the Commissary-General of this Colony be, and he hereby is, directed to deliver to the said James Minot so much Powder, Balls, and Flints, as will amount to one half the sum of £193 6s. 4d., aforesaid, at the rates following, viz: Powder at 5s. per pound, Balls at 6d. per 325 pound, and Flints at 5s. per hundred: said Minot paying the Commissary aforesaid for the same. And the said Minot is hereby directed to distribute the same among the inhabitants of the said Towns of Camden, Majorbeggaduee, Fox-Islands, and Belfast, in the same proportion as the money, and on the same terms. Resolve permitting Mr. Mason Wuearton to improve an Estate of Tuomas Fiucxer, Esquire; passed Jury 13, 1776. ; Resolved, That Mason Wheaton have leave to improve the Estate of Thomas Flucker, who has quitted this country, till the 15th day of April next, he giving the Committee on id CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 326 the East side of St. George security to pay them, for the use of this Colony, such a sum, as rent for the same, as they shall judge it to be reasonably worth. Grant for the Travel and Attendance of the Members of the House ; passed Jury 13, 1776. In the House of Representatives: 'The Pay-Roll of the Members of the House, with their Travel and Attendance in the House, from the 29th of May last to the 13th of July current. Read and approved by the House. In Council: Read and allowed. Ordered, That a Warrant be drawn on the Treasury for £1819 15s., in full of said Roll. JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Baltimore, July 14, 1776. Sirs: I received your letter, and am well satisfied that I have so far pleased you. You mention sending two hun- dred and fifty pounds by Captain Nicholson. He brought me an order for that sum, but no cash. I have sent the order by Mr. Wells to receive the money. After paying the flour expense to the Potomack, the expense of dischar- ging the brigs, and the hire for the vessels for the troops to Elk, I shall Jay out the remainder in any way you please to order. As I have opened an account for you, I shall credit you with the money, and charge you for what I do and pay for you, and render you a statement of the account monthly; or at the end of certain jobs done. Mr. Wells has sundry proposals to make, but thinks it hard that he can’t be paid his old account, which I know is hard on him, as a man can have no trust here for anything, and his circumstances won’t admit of his laying out of his money so long. There are twenty barrels of superfine flour left with me, and I was at the baker’s last night; there is a good deal of bread baked and very good. Ifthere is any wanted for the brig, please let me know in time; or if flour is wanted, I haye a few barrels of flour I would sell at nine shillings per hundred, which I would send down for the brig. From your humble servant, Jesse HoLuinasworrtu. To the Hon. Council of Safety, at Annapolis. _ P.S. My flour is fresh and good, if you should want to send any to Chingoteague for the brig. JOHN HANSON, JUN., TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 14, 1776. Sir: The mode pointed out by the Convention for arming the men now raising for the Continental service, I am afraid will prove ineffectual. The people are much averse to parting with their arms, unless they are immediately paid for them; and we know of no resolve authorizing such pur- chase. Should there be any such, be pleased to order a copy to be sent; or if your honourable Board should think proper to order such guns as may be necessary, to be bought up, I think the men would soon be sufficiently armed; and humbly offer it as my opinion, that unless some such step be taken, the providing of arms here, for the men that may be raised in this part of the County, will be altogether impracticable. ‘am, sir, your most humble servant, Joun Hanson, Jun. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. COLONEL SOMERVILLE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Calvert County, July 14, 1776, Sunday, five o’clock. GentLemeN: About one o’clock yesterday morning, by express from Captain Beall, I received information that there were forty sail of vessels off Point Lookout, (eight of which were square-rigged,) and requesting some assistance from our Militia, and to get the other part in readiness in case they should proceed up the bay. Colonel Mackall not being in the country, I gave such orders as I thought might put us in the best posture of defence. The six upper com- panies were to hold themselves in readiness to march on the * shortest notice, and with part of the rest [ went to Druin- Point. About four o’clock a firing of cannon, &c., was heard, (supposed to be in the Potomack,) which is con- firmed this morning by Mr. Hugh Hopewell, Jun., who was down near where the firing was, and brought the enclosed letter from Colonel Barnes, who also requested the assist- ance of Captain Beall and his men. Mr. Hopewell came to Drum-Point this morning about nine o’clock, and Cap- tain Beall, with all the men he had there, set out about half-past ten, leaving that post in charge of our Militia, who are now but few in number; but I propose to get (and keep) there about sixty or seventy men, exclusive of officers, until I receive your orders, or until Captain Bealls return. The ships-of-war, tenders, &c., were this morning lying off between the S¢. Mary’s River and Point-Lookout; and it is reported by some deserters from them, that they intend to land on St. George’s Island, in the mouth of St. Mary’s River. Captain Beall desired me to inform you of his marching, and desires your orders how he shall proceed. Colonel Barnes could not get an express to carry his letter to you in St. Mary’s, and therefore sent it this way, and expects to receive your answer the same way, which I will send him as soon as it comes. I shall go to Drum-Point in the morning, and you may depend I will do all in my power to prevent their landing in this County, if they should alter their course so as to come up the bay or into the Pa- tuxent. This express is to be paid from Drum-Point to Annapolis, which is about fifty-five miles, and by which I expect your orders, which shall be punctually obeyed. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, ALEXANDER SOMERVILLE. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. P.S. A messenger will be waiting at the late Captain Carroll's dwelling-house to-morrow evening to receive your answer to Colonel Barnes's letter. You will be pleased to direct what number of “Militia can be kept on duty in this County, and what number of officers. COLONEL DORSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 14, 1776. GentvLemen: Captain Riggs waits on you with a com- pany of Militia out of my battalion. This extremely busy time has prevented my sending them sooner. I hope they will be relieved by the Flying-Camp in a few days. If they are not, I purpose to relieve them by another company out of my battalion. I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant, Tuomas Dorsey. To the Honourable the Council of Safety, Annapolis. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL ROBERDEAU. Philadelphia, Sunday, July 14, 1776. Sm: I have it this day in command from Congress to desire you will issue fresh orders and exert yourself to for- ward the immediate march of the whole Militia destined for the Jerseys from this Colony, the service requiring their being as soon as possible imbodied in the Jerseys, in conse- quence of fresh advices from General Washington by express. I beg to request your particular attention to this matter. I have the honour to be, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Honourable Brigadier-General Roberdeau. 327 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 14, 1776. GentLeMEN: I am directed by Congress most earnestly to request you will supply the Flying-Camp and Militia inthe Jerseys with as many musket-cartridges, with balls therein, as you can possibly spare, and send them forward with the greatest despatch. The state of our affairs will not admit the least delay, nor need I use arguments to induce you to an immediate compliance with this requisition. I am likewise to request you will immediately order to the respective places of their destination all the British officers prisoners in this city. The ladies are not to go till the weather is fair. The Committee of Congress are instructed to replace an equal quantity of powder to that delivered in cartridges. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient ioe WT Ed al eS al Pe Hancock, President. To the Hon. Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL MERCER. Philadelphia, July 14, 1776. Sir: The Congress having been informed by General Washington, that he had given the command of the Flying Camp and Militia in New-Jersey, to you, and for that pur- pose you were stationed in the Jerseys, I have it in charge from Congress to empower and direct you to march such of the Militia and Flying-Camp to Brunswick, or other places in the Jerseys, as you may on ail occasions judge necessary and most conducive to the publick service, provided it does not interfere with any prior direction. from General Wash- ington. Four tons of powder were sent off to you a few days ago; and a large parcel of cartridges, well balled, will be this day forwarded to you, for the use of the troops under your command. Colonel Biddle, the Quartermaster-General, has orders to furnish all necessaries. He will wait on you, and follow such directions as you may judge necessary to give him. You will please to give me the earliest intelligence of every occurrence by express, that it may be laid before Congress. I most heartily wish success to your arms,’and have the honour to be, with much esteem, sir, your very humble ser- want, Joun Hancock, President. To Brigadier-General Mercer, New-Jersey. LETTER FROM THE COMMITTEE FOR LANCASTER, PENNSYL- VANIA. In Committee, Lancaster, July 14, 1776. GentLemen: The Committee have received orders from the Congress, to keep a guard over the prisoners at the bar- racks, and to have the barracks surrounded by a stockaded fort. One principal design in this order is, doubtless, to prevent the prisoners from straggling abroad, and making their escape. The Committee, therefore, request of you to have strict inquiry made throughout your township imme- diately, for such prisoners as may be there, and have them immediately sent in to the barracks in this place, under a proper guard ; and the officers of the Militia in the District are requested to give you every necessary assistance in carry- ing this matter into execution. By order of the Committee : Wixusam 8. Arter, Chairman. To the Members of the Committee in Township, and the Officers of the Militia there. CUMBERLAND COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE TO THE . PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Carlisle, July 14, 1776. Honovurasxe Sir: In obedience to your letter, by order of Congress, bearing date Philadelphia, the 3d instant, now before us, and of the resolve of the Conference of Dele- gates, &c., at the State-House, the 5th instant, approved in Congress, we sent circular letters to each battalion in this County, requesting their compliance. By the intelligence CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 328 we have already received, we think ourselves warranted to say, that we shall be able to send five companies, viz: one from each battalion, to compose part of the Flying-Camp, provided so many good arms can be had, and three compa- nies of Militia, for the present exigency—some of whom will march this week. . With pleasure we assure you that a noble spirit appears amongst the inhabitants here. We find great scarcity of cash, even amongst men of considerable property. We are, therefore, under thé necessity of sending the bearer hereof, Mr. John Boyd, express to you, with our draft, bearing date herewith, for £1,000, without which, we find the men can- not be suitably fitted out; and, therefore, we make no doubt you will honour our order, more especially when we inform you that we have taken up money already upon our own credit. The spirit of marching to the defence of our country is so prevalent in this town, that we shall not have men left sufficient to mount guard, which we think absolutely neces- sary for the Safety of the inhabitants and ammunition, and as a watch over the ten English officers, with their ten ser- vants, to keep their parole of honour; especially as their brethren lately at Lebanon, in Lancaster County, lost it. And as there will not be more left in town here for the above purpose, we shall be obliged to hire a guard of. twelve men from the County, which we think ought to be at the publick ex pense. Although we do not charge those gentlemen with such behaviour as would warrant us to confine them, yet we have reason to believe their conversation has influenced many weak and ignorant persons, as well in town as within the six miles around it which is the line of their confine- ment ; and their servants are dressed with hunting-shirts and trowsers, the uniform of our people, which might ‘facilitate their escape. We are, sir, your most obedient humble servants. Signed by order of the Committee : ‘ Joun Monreomery, Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. a * GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth Amboy, July 14, 1776. Sir: This morning Lord Howe sent Lieutenant Reeve, of the Kagle man-of-war, with a flag of truce to this post. He delivered me the letters which accompany this. Nothing worthy your attention has happened here since I had the honour to receive your instructions‘of the 11th inst., by Mr. Boss. The enemy’s guards in our vieW continue with- out any new movement. From their number, it is probable that two regiments encamp near this end of Staten Island. We have been able, however, to procure no certain intelli- gence of their situation. No person has yet come over to us, nor is it easy to find one of our friends duly qualified or ready to undertake the business of a Spy on the Island. About four hundred of the Pennsylvania rifle battalion have joined us, and another party of the same regiment is on the way. From this last, I have ordered one hundred men to take post at the ferries of Passaick and Hackensack, and shall relieve all the Jersey Militia as soon as reinforcements arrive. When the two battalions of riflemen and one of musketry from Pennsylvania, are posted from hence to the ferries towards New-York, a favourable opportunity may probably offer to surprise the enemy’s small posts. Boats may, I think, be procured ; and the riflemen would be happy to be so employed. Such an enterprise is not suspected by the enemy, nor believed to be under consideration here. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, H. Mercer. PHILIP B, BRADLEY TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. wh Bergen, July 14, 1776. Honovren Sir: I flatter myself that the continual hurry and multiplicity of business which I have had will apologize for not writing you sooner, ‘The next day after my arrival at New-York, I was ordered, with General Wadsworth’s brigade, to Bergen, in the Jerseys, nearly opposite to the enemy, besides which I have one battalion of the Jersey forces under my command, ; The fleet, by small parties, are daily falling in. Vice- 329 Admiral Howe arrived Friday night last, so that we may expect a visit from them soon, but we hope to give them a warm reception, I would acquaint your Honour that I have appointed the Rev. Isaac Lewis as Chaplain, and Doctor Salua Pell as Surgeon, with Amos Baker as his mate. I wish they may meet your approbation. Their abilities in their different departments, | make no doubt, are equal to the task. And Iam, honoured sir, your obedient, humble servant, Puitie B. Bravuey. The Hon. Jonathaw Trumbull, Esq. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 16, 1776. Referred to the Board of War.] New-York, July 14, 17%. Sir: My last, of F'rzday evening, which I had the honour of addressing you, advised that two of the enemy’s ships of war and three tenders had run above our batteries here and the works at the upper end of the Island. I am now to inform you, that yesterday forenoon, receiving intelligence from General Mifflin that they had passed the Tappan Sea, and were trying to proceed higher up, by advice of R. R. Livingston, Esq., and other gentlemen, I despatched an express to General Clinton, of Ulster, and the Committee of Safety for Dutchess County, to take measures for securing the passes in the Highlands, lest they might have designs of seizing them, and have a force concealed for the purpose. I wrote the evening before to the commanding officers of the two garrisons there, to be vigilant, and prepared against any attempts they or any disaffected persons might make against them, and to forward expresses all the way to Albany, that provision and other vessels might be secured and pre- vented falling into their hands. ‘The information given Gen- eral Mifflin was rather premature, as to their having gone - past the sea. A letter from the Committee of Orange County, which came to hand this morning, says they were there yesterday, and that a regiment of their Militia was un- der arms to prevent their landing and making an incursion. The messenger who brought it, and to whom it refers for particulars, adds, that a party of them in two or three boats had approached the shore, but were. forced back by our people firing at them. Since theamanceuvre of friday there have been no other movements in the fleet. General Sullivan, in a letter of the 2d instant, informs'me of his arrival with the Army at Crown-Point, where he is fortifying and throwing up works. He adds, that he has secured all the stores, except three cannon left at Chambly, which in part is made up by taking a fine twelve-pounder out of the Lake. ‘The Army is sickly, many with the small-pox, and he is apprehensive the Militia ordered to join them will not escape the infection. An officer he had sent to recon- noitre had reported that he saw at \St. John’s about one hun- dred and fifty tents, twenty at St. Roy’s, and fifteen at Chambly, and works at the first were busily carrying on. I have enclosed a General Return of the Army here, which will show the whole of our strength; all the detached posts are included. A letter from the eastward, by last night’s post, to Mr. Hazard, Postmaster in this city, advises, that two ships have , been taken and carried into Cape Ann—one from Antigua, consigned to General Howe, with four hundred and thirty- nine puncheons of rum; the other a Jamaicaman, with four hundred hogsheads of sugar, two hundred puncheons of rum, thirty-nine bales of cotton, pimento, fustic, &c., &c.; each mounted two guns, six-pounders. 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 imme- diately convened such of the General Officers 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 hada letter from Lord Howe to Mr. Washington, which he showed, under a superscrip- tion “'To George Washington, Esq.” Colonel Reed replied, there was no such person in the Army, and that a letter in- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 330 tended for the General could not be received under such a direction. The officer expressed great concern; said it was a letter of rather 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 in- structions being positive, they parted. After they had 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 answered, his station was well known, and that certainly 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, the 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 concur- ring 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 publick 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 communicate the import and con- sequence of it. I have been duly honoured with your two letters, that of the 10th by Mr. Anderson, and the 11th with its enclosures, and have directed the Quartermaster to provide him with everything he wants to carry his scheme into execution. It is an important one, and I wish it success, but I am doubtful that it will be better in theory than practice. The passage of the ships of war and tenders up the river is a matter of great importance, and has excited much con- jecture 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 the river, giving almost the only land communication with Albany, and, of conse- quence, with our northern Army, and for which purpose they might have troops concealed 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 having 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 fleetyor 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 coun- try, and to prevent supplies of every kind going and coming. These matters are truly alarming, and of such importance that I have written to the Provincial Congress of New-York, and recommendec to their serious consideration 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 their defiles are, to keep the enemy from possessing them, until further provision can be made; and to write to the several leading persons on our'side, in that quarter, to be atteritive to all the movements 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 which seems to be generally adopted, I have the pleasure to inform Congress, that, if their design is to keep the Armies from provisions, 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 Con- necticut. Upon this head there is but little occasion for any apprehensions, at least for a considerable time. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of great esteem, ur most obedient servant bicoee| : Go. WasuHINGTON, P.S. [have sent orders to the commanding officer of the Pennsylvania Militia to march to Amboy, as their remaining at Trenton can be of no service. 331 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 332 General Return of the Army in the service of the Unrrep Couontes, in and near the City of New-Yorx, commanded by His Excellency Grorcr: Wasuineton, Esquire, General and Commander-in- Chief. OFFICERS PRESENT. RANK AND FILE. _ Wanting to Since last Commissioned. Staff. wae icy complete. 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GrnrLemen: The passage of the enemy up North River js a point big with many consequences to the publick interest; one particularly occurs to me well deserving your attention, and to prevent which I shall gladly give every assistance in my power, consistent with the safety of the Army. [am informed there are several passes on each side of the river, upon which the communication with Albany depends, of so commanding a nature that an inconsiderable body of men may defend them against the largest numbers. It may be that on board these ships there may be troops for this pur- pose, who, expecting to be joined by the disaffected in that quarter, or confiding in their own strength, may endeavour to seize those defiles, in which case the intercourse between the two Armies, both by land and water, will be wholly cut off, than which a greater misfortune could hardly befall the service and Army. I must entreat you to take the measure _ into consideration, and, if possible, provide against an evil so much to be apprehended. I should hope the Militia of those Counties might be used on such an emergency, until further provision was made. I have also thought it very probable those ships may have carried up arms and.ammunition, to be dealt out to those who may favour their cause, and codperate with them at a prefixed time. I would, to guard against this, submit to your consideration the propriety of writing to the leading men on our side in those Counties, to be very vigilant in ob- serving any movements of this kind, in order that so danger- ous a scheme may be nipped in the bud; and for that purpose, to keep the utmost attention to the conduct of the principal Tories in those parts—any attempts of intercourse with the ships, and all other circumstances which may lead to a dis- covery of their schemes and the destruction of their measures. I am, gentlemen, Xc., Go. WasHINGTON. To the Convention of the State of New-York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COMMANDING OFFICER OF THE PENNSYLVANIA TROOPS. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 14, 1776. Sir: From sundry accounts received of the troops you command, I have reason to believe they will halt at Trenton, and there wait further orders. As I do not see any advantage which can arise from your continuance there, and the hon- ourable Continental Congress has committed the disposition of them to me until the Flying-Camp is formed, you will, on receipt of this, proceed to Amboy, in New-Jersey, where General Mercer is appointed to command, and there, putting yourself under his direction, receive and obey such orders as he may give. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Go. WasuHIneTon. To the Commanding Officer of the Pennsylvania Troops, at Trenton, (or elsewhere,) New-Jersey. COLONEL RITZEMA TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-York, July 14, 1776. May ir PLease your Exceiiency: Conscious in my own mind that I never have said or done anything wittingly which had a tendency to disparage the Continental troops or service, much less to speak contumeliously of any of the General Officers, and, above all, of the American cause—a cause which I have as much at heart as any man in America, and in which I have frequently ventured my life the last campaign, and was the first man in the Province of New- York who ever took up arms in defence of it, a cause for which I am still willing to lay down my life,—it therefore grieves me sorely that my integrity should be called in ques- tion, and that secret enemies should endeavour to blast my character in your Excellency’s estimation. Finding that I have many of these, and that words which I may have unguardedly uttered have been construed to the worst of purposes, I humbly crave, to avoid further persecution, your Excellency’s leave to resign my commission, and to retire to my good and aged father in the country, not doubting but in CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 334 a little time your Excellency and the world will be convinced that Iam not the man I am by some represented to be. I am, may it please your Excellency, your Excellency’s very humble servant, Rupoienus Rirzema. ‘ GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL RITZEMA. Head-Quarters, July 14, 1776, Srr: At a period so critical as the present, when our unnatural enemies are in full view, and hourly expected to strike a blow which may be supposed in a great measure to decide the fate of America, I must confess I am not a little surprised to find an officer of your rank in the Army solicit- ing leave to resign his commission, more especially consider- ing the predicament you are now in. I should rather hope that, as you are so conscious of your innocence, you would urge an inquiry into your conduct, to convince the world that the complaints exhibited against you are totally ground- less; 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 don’t know how far I can, with propriety, countermand the order for the Court of Inquiry, as it 1s already given out in General Orders; however, I will think of it, and give you my answer to-morrow. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Go. WasuHineTon. To Colonel Rudolphus Ritzema. GOUVERNEUR MORRIS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Committee of the Convention of Representatives of the State of New-York, at the City-Hall of the City of New-York, July 14, 1776. Str: I am directed by the Committee to inform your Excellency that a great number of the persons now confined in our jail are from Queen’s County, on Long-Island, and, from all appearances, we are confident that they are in sen- timent inimical to that glorious cause in which, with your Excellency, we have the honour to be engaged. We have it in our power to confine them close prisoners, or take security for their future conduct. The inconvenience of crowding the jails throughout the County with people of this character, if they can safely be permitted to continue at their usual places of residence, is striking, as it must fill their minds with the sourness of opposition, and at the same time, by rousing and enraging all their connexions, and giving a just alarm to every person suspected of holding similar principles, raise up numerous enemies actuated by revenge and despair. If, on the other hand, security is taken for their peaceable demeanour, at the same time binding them to continue at their usual places of abode, the dangers I have just suggested to your Excellency will indeed be removed ; but another cause of serious apprehension will still remain, and we shall risk much from their correspondence with the enemy, while perhaps it may be difficult to prevent them from knowing the measures which may be taken by your Excellency for the publick service. In this disagreeable dilemma, we find ourselves under the necessity of asking advice, sir, from you, and such persons in your council as ou may think proper to consult, it being our wish that our conduct should conform to the sentiments of those who are intrusted with the important concerns of the United States. We have seriously pondered on the business your Excel- lency recommended to our attention, by the letter we were yesterday honoured with; and while we are alarmed at the dangers impending upon a neglect of what your Excellency hath pointed out to us, we feel ourselves much at a loss for measures which will be effectual. We shall suggest to your Excellency the propriety of removing from this Island every person, except the soldiery, who shall not have a permission from the Committee of this County to continue thereon; and after that period, a small degree of caution may prevent vagrants or spies from obtaining intelligence. But upon this and every other plan which may be proposed, we should be glad to have an opportunity of consulting with your Excel- lency, being extremely anxious for the adoption of the most speedy and efficacious measures to promote the publick service. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Gouv. Morais. To His Excellency General Washington. 335 To His Excellency Grorce Wasutineton, Esquire, Com- mander-in- Chief of the Army of the Thirteen UnrrEeD Srates of Nortu America. The Memorial of sundry Inhabitants of the City of New- York, and other friends to the peace and safety of th Unirep Sratres of America, showeth : ; That your Memorialists have been vigilant in finding out the enemies to the American States, in order to their bemg removed from all such places where they have opportunity of doing mischief to our common cause at this critical time ; when the greatest precaution is necessary for the publick safety. Your Memorialists are of opinion, that suffering Tories to remain in this city, or near it, in Long-Island, and Shrews- bury, &c., will be attended with much danger. Zeal for the prosperity of the glorious cause in which we are engaged, and for the safety of your Excellency’s person, prompt us now to address your Excellency on this inter- esting affair. Give us leave at the same time to express our readiness to assist, as far as in our power, in every laudable measure that may be recommended for the publick safety. Your Memorialists therefore pray your Excellency, that orders may be given for the removal of dangerous persons from this city, and other places, to some distant parts in the country, that the minds of your Memorialists and other friends to our cause may be relieved from their uneasiness. And your Memorialists shall pray, &c. John McArthur, Richard Leaycraft, Isaac Pinto, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. John Holt, Jonathan Durell, Gershom Mott, William Mercier, Isaac Van Vleck, Richard Norwood, Viner Van Zandt, Malcom McEuen, Jeremiah Platt, Garret Roorback, Ward Hunt, Frederick Bassett, James Colvin, F. Lewis, John Burger, Thomas Pratt, John Anderson, Lemuel Bunce, John Keating, George Traile, John Gilbert, Ephraim Brasher, Richard Livingston, George Graham, John Buchanan, Nathan Fish, Alexander Fortune, Thomas Lawrence, John Keily, Abraham De Lanoy, Ethan Sickels, John Abeel, Theodorus Deforeest, Richard Sands, Aaron Stockholm, Benjamin Quereau, James Byers, Joshua Sands, Daniel Green, Peter Vandervoort, Engelbart Kemmenay, David Dickson, Benjamin Hoghland, Andrew Stockholm, Thomas Ark, Wn. S. Livingston, Ger. Hardenbrook, James Abeel, Abra. Van Gelden, William Adams, Adolph De Grove, | Henry Brashers, Anthony Glean, Walter Moffatt, Edward Collord, Nicholas Fish, John Rutter, Johs. Hardenbergh, Christopher Codwise, Jeremiah Wool, Henry Beekman, Jonathan Blake, Peter Sim, Edward Meeks, James Smith, John Hunter, David Currie, Aaron Gilbert, Isaac Sebring, John Thomas, Cornelius Sebring, John Hyatt, John Ellis, Robert Manley, Robert Wool, Gilbert Dean, Daniel Cryble, Marinus Willett, John Stout, Henry Sheafe, Robert Campbell, John Hamilton, Garret Kip, Joseph Carr, Abram 8S. Haddery, Samuel Fleming, Joshua Rogers, Sybert Acker, John Jackson, James Rumsey, Jacob Lawrance, Isaac Sears, Joseph Cheesman, Joseph Smith, William Faulkner, Thomas Henderson, Ebenezer Phillips, Benj. Lightbourn, Capt. Jas. Robison, James Smith, John Gillespy, Ephraim Lockwood, . Cur, John Fish, Stephen Howell, Cornelius J. Duboys, Abraham Smedes, Henry Sloson, Stephen Oakley, George Knox, Nathaniel Ketchum, James Black, Wm. Dewitt, Capt., Prentice Bowen, Daniel Shaw, Abrm. A.Van Wyck, Sebastian Bauman, David Dickson,Capt., Lewis Norris, John Campbell, Henry Wilmot, Wm. Willierks,Capt., William Goforth, Wynd Kettletas, James Bate, John Wiley, Jacob K. Duryee, Henry Riker, Cary Dunn, Oliver Glean, James Riker, John Riker, Jr., Elias Pelletreau, Robert Troup, William Tapp, Henry Tiebout, Peter Vergereau, Thomas Delessy, Wm. W. Depeyster, Henry D. Tripp, Theodosius Fowler, Cornelius Bicker, Daniel Winter, Caleb Hobby, Benjamin Jones, William Whetten, John Anthony, Hugh Hughes, Abraham P. Lott, Henry H. Kip, Ebenezer Hazard, Samuel Johnson, Malachy Treat. COLONEL PARKE TO THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION. New-York Camp, July 14, 1776. GentLemen: I did not receive your notification till this morning after the time appointed. I send you herewith the names of the neighbours who are acquainted with Mr. Tyler’s character, and can best inform you of his past conduct; nor would he have been noticed now, had not he come into Colonel Wyllys’s encampment and began to display the in- veteracy of his heart among the soldiers, at the same time treating the officers with the greatest insolence. 1 hope he will be able to wipe this infamous stigma from his character ; but if not, | know your attachment to your country will suggest a proper mode of treatment for him. The persons 336 ready to give evidence against him are: Paul Green and wife, Pelatiah Haws, Nathaniel Peck, Mrs. Susan Hallo- way, Captain John Warner, Sergeant Isaac Piper and wife, Mrs. Sarah Wood, and Captain Ives ; besides other witnesses, which may be procured on oceasion. These persons live in the neighbourhood, and may be had by a summons for that purpose. Iam, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Joun Parke. To the Committee of Safety, New-York. P.S. Mr. Tyler belongs to Captain Warner’s company. John Lowe and his brother are further evidences. GENERAL MIFFLIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Mount Washington, July 14, 1776. My pear GeneraL: The party opposite to us on the Jersey side are at work on the mountain, and will soon have the ground prepared for cannon. I was obliged to call the party of one hundred and fifty men from our point and set them at work on two traverses, which the enemy’s fire on Friday convinced me were necessary in the fort. I have removed the small building, which was placed near the bastion on the right entering the sally-port, behind one of the traverses; and have, through necessity, made use of it as a Magazine. When the carpenters have finished the proper Magazine, I will take care to settle it as low as possible, and render it as secure as the ground will permit. At present, we have no security for our powder. A battery on the height, above our point, of eighteen pounders, would render the passage of the river very diffi- cult, although our late experiments may have taught us that it is not easy to pr@vent it. The ships were obliged to pass very near to it: our rifles reached them. ‘The men having worked all Frzday night, and being much fatigued, I have relieved them from fatigue this day. I want much your Excellency’s orders respecting the places next to be secured. Bulwarks connected with our fort are certainly necessary; we are weak without them. I shall, therefore, unless other- wise directed, order the party of one hundred and fifty from Nyack, to finish the battery on the point, and then erect another on the rock above it; our own men to finish the traverses, and proceed with some outworks and a strong abattis. As to a ditch, it is very difficult, and will require much time to complete one: that I must leave until more essential works are completed. Last night I sent an alert and prudent officer to watch the motions of the ships and Tories. He is properly equipped and well qualified for the business. The ships lay in sight of us all yesterday, about four or five miles above Dobbs’s Ferry. 1 have sent out to know where they are this morning; the wea- ther prevented our seeing them at their station yesterday. I beg leave to mention the necessity of securing the com- munications, opposite to us, with New-Jersey; a small part of the Flying-Camp, as the ground is strong, would answer the purpose. The heights over the bridge, and south of King’s Bridge, near the Three Trees, well known by your Excellency, are, in my opinion, of immense importance to us, especially if the enemy attempt an impression, or determine to throw up a line of contravallation against our posts on this Island, and try to shut us in. Mr. John Delany frequently passes King’s Bridge, with a pass from General Putnam. I have seen him twice, and heard of his being on the road to and from New- York, four times since Wednesday. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COMMITTEE OF ORANGE COUNTY, NEW-YORK. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 14, 1776. Gentiemen: Nothing can be more pleasing than, on all occasions, to see the people ready to fly to the protection of any part of the country where there is any danger from the enemy; but at this extremely busy season, I cannot recom- mend your keeping the regiment imbodied. It would be well to notify them all to be ready at a moment’s warning to assemble at any place they may be called to. Every precaution ought to be taken to prevent the men-of-war ‘337 from getting any supplies of fresh provisions, or keeping up any intercourse or correspondence with the disaffected inha- bitants. I shall be much obliged for timely information of every manceuvre of the ships and tenders up the river, and hope that every necessary step will be taken to prevent any of our vessels falling into their hands. I am, gentlemen, with esteem, your most humble servant, Go, WasHINGTON. To the Committee of Orange County, New-York. COLONEL HAY TO GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON. Sunday Evening, July 14, 1776. Dear Sir: On Friday afternoon three ships of war and four cutters of the Ministerial fleet passed the city of New- York; one forty and one twenty-gun ship, with the four cutters, anchored in the bay, opposite Nyack. On Friday night I called out my regiment, in order to prevent the enemy from landing and committing depredations on the west Shore, which we have hitherto done. At twelve o’clock yesterday a barge and cutter attempted to land; the latter grounded at some distance from the shore, and the barge, being fired upon by our guard, returned to the ships. In the night another barge came so near the shore that she was spoken to by the guard; and we are in hourly expectation of another attempt. My regiment, which consists of but four hundred men, has now been upon duty, night and day, since Friday evening, and are greatly fatigued with the ser- vice. ‘The men express great uneasiness, under apprehen- sion that they shall lose their harvest, as the grain is now fit to gather, and no persons to take it in, if they are obliged to guard the shore. In this situation, I thought it my duty to apply to you for support. As we have considerable extent of shore to guard, it is necessary to employ the whole regiment on constant duty; which, if continued, will be ruinous to the country, unless supported by a detachment of one hun- dred and fifty or two hundred men from your brigade; for this purpose I have despatched the bearer express. Your known attachment to the cause, and the zeal your people have shown, leaves us every reason to hope for an immediate support. The Militia of Bergen are drawn off towards Staten-Island; and the city of New-York is in hourly ex- pectation of being attacked ; so that we can expect no assist- ance from that quarter. If two or three armed boats could be sent down with the detachment, it would be most con- venient for the transportation of the men and their provision, and will be an essential service in keeping off the barges, and following them from place to place. Despatch the bearer as soon as possible. As I have been up two days and nights and am much fatigued, I hope you will excuse the inaccuracy of this scrawl. I am, dear sir, yours, in haste, A. Hawxes Hay. P. S. Should be happy to have your advice and assistance in this matter. EGBERT BENSON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Red-Hook, Dutchess County, July 14, 1776. Sir: This acknowledges the receipt of your Excellency’s letter of yesterday, which I immediately transmitted to General Ten Broeck, and shall without delay transmit the necessary expresses to Connecticut. As the matter may be exaggerated, I take the liberty of informing your Excellency that the late insurrection of the Tories in this County was rather an inconsiderable affair— no person of the least repute or importance concerned, and is entirely suppressed. I am your Excellency’s most obedient servant, Eeperr Benson. To General Washington. COLONEL JAMES CLINTON TO THE COMMITTEE OF DUTCHESS COUNTY, NEW-YORK. Fort Constitution, July 14, 1776. Gentiemen: I received yours of this day, and approve much of your plan for making fire-rafts, and doubt not but that you will carry the same into execution with the utmost expedition. TI think it advisable to purchase two other old sloops (or more if necessary) for the purpose; but let it be Firru Serizs.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 338 done at the cheapest rate—the oldest and worst sloops will do. Let men value them; but they must be had at any rate. When your rafts are completed, they must be sent here without delay—the sooner the better. I could wish, if the General’s letter (a copy of which you have) will war- rant it, a galley or two, to carry a nine-pounder in their bows, as they might answer a valuable purpose; but this I must submit to you. I want a whale-boat exceedingly, to reconnoitre the enemy; if one can be had, or built, and sent here, without retarding the other business, it would be of great service. I am, gentlemen, with much respect, your most obedient servant, James Cuinron, Colonel. COMMITTEE OF POUGHKEEPSIE TO COLONEL JAMES CLINTON. Poughkeepsie, July 14, 1776. Sir: We have sent off to Esopus for the Tory sloop there, and the ship-carpenters are busied in making fire-rafts. We would ask your opinion if it would not be best to pur- chase two other old sloops, which lash together with chains, two fire-rafts between each two sloops, and, if a northerly wind, sail them directly down on the enemy. When the rafts are completed, and if the ships have not passed your forts, we would ask you if we must not send down the sloops and rafts near the forts. I am, sir, your most obedient and humble servant, Joun Battery, Chairman. To Colonel James Clinton. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Albany, July 14, 1776. Dear Sir: I had the honour to write his Excellency General Washington on the 12th, by express, which I then communicated ; [ hope you will have received it before this comes to hand. Captain Marquisie has begged me for a letter to you, and to mention that he has lost all his baggage in the retreat from Canada; he is the bearer of this. I wish you much health and happiness. I am, dear sir, with perfect esteem, your most obedient, humble servant, Puiuie SCHUYLER. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. P.S. Mr. Marquisie has received from me eighty dollars on account. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, July 14, 1776. Dear Sir: Soon after Bennet had left me, I received a line from General Gates, covering a paper, copy of which I have the honour to enclose. Yesterday a discovery was made of some desperate designs of the Tories in this quarter. I am bound by oath not to divulge names or particulars. Such measures are taken that the danger is, | hope, over; and about one o’clock this morning four of the conspirators (amongst whom is a ring- leader) were apprehended about three miles from town. I have ordered two companies of Van Schazck’s immediately to march from Fort George to this place. I am, dear sir, most truly, your Excellency’s obedient humble servant, Puitie SCHUYLER To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, July 14, 1776. Dear Sir: The bearer, Captain Marquisie, a French gentleman, sent by Congress as an Engineer to the Northern Department, is on his return to Philadelphia, and has entreated me to introduce him to your Excellency. I do not know what his abilities are as an engineer; he appears to be a modest and discreet man. I am, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, : Puitie ScHuyLer. To His Excellency General Washington. 22 339 H. SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 14, 1776. Dear Sir: Pursuant to general orders which came to hand this day, I have sent a lad, who is a fifer in Captain Coughran’s company in one of the new regiments that Is now raising, which lad bas been lately to Crown-Point with his father, and has taken the small-pox. The father of the lad is named Seth Stow, and the lad’s name is Abyah. In my opinion, the father of this lad, as being a recruiting ser- geant, should be made to suffer for his contempt of general orders. Your Honour will best know how to act when he arrives at Ticonderoga. I am, dear sir, your very humble servant, Har. SCHUYLER, Assistant Deputy Quartermaster-General. To the Honourable General Gates. CAPTAIN VEEDERS TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 14, 1776. Dear Sir: I am but lately arrived here with part of my company; expect the remainder very soon. Came hy the way of Ticonderoga, but by General Schuyler ordered to this station. And having no ammunition for my men, and appointed here as a guard, I thought it my duty, as soon as I conveniently could, to acquaint your Honour, or any other commanding in your room, of our want of such necessaries. I therefore beg your Honour will, as soon as may be, send what quantity you think will best suit our present situation. A quantity of flints, with powder and ball, will be very necessary. I am, dear sir, your very humble servant, Asm. Veepers, Captain. To the Hon. General Gates, Ticonderoga. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN OFFICER AT FORT GEORGE TO HIS FRIEND, AN OFFICER IN NEW-YORK, DATED JULY 14, 1776. I never knew the fatigues of a campaign until I arrived at Canada. ‘The most shocking scenes that ever appeared in a camp were constantly exhibited to view. When Gene- ral Sullivan arrived in Canada the Army was torn in pieces by sickness and other unaccountable occurrences. A whole regiment was not to be found together. General Sullivan, with his usual activity and alertness, collected together a debilitated, dispirited army, tried the strength of the enemy, who were at least four to our one, and performed one of the most remarkable retreats that was ever known. No person who was not present can conceive a tenth part of the diffi- culties attending it: the enemy at our heels; three thousand of our men sick of the small-pox, and those who were most healthy like so many walking apparitions; all our baggage, stores, and artillery, to be removed, officers as well as men all employed in hauling cannon, &c. Our batteaus loaded, were all moved up the rapids six miles; one hundred of them were towed by our poor wearied men up to their arm- pits in water. ‘This was performed in one day and a half, our sick and baggage all safely landed at St. John’s, and from thence at Crown-Point, with the loss of only three cannon, which were but poor ones. All this was accom- plished through the amazing exertions of General Sullivan, who performed what appeared to be almost impossible to have been done by mortal man. He is now on his way to New-York. GENERAL GATES TO LIEUTENANT GANSEVOORT. Tyonderoga, July 14, 1776. Sir: The bearer, Lieutenant Tenbrook, has the care of thirteen Indians, sent hither from Crown-Point with a letter to Major-General Schuyler. ‘The small-pox is broke out upon one of the young Indian lads. You will order the surgeons at your post to give all the assistance in their power to recover him. When the Indians incline to go on to Albany, you will send an escort with them to see them safe to General Schuyler. Though they are considered in the light of prisoners, I would recommend that their imprison- ment be made as easy as possible. You will order them to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 340° be supplied with such refreshments and accommodations as your post affords. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Horatio Garters. To Lieutenant C. Gansevoort, or Commanding Officer at Fort George. GENERAL GATES TO HERMANUS SCHUYLER. Tyonderoga, July 14, 1776. Sir: The iron, axes, &c., which you wrote for yesterday, are sent you by the conveyance. General Waterbury, who presents you this letter, goes to Skenesborough to wait for the Militia who are upon their march from Connecticut, and will soon be with you. He has General Schuyler’s direc- tions for several things to be immediately done at your post, which he will acquaint you with upon his arrival. You will act in conjunction with General Waterbury, and do your utmost, with his command and assistance, to forward the publick service. , I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Horatio Gates. To Mr. Hermanus Schuyler. GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 14, 1776. Dear Genera: I have this morning sent off Colonels Macwell’s and Winds’s regiments, with most of the artillery and stores. Want of boats prevented my sending off all the sick and companies of artillery. 1 have just sent off the last boats we had to Onion River, and other places, for boards; believe I can procure twenty or thirty thousand feet, and send you, in a few days. We shall have occasion for at least one hundred boats, to take up all the Army, unless part of them should march by land. If you think proper to order the Army to Ticonderoga, will it not be necessary to keep one regiment here? Enclosed is the sentence of a general court-martial, who have thought proper to dismiss Colone] Campbell the service. He is under confinement, and will be glad to know if his sentence is confirmed or not. Iam surprised we hear no- thing from New-York. I am, dear General, your affectionate and obedient hum- ble servant, To Major-General Gates. B. Arnoup. CAPTAIN BROWNSON TO GENERAL GATES, Pittsford, July 14, 1776. May ir pLeaseE your Honour: At seven o’clock last evening one Brica Dunlap, of Captain Jones’s company, of the First Battalion, under Colonel De Haas, of the Penn- sylvania forces, who I confined on the 7th of last May near Point de Trembles for the murder of Corporal Kelly, belong- ing to said company and battalion, came to this post, when I immediately confined him. Having sent off all my men scouting except a few, (and they have not had the small- pox,) which disenables me to send said prisoner back, I have sent an express, waiting your Honour’s direction respecting the prisoner. . As your Honour gave Colonel Warner orders to send a party of men to Sisco Bay to burn Medcalf Mills, before he arrived at this post | had sent off the men in scouting parties, so that there were not men sufficient to perform it. Till some come in, which I expect soon, whether it would not forward the business to send to Colonel Wait orders to do it, your Honour’s wisdom can determine. Your com- mand by the express will be punctually obeyed by your Honour’s very humble servant at command, Gipron Brownson, Captain. His Honour Major-Gen. Gates, Commander at Crown-Point. N. B. The express was present when the murder was committed. EBENEZER BARTRAM TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-London, July 14, 1776. Honovuren Sir: I take the liberty to inform your Honour that this day the brig Defence came from Newport, and arrived here; and in oar cruise, of which your Honour has had infor- 341 mation, in the engagement with the ship and brig, (by the side of the ship, and the brig lying right astern,) and not being in our power to fire on the brig, we had to suffer their fire near two hours, until both were compelled to strike, by the brave activity of our worthy Captain, who behaved like the seaman, like the gentleman, and like a man of honour. Therefore, honoured sir, if you have any promotions to make, it is my opinion that Captain Harding is as deserving a gen- tleman as any in the Colony of Connecticut, without excep- tion; and | must applaud the gallant behaviour of Lieutenant Smedley, and likewise the otherofficers and men, who behaved in the most brave manner. If any promotion to Captain Harding, may it please your Honour to let me know the gentleman whom your Honour appoints to succeed Captain Harding. With due respect, I am, your Honour’s humble servant, Expenezer Bartram. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Lebanon. ANDREW HAMILTON TO JABEZ FISHER. Springfield, July 14, 1776. Sir: Major Pyncheon informed me that the honourable Board of Council intended taking my case into consideration. Should it be agreeable to them to release me from my present disagreeable situation, I will be ready to wait on them, and give them any reasonable assurances for my future beha- viour that they may think requisite. — I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Anprew Hamitron. To the Honourable Jabez Fisher, Esq. Sir: You may remember, when I saw you at Watertown, I told you I knew of nothing that could be alleged against Mr. Hamilton, since his stay amongst us, that would prevent his discharge. I am, sir, still of the same opinion. He is still very desirous of the same; and should the honourable Board see fit to do it, he is ready to give any assurances to them that they will require for his future conduct. I am, sir, your obedient servant, Witutam Pyncueon, Jun. To the Honourable Jabez Fisher, Esq. COLONEL CHILD TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Chester, July 14, 1776. GentLemeN: Pursuant to my direction, I proceeded to Ipswich, Salem, and Marblehead, in quest of guns; purchased twenty-three, the price about ten dollars each; also, by Colonel Bayley’s advice, bought two hundred weicht of Jead. ‘The amount of the whole is £77. Am forwarding the same as fast as possible. Have received the guns you lodged at Mr. Webster's. The expense of buying, freight, &Xc., I cannot now ascertain. Will forward an account as soon as possible. Any commands you may have further for me shall be punctually complied with. In haste, 1 am, gentlemen, your very humble servant, JonaTHAN CuHiLp. To the Committee of Safety at Eveter. ® EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM ONE OF THE COUNCIL OF SAFE- TY AT ANNAPOLIS TO HIS FRIEND IN BALTIMORE, DATED MONDAY, JuLY 15, 1776. The Council of*Safety have this moment received infor- mation, by express, from Colonel Barnes, of St. Mary’s County, that Lord Dunmore had been compelled by the Virginians to remove from G'win’s Island; that on Satur- day morning he made his appearance off Point Lookout, in the mouth of Potomack, with a fleet of fifty-five sail including eight square-rigged vessels ; that on Sunday morn- ing he had got as high up the river as sSt. George’s Island in the mouth of the St. Mary’s River, and that he (Colonel Barnes) conjectured that his intention was to take posses- sion of that Island; that the Militia in S¢. Mary’s were all in motion, and that many of them had taken stations on the river side, to give him a proper.reception, if he attempted Janding on the main, &c. ‘Two boats from the fleet, with five persons on board, (three whites and two blacks,) were either driven on shore by my Lord, or deserted, with the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. * 342 small-pox on them. T think the former is most likely, be- cause the villain would be glad to spread that horrid disease as much as possible, Those people informed Colonel Barnes that our good friend Governour Eden is in the fleet. This Island is a poor miserable place, it is said ; if so, Dunmore’s stay there will not be long; and where he will next push to is altogether uncertain—perhaps up the bay. WILLIAM LUX TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 15, 1776. Gentvemen: Captain Robert Saunders has been on board the Alfred, Admiral Hopkins, ever since he first fitted out. He went on board at first as a pilot, when the fleet was intended for Virginia; but after their destination was altered, he remained on board, and was in the action with the Glas- gow. He has testimonials of his good behaviour, and I believe will meet preferment in the*Continental service; but, as you are intended to fit out tenders and gondolas, if it be agreeable to give him the command of one, I presume it would be more satisfactory to him; and when you direct, I will write for him to return. ‘Commodore Bouchier has sent up for Captain Moore, to go into the Virginia service; but as I made application to you in his behalf, I have prevailed on him to wait a day or two for your answer. I must say that I think him very clever in his deportment, and has, perhaps, seen more service than any other that will be in that employ, and should be sorry were he to quit the service of our Province. If, there- fore, you choose to keep him as Captain to one of your vessels, you will please to write by Mr. Yoks, who returns early to-morrow. You will want rigging for your vessels, which we shall hope to furnish; and, with much respect, I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Wiuiiam Lox. To the Honourable Council of Safety, at Annapolis. COLONEL JORDAN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. Mary’s County, July 15, 1776. Gentiemen: This serves to inform you that there is now lying off the mouth of St. Mary’s River between seventy and eighty vessels. Lam now at Leonardtown, on my way down, with part of the Sixth Battalion under my command, where I received an express from Colonel Barnes, (who is now at St. Invgoes Neck with the lower battalion,) informing me that this morning ten boats full of men landed on St. George’s Island, and had returned for more. I expect to be opposite the Island some time this night, and shall en- deavour to get the best intelligence I can of their numbers, and give the earliest notice. We shall want more powder and lead, and also flints, if they aretobe had. Major Eden, by whom this goes, will inform you more fully. ‘The Com- mittee for this County sat this day, and have detained Captain Forrest's company until they hear from you. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Jeremian JORDAN. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. P.S. Enclosed are Captain Forrest’s and Isieutenant Bond’s enrollments; the other two officers have completed theirs, but have not returned them to Captain Forrest. Captain Forrest desires me to inform you that his enroll- ment was completed the day before they were received by the Field-Officer. JOHN DORSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Sir: My son tells me that Captain Nathaniel Smith informed him that there is a vacancy in his company of a ThirdgLieutenancy, and as he had not an opportunity of being pressed into Colonel Smallwood’s battalion, I should be very happy in getting him with Captain Smith or Cap- tain Fulford. Major Price, if in town, can inform your Honours of his behaviour while under him. _ If these vacan- cies should be filled up, he will continue with Captain Smith till he may meet with an opportunity of preferment. I hope you will excuse the freedom I have taken in writing to you on this occasion. I am, with respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Dorsey.. To Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Esq., Annapolis. 343 WILLIAM HINDMAN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee, Talbot County, July 15, 1776. GentLemen: We herewith send you, under the guard of Messrs. Charles Troup, John Hindman, and Nathan Walker, three of our Militia, William Barclay Townsend, who was this day presented to us under an authority from the Committee of Worcester County, to appear before your Board. We are, gentlemen, your humble servants. By order of the Committee: Wixwuiam Hinpman, Chairman. To the Council of Safety of Maryland. SAMUEL BARRETT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Skipton, July 15, 1776. Str: By a resolve of our Committee I am to apply to you for eight hundred weight of lead to answer the powder received, we having no lead in this district, and therefore the powder is useless without the lead. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Lemuet Barrett, Chairman. To Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Esq., Chairman of the Council of Safety, Annapolis. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL SOMERVILLE. [No. 34.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: We received yours of the 14th, and by the same opportunity one from Colonel Richard Barnes, informing us that Lord Dunmore and the fleet were within the mouth of the Potomack, and, as he heard, intended to take posses- sion of an Island called St. George’s Island; but as their designs are uncertain, we think you had better give notice to your battalion to keep themselves in readiness to march to oppose any attempt they may make to land in your County, and likewise to assist in any neighbouring County. Captain Beall will have orders from us to remain in St. Mary’s County with Colonel Barnes, to watch the motion of the enemy, and to regulate his motions accordingly. He will move to you if there should be a necessity. We have written to Brigadier Dent, who will take the command of the Militia and regular forces in his district. You will com- municate this to Colonel Mackall, if he should have returned to your County. We are, &c. To Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander Somerville. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN REZIN BEALL. [No. 35.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: We expect this will find you in St. Mary’s County, as we hear from Colonel Somerville that you marched from Drum-Point on the 14th. It is impossible for us to give absolute and particular directions to you, as the designs of the enemy are not known to us. We can only instruct you to watch their motions, and regulate your own accord- ingly. You will stay in St. Mary’s County so long as you apprehend the enemy may have any design of landing there, or making any attempt to distress or plunder the inhabi- tants. Ifthey should move from thence to any other part of the Potomack, or up the bay, to land on this shore, you will follow them with all the despatch you can. We have sent instructions to Brigadier Dent, to take the command of the Militia and regular forces in this district; whose orders, when they reach you, you will obey. We are, &c. To Captain Rezin Beall. © MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL DENT. [No. 36.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: By different letters we have received from St. Ma- ry’s and Calvert, we are informed that the fleet under Lord Dunmore have appeared in the mouth of the Potomack, and it is apprehended they may attempt a landing on some part of that river in the lower Counties on this shore. We therefore think it expedient that you should give directions to the Militia of your district to have themselves in readi- ness to oppose the enemy in case they should attempt any hostilities. We think it expedient that, on this emergency, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 344 you should yourself take the command, and remain with them till you hear further from us. As the Militia for the F lying-Camp are not in readiness, we conceive it will not interfere with your duty as Brigadier of those corps, and your presence will be much wanted at this time in your district. Captain Beall, with his Independent Company, is now at St. Mary’s County, ready to oppose the enemy. He and his company will likewise be subject to your com- mand. Weshall be glad to hear from you. Weare, &c. To Brigadier-General Dent. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO RICHARD BARNES. (No. 37.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sm: We have yours of the 13th, and are glad you sent for Captain Beall’s company, who, we have the pleasure to hear, marched immediately to you. We would have that company remain with you to watch the motions of the enemy, and assist you in case they should attempt a Jand- ing. We have written to Brigadier Dent to have all the Militia in his district kept in readiness to march to your assistance, if there should be a necessity. He will also take on him the command of the Independent Company. You will, on all occasions, send us up notice of the motions of the enemy, and we shall order you every assistance in our power. We are, &c. To Colonel Richard Barnes. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN THOMAS. [No. 38.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: We have just received intelligence that makes it necessary for us to stop your proceeding up the bay with © your company. We therefore desire that you will imme- diately return with it to Annapols. We are, &c. To Captain John Allen Thomas. 8 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN HINDMAN. [No. 39.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: We have just now received intelligence that Lord Dunmore, with the fleet under his command, is in motion about the bay; and as his designs are uncertain, we think it necessary, for the service of the Province, that you, and the company under your command, instead of proceeding up the bay to march to Philadelphia, should directly, with your company, come to Annapolis, where you may receive further orders. We are, &c. To Captain James Hindman. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL HOOPER. [No. 40.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: We have just received information, by express, from St. Mary’s and Calvert Counties, of Lord Dunmore, and the fleet under his command, being removed from G'win’s Island a small distance up Potomack River, with intention, as we suppose, of landing at some place within that river; and if he should be unsuccessful in that attempt, we think it not improbable but he may endeavour to make a landing somewhere or other upon the Eastern Shore; and should that be the case, we have no doubt but that, upon the receipt of this, you will be in readiness, as soon as may be, with the Militia under your command, to repel every attempt that he may make to land within your district. * Should the Militia in your district be in want of powder, you will be pleased to apply to Brigadier Chamberlain for as much as may be necessary for your immediate purpose. Weare, &c. To Brigadier-General Henry Hooper. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN SMYTH. [No. 41.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Sir: Be pleased to send down immediately, by the tender - Resolution, two eighteen-pounders, with carriages, rammers, spunges, ladles, and worms, and a sufficient number of wads of all sizes, with five hundred five-pound shot. We are, &c. To Captain Nathaniel Smyth. - 345 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL JOHNSON. [No. 42.] Annapolis, July 15, 1776. Str: We are in want of about twenty four-pound can- non, twenty three-pound, and twenty two-pound, and forty swivels, for the use of the Province, and desire to know whether you will engage to furnish us with these quantities immediately. If you can, be pleased to favour us, as soon as possible, with your terms, and the time by which you will have them made, though it will be much more agree- able to us to see you upon the occasion. We shall likewise want two hundred iron pots, some to contain four, and others two gallons, with bales or handles, to supply the place of camp kettles; and should be glad you would advise us whether you could also cast them for us, and by what tme; likewise the price. We are, &c. To Colonel James Johnson. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee, July 15, 1776: Present: Samuel Purviance, Chairman; William Lux, Vice Chairman; Robert Alexander, William Aisquith, Benjamin Griffith, Andrew Buchanan, John Cradock, Abraham Britton, John Merryman, Jun., James Calhoun, E. Talbot, Zachariah McCubbin, John Eager How- ard, John Cockey, Isaac Griest. Mr. Abraham Evening was imprisoned last Thursday for not giving security for his good behaviour as a Non-Asso- ciate ; applied to the Chairman of the Committee to be dis- charged, in consequence of the Resolve of the Convention of the 5th instant; and the Chairman reports that he has accordingly discharged him, and delivered his portmanteau, which was seized. Habakuk Holton having enrolled with Captain Gal- braith’s Company, the Fine imposed on him is hereby remitted, and a certificate given accordingly. A Letter from the honourable Council of Safety of the 11th instant, respecting the building 06a Magazine not less than five or more than ten miles from town, was received and read; on which the Committee appoint Messrs. Darby Lux, John Cockey, Edward Talbot, and James Calhoun, to view the ground at or near Armstrong’s Town, to inquire the terms on which one acre may be purchased, and report the same on Monday next. The Committee also appoint Messrs. Benjamin Griffith and Isaac Griest to draw a draught, and estimate the ex- pense, of a house for the said Magazine, sufficient to contain at least four hundred barreis of Powder, and a proportionable quantity of Lead. Application was made by Captain Henry Shaafe for a Warrant to recover Fines from Andrew Hooke for £2 10s., for non-attendance in his Militia Company; which was granted. A Letter from the Council of Safety, dated June 28, enclosing a requisition of Congress for numbering the Inhabi- tants of the Colonies, was received; on which the Committee appomted the following persons in each Hundred of his County to collect the same, viz: Patapsco, Lower Hundred, Job Smith. Patapsco, Upper, - - - James Croxall. Back River, Upper, - - Benjamin Talbot. Back River, Lower, - - Job Garritson. Middle River, Upper, Benjamin Talbot. Middle River, Lower,- - William Galloway. Soldier's Delight, - - - William Cromwell, (of Wm.) Middlesex, - - - - - Henry Rutter, Delaware, - - - - - Robert Tivis, Jun. North, - - = - =~. Nich. Merryman, (of Mich’l.) Pipe Creck,- - - - - Barney Hooker. Gunpowder, Upper, - - Captain James Bosley. Mine Run, - - - Edmund Stansbury. Deptford, Baltimore, East, — wines and Baltimore, West, - . William Aisquith. Westminster, _- - - - George Welsh. And that each of the said persons be allowed one Dollar per day, whilst employed in said service, and render the accounts upon oath; and that printed papers, reciting the Resolve of Congress, per order of Committee, be delivered to each and every person employed as above. Attested: Gro. Lux, Secretary. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 346 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 15, 1776. Str: In perusing the enclosed resolves, which I do my- self the honour of transmitting, you will perceive your letters of the 11th and 12th instant have been received, and laid before Congress, and that in consequence thereof, they have taken such measures as are calculated to expedite the rais- ing the F'lying-Camp, and to furnish them with articles of the greatest use and necessity. I have written to General Mercer to march the Militia and Flying-Camp to Brunswick, or any other place in the Jerseys which he may judge best, provided it does not inter- fere with any prior direction from you. All the other en- closed resolves, I have likewise given orders to the proper persons to have executed. I expect your several letters, which are now before Con- gress, will receive a speedy determination, and that I shall have the pleasure of forwarding the result on Tuesday or Wednesday, at farthest. I have the honour to be, with every sentiment of esteem, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO CONVENTION OF NEW-JERSEY. Philadelphia, July 15, 1776. GenTLEMEN: The article of lead being so essentially necessary for our Army, and the propriety of every Colony being furnished with it so evident, that the Council of Safety of this Colony recommended to the inhabitants to spare the lead weights from their windows, by which means they have been furnished with a considerable quantity, which has been run into ball; and part of which the Council of Safety here have willingly spared, and is now on the way to the Jerseys. But as, under the present exigency, that quanuty is far short of what is wanted for the Army in New-Jersey, and every method should be used to furnish it, I have it therefore in charge from Congress most earnestly to request you to sup- ply the Flying-Camp and Militia with all the lead in your possession, or that you can possibly procure. The exi- gency of our affairs will not admit the least delay; and I am convinced there is no necessity to use arguments to induce you to an instant compliance with this requisi- tion. I am to inform you, that as you have not enclosed to Con- gress copies of General Washington’s and Brigadier-General Livingston’s letters, no judgment can be formed by Congress concerning the contents of them, and to request copies of them to be sent hither. Measures are taking in Pennsylvania and Maryland for forming the F'lying-Camp; and, in the mean time, the asso- ciated Militia are marching in great numbers from Pennsyl- vania for the defence of New-Jersey. Ammunition has been and will be supplied by this Congress for the defence of New-Jersey. With regard to the pay of the Militia, I am to acquaint you that Congress will observe the same rule of conduct towards New-Jersey as towards other Colonies. Four tons of powder are on the way to New-Jersey; and a large number of musket cartridges, well balled, will this day be sent forward. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Honourable the Convention of New-Jersey. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO DOCTOR WILLIAM SHIPPEN. Philadelphia, July 15, 1776. Str: I have it in charge from Congress to acquaint you that they have this day appointed you Surgeon-General and Director of the Hospital for the Flying-Camp and Militia in New-Jersey, with the pay of four dollars a day. Should you accept this appointment, on a signification of such acceptance to me, | will immediately send you your com- mission. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of esteem, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To William Shippen, Jun., Esq., at Philadelphia. 347 SAMUEL ADAMS TO RICHARD HENRY LEE. Philadelphia, July 15, 1776. My pear Sir: I must acknowledge that, when you left Congress, I gave you reason to expect a letter from me before this time. You will not, [ am very certain, attribute my omission to the want of a most cordial esteem for you. The truth is, I hardly know how to write without saying some- thing about our Canadian affairs; and this is a subject so thoroughly mortifying to me that I could wish totally to for- get all that has passed in that country. Let me, however, just mention to you that Schuyler and Gates are to command the troops—the former while they are without, the latter while they are within, the bounds of Canada, Admitting these Generals to have the accomplishments of a Marl- borough or an Eugene, I cannot conceive that such a dispo- sition of them wili be attended with any good effects, unless harmony subsists between them, Alas, I fear this is not the case. Already disputes have arisen, which they have re- ferred to Congress; and, although they affect to treat each -other with a politeness becoming their rank, in my mind, altercations between commanders, who have pretensions so nearly equal, (I mean in point of command,) forebode a repe- tition of misfortune. I sincerely wish my apprehensions may prove groundless. General Howe, as you have heard, is arrived at New-York. He has brought with him from eight to ten thousand troops. Lord Howe arrived last week, and the whole fleet is hourly expected. The enemy landed on Staten-Island. Nothing has been done saving that last Friday, about three in the afternoon, a forty and a twenty-gun ship, with several tenders, taking the advantage of a fair and fresh gale and flowing tide, passed by our forts as far as King’s Bridge. General Mifflin, who commanded there, in a letter of the 5th instant, informed us that he had twenty-one cannon planted, and hoped, in a week, to be formidable. Reinforcements have arrived from New-England, and our Army are in high spirits. I am exceedingly pleased with the calm and determined spirit which our Commander-in-Chief has discovered in all his letters to Congress. May Heaven guide and prosper him. The Militia of the Jerseys, Pennsylvania, and Mary- land, are all in motion. General Mercer commands the Flying-Camp in the Jerseys. We have just now appointed a Committee to bring in’a plan for the reinforcement, to complete the number of twenty thousand men, to be posted in that Colony. Our Declaration of Independence has given vigour to the spirits of the people. Had this decisive measure been taken nine months ago, it is my opinion that Canada would by this time have been in our hands. But what does it avail to find fault with what is past? future. We were more fortunate than we expected, in having twelve of the thirteen Colonies in favour of the all- important question. ‘The Delegates from New-York were not empowered to give their voice on either side. Their Convention has since acceded to the Declaration, and pub- lished it even before they received it from Congress. So mighty a change in so shorta time! New-Jersey has finish- ed her form of Government, a copy of which I enclose. They have sent five new Delegates, among whom are Dr. Witherspoon and Judge Stockton. All of them appear zeal- ously attached to the American cause. A Convention is now meeting in this city to form a Constitution for this Colony. They are empowered by their constituents to appoint a new Committee of Safety to act for the present, and to choose new Delegates for Congress. I am told there will be a change of men, and, if so, I hope for the better. A plan of Confederation has been brought into Congress, which I hope will be speedily digested, and be made ready to be laid before the several States for their approbation, A Committee has now under consideration a plan of foreign alliance. It is high time for us to have Ambassadors at foreign Courts. I fear we have already suffered too much by delay. You know on whom our thoughts were turned when you were with us. I am greatly obliged to you for favouring me with the form of Government agreed upon by your countrymen. I have not yet had time to peruse it, but I dare say it will be a feast to our little circle. The device on your great seal pleases me much. Pray hasten your journey hither. Your country most CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. Let us do better for the, 348 | pressingly solicits, or, will you allow me to say, demands your assistance here. I have written in great haste. Adieu, my dear sir, and be assured that I am, very affec- tionately, your friend, S. Apams. JOSIAH BARTLETT TO JOHN LANGDON. Philadelphia, July 15, 1776. My pear Sir: Yours of the Ist instant is now before me, and I am obliged to you for your intelligence. The affair of the agency you have heard is settled, and in your favour, and I hope another Delegate will be appointed to attend Congress, as you have resigned. The marine affairs I shall Jeave to brother Whipple, who will inform you from time to time what is to be done. The Congress and people here are engaged in making preparation for the reception of the British fleet and army in the neighbourhood of New-York. Lord Howe, with the Germans, &c., is hourly expected. I pray God we may be able to give a good account of them. ‘The Confederation is agreed to by the Committee, and is before Congress ; when they will finish it is uncertain. ‘Two of the frigates here are launched. ‘There is a report in town that General Clin- ton endeavoured to land his men at South-Carolina, and was repulsed with loss; I know not the particulars, and mention it only as a report. I hope you will excuse my not writing every week, as brother Whipple has written you everything of importance. Major Rogers was taken up by order of General Wash- ington, and having your letters of recommendation to us, the General ordered him to Congress to be examined; and though no absolute proof was made of his ill designs, his conduct appeared so very suspicious that he was ordered to be sent to New-Hampshire, to be disposed of by our Legis- lature; but before he was.sent off, he found means to make his escape, and has not been retaken yet. The Colony of New-York have fully acceded to the Declaration of Independence, so that it now has the sanction of the Thirteen United States. The unparalleled conduct of our enemies have united the Colonies more firmly than ever. The Convention of this Colony are to meet here this day, who will form a Constitution for the Colony, and take upon them its Government; in the mean time the Constitutions of Virginia and New-York are in thiscity. I shall send them forward, and the Constitutions of the other Colonies as they are formed, as possibly something may be taken from them to amend our own. Please to give my best regards to all friends, and believe me to be your sincere friend, &c.. yo aor P.S. Colonel Roberdeau is appointed a Provincial Briga- dier-General ; Colonel Dickinson, Colonel McKean, and Colonel Cadwalader, are gone with their regiments to the erseysy twelve hundred Maryland Militia are hourly ex- pected in this city to join the Army in the Jerseys; Colonel Miles, with one thousand Provincial riflemen, and with him our friend Major Patton, bave joined the Army in New- Jersey; in short, Maryland and Pennsylvania are all in motion. ‘This day an Artillery company of Militia, con- sisting of fifty-seven men, with two brass field-pieces, and every necessary accoutrement, marched for the same place. Mr. William Livingston, of New-Jersey, is appointed a Provincial Brigadier-General. Our friend, Mr. Deane, is appointed Captain of Marines to one of the frigates here. He desires to be remembered to you. A ie 61 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JOHN ADAMS, DATED PHILA- DELPHIA, JULY 15, 1776. My very deserving friend, Mr. Gerry, sets off to-morrow for Boston, worn out of health by the fatigues of this station. He is an excellent man, and an active, able statesman. I hope he will soon return hither. Iam sure I should be glad to return with him, but I cannot; I must wait’ to have the guard relieved. There is a most amiable, laudable, and gallant spirit pre- vailing in these middle Colonies. ‘The Militia turn out in great numbers, and in high spirits, in New-Jersey, Pennsyl- vania, Maryland, and Delaware, so that we hope to resist Howe and his myrmidons. Independence is at last unanimously agreed to in the 349 New-York Convention. You will see, by the newspapers enclosed, what is going forward in Virginia and Maryland and New-Jersey. Farewell, farewell, infatuated, besotted, Step-dame! GENERAL ROBERDEAU TO RICHARD PETERS. Philadelphia, July 15, 1776. Dear Sir: I enclose you the order of last evening, and my Major will parade the guards at the State-House yard ; which is attended with so much trouble and reluctance in the Associators, who are more desirous of a campaign, that I intend to address the Convention on the subject, and to get distinct corps created for city guards, that the four compa- nies may join their corps. If Captain Peters should be one of the officers it would make me happy. I am, dear sir, your very obedient servant, Danret RosperpeEav. To Captain Richard Peters, Secretary at War. PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. In Committee of Safety, July 15, 1776. Whereas the Assembly of this Province did, in a former session; resolve that “If any Associator, called into actual service, shall leave a family, not of ability to maintain themselves in his absence, the Overseers of the Poor, with the concurrence of one Justice of the Peace of the City or County where such Associator did reside, shall immedi- ately make provision, by way of out pension, for the main- tenance of such family; and a true and proper account being kept thereof, shall be returned to the Assembly, in order that the same may be made a Provincial expense, and paid accordingly :’ And as it is the opinion of this Commit- tee, that the funds of the said Overseers will prove greatly insufficient whenever any considerable number of Associa- tors shall be drawn into actual service, and that the admin- istering to the wants of such families, by the hands of the Overseers, will not be satisfactory to the Associators, or be likely to answer the good ends proposed : Therefore, Resolved, That this Committee will, out of the funds of which they have the disposition, make such provision as shall be thought necessary to answer the said purposes ; and that it be recommended to the Committee of Inspection and Observation of the City of Phaladelphia, and the several Counties in the Province, to nominate and appoint a proper number of judicious persons, residing in the said City and Counties respectively, to distribute to such distressed families the allowance they shall judge reason- able; and that the said Committee be empowered to draw, as they shall see occasion, on this Board for the necessary sums of money, to be by them lodged in the hands of the persons so nominated and appointed, to be applied as above directed. ‘The said Committees to return accounts to this Board of the expenditure of the same. Extract from the Minutes: Wivuiam Goverr, Secretary. PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE. Philadelphia County Committee, July 15, 1776. Resolved, That this Committee, in consequence of a Let- ter from the honourable Continental Congress, as well as from a recommendation of the Provincial Conference, do proceed to raise our part of the Flying-Camp; and that the following gentlemen be appointed Officers: Colonel, Robert Lewis ; Lieutenant-Colonel, Isaac Hughes ; Major, John Moore, Esq.; Surgeon, Enoch Edwards ; Quartermaster, Marshall Edwards ; Adjutant, Solomon Bush. Captains: Archibald Thompson, George Smith, Henry Deringer, Jacob Lauchlin, Rudolph Neff, Aaron Levering, Christian Schnyder, Henry Pawling, Joseph Jones. First Lieutenants: Marshall Edwards, Solomon Bush, Samuel Swift, William Wilson, Casper Doll, Samuel Hainds, Graudus Schlatter, Mordecai Morgan, David Schrack, Stephen Porter, Thomas _Rossetter. Second Lieutenants: William Armstrong, Leo- nard Doll, James Hazlet, George Bringhurst, Matthew Holgate, Jesse Roberts, Alexander Hall, Peacock Major. Ensigns: Andrew Barge, William North, William Noa, | Abraham Duffield, Nathaniel Childs, Alevander Wright, James Potts, Rees Nanna. Extract from the Minutes: Enocu Epwarps. ~ CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 350 Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. Yesterday Lieutenant-Colonel Allen arrived in town from Crown-Point. The Rev. Jacob Duché is appointed Chaplain to the honourable Continental Congress. This afternoon the First Battalion of Maryland Regulars, commanded by Colonel Smallwood, arrived in this city, on their way to the Jerseys, where they are to compose a part of the Flying-Camp. CARPENTER WHARTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 17, 1776.] Trenton, July 15, 1776. Sir: I have the pleasure of acquainting you that two thousand of the Pennsylvania Militia have arrived here, and that Colonel Dickinson’s battalion have just marched for Woodbridge, agreeable to orders from General Mercer ; and the whole body of the Pennsylvania Militia, as by his in- structions, are immediately to proceed to Woodbridge. I have sapplied them with one day’s provision at this place, and at their arrival at Princeton they will receive two days’ allowance, to last them until they arrive at Wood- bridge. Agreeable to your orders, I wrote to the Commissary- General respecting my supplying the Flying-Camp, for which he had appointed two persons; therefore shall not continue supplying them farther than Princeton. Colonel Cadwalader has written to Mr. Trumbull, desiring of him to admit of my supplying the Pennsylvania Militia, which, if it is agreeable to him, I will cheerfully continue. I have just received one hundred and fifty head of oxen, and five hun- dred head of sheep, and fifteen hundred barrels of flour, which will last but a short time in supplying the troops in only passing through. The money I have received from Congress, I have ex- pended in service, which the returns will specify. I am now in want of fifteen thousand dollars, which I flatter myself you will please to order, as it will require that sum to provide for the Maryland and Pennsylvania troops as they pass through to Head-Quarters. ‘The bearer, Lieu- tenant Joseph Bullock, will receive and deliver me the money. Should the honourable Congress not have appointed a Commissary of Stores for the F'lying-Camp, I shall be happy in entering in that service, if I should not be continued for the supplying of the Militia, which I do not expect. I have the honour to be your obedient humble servant, Carpenter WuHarTOoN. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Conti- nental Congress. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 15, 1776. Sir: This will be handed to you by Mr. Griffin, who has also taken upon him the charge and delivery of packets con- taining sundry letters, which were sent to Amboy yesterday by a flag, and forwarded to me to-day by General Mercer. The letter addressed to Governour Franklin came open to my hands. : I was this morning honoured with yours of the 13th inst., with its important and necessary enclosures ; and, in obe- dience to the commands of Congress, have transmitted Gen- eral Howe the resolves intended for him; those for General Burgoyne, I enclosed and sent to General Schuyler, with directions immediately to forward them to him. ‘The inhuman treatment to the whole, and murder of part of our people, after their surrender and capitulation, was certainly a flagrant violation of that faith which ought to be held sacred by all civilized nations, and was founded in the most savage bar- barity. It highly deserved the severest reprobation ; and I trust the spirited measures Congress have adopted upon the occasion will prevent the like in future; but if they should not, and the claims of humanity are disregarded, justice and policy will require recourse to be had to the laws of retalia- tion, however abhorrent and disagreeable to our natures in cases of torture and capital punishments. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHinerTon. 351 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO ROBERT YATES AND OTHERS. Head-Quarters, July 15, 1776. GenTLEMEN: In answer to your favour of yesterday, I beg leave to acquaint you, that I have consulted with such of the General Officers as could be easily convened, with respect to the prisoners confined in the Jail of this city. We are all of opinion, that to enlarge them, or permit their con- tinuance here, is equally dangerous. No other course, therefore, remains than to send them to some place where they can be safely kept, can have no influence, and, conse- quently, do us no injury. If such a place could be con- veniently found in the Province, it would be most proper ; but if not, we are of opinion they should be sent to some other, and that without any delay. To obviate any difficulty which may arise from the authority of one Province sending its prisoners to another, I will most cheerfully codperate with you, so as to give the measure the weight it may derive from my general command. ‘The place which, in this case, has been proposed, is Farmington, in Connecticut. The multiplicity of other engagements obliges me to soli- cit your attention and care to these matters, which are rather of civil than military concern ; and I would particularly re- quest you to consult and determine upon some method to remove persons out of town, whose conduct, connexions, and office, afford the strongest presumption of their remaining here with dangerous and unfriendly views to the American cause. An indiscriminate order to remove all who do not be- long to the Army, or are connected with it, or have not taken up arms to defend the city, would probably involve many innocent and inoffensive persons in difficulty. On the other hand, to leave the city open to spies and emissaries from the enemy, and facilitate their intelligence, is totally incon- sistent with common prudence. I must, therefore, beg your advice and assistance in this delicate and difficult circum- stance, that while time and opportunity will admit some effectual measure may be taken to provide against so alarm- ing a danger. [ am, gentlemen, with great truth and regard, your most obedient and humble servant, Go. WasHINeTON. To the Hon. Robert Yates and others, the Committee of the Convention of Representatives of the State of New- York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 15, 1776. Dear Sir: The enclosed resolve and extract of a letter, you will see, are of some standing. Upon considering the matter, I do not see how it is possible for me to carry the resolve into execution, with tolerable precision or certainty. The persons, the witnesses, and all other circumstances, are so totally unknown, that any inquiry made by me must prove delusive and unsatisfactory. J am therefore under the necessity of passing it wholly by, or putting it under your direction, that as time and circumstances will admit, you will have it executed in the best manner you can, to answer the wishes and expectations of Congress. Colonel Nicolson, of a regiment raised in this Province, requests that his conduct may be inquired into. I suppose he would be included in the above general inquiry, but as that may be long delayed, and perhaps never fully had, I could wish his case might be distinguished from the general mass. I expected to receive from the Commissioners of Congress who went to Canada some vouchers and proofs respecting him, as his conduct did not appear to them in the most favourable view; but none have yet come to hand. Lieutenant-Colonel Vister is, I understand, a material wit- ness against Colonel Nicolson, and will direct to such others as are expected to support the charge against him. I am very sensible the general inquiry requested by Con- gress must be a work of difficulty and delicacy; but as they seem to desire it very earnestly, I hope it is not impracti- cable. I should hope, upon a conference with Generals Gates and Arnold, some plan may be devised to comply with it. Iam persuaded you will leave nothing unattempt- ed on your part for this purpose. Go. Wasutneton. To General Schuyler. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 352 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL, Head-Quarters, New-York, July 15, 1776. Dear Sir: Since my last, two of the enemy’s ships—one of forty, the other of twenty guns—taking advantage of a strong wind and tide, passed us, notwithstanding a warm fire from all the batteries. 'They now he in Taupan Sea, between twenty and thirty miles up Hudson’s River, where no batteries from the shore can molest them. Their views, no doubt, are to cut off a communication between this and Albany by water, which they effectually will do. If the gondolas, row-galleys, &c., from Connecticut and Providence were here, I should think of making the enemy’s station uncomfortable, if possible. I must request they may be sent on as soon as they conveniently can be. I have written Governour Cooke, requesting the same of him, It is but reasonable to suppose these ships have a number of small- arms on board, which are intended to be put into the hands of the disaffected on the North River and in the back parts of this Province, when a favourable opportunity may offer for their making use of them against us. I am sorry to say their numbers, by the best information I can get, are great. Enclosed is a letter I wrote the 11th instant, which, through mistake, was neglected by the Thursday’s post. We have one large row-galley nearly completed, and another which may be ready by the time those arrive from your Honour and Governour Cooke. The whole, when collected, will be sufficient to attack the two ships up the river, as the chan- nel they now occupy is narrow, which will prevent them from working their guns to advantage. Tam, with esteem, your most obedient, humble servant, Go. Wasurneron. To the Hon. Governour Trumbull. [A similar letter written Governour Cooke, of the same date.] GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. ; New-York, July 15, 1776. Dear Str: Enclosed you will receive a letter from Con- gress, which came to hand this morning, with a copy of some resolves, to which you will pay your attention, as their execution will be under your direction. I have also enclosed a letter for General Burgoyne, which I request you to seal and forward to him as soon as you have perused the important and necessary resolves (of July 10) it contains. ‘The spirited measures Congress have en- tered into, I am hopeful, will make the Britzsh troops more regardful of that faith which ought to be preserved inviolate between nations, and that the nghts of humanity may not be infracted in future.» Admiral Howe arrived on Friday last, and we hourly expect his fleet. ‘The same day, just before he came in, two ships-of-war, one of forty and the other of twenty guns, and three tenders, passed our batteries without any certain damage that I could perceive, though an incessant fire was kept up. ‘They availed themselves of a brisk and favour- able wind and tide. Our last intelligence is, that they are at Taupan Bay. You may readily conjecture a variety of bad purposes intended by this manceuvre. I am, dear sir, yours, &c., Go. WasuHincTon. To General Schuyler. P.S. I wrote to Fort Constitution, and directed that intelligence should be forwarded respecting the ships passing by us to Albany, that precautions might be used to prevent vessels falling into their hands. You will give further di- rections in this matter. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL HOWE. = New-York, July 15, 1776. Sir: I have it in charge from Congress to transmit the enclosed resolution to you. And have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHIneTON. To Lieutenant-General Howe. [To General Burgoyne the same, enclosed in a Letter to General Schuyler this day.] “ EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COLONEL JOSEPH REED TO CHARLES PETTIT, DATED NEW-YORK, JULY 15, 1776. After writing the above, a flag came in from Lord Howe. The General Officers advised the General not to receive any 353 letter directed to him as a private gentleman. I was sent down to meet the flag. A gentleman (an officer of the Navy) met us, and said he had a letter from Lord Howe to Mr. Washington. I told bim we knew no such person in the Army. He then took out a letter directed “'To George Washington, Esq.,” and offered itto me. 1 told him I could not receive a letter to the General under such a direction. Upon which he expressed much concern, and said the letter was rather of a civil than military nature; that Lord Howe regretted he had not come sooner, that he had great powers, and it was much to be wished the letter could be received. I told him I could not receive it consistently with my duty. Here we parted. After he had got some distance he put about, and we again met him. He then asked me under what title General— but catching himself, Mr. Washington chose to be addressed. I told him the General’s station in the Army was well known; that they could be at no loss; that this matter had been discussed last summer, of which I supposed the Admiral could not be ignorant. He then expressed his sorrow at the disappointment, and here we parted. 1 cannot help thinking but that we shall have a renewal of it to-day, or a communication of the business in some other way. For though I have no hopes that the letter contains any terms to which we can accede, or, in short, is anything more than a summons of submission, yet the curiosity of the people is so great, and if it is, as may be supposed, couched in strong and debasing terms, it would animate the Army exceedingly to do their duty. EXAMINATION OF DESERTERS FROM THE FLEET. New-York, July 15, 1776. The examination of Nathan Spicer and Mathias Iselton: Spicer, a Connecticut man, taken by the Cerberus frigate, in the Macaroni, on the 9th of last May, left the Prince Rupert, a transport ship, Sunday evening, the 14th July, says: The troops have all landed, and have consumed all the fresh provisions—the sailors got none. ‘The ships that passed us up the North-River were the Phenix and Rose. Said they had gone to land men to come down on our backs. ‘The fleet which left Spithead five days before Lord Howe sailed, is hourly expected. The Eagle and Asia, it is said, are to come up and fire on the town the first wind. The Jersey people killed one officer and four privates on Saturday night firing on the Island; this account they had from Lieutenant Wheeler of the Thirty-Fifth Regiment. No baggage yet landed from the ships. About nine thousand men in the Army. ‘The ships weakly manned. ‘The old troops seem disinclined to the service; the new, fond of it. Lord Howe had nine weeks’ passage from Spithead. Lord Howe’s fleet consisted of eighty sail of transports, two or three frigates, one sixty-four, and one fire-ship. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEW-YORK, DATED JULY 15; 1776. Yesterday Lord Howe sent up a flag with the Captain and Lieutenant of the Eagle man-of-war. The Adjutant- General met them after some little ceremony, but as their let- ter was directed “ For George Washington, Esq.,” he would not receive it. The officers insisted much on his receiving it, saying it was of a civil nature, his Lordship being invested with unlimited powers, and was sorry that he had not arrived a few days sooner. This morning we have accounts that the ships, &c., which passed the town, are thirty miles up, opposite Tarrytown, where the river is four miles wide, and where they may lie safely. It is reported that they attempted to land, and were beat off. We expect another flag up. NATHANIEL WOODHULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, White-Plains, July 15, 1776. Sir: Your letter of the 14th was read in Convention. They see the importance of securing the passes your Ex- cellency mentions, and will immediately take the measures you are pleased to recommend, and every other which they conceive will tend most to the security of this State. Your Excellency was informed, by our letter of the 13th, of the precautions we had used in order to prevent an intercourse between the disaffected people of our State and Firrx Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 23 304 the ships of the enemy, and to repel any attempts they might make to land. They see the necessity of watching with the utmost vigilance the steps of the Tories in this and ‘the neighbouring Counties, and shall give your Excellency the earliest notice of any resolution that they may form for this purpose. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedi- ent, humble servant, Naruanren Woopuvt, President. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. NATHANIEL WOODHULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, White-Plains, July 15, 1776. Sir: One or two pettiaugers have been observed going to and from the ships of war at Tarrytown. Had the de- tachment of Militia stationed there been supplied with boats, they would certainly have taken them. ‘The Convention, therefore, take the liberty of requesting your Excellency to send them four whale-boats, which they will take care to man. I am directed by the Convention to transmit the enclosed resolution to your Excellency; and have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient servant. By order: NaruanieL WoopauL., President. To His Excellency General Washington. WESTCHESTER (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE. In Committee of Safety for the County of Westchester, White-Plains, July 15, 1776. Whereas this Committee has received the fullest informa- tion that many persons, unfriendly to the liberties of the United States of America, have frequent meetings in divers parts of this County, with intent to frustrate the measures now pursuing for its safety; and as this Committee conceives such meetings are dangerous, and ought to be prevented: Therefore, Resolved, That if any person or persons shall, after the publication hereof, presume to allow or permit any persons (knowing or suspecting them to be unfriendly to American liberty) to hold any meeting or meetings at or in their re- spective houses, they shall be treated as enemies to their country. And all persons are hereby required to take up and commit to close confinement all such persons as shall act in opposition to this Resolve, and give in their names to the Chairman of this Committee. By order of the Committee: Joun Tuomas, Jun., D. Chairman. GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. “ Fort Montgomery, July 15, 1776. Sir: I received your favour of the 13th instant yester- day, at this place; previous to which, about nine o’clock on Saturday morning, the signal at Fort Constitution being given, and the masters of two sloops, which about the same time came to opposite my house, having informed me that the enemy had attacked New-York the evening before, and that they judged by the reports of the cannon that their shipping had passed by and were up the river as far as King’s Bridge, 1 thought it my duty to put the neighbouring Militia in motion, and accordingly issued orders to three regiments: one immediately to march into these works, another into Fort Constitution, and the third to rendezvous at Newburgh, on the bank of the river, about nine miles above Fort Constitution, with orders to march and reinforce that garrison upon the next signal given. At the same time I issued orders to all the regiments in my brigade to stand ready to march on a moment’s warning, and despatched expresses to all owners of sloops and boats, twenty miles up the west side of the river, to haul them off so as to prevent their grounding, that as many of them as were necessary might be ready to carry down the Militia to the Forts. The residue I ordered down to Fort Constitution, as I believe, by drawing a chain of them across the narrowest part of the river and fixing them properly to be set on fire, should the enemy’s shipping attempt passing by, they would answer a most valuable purpose. - Early in the afternoon of that day I marched into Fort Constitution, with about forty of my 355 neighbours, and in the evening came to this Fort, being nearer the enemy and better situated to discover their motions. Yesterday evening I was joined by Colonel Woodhull, with between two and three hundred of his regiment; this morning, early, by Lieutenant-Colonel McClaghry, with upwards of five hundred of his; and I hourly expect parts of two other regiments; when these join me, I will draught out of the four, six hundred men, and employ them as your Excellency has directed. I have ordered the Colonels I have called in to leave the frontier companies at home, to protect the country against the Indians, should they be troublesome; and as many men out of each company as will be sufficient to guard against any attempts that might be made by internal enemies. The men turn out of their harvest-fields to defend their country, with surprising alacrity. The absence of so many of them, however, at this time, when their harvests are perish- ing for want of the sickle, will greatly distress the country. I could wish, therefore, a less number might answer the pur- pose. I would fain hope the enemy mean, by their shipping in our bays, at present, only to cut off the communication between the country and city, and prevent our obstructing the channel. Many of the Militia may be called in in eight hours, some in a much less time, should there be occasion for them. Since writing the above, I received a letter from Colonel Hay, of Haverstraw, a copy of which is enclosed. I will send a small party down there this evening, or in the morn- ing, but don’t believe I shall be able to continue them long, as the Militia here will think it hard to be carried there. The bearer, Mr. Boyd, who is well acquainted with this country, the fortifications here, and may be confided in, will be able to give your Excellency any further information. Iam, with great esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient servant PRAT Gero. CiinTon. P.S. I should be glad to know whether it is best to keep the sloops, &c., ordered down to Fort Constitution, there, as it may be attended with considerable expense; which, however, if they can be made to answer good purpose, ought not, in my opinion, to be regarded. COLONEL HAMMAN TO GENERAL. WASHINGTON. Tarrytown, July 15, 1776. May it please your Excellency to take into consideration our humble petition. Whereas two of the enemy’s ships of war, with their barges and their tenders, are arrived up the North Rwer as far as Tarrytown, we suppose with a hostile design to distress us; with the concurrence of the Congress and assistance of the Committee, and by the forwardness ot a number of volunteers, a considerable number of people are collected to our assistance, most of whom are very anxious about their harvests, which are now fit for collection, and in a suffering condition for want of labourers. We therefore humbly petition your Excellency to send us such a number of troops as your Excellency shall judge proper, to rescue the inhabitants up and down the river from the cruel designs of the enemy. As to further particulars, must beg leave to refer your Excellency to the bearer, Captain Dutcher. In the name of the officers here present, I have the honour to subscribe myself your Excellency’s most obedient, James Hamman, Lieutenant-Colonel of the First Battalion of Militia in Westchester County. To the Hon. George Washington, Esq., &c. EGBERT BENSON TO THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Red-Hook, July 15, 1776. GentLemen: I received a letter yesterday from General Washington, informing that two ships of war had sailed up Hudson's River, with design, as supposed, to seize the passes in the Highlands, and requesting that the Militia of this County and from the western towns in Connecticut might instantly march to secure those posts. The letter I immediately transmitted to Brigadier Ten Broeck, and de- spatched the necessary expresses to Connecticut. This general call of our Militia will be attended with many difficulties, which has induced me to write you on the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 306 subject, in order that we may have the advice of the Con- vention, and that the peculiar circumstances of our County may be taken into consideration. I conceived it a matter of such importance that I have hired an express to convey this letter. In no part of the Colony have the resolutions of Congress respecting dangerous and disaffected persons been so strictly executed as in this County. Agreeably to those resolutions we have disarmed a great number of people, and the arms _ have been applied either to arm the companies from time to time raised in the County, or sent to the forts in the High- lands, for the use of the troops in garrison there, and conse- quently the County is entirely deprived of them, without a possibility (as there are none either manufactured or to be purchased) of procuring others in their stead. Not only so, but many of our friends have parted with their arms to the Continental forces, out of zeal for the cause; and very lately, upon a very pressing letter from Colonel Clinton, the Whigs in this neighbourhood spared him seventy-five muskets, con- ceiving that we had much better be without arms ourselves than that the troops, whom we were obliged daily to pay and subsist, and stationed in places subject to an immediate attack, should remain unarmed. The number of persons in the County who, by these means, are destitute of arms, must be considerable. In the precinct where I live, (than which I doubt whether there are two in the County where there is less disaffection,) the Militia of which consists of about four hundred men, upwards of one hundred have been disarmed for that cause, besides many who have sold their arms from the motives I men- tioned; and I am informed by a gentleman who attended the late reviews, that of some regiments the entire rear and great part of the centre ranks were without arms. To disarm people because they were supposed too dan- gerous to be entrusted with arms—which, indeed, was the case—and it being out of their power either to procure them again, or others in their stead, and then to call these people out to action, appears rather inconsistent. But even admit- ting we could equip them properly, it is a matter well worth considering, the danger of bringing a number of persons, (and the number will be great if our whole Militia marches,) actually our enemies, into the field to oppose an army which they are daily seeking opportunities to join. On the other hand, to permit them to remain at ease, without compelling them to bear their part of the burden, is unreasonable, and will be productive of clamour and dissatisfaction, if not en- tirely prevent others from turning out in defence of their country. It is true, we have always obliged the Tories to appear in the ranks and be subject to be draughted, because we knew that in most cases they would hire others to serve in their stead, (I mean when the draughts were intended to form a part of the Army;) and such as were not of sufficient ability for that purpose have deserted, and lurked in the woods, and were the occasion of the late insurrection. We have always thought we should be happy if we were capable of combating our internal foes, and leave those from without to be resisted in some other way. Our Militia, merely as a Militia, seems to be not properly the subject of a general call; or, in other words, considering how many are unarmed, and how many, from their enmity to our cause, should be confined at home, were they even disposed to march, the inhabitants of this County, collectively, cannot be formed into a Militia for every purpose. What is the proper remedy, I will not pretend to determine. I take the liberty of mentioning the expedient I proposed when last before Congress, namely, that, without depending upon the Militia, a certain military force or corps should be raised to act in its stead. If it should be deemed unreason- able that it should be at the expense of the Colony, let it be a County charge; the expense will be great, it is true, but it will then be an equal, whereas it is now a partial tax. I have no digested plan for raising this corps or body of men to serve in lieu of the Militia. Suppose they,were to have a trifling pay when at home, (for they need not always be imbodied,) and when in actual service the Continental allow- ance. I would propose that certain superintending officers should always be in pay, who should constantly go through the County and see that the men were trained, equipped, and furnished with ammunition. I fear that, estimating the strength of the Militia by the number of men in the County, we may rely too much on them, and be fatally deceived. 357 But there is another matter, which I would not choose to make publick, and that is, you cannot command the Militia throughout the County. Your Government is not firmly enough established for the people to yield a willing obedi- ence; and I think it dangerous at this critical time to put it to the test. A successful resistance in one instance might be attended with very serious consequences. I can appeal to some of you that I have made the Militia of the County the object of my attention for some time, and the result of my observations and reflections has been, that, as they are now circumstanced, we shall derive very little, if any, ad- vantage from them in the present conflict. _ Upon the whole, considering bow critical affairs are become with respect to us, and that by these ships sailing up the river the seat of war is in some measure transferred to our own borders, it is high time, nay, it will not admit of the least delay, to provide for the safety of the County in some way independent of the Militia. Do not let the fear of expense deter you. Our all is at stake, and I am not convinced that the least expensive mode of warfare is by suffering the whole body of farmers to be called out and harassed upon every occasion. I remain your very humble servant, Ecsert Benson. To the Representatives of the County of Dutchess, in the Convention of the State of New-York. N. B. The Militia from the extreme part of the County have marched to the southward. Should they not have been kept as a reserve, in case of a disaster to to the north- ward? EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM ALBANY, DATED JULY 15, 1776. Last Saturday evening a plot was discovered here, (by confession of two Tories,) that this week the town was to be set on fire in different places, and the Magazine blown up. Yesterday between two and three hundred men went out with their arms to take up those scoundrels, who, by information, were skulking in the woods, &c., and they have taken several of them. As there are no soldiers in town, the inhabitants watch twenty-four hours round, to guard the Tory Jail, Magazine, &c. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 15, 1776. Dear Sir: After suitable regards to your Excellency, I here send a return of the number of men, and their occupa- tion, now at this place, and likewise the quantity of provision of ali sorts as given into me. I must likewise acquaint your Excellency that [ think the business is going on very lively, according to the number of men. Colonel Schuyler and myself have viewed the ground east of the Mill, and we think it proper to have a small guard placed there, with a breastwork, to keep the Indians from burning the Mills, and I shall do it as soon as possible. I hope the men from Con- necticut will be in soon, as we may go on with more speed ; and am, with the greatest esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Davin Warersury, Jun. To the Hon. Major-General Gates, Ticonderoga. P.S. Colonel Schuyler desired I would mention it to your Excellency that he was out of rum, and that he feared the men would get sick by drinking this bad water without a little rum; therefore he would take it as a favour if some might be sent down for the labouring men. There is like- wise great want of some peas. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL ARNOLD. Tyonderoga, July 15, 1776. Dear Sir: Last night I received your favour of the 14th. I sent you yesterday fifty-four batteaus, under the care of a Captain of Colonel Wayne’s regiment. This afternoon forty more batteaus will go from hence to Crown-Point. I do not think it necessary for any of the regiments to march by land to Tyonderoga, as I will take care to supply batteaus sufficient for the conveyance of the whole. As we have so much work to do here, I cannot see how a regiment can be spared to remain at Crown-Point. The vessels will be there CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. * 358 as soon as possible. I hope the Commodore will sail to- morrow; and if our naval force cannot protect that part of the lake from invasion, I do not think one regiment will be able to do it. I shall not approve or disapprove of Colonel Campbell's court-martial; that must be left to General Schuyler, to whom it is referred. Colonel Hazen complains of several irregularities in 'the proceedings againt him, and in par- ticular of his not peing tried by a court composed entirely of Field-Officers. "Where this can be done, a Colonel has an undoubted right, to demand it. Colonel Hazen further alleges, that the mam bers of the court ordered for his trial are not taken from the! roll of duty, but named by his accuser. This (if a fact) is also very irregular. Colonel Campbell may be sent here, htis arrest continued. I am, sir, &c., '¢ \ To General Arnold. Horatio Gates. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL WATERBURY. Tyonderoga, July 15, 1776. Dear Sir: As the communication to Skenesborough from this place becomes an object of such importance, and the conveyance of provisions and stores by that communication will be so, very necessary if we make our stand at the place proposed, it is essential that the road from Cheshire’s to Fort Edward be immediately repaired and rendered easy for car- riages. The obstructions in Wood Creek, by the trees which may have fallen across, must likewise be immediately removed. You will be pleased to stop a part of the Militia sufficient for this purpose, and urge the matter with all possible despatch. I should think it proper that the York Militia, and such part of the Connecticut as are necessary, should be stopped for this purpose. You will likewise post three companies of a regiment with a fleld;officer at Cheshire’s Mill, and the other field-officers and rerhainder of the regiment at Skenesborough Mills, and let tham bbect some little works at each place for their defence. 'Ehq tools necessary I will, as soon as it is in my power, supply you with; in the mean time you will endea- vour to collect all thet you possibly can. General Schuyler has engaged to'sendj me a number of axes from Albany as soon as possibl i bad they cannot arrive yet. . J am, dear stry your very obedient servant, 4 4 Horatio Gates. To Brigadier-General Waterbury. | GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 15, 1776. Dear Genera; I received your favours of the 13th and 14th instant last evéning, also a letter this minute respecting the cattle. Lam heartily rejoiced at the good news from New-York by General Waterbury. I make no doubt the enemy will be baffled in all their efforts. The Paymaster is gone this minute for T%conderoga. Two companies of the train went off early this morning. Six regiments were ordered off; so many artillery stores, &c., were remaining, that only four could be supplied with batteaus. If batteaus arrive this evening, the whole will go off to-morrow morn- ing. To-morrow, I expect to have the pleasure of seeing you. We want oars for near thirty batteaus lying here, which are at present useless, as none can be procured. We have few cattle on hand; eight or ten yoke may be procured, which the Commissary will send to Ticonderoga. 'To- morrow Colonel Bedel and Major Butterfield are ordered up, and go off immediately. You may depend on my utmost exertion in forwarding our naval armament, on which I think much depends. I shall detain the inhabitants brought up from below for the present, and shall be obliged to leave a small party here. I am ata loss whether [ shall remove the families on the Point or not; most of them are inimical. I will forward on the troops as fast as possible. All that are able will be sent off by land. I am, with great esteem and affection, dear General, your obedient humble servant, B. Arnovp. P. S. If oars can be spared, pray send us one hundred and fifty. 309 COLONEL WINDS TO GENERAL GATES. Shelburne, July 15, 1776. Sm: I am here, by leave of General Sullivan, with twenty-six men, and have built a stockaded fort here for the safety of my men and the inhabitants. I this day heard that my regiment is ordered down to Ticonderoga; if so, would be glad to receive some orders whether to stay here or to go after them. I have sent a batteau for provisions, as we are just out. Beg the favour that the Commissary may be ordered to send some by the bearer, Sergeant Edwards. From, sir, your very humble servant, Wiiuiam Winps, Colonel. To the Commander at Crown-Point. THOMAS BULL TO GENERAL GATES. Manchester, July 15, 1776. May 17 PLease your Honour: The present alarming state of our country seems to call for every soldier to be well equipped with arms and ammunition. ‘Therefore the town- ship of Manchester, lying under difficulty about ammunition, would make a return to your Excellency for ammunition for eighty men, as we cannot draw from the County stores. From your humble servant. By order of the Committee: Tuomas Buti, Chairman. DANIEL TILLINGHAST TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Providence, July 15, 1776. Agreeable to a resolve of Congress of the 6th instant, I yesterday forwarded your Excellency three cases of fire-arms, (as per invoice enclosed,) to the care of Nathaniel Shaw, Esq., of New-London, who, | requested, immediately on recept of the same, to send.you without delay, and which I wish safe to your hands. I expect in a few days to be able to forward you a parcel more of the above arms, which I am to have from Newport, and you may depend I shall make no delay in doing the same. { am your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servant, Dante. Tituinenast, Continental Agent. To His Excellency General Washington. F. GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Providence, July 15, 1776. Sir: Agreeable to the request of his Honour Governour Cooke, I have sent forward tothe care of Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., the small-arms, flints, and cutlasses, imported by Samuel Chase for the Continent. Wish them a safe arrival at New-York, and your Excellency health, and the Army of the United States success against our common enemies. Yours, with respect 4 ns # FE. Greene. P.S. There are fourteen thousand five hundred flints, thirty cutlasses, and twenty small-arms. NATHANIEL SHAW, JUN., TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-London, July 18, 1776. Sie: Enclosed you have Captain Jehiel Tinker’s receipt for three chests of arms, and one barrel and one keg of flints, as per invoice enclosed. ‘The arms were sent to me by Daniel Tillinghast, Esq., the flints by Messrs. Clark and Nightingale, merchants in Providence, desiring I would for- ward them to you by the first opportunity. Hope they will come safe to hand ; andam, sir, your very humble servant, NaTHANIEL Suaw, Jun. To His Excellency George Washington, Esq., General and Commander-in-Chief of the Forces of the United States of America, in New-York. Providence, July 15, 1776. Invoice of seventeen thousand Gun-flints, sent by Wil- liam Brown from Clark & Nightingale, of Providence, to Nathaniel Shaw, Esq., at New-London, and by him to be forwarded to his Excellency General Washington at New- York, viz: No.6, a barrel, No. 7,a keg, containing seven- teen thousand Gun-flints. Errors excepted : Per Cuark & NIGHTINGALE. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 360 Providence, July 15, 1776. Invoice of 117 Small-Arms, 89 Bayonets, 20 Broad Swords, and 3 Fusees, sent by Wilkam Brown’s team from Daniel Tillinghast, of Providence, to Nathaniel Shaw, Esq., at New-London, who is immediately to forward them to his Excellency General Washington, at New-York, viz: S. A. 3 cases containing Scotch Arms, taken by the An- drew Doria at sea, viz: No. 1, a case containing 36 Small-Arms, 36 Bayonets, 2 Broad Swords. No. 2, a case containing 42 Small-Arms, 42 Bayonets. No. 3, a case containing 39 Small-Arms, 3 Fusees in cases, 11 Bayonets, 18 Broad-Swords. Errors excepted: Danie, Tinuinenast, Agent. N.B. Nos. 6 and 7, a barrel and keg, containing 17,000 Gun-flints, sent in the above team to Mr. Shaw’s care, by Clark & Nightingale, and are to be forwarded to his Excellency General Washington, with the above Arms, the first opportunity. New-York, July 25, 1776.—I have received the within mentioned Arms, &c., into Ordnance Store. Ezexiet Cueever, Com. Artillery. TORIES AT NINE-PARTNERS. Hartford, Connecticut, July 15, 1776. Last week, about one hundred and fifty Tories, in the Nine-Partners, and places adjacent, rose in a body, fell upon the Sons of Liberty there, disarmed them, and took posses- sion of the Committee-Chamber, but were quelled by a party of near three thousand men from the western parts of this Colony, and about twenty of their number were taken and confined in prison. May their ringleaders soon receive the punishment due to such traitors to the American States. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO NATHANIEL SHAW. Lebanon, July 15, 1776. Sir: I have sent you by Captain Harding your appoint- ment as Agent for the Colony, for the purpose therein men- tioned. We are informed by him that he expects a number on board his brig may soon be taken with the small-pox, as they were much exposed before he left Boston. If any should be taken with that infectious disease, you will take timely and prudent care for their being provided for, either at your pest-house, or at Duck-Island, whichever you may think most proper, or any other convenient place, where the utmost precaution may be taken against spreading the infec- tion, and by all means to prevent it getting in, or spreading among, our soldiery. We doubt not of your attention to this, as well as every other matter committed to your charge. And am your obedient, humble servant, JonaTHAN TRUMBULL. To Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., Esq., New-London. COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO CAPTAIN HASKELL. In Council, July 15, 1776. Sir: You being appointed Captain of the small vessel called the Dove, fitted out by this Colony for gaining intelli- gence respecting the British fleets and armies, you are, as soon as your vessel is ready, to sail for some part of the coast of Nova-Scotia, or you may cruise on the seas between Cape Ann and Nova-Scotia, and use your utmost endeavours for gaining intelligence as aforesaid; and when you shall gain any certain accounts of the movements of any considerable fleet of the enemy, and the course for which they have for some time steered, you are then, with all possible despatch, to give information to the Council of this Colony, and the Committee of Safety, &c., of the town where you may arrive, that such measures may be taken as the defence and security of this Colony may require; and you are to use all necessary precaution to prevent your vessel from falling into the hands of the enemy, whereby the good design of fixing out your vessel may be frustrated. Joun Avery, Dep. Secretary. To Captain Robert Haskell, Commander of the Dove. 361 COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO JOSEPH HAWLEY. Watertown, July 15, 1776. Str: The Board have attended to your letter of the 13th instant, and, upon the fullest consideration, are unanimously of opinion, that it may be of the most dangerous conse- quence to allow of such a delay in the marching of the troops destined for the Northern Department as must neces- sarily be occasioned by their being inoculated before they march. By the best information the Board can get, they apprehend there is a probability of suppressing that distem- per in the Army at Crown-Point; and Brigadier-General Bricket, who is to command the reinforcement, and has not had the small-pox, is so persuaded of this that he has de- clared he would not choose to be inoculated before the march. The Board therefore insist that the levies should be marched with all possible expedition, as any delay may perhaps occasion a total defeat and dispersion of the North- ern Army, the consequences of which must be fatal to every one. The Board rely on it that Commissary Trumbull has taken effectual measures to provide for paying the mileage to the troops till they arrive at the stores, agreeable to his letter of the 11th June, as the Court, in answer thereunto, in theirs of July Ist, informed him that they depended upon his doing; and they understand that Captain Farnsworth proceeded to make provision accordingly; but as you do not hear of his arrival there, shall write to Commissary Trumbull on that head. Enclosed you have a copy of the resolve directing what route the troops shall take. COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO JOSEPH TRUMBULL. . Watertown, July 15, 1776. Str: The foregoing is copy of what the Court wrote in an- swer to yours of the 11th July, to which they have received no answer; nor do we hear of the arrival of any person at Number Four, for the services mentioned in the Court’s letter; for which reasons, the Board have directed that you be furnished with a copy of their last letter, as any failure in that service may be of the most fatal consequences, the troops being now under marching orders. If you have not already sent a person to make pro- vision for this service, the Board earnestly desire that you would do it without delay. To Mr. Commissary Trumbull. RICHARD NEWTON TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Boston Jail, July 15, 1776. May ir pLEAsE your Honours: I am very sorry to trouble your Honours so often, but necessity now obliges me to do it. _ Having been closely confined for upwards of three months, and no allowance of any kind made me, I am redticed very low, having been obliged to dispose of my watch, clothes, &c. [am also destitute of friends that will support me without payment. I beg your Honours will be pleased to order me some subsistence, or liberty to earn it, or otherwise I shall certainly starve. I defy the world to prove I ever wronged or defrauded any person living, or ever was concerned in plundering the town of Boston, or in any way assisting. against America. I do not know yet what lam committed for. It can’t be for being in the King’s service, as I never was init. All I have to add is, I humbly beg your Honours will order me some relief, or inflict upon me the punishment I deserve, if any can be found; which is all that is wished for by your Honours’ most obedient and distressed servant, Ricnarp Newron. [Acted upon, and released, August 15, 1776.] COL. BELLOWS TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Walpole, July 15, 1776. GentLemeN: In obedience to the orders I received from General Folsom, of the 4th instant, I have raised seventy- three men out of the regiment under my command, agree- able to said orders. I am, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Bensamin Betvows, Jun., Colonel. To the Honourable the Committee of Safety for the Colony of New-Hampshire. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 362 COMMITTEE OF MOULTONBOROUGH TO JONATHAN MOULTON. Moultonborough, July 15, 1776. Sir: By Daniel Beede, Esq., we understand there was a prospect of obtaining, on proper security, from the Trea- sury, a sum of money to purchase fire-arms for this almost defenceless town. Esquire Beede informed us you were so good as to tell him you would join him in security for the money on a day appointed, which day he was obliged to leave Court on express; and he agreed with Captain Josiah Moulton to join with you for security for the money in his stead, by which we flatter ourselves you may have obtained the money. We, together with Lieutenant James Brown, (who waits on you with this,) were chosen a Committee for this town, to purchase the guns. Lieutenant Brown goes on purpose to consult you on the matter, receive the money, if it can be had, and purchase the guns, if they are to be bought. Ifany difficulty should arise in your mind in taking his security singly, we hereby engage to indemnify you in Jetting him have the money, and will, with him, be answer- able for the payment of the same, agreeable to the tenor of the obligation he may give for the money. We beg, sir, your forwarding the matter, and you will much oblige the inhabitants here, as well as your most humble servants, Brapsury Ricuarpson, NaTHANIEL AMBROSE. To Jonathan Moulton, Esq. COURT-MARTIAL ON LIEUTENANT WILLIAMS. Williamsburgh, July 16, 1776. In consequence of an order from the Honourable Brigadier- General Lewzvs, for the trial of Lieutenant Henry Williams, of the Virginia forces, by a General Court-Martial, at Wil- liamsburgh, July 16, 1776, he, the said Lieutenant Williams, was found guilty of behaving in a scandalous and infamous manner, unbecoming the character of an officer or soldier, was cashiered, drummed along the line at Springfield camp, through Wilhamsburgh and College camp, and, as a part of his sentence, is now held up with infamy to the publick, as a person not worthy of enjoying the common blessings of society. James Henpricks, President. ST. JOSEPH DASHIELL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Worcester County, July 16, 1776. Dear Sir: When Captain Kelly was down, my sloop lay at such a distance, that we could not go to her, as they were in such a hurry; but I promised to send up her dimen- sions. He heard her character of being the fastest sailer in this place. Her standing rigging in good order; sails and run- ning rigging very indifferent; forty-six feet long on deck, fourteen-and-a-half feet beam, and six feet hold. I consider her sails and rigging as worth nothing to the Province, except her standing rigging, and should not have mentioned her only for her fast sailing. I gave £150 for her last year, and if better to answer the purpose cannot be got, l am willing to take the same for her now. This comes by a French gentleman, whom I have had at my house, and sent part of the way to Annapolis. He has papers which will show that he is desirous to enter into our service in defence of liberty, and from his experience, hope he will be serviceable. If you please, lay this before your brethren, and oblige, sir, your humble servant, Sr. JosepH DasHreve. To James Tilghman, Esq., Annapolis. BENNETT BRACCO TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 16, 1776. GentTLemMEN: I am extremely sorry that I am obliged once more to trouble you; but hope you will excuse it, as it is done through necessity. I have exhausted both money and credit to support the men under my command here, and assure you that, unless you furnish me very shortly with a sum of money for their subsistence, I shall be obliged to suffer the men to disperse, and Jet each man look out for himself. I expect that, in ten days from this, we shall be able to do duty, as the small-pox is very favourable. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, Bennett Bracco. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. 363 RICHARD DALLAM TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Harford County, July 16, 1776. Sir: In answer to yours of the 10th instant, which I received yesterday, [ inform you I have twenty-two muskets, finished complete, and fifteen more ready for stocking, six of which will be finished this week. Harvest, and sickness of two of my best hands, and the bursting of twelve or thir- teen of my barrels in my absence, have disappointed my expectations. Twelve of the guns finished have been proved with two ounces of powder ‘and one ball, the remainder with one ounce of powder and _ ball; but if this proof will not satisfy, I will apply to the gentlemen you mention to prove them, though it will be attended with expense and trouble in taking them out of the stocks, and fitting them in again. What other barrels I make, I shall apply to Mr. James Harris to see them proved before stocked, as he lives handy to us, and take his certificate. I will deliver at my factory, or at Harford town, to your order, what arms I have or can have made in time, according to agreement; but will not deliver them at Baltemore town at my own risk and expense. As Colonel Hall is in this neighbour- hood, will not a delivery of the arms to him answer? I. believe I could get slings for the muskets, and scabbards for the bayonets, made here, if you would let me know the price given for them. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Ricuarp Datuam. To the Honourable Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Presi- dent of the Council of Safety. P.S. I have not the Jeast doubt but that my arms will please, and be found as good as any made in Maryland. R. D. CAPTAINS BARNES AND ELLIOTT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 16, 1776. ‘We, the subscribers, having the command of the two companies of Militia on Kent Island, beg leave to inform you, that the people of the Island are much dispirited by reason of the removal of the Independent Company off the Island, and also of a number of young men who are gone to the Flying-Camp, which has weakened our Militia com- panies very much. And as the people are apprehensive of being plundered and driven off the Island very soon, unless reinforced, we therefore humbly desire that your Honours ° will immediately take the’ same under your consideration, and order a reinforcement to come to our assistance as soon as possible, or many of the people will go off; and, indeed, we are in some doubt that some of them will not take up arms, unless we have some other force to assist us; and then there is no doubt but that they will be very spirited, and will endeavour to defend the Island as long as possible. This request we hope your Honours will grant us, or we shall be in a most deplorable situation, expecting to be plundered, and perhaps driven off the Island, if the enemy appears, which we hourly expect, as it is said the Island is intended as a place of rendezvous for them. - We are, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants, Tuomas Barnes, Jun. Tuomas Ex.iorr. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. B. JOHNSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Frederick Town, July 16, 1776. GentLemen: Captain Merony has been employed by me, and acted as Adjutant to my battalion fortwo months. You will be pleased to give him an order for £12. I presume that it will be very serviceable at present. Mr. Williams, I understand, declines accepting his com- mission in the Flying-Camp. [have not altered my opinion, but am ready to obey the command of my country. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, . B. Jounson. To the Council of Safety of Maryland, Annapolis. GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, July 16, 1776. GentTLemMeN: Your letter contains the first information I have had on the subject. I shall immediately set out to S¢. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 364 Mary’ s, and take every precaution in my power to guard against and repel the enemy. F*rom the instructions hereto- fore given the Field-Officers, I expected to have had notice given me upon the appearance of an enemy as soon as possible; but no such thing have I had. I am, gentlemen, in haste, your most obedient servant, Joun Denr. To the Honourable Council of Safety. ROBERT PORTEUS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 16, 1776. Honourep Sirs: I have been told that your honourable House has done me the honour of promoting me to a Third Lieutenancy in Captain Nathaniel Smith’s Company of Artillery now stationed here. If what I have been told be true, I hope I shall merit the appointment, as my study shall be in every respect to discharge the trust you are so kind as to put in me with every mark of honour. I would most readily do myself the honour of waiting on you in person, but I ain this day ordered to mount guard to-morrow as one of the Militia. I coming in turn in our company, ( Balti- more Independents,) and being one of the first subscribers to that company, and having been a member ever since its | commencement, I make no doubt, if you have not yet ap- pointed a Lieutenant to Captain Smth’s Company, that you will think of me, which will be acknowledged as a particular honour conferred; and have the honour to be, gentlemen, your very humble and obedient servant, Rosert Porrevs. JOHN SKINNER TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, Nottingham Iron- Works, July 16, 1776. Str: I am favoured with yours of the 8th instant, con- cerning the casting some small cannon for the use of the Province; in answer to which I have to acquaint you that the Nottingham Company’s furnace under my care blowed out about five weeks ago. ‘The remainder of this year will be employed in providing stock for another blast, so that we shall not be able to get to work again sooner than some- time next January. Lam, with respect, sir, your most obedient humble servant, JoHN SKINNER. COLONEL TYLER TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 16, 1776. GenTLEMEN: Agreeable to your orders, a company out of my battalion will be at Annapolis to-day; they are not quite complete, but will be made so to-morrow. The notice ] had was so short there was not time to collect the whole battalion, which is the reason that some of them are badly armed. It was past seven o’clock on. Tuesday morning before I received the orders. Colonel Williams waits on you with this, and, if necessary, will attend the company till relieved. I should have waited on you myself, but have just recovered from a spell of sickness, and being a good deal fatigued by attending the battalion yesterday, tt would have gone hard with me. I am, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Roserr Tyuer. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THE COMMITTEES OF OBSERVATION. : [No. 43.] Annapolis, July 16, 1776. GentLemeN: Enclosed we send you the Declaration of Independence, and the Letter that accompanied it from Con- gress to the Convention, requesting that it should be pro- claimed in our Colony. We transmit the Declaration to you, that you may proclaim it in your County in the manner you judge most proper for the information of the people. Weare, &c. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO BENTON HARRIS. [No. 44.] Annapolis, July 16, 1776. Sir: We received your letter by Mr. Smyly, and send you by him the sum of £150, currency, to defray expenses, for which you will hereafter render us an ‘account. 365 We send you enclosed exact copies of the invoice that have been transmitted to us from Messrs. Vanbibber & Har- rison. There is some variation in the article of powder, a deficiency of two chests or packages of arms, and a very large deficiency in the bolts or pieces of duck. You say twenty-eight only are received; there ought to have been twenty-three bales, containing each four pieces or bolts—in all ninety-two bolts. ' We request you would exert yourself in getting our cargo according to invoice and bill of lading. Colonel Hooe is down loading his vessel. He, on application, will assist you ; and Captain Martin himself ought to be applied to. We depend on your diligence and activity; and are, with re- spect and esteem, yours, Xc. To Benton Harris, Esquire, Chairman of the Committee of Observation for Worcester County. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEES ON THE EASTERN SHORE. é [No. 45.] Annapolis, July 16, 1776. GenTLEMEN: It is impossible for us to attend so particu- larly as we could wish to the execution of every part of the enclosed resolves, and therefore must request the favour of you (though we are conscious it will give you a good deal of trouble) to assist us, as far as the nature of the subject and your situation will admit of, to comply with them; par- ticularly in borrowing firelocks from such of the Militia as will lend, on the publick faith that the same shall be re- turned in the like good order as received, or, in case of loss, the value thereof, in having them valued; and also in col- lecting a suflicient quantity of blankets for the troops directed to be raised in Queen Anne’s, and, if practicable, more, to make up the deficiency which we are apprehensive there will be in some other Counties. } We think it best that the defective arms for the com- panies to be raised with you for the Flying-Camp, should be repaired and fitted up in your County if possible; and as Mr. Winters, of Chestertown, (who is the only person we know of on the Eastern-Shore capable of undertaking it for the whole battalion to be raised there,) is already engaged in making arms for the Province, we should be sorry to take him from that business, unless through absolute necessity, and therefore request that you will exert yourselves in your endeavours to have them done without applying to him; if, however, you cannot accomplish it, you will be pleased to send them up to him for that purpose as fast as you collect them, taking his receipt for such as you may deliver. We desire to know how many arms you have in your possession belonging to the Province, and the number delivered in by, or taken from, those who have not subscribed the Association or enrolled in the Militia; and that those belonging to the Province may not be given out without the orders of this Board. We have already a sufficient quantity of cartouch boxes, bayonet belts, and slings, and have advertised for per- sons to contract with us for making knapsacks, with haver- sacks, priming-wires and brushes, camp-kettles, and canteens or wooden bottles; but if you can recommend to us any who can and will engage to supply the Militia with either of these articles, we shall be obliged to you. Steel ramrods we pre- sume you can get made, but not bayonets, and therefore we have written Mr. Hollingsworth, of Cecil County, immediate- ly to procure a number, a sufficient quantity of which we will endeavour to supply you with as soon as possible, upon being informed you can have the arms repaired and fitted. No period can furnish a greater necessity for your warmest efforts, and we trust you will not leave anything unessayed upon the present occasion. We will send you, by the first opportunity, some cash to buy guns and blankets with, which we request you will lay out accordingly. We have not exceeded £4 5s. for a mus- ket, with a steel ramrod and bayonet, but upon this occasion would have you go as high as £4 10s. Guns which you may purchase without either, ought not to cost so much that the necessary repairs and providing ramrods and bayonets will carry them above £4 5s., unless they are very good, in which case we will also allow £4 10s. We are, &c. N. B. There is a person on Kent Island who has repaired many guns for the Militia there, particularly in. the locks, and we are informed is well qualified for the business. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 366 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THE COMMITTEES ON THE WESTERN SHORE. [No. 46.] Annapolis, July 16, 1776. GENTLEMEN: I[t will be impossible for us to attend so particularly as we could wish, to the execution of every part of the enclosed reselves, and therefore must request the favour of you (though we are conscious it will give you a good deal of trouble) to assist us, as far as the nature of the subject and your situation will admit of, to comply with them, particularly in borrowing firelocks from such of the Militia as will lend, on the publick faith that the same shall be returned in like good order as received, or, in case of loss, the value thereof on having them valued ; and also in collect- ing a sufficient quantity of blankets for the troops directed to be recruited in your County for the Flying-Camp, and, if practicable, more, to make up the deficiency which we are apprehensive there will be in some other Counties. We wish the defective arms which may be collected in your County for the Flying-Camp should be repaired and fitted there if possible, and therefore request you will exert your- selves in your endeavours to have them done as expeditiously as you can. We desire to know how many arms you have which have been delivered in by, or taken from, those who have not subscribed the Association or enrolled in the Militia. We have already a sufficient quantity of cartouch-boxes, bayonet belts, and slings, and have advertised for persons to contract with us for making knapsacks with haversacks, priming-wires and brushes. But if you can recommend to us any who will engage to supply the publick with either of those articles we shall be obliged to you. Steel ramrods, we presume, you will be able to get made, but are doubtful as to bayonets; however, if you can provide them also, we would have you do it. Mr. Hanson will deliver you this and we request you will lay it out in the purchase of arms and blankets. We have not hitherto exceeded £4 5s. for a musket with a steel ram- rod and bayonet, but upon this occasion would have you go as high as £4 10s. Guns which you may purchase with- out either ought not to cost so much that the necessary re- pairs and providing ramrods and bayonets will carry them above £4 5s., unless they are very good, in which case we will allow £4 10s. We are, &c. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO VIRGINIA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. GentLtemen: Although the Council of Safety of this Colony, by a recommendation to the inhabitants to spare the lead weights from their windows, and the lead from their houses, have collected a considerable quantity, which has been run into ball, and a part of which is now on the way to the Jerseys; yet it is by no means sufficient in our present exigency. A much greater quantity is still wanted for the Army in New-Jersey, and every method should be taken to procure it; I have it therefore in charge from Congress to request you will send by the return wagons, which are now on their way to your Colony with powder, as much lead as you can spare, and that you will order fifteen or twenty tons more of lead from the mines to this city as soon as possible. The state of our affairs will not admit the least delay; and I am persuaded arguments are not necessary to induce you to a compliance with this requisition with the greatest despatch. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Jonn Hancock, President. Honourablé Council of Safety, Virginia. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO COLONEL FIELDING LEWIS. Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. Sir: The article of lead is so essentially necessary for our Army at this juncture, that the Council of Safety of this Colony have recommended to the inhabitants to spare the lead weights from their windows, and the lead from their houses, by which means they have been furnished with a considerable quantity, which has been run into ball, and part of which is now on the way to the Jerseys. But as, under the present exigency, that quantity is far short of what is wanted for the Army in the Jerseys, and every method should be taken to collect it, I am therefore directed to re- quest you will send by the wagons, which are now on their 367 way to your Colony with powder, all the lead you can possi- bly procure at Fredericksburgh. 'The state of our affairs will not admit of the least delay, and I am convinced there is no necessity for arguments to induce you to an immediate compliance with this requisition. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. Colonel Lelding Lewis. ' PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Congress Chamber, July 16, 1776. Sir: I have only time to forward the foregoing resolves. By to-morrow’s post I hope to write you on the subject of all your letters which remain unanswered. 1 have the honour to be your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington. P.S. Your favour of the 14th just received. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO M. KIRMOVAN. Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. Srr: In consequence of the recommendation the Con- gress have received of you, I am to inform you they have this day been pleased to appoint you an Engineer in the Continental service, with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, and the pay of sixty dollars per month. It is the order of Congress that you immediately repair to New-Jersey, and put yourself under the command of the officer commanding the Flying-Camp. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant ? he Joun Hancock, President. To Monsieur Kirmovan, Philadelphia. P.S. Enclosed I send your commission. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. GentLemeN: Since I had the honour of addressing you on the 4th of June, at which time I transmitted sundry resolves of Congress, requesting you to call forth your Mi- litia, our affairs have assumed a much more serious com- plexion. If we turn our attention towards the Northern Department, we behold our Army reduced by sickness and obliged to flee before an enemy of vastly superior force. If we cast our eyes to Head-Quarters, we see the British Army reinforced under Lord Howe, and ready to strike a blow which may be attended with the most fatal conse- quences, if not timely resisted. ‘The situation of our coun- try at this season calls, therefore, for all the vigour and wisdom among us; and if we do not mean to desert her at this alarming crisis, it is high time to rouse every spark of virtue, and, forgetting all inferior considerations, to exert ourselves in a manner becoming freemen. The intelligence received this day from General Wash- ington points out the absolute, the indispensable necessity of sending forward all the troops that can possibly be collected, to strengthen both the Army in New- York and that on this side of Canada. Ido therefore once more, in the name and by the authority of Congress, request and beseech you, as you regard the liberties of your country and the happiness of posterity, and as you stand engaged by the most solemn ties of honour to support the common cause, to strain every nerve to send forward your Militia, agreeably to the former requisitions of Congress. ‘This is a step of such infinite moment, that, in all human probability, it will be the salva- tion of America. And as it is the only effectual step that can possibly be taken at this juncture, you will suffer me again most ardently to entreat your speedy compliance with it. In short, the critical period is arrived that will seal the fate not only of ourselves, but of posterity. Whether they shall arise the generous heirs of freedom, or the dastardly slaves of imperious task-masters, it is in your power now to determine; and, as freemen, I am sure you will not hesitate a moment about the choice. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, &c., Joun Hancock, President. [The same to Massachusetts Assembly, Connecticut Assembly, and Convention of New-Jersey.] CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 368 In Congress, July 16, 1776. Resolved, That Letters be written to the States of Mas- sachusetts-Bay, Connecticut, and New-Jersey, setting forth the situation of our affairs in the New-York department, and pressing them immediately to comply with the requisi- tion of Congress of the 3d June. That the situation of our Army at New-York be stated to the State of Connecticut, and that it be earnestly desired of that State immediately to send all the Militia thereof which can be spared into New- York, to reinforce the Army there, and continue in service until the proportions requested of the several States arrive. Copy: Rosert H. Harrison. WILLIAM WHIPPLE TO JOHN LANGDON. Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. My pear Sir: Your favour of the Ist instant came duly to hand. ‘There can be no objection to your contracting for guns wherever they are to be had. I find by the back- wardness of the furnaces here, that they must be got some- where else. Governour Hopkins has written agreeable to what I wrote last post. However, I think it would not be amiss for you to contract, if they won’t spare you those already made, which they will, if they consider the good of the service, as they may make more by the time their ships are ready for them. You may depend the officers will be appointed agreeable to your recommendation; their com- missions not being sent, need be no hinderance to you in engaging petty officers and men. Provisions I wrote you about last post. I agree with you that these matters have not been properly attended to, but I by no means take any part of the charge of neglect to myself; for no poor devil ever begged for alms with more earnestness than I have to get these matters settled, and am still determined, if possible, to have everything complete before I Jeave this. Two of the ships were launched here last week, viz: the Randolph and Delaware; but when they will get to sea is uncertain, as they have no anchors yet. . Independence was proclaimed in the Army at New-York last Wednesday, when the leaden King in the Bowling- Green was dismounted, and is by this time cast into bullets for the destruction of his tools of tyranny. May every one of them be properly commissioned. We are daily in expectation of some grand military ope- rations at New-York. The Militia are all marching from this Colony. The Associators are mostly gone from this city—Colonels Dickinson, Cadwalader, &c., at the bead of their regiments. No doubt in a very few days twenty thousand men, if not more, will be imbodied at New-Jerscy, besides the Army at York. ‘This Declaration has had a glorious effect—has made these Colonies all alive: all the Colonies forming Governments, as you will see by the papers. I expect there will be some interruption in the communication, but hope it won’t last long. In very great haste, yours, Aidan eualMeeeeee P.S. Please to send the enclosed paper to the North End. have sent the play you mention to Mr. Brackett. JOHN ALSOP TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Philadelphia, July 16, 1776. GentLemen: Yesterday our President read in Congress a resolve of your honourable body, dated the 9th instant, in which you declare New-York a free and independent State. T cannot help saying that I was much surprised to find it come through that channel. The usual method hitherto practised has been, for the Convention of each Colony to give their Delegates instructions to act and vote upon all and any important questions. And in the last letter we were favoured with from your body, you told us that you were not competent or authorized to give us instructions on that grand question; nor have you been pleased to answer our letter of the 2d instant, any otherwise than by your said resolve, transmitted to the President. I think we were entitled to an answer. I am compelled, therefore, to declare, that it is against my judgment and inclination. As Jong as a door was left open for a reconciliation with Great Britain, upon honourable and just terms, I was willing and ready to render my coun- try all the service in my power, and for which purpose I was 369 appointed and sent to this Congress; but as you have, I presume, by that Declaration, closed the door of reconcili- ation, I must beg leave to resign my seat as a Delegate from New-York, and that I may be favoured with an answer and my dismission. I have the honour to be, &c. Joun Axsop. In Provincial Congress of New-Jersey, Trenton, July 16, 1776. Ordered, That the several Township Committees through- out this Colony do immediately exert themselves in procuring Lead for the use of the Army now engaged in our defence, as the demand for that article is very great and pressing; that, to this end, they do forthwith collect all the Leaden Weights from Windows and Clocks, and all the Leaden Weights of Shops, Stores, and Mills, of one pound weight and upwards; also all other Lead in and about Houses and other places; and that they forward all the Lead which shall by them be so collected to the hands of Alexander Chambers, Abraham Hunt, David Pinkerton, and William Tucker, of Trenton; Hendrick Fisher, of Somerset County; Azariah Dunham, of New-Brunswick ; John Ross, of Woodbridge; Isaac Wood- ruff, of Elizabethtown; and Dr. William Burnet, of New- ark, or any of them, Commissioners appointed for purcha- sing arms, &c. And the said Commissioners are directed to pay for all such Lead at the rate of six pence, Proclama- tion money, the pound weight, together with the reasonable expenses in forwarding the same. July 17th.—Whereas the honourable the Continental Congress have declared the United Colonies free and inde- pendent States: We, the Deputies of New-Jersey, in Pro- vincial Congress assembled, Do Resolve and Declare, That we will support the free- dom and independence of the said States with our lives and fortunes, and with the whole force of New-Jersey. Extract from the Minutes: Witiiam Paterson, Secretary. GENERAL MERCER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Elizabethtown, New-Jersey, July 16, 1776. Sir: [ just now received the honour of your letter of the 14th instant, containing the instructions of Congress relative to the troops which are intended to compose the Flying- Camp. Two battalions of Pennsylvania Riflemen have arrived at Amboy, where it is proposed to form the encampment, as most convenient for the protection of this part of the New- Jerseys, or for marching towards Philadelphia or New-York, should the operations of the enemy point either way. The British troops remain cantoned along the shores of Staten-Island, by all our intelligence, to the number of eight or nine thousand. ‘Three days ago, Lord Howe sent Lieu- tenant Reeve, of the Eagle man-of-war, in a flag, to Amboy, with letters to the late Governours from hence to Georgia, which were immediately conveyed to Head-Quarters in New- York. His Lordship left England before the fleet ; had nine weeks’ passage to Sandy-Hook; he touched at Halifax. I shall not fail to communicate every remarkable occurrence. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant ? Hueu Mercer. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 16, 1776. Sir: In consequence of Colonel Reed’s letter, and the plan shown me by Major Knowlton, I have reconnoitred the ene- my’s posts, and last night had the assistance of Captain John Mercereau to bring some intelligence from Staten-Island. He undertook the service very cheerfully; told me he could go very secretly to his brother-in-law’s house, who, it seems, resides back in the woods, remote from the parties along shore. ‘The Captain informs that he got to the house, where his brother and wife were alone; that he told him there were soldiers in every house-near the shore—the numbers rather uncertain ; but on the Neck, where we propose an attack, I ~ cannot collect, from his account and all observation, that there are more than six or seven hundred. Two creeks enclose this Neck all toa point of woods three or four hundred yards Firtn Series.—Vot. I. 24 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. oa 370 i wide. ‘The principal posts of the enemy are three; the Bla- zing-Star is the lowest, where there appear to be from one hundred to two hundred men. The two other houses, about a mile or more asunder, do not appear to contain so many men. Some scattering houses on the Neck also have soldiers quartered, but, being more inconvenient and small buildings, cannot be supposed to contain many men. Every morning and evening a patrol of one hundred men passes into the Neck, from house to house, where guards are kept, and re- turns to some other post. This is the state of the enemy. The plan of the attack which I propose, is as follows: T'o ferry over, between the hours of eleven and two o’clock to- morrow night, from Thompson’s Creek to the woods, where the marsh is most practicable, fourteen hundred men—Colo- nel Brodhead, with four hundred Pennsylvania Riflemen, to pass over first and take possession of the ground, where the creeks form the Neck of smallest width, and there to lie in ambush from creek to creek; Major Knowlton to march next, with two hundred and fifty of his regiment, fifty Pennsylva- nia Riflemen, and fifty Militia, towards the Blazing-Star; Colonel Piper, with one hundred Riflemen and one hundred and fifty Militia, to take the road to the middle house in our view from this shore; and another Field-Officer, with a like number, to make towards the upper house. One hundred Riflemen and fifty Militia will remain for a reserve, to scour the Neck, and attack any scattering houses we may discover there. ‘I'he orders to these parties will be, to proceed, if possible, under cover, and to remain near the enemy till daybreak, and then to make a vigorous attack; those at the upper houses to wait till firing is heard at the Blazing- Star, the most distant point. If the enemy attempts to pass into the Neck to the relief of their guards, Colonel Brodhead will have orders to place his men so as to form an ambuscade that may give him a great adventage; his men are, I think, to be depended on for such service. We pro- pose, if successful, to retire by the Blazing-Star. For this purpose, not only the craft we cross over in from Thomp- son’s Creek, but all others that can be collected along the shores, will be collected there by the parties stationed at our different posts near that place. The clamour of the Militia to get to their harvest, has obliged me to discharge many. However, we have at Amboy seven hundred and fifty Riflemen; we expect two hundred and fifty from Paulus-Hook; and depend on four hundred of the Pennsylvania Light-Infantry, or Militia, to be at Woodbridge to-morrow; but should their march be so slow as to disappoint us, I shall have that number of Militia prepared in this quarter, without weakening too much the several posts we occupy on the Jersey shore. I shall en- deavour'to procure guides for the several parties. Your instructions for the improvement of the above plan will give great pleasure, and may ensure its success. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant ? Hueu Mercer. To His Excellency General Washington. P.S. The parties sent to attack the posts will have orders to send on a few men, if possible, to seize the sentinels and guards before they can give an alarm, which, if executed properly, may save our men. ‘There are two field-pieces at our post, opposite the Blazing-Star, which may be employed to favour our retreat, if necessary. All the troops for this service will assemble by to-morrow evening at Woodbridge, excepting those from Paulus-Hook, which [ shall look for here by that time if your Excellency approves of going on with the enterprise. The common talk on the Island is, that they will wait for the fleet from England, and then attack New-York. No encampment, but the men scattered all over the Island—no considerable encampment. From some difficulties that occur with regard to the craft necessary for the enterprise, I begin to think it will be Thurs- day night before it can be entered upon. Since writing the above, I am informed that a guard of one hundred men takes post every night on a point of woods nearly opposite to the mouth of Thompson’s Creek, but not so near but we may possibly pass from hence along the Sound, and Jand lower down than was first intended; only we shall have a greater body of marsh to cross (said to bea mile) before we reach the woods; our craft is also to be taken round from Ehzabethtown Creek into Thompson’s Creek. 371 GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 16, 1776. Sir: I have just now received a letter from the honour- able Mr. Hancock, containing the orders of Congress that I should march the troops which are to compose the Flying- Camp and Militia wherever the service requires, in subordi- nation to your instructions. When I formerly mentioned Brunswick as a proper place for that camp, my idea of the intention of raising and col- lecting an army here, was for the security of Philadelphia only; but as I find the design is equally to secure this Colony and Pennsylvania, or assist in the operations on the New- York side, 1 am well satisfied that Amboy will in every view best fulfil that intention. I have to-day from Dr. William Brown, late of Alexan- dria, a request to interest your Excellency in his appoint- ment to the charge of the Hospital for the Flying-Camp. Dr. Brown has served with reputation as a Regimental Sur- geon, with Colonel Woodford, ever since regular troops were raised in Virginia. He is, I am well satisfied, worthy of any countenance from those in authority, and every way equal to the execution of the trust he desires. He wishes for a line to Congress from your Excellency, in which recommendation, if my being of the same profession could have any weight, I would most readily join. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To His Excellency General Washington. P. S. As the command I am honoured with necessarily engages me in writing more than may be consistent with other parts of the service, I beg to know whether the assist- ance of a Clerk or Secretary will not be allowed. I hope there will be no impropriety in appointing Mr. Ross to the post of Brigade-Major. COLONEL SEYMOUR TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. City of New-York, July 16, 1776. May rr PLEASE youR Exce.iency: By the positive laws of the Colony of Connecticut, establishing the Troops of Light-Horse, they are expressly exempted from staying in garrison, or doing duty on foot, apart from their horses. This being the case, of which the regiments under our com- mand in this place are fully sensible, we find it impossible for us to detain them any longer under that idea; they, more- over, remonstrate against it, alleging that they came out without the least expectation or preparation for such service. As your Excellency thought it inconsistent to distinguish these from the other troops on the ground, and as it will be impossible for them much longer to sustain their horses here, they humbly ask your Excellency’s dismission in form. Major Starr waits upon your Excellency for this purpose, and any commands for his Honour Governour Trumbull. We are, with every sentiment of respect, your Excellen- cy’s most obedient, humble servants, THomas Seymour, Witxiram Hart, EvisHa SHELDON, Daniex Starr. To General Washington. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL SEYMOUR. New-York, July 16, 1776. GentLemeN: In answer to yours of this date, I can only repeat to you what I said last night, and that is, that if your men think themselves exempt from the common duties of a soldier—will not mount guard, do garrison duty, or ser- vice separate from their horses—they can be no longer of use here, where Horse cannot be brought to action, and I do not care how soon they are dismissed. I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant, Go. WasnHineTon. To Colonel Seymour, and other Field-Officers of the Con- necticut Light-Horse. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 16, 1776. _ Sir: Colonel Hands reports the fleet lies much in the same situation as yesterday, three ships at the Hook, two tenders CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 372 cruising in the Bay. No deserters last night. Nothing material has happened since yesterday. I am in hopes to get the works on Cobble-Hill completed in a few days: it has taken much more time: than I expected. I have such a number of guards that the fatigue party is much smaller than I could wish, but I cannot safely enlarge it without injuring the health of the people, for they are one day on and one day off duty now. One ship and a sloop have been under sail to-day, but are now come to. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient humble servant, N. Greene COLONEL JOSEPH REED TO MRS. REED. New-York, July 16, 1776. I make no doubt you will be agreeably surprised, as I was yesterday, on receiving a letter from our brother Dennis. It was endorsed ‘“ Per favour of Lord Howe,” and sent with the seal untouched. He mentions that he had seen Lord Howe, and is well assured that he comes as a mediator, rather than as an enemy, and most earnestly presses me to promote a conference in order to an accommodation. I have not time to copy it now, but will send it to you by the first opportunity. No one can wish more for peace, or would promote it more heartily, if the terms were such as to give us any security for those articles which all agree, both Whig and ‘Tory, are essentidl to our liberty and safety. These are, exemption from Parliamentary taxation and regulation of our internal government. If security was held of these and other articles still insisted on, I should, with a safe con- science, retire, and would do it. The annihilation of our trade, the difficulty of procuring men and supplies for another campaign, the misery and desolation which must ensue even if we should in the end be victorious, are important conside- rations. Besides, from some late instances, I very much fear many of our troops will fail in spirit, especially if taken by surprise. I do not know what prospect there is of foreign alliances. That would certainly turn the scale decisively in our favour, but at present we are playing a very unequal game. Lord Howe seems so anxious to negotiate, that I think we may lengthen out the time without intermitting our preparations, Nor, for my own part, do I see any inconvenience or danger in a conference of proper persons, to know his powers and propositions of peace. We can easily judge of them, per- haps, from his declarations, for among the papers sent on shore are letters to every Governour, enclosing declarations. In them you have the whole; and if negotiation would not tend to slacken our preparations, I would wish to know the extent of those powers which he says are so great. I think if only granting pardons is meant, and no concession on the point of taxation, it would unite all to perseverance and reso- lution, trusting the event to Providence. DENNIS DE BERDT TO MR. REED. London, May 3, 1776. Dear Reep: I am now set down to write you a letter on the most important subject and of the most difficult nature I ever yet attempted, and I scarcely know how to advance, nor will my mind suffer me to retreat, as my judgment is fully convinced the design is good, and my heart is warm in the cause. You must know, since my Lord Howe’s important ap- pointment as Commander-in-Chief of his Majesty’s forces in America, 1 have made it my business to learn his character as a nobleman, a statesman, and an officer. As a man, he has urbanity and great goodness of heart to recommend him; as a politician, solid sense and sound principles, with mode- ration ; and as a commander, ability and valor. Such quali- fications command esteem and respect, and it is a satisfaction to a feeling mind that so momentous an embassy as his Lordship’s is so happily placed. But as I had reason to believe he had expressed the most anxious solicitude to bring about an accommodation without bloodshed, and'to draw the sword with the greatest reluctance, and that these expres- sions were not only the language of -his lips, but the dictate of his heart, I had a great desire to be introduced to him, and this day I had the honour of a conference; when his Lordship’s conversation not only confirmed the report, but his friendly disposition towards America, and assurances of 373 his inclination to effect a reconciliation without force, far ex- ceeded my expectation; and though the assurances of great men are frequently without meaning or intention, I have the strongest belief in what he said, and the greatest faith in his peaceful intentions. Do, my dear friend, let me persuade you that Lord Howe goes to America as a mediator, and not as a destroyer. I firmly believe it, upon my honour. Were it prudent in me to reveal all he said, I would most cheerfully and readily do it. I quote not his Lordship’s authority for what I say, but give you my opinion, on a well-grounded belief of what I advance. This he has declared: he had rather meet you, and that immediately on his arrival, in the wide field of argu- ment, than in the chosen ground for battle; and I am confi- dent a parley on the footing of gentlemen and friends is his wish and desire; and it is generally believed, with his dispo- sition to treat, he has power to compromise and adjust. Nor do I think, if a conference should be brought about, anything unbecoming a gentleman will be desired, or unreasonable concessions expected. ‘These things believed, I would not be happy in my own mind without communicating them to you, and Lord Howe has promised to take charge of the let- ter. I beg, therefore, to recommend them to your most serious consideration. The very thought, my dear friend, of being instrumental in bringing about a peaceful accommodation is better felt than expressed, when I consider the honour lately conferred on me by the Province of New-Jersey. It is my duty, my regard for the country and people makes it my inclination, and my affection for you and your family draws me into it with the cords of love. , My Lord Howe is not unacquainted with your name. I have so high an opinion of your abilities and honour, and have had such repeated instances of your friendship and affection, that everything has been said by me that you can desire or expect; and | have not a doubt, if a treaty or parley is brought about in which you may be engaged, every degree of respect you can desire, or attention you can wish, will be shown you. If this letter, from the exigency of the times, should be inspected, I hope it will not be suppressed, but receive an immediate despatch to you. Rest assured, my dear friend, my motives are good, whatever may be sus- pected to the contrary. My dutiful regards attend my dear mother, and my affec- tion and Jove are ever with you and my sister. I am yours, sincerely and affectionately, Dennis De Berpr. GENERAL SPENCER TO JOHN SLOSS HOBART. New-York, July 16, 1776. Gentiemen: Henry Little and John Lewis were both confined by my order in the City-Hall, and each of them charged with the crime of drinking a health to King George and success to his fleet, and declaring or manifesting their intention of joining the said fleet or army of the enemy against the Continental Army; which charge was delivered to the officer of the guard at that place. On the morning of the 14th instant I received a line from you, desiring me to direct my evidences in the case of Lewis to attend upon you at nine o’clock in the morning, at the same morning. ‘This did-not come to my hand until some- thing after the time you set for the attendance of the evi- dences. On receiving your notice, | immediately sent to Lieutenant Dunham, of Colonel Ward’s regiment, (who was my informer relative to said prisoner,) to appear as soon as possible before you, to give what intelligence in the premises he was able to do. He since says he appeared before you as soon as he could, he thinks about ten o’clock in the same day, and that you then informed him the above-mentioned prisoners were both released the day before. This in- telligence of Dunham appeared to me so extraordinary, I thought it my duty to acquaint you with it, that you may have an opportunity to show the mistake, if there be any. [ am, gentlemen, with great truth and regard, your most obedient humble servant, JOSEPH SPENCER. To John Sloss Hobart, Esq., and the rest of the Committee of Provincial Congress, in New- York. * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 374A PASS FOR MEMBERS OF THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION. New-York, July 16, 1776. Permit the following gentlemen: John Sloss Hobart, Leonard Gansevoort, Lewis Graham, Esq., and Colonel Henry Remsen, Members of the Convention of the State of New- York, and John McKesson, Esq., Secretary of the said Convention, to pass from New-York to the said Convention at the White-Plains, with a box of stamps and plates of the late emission of the paper currency of this State, and some few records, and the fusees, &c., of such of those gentlemen who may choose to carry them. Joun Ray, Jun., Deputy Chairman of the General Committee. To all whom it may concern. NEW-YORK COMMITTEE, Committee Chamber, New-York, July 16, 1776. To the Inhabitants of the City and Colony of New-Y orx : Whereas the Convention of the State of New-York did, on the 9th instant, unanimously resolve, that a Declaration of the Independence of the United States of America should be transmitted to the several Committees in the said State of New-York, with orders that it should be by them pub- lished with all convenient speed in their several districts: Therefore, é Resolved and Ordered, That at twelve o’clock, on Thurs- day, at the City-Hall, in this city, the aforesaid Declaration be published ; when and where it is hoped every true friend to the rights and liberties of this country will not fail to attend. Extract from the Minutes : JosepH Winter, Secretary. JOHN BROOME TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. White-Plains, July 16, 1776. Sloop Independence, seventy tons burden, ten carriage- guns, four-pounders: owners, Philip Bell, of Philadelphia, Isaac Sears, Samuel Broome, & Co., and John Broome, of New-York, and Adam Babcock, of New-Haven; Thomas Truxton, Commander; Smith Richards, Captain of Marines ; number of the crew, sixty; quantity of provisions, fifteen barrels of pork, thirty barrels of beef, five hundred weight of powder, with a proportion of ball, thirty muskets, twenty pistols, cartridges in proportion. I do hereby request that a commission be made out for the above privateer sloop. Joun Broome. CERTIFICATE FOR A POWDER-MILL. Walkill, Ulster County, July 16, 1776. These are to certify, that Major Moses Phillips and Henry Wisner, Jun., Esq., has erected a Powder-Mill upon the Walkill, in said County, which we look upon to be very well executed, and did, with a large number of other spec- tators, see it work on the twentieth day of last May; since which time, by information of the workmen, (whom we look upon to be men of veracity,) it has manufactured two hun- dred weight or more of good merchantable gunpowder in one day, and so successively. Davip Corwiy, JONATHAN SMITH, Witiiam Dern, James Butuer, one of the Builders. Members of the County Committee. JOHN COE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Haverstraw, July 16, 1776. Sir: In consequence of your Excellency’s desire to receive timely information of every manceuvre which the enemy on Hudson’s River may make to distress the inhabi- tants at this extremely busy season, we can inform your Excellency that this morning, between the hours of ten and eleven, the whole fleet, consisting of two men-of-war and three tenders, made sail from Nyack, and about twelve came into Haverstraw Bay, forty miles up the river from New- York, where, after the shipping came to anchor, the tenders continued parading the bay for half an hour. They all came to anchor opposite to the house of Captain Thzers, when four barges, fully manned, attempted to land, with a view, 310 as we conjecture, to take off some sheep and cattle which we had previously driven off. Notwithstanding, they brought their tenders so nigh the shore as to cover the landing of the men in the barges, yet (having but a few men) we carried a firm countenance to them, and, with a few shot, (being well levelled,) they thought proper to retreat, without doing any damage with their cannon. If your Excellency can possibly spare a small detachment from the Continental forces for a few days, until the farmers can take in their crops, as it is now in the height of their harvest, you will render us an essential service; and a few days now is of the utmost consequence to them. When the harvest is in, we shall, with the utmost cheerfulness, lend every assistance in our power to promote the common weal of the community. We shall not press this matter upon your Excellency, but doubt not you will see the necessity which urges this request ; and with due respect, remain your Excellency’s very humble servant. Per order of Committee: Joun Cor, Deputy Chairman. To His Excellency George Washington, at Head-Quarters, P.S. We can further inform your Excellency that the enemy have sounded the channel as far up as the mouth of the Highlands. COLONEL PORTER TO GENERAL FELLOWS. Salisbury, Connecticut, July 16, 1776. Sir: This instant have received a letter from the Com- mittee of Dutchess County, (the copy of which you will see within,) desiring to have the Militia raised at the western part of Connecticut. Hope you will be good enough to join us as soon as possible with what men you can raise. I am your humble servant, JosHua Porrer. To Brigadier-General Fellows, at Sheffield. Dutchess County, New-York, July 14, 1776. Gentvemen: I have this instant received an express from General Washington, informing that some ships of war and tenders had passed the city of New-York and sailed up Hudson’s River, with design, as is supposed, to take posses- sion of the posts in the Highlands, and directing me to write to you, requesting you to march immediately with what force you can collect to these posts, particularly to where the post- road between Albany and New-York crosses the mountain, called Anthony’s Nose. You will please to keep an exact return of the number of men you take with you. I am your humble servant, Ecsert Benson, Chairman of the General Committee. To the Commanding Officers of the Militia in the Western Towns of Connecticut. GENERAL GATES TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, 1776, referred to the Board of War.] Ticonderoga, July 16, 1776. Sir: Upon my arrival at Albany the 27th ultimo, Gene- ral Schuyler assumed the command of the Army in this department, alleging that the resolves of Congress, and General Washington’s instructions to me, were confined to Canada. As this was not to be denied, I submitted, and went with General Schuyler and General Arnold to Crown- Point, where we found the wretched remains of what was once a very respectable body of troops. ‘That pestilential disease, the small-pox, had taken so deep a root, that the camp had more the appearance of a general hospital than an army formed to oppose the invasion of a successful and enterprising enemy. A Council of General Officers was immediately held, wherein it was determined unanimously to retire, and take post on the strong ground opposite to the east point of Ticonderoga; to endeavour, by evey means in our power, to maintain the naval superiority of Lake Cham- plain, without which it is not possible, in our present circum- stances, to hold any ground upon this side the carrying places leading into that lake. In consequence of these resolves, I came immediately, with General Schuyler, to Ticonderoga. We had the ground for the new encampment thoroughly examined, and commanded the troops, as they arrived from Crown-Point, to prepare to clear the ground for their taking post according to the resolution of the council of war. The next thing was, to examine our naval force upon the lake. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 376 The vessels, which should have been constantly armed as vessels of war, have hitherto been solely employed as float- ing wagons. Of course there was a necessity of immedi- ately sending them from Crown-Point hither, to be armed. Carriages for their cannon were even to be made here, out of wood taken from the stump. This is so far effected, that a schooner mounting ten four and six-pounders, will be ready to sail to-morrow; the rest must wait to be fitted; and as the possession of everything here depends upon keeping the command of the water, I shall do everything our scanty means will afford to forward the work. As all the Field- cannon, with their atraile, were lost in Canada, it takes a great deal of time to fix our artillery, carriages being to be made from wood cut here; and so must our platforms for the works we have to erect. : The gondolas General Schuyler has ordered to be built, as he had no model to direct him, are in nothing but in name like those at Philadelphia. The rigging and artillery are all to be fixed here, and when done, they seem to be vessels very unwieldy to move, and very indifferent for the purpose intended. ‘'T'wo are finished, and two more will be finished this week. If the enemy gives us time to do all this, it will be well; ifnot, this wretched army will probably be yet more unfor- tunate. lam exerting all my powers to prevent the pestilence getting to Skenesborough, for should the Militia ordered there be infected, we shall be distressed beyond example. General Waterbury, who arrived the day before yesterday, is gone to Skenesborough, to regulate the Militia when they arrive, and to stop them there. He has this moment sent me an officer infected with the small-pox, to be removed to the General Hospital at the south end of Lake George. Colonel Read’s New-Hampshire regiment is now at the carrying place, going to the General Hospital. ‘They have upwards of three hundred sick, and only just well men enough to row those over the lake. ‘Thus, sir, you see the melancholy situation to which this Army is reduced. I desire the bearer may not be detained a minute longer than to receive your despatches; and I must request, when any express is forwarded to me from Congress, that he be ordered to come the whole way, and not deliver his despatches to any other person to bring forward. Mr. Morgan Lewis, who presents you this letter, I brought with me from New- York, and intended, conformable to the resolves of Congress and General Washington’s instructions, to have appointed him my Deputy Quartermaster-General ; but General Schuyler says those resolves and instructions relate only to Canada. A son of Governour Trumbull, who remains with me, and who I intended for Deputy Adjutant- General, is in the same predicament. I am, sir, with the greatest esteem and regard, your most obedient humble servant, ‘Horatio Gates. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Ticonderoga, July 16, 1776. Sir: Enclosed is a copy of the letter with which I have charged Mr. Lewzs to the President of the honourable the Continental Congress. It is too disagreeable a tale to dwell on; I shall not therefore enlarge upon it. I beg the favour that Mr. Lewis may have your orders not to delay in New- York, but proceed immediately to Philadelphia. General Sullivan has probably, by this time, seen your Excellency; he will, no doubt, make a faithful representation of the wretch- ed state of this Army. General Schuyler assures me he has already done it. Since the beginning of May, the losses sustained by the enemy, and by death and desertion, amount to more than five thousand men; and to this must be added three thousand that are now sick. Our accounts from the enemy are lame and imperfect. It seems not to be doubted that they have a large camp at St. John’s, and are labouring to get a naval force upon the lake. I shall doall in my power to procure the best intelligence of their motions. Heaven grant your Excellency a prosperous campaign, such a one as will make ample amends for the losses of the Northern Army. My affectionate compliments wait upon the gentle- men of your family, and particularly to my old friend and acquaintance, Brigadier-General Mercer. 1 am, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To His Excellency General Washington. 377 NATHAN CLARK TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Manchester, July 16, 1776. May ir pLease your Honour: We enclose to you the proceedings of the Committees of the several towns in the Counties of Albany and Charlotte, on the New-Hampshire Grants, answerable to the demands of the Council of Gene- ral Officers, held at Crown-Point the 8th of July instant, in which you will find commission officers nominated, to raise the Green-Mountain Boys, to be stationed on the east side of the Lake Champlain, and to the north of the inhabitants. Likewise, we would recommend to your Honour that Major Samuel Safford should be called upon to take the command of the companies when raised, except Colonel Warner should be appointed to command said companies, as the men would not choose to be joined to any other corps. . From your very humble servants. . . By order: Naruan Crarx, Ch. Committee. To Major-General Schuyler, or the Commanding Officer in the Northern Department. N. B. A sum of money for advance pay would much forward the raising of men. A list of gentlemen elected as Commission Officers, to raise the men appointed to be raised by the Council of General Officers held at Crown-Point, July 8, viz: Ist Captain, Wait Hopkins; 1st Lieutenant, John Fas- sett; 2d Lieutenant, Joseph Safford. 2d Captain, Samuel Herrick ; 1st Lieutenant, John Spaf- ford; 2d Lieutenant, James Brooking. 3d Captain, Jonathan Fasset; 1st Lieutenant, John Smith ; 2d Lieutenant, Abraham Salisbury. Ath Captain, fra Allen; 1st Lieutenant, Jonathan Wright ; 2d Lieutenant, Enoch Eastman. 5th Captain, Lemuel Clerk; 1st Lieutenant, Jesse Bel- Knap; 2d Lieutenant, Matthew Lyon. 6th Captain, Thomas Ransom; Ist Lieutenant, Rufus Perry; 2d Lieutenant, Moses Veal. By order of Committee: Naruan Crarx, Chairman. July 16, 1776. GOVERNOUR COOKE TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 23, 1776.] Providence, July 16, 1776. Sir: I now do myself the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of June 14th, 21st, and 25th, and of the 6th instant, with their several enclosures. The resolve of Congress prohibiting the exportation of salted beef and pork, hath been published and strictly at- tended to in the Colony. The resolutions for providing sufficient clothing for the soldiers of the United Colonies, those declaring that all persons abiding within the United Colonies owe allegiance to the laws, &c., and recommend- ing to the Legislatures to pass laws for punishing Traitors, and the Declaration of Independency, will all be laid before the General Assembly which I have called to meet on Thurs- day next, and which will do everything proper in those mat- ters. The General Assembly has already passed an act declaring it felony to counterfeit the Continental Bills of Credit, or to pass them knowing the same to be counter- feited. I have appointed Captain Barnard Eddy, a very suitable person, the chief carpenter. He hath already inlisted twenty men, who are to be well provided with tools and arms at the same rate at which the Marine Committee have inlisted those in Philadelphia. He informs me he shall be able to procure the whole number required of us, and to march with them on Monday or Tuesday next, at the farthest. He proposes to send off the baggage on Saturday. I daily expect the Treaty of Confederation and Union, and have no doubt but the General Assembly will give their hearty assent to that, and to every measure of the General Congress of the United States of America. I have the honour to be, with great esteem and respect, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, NicHonas Cooxr. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esquire. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 378 GOVERNOUR COOKE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Providence, July 16, 1776. Sir: Tam favoured with your Excellency’s letter of the 9th instant, in consequence of which, Mr. Greene hath deli- vered to Colonel Tillinghast, to be immediately forwarded to New-York, fourteen thousand five hundred flints, twenty muskets, and thirty back-swords, being the whole of those articles that were imported by Captain Chace. All the duck is heavy, coarse, and stubborn, being what is called Holland and Russia duck. Captain Chace hath also brought in the brigantine four four-pounders, six three-pounders, and eight swivels, which are very much wanted here for privateers, several of which could be immediately fitted out, if cannon could be procured. If they can be spared from the service, I should be glad to have your Excellency’s permission, as soon as possible, that they may be made use of for that pur- pose, at the full value. On Saturday last I was honoured with the commands of the General Congress, to procure fifty ship-carpenters to build vessels for the defence of the lakes. _ I appointed a suitable person as Captain, who hath already inlisted twenty men; and k have no doubt they will set off for Albany the last of this, or the very beginning of next week. I have also received from Congress the Declaration of Independency, and daily expect the Treaty of Confedera- tion and Union, which hath induced me to call the General Assembly to meet on Thursday next, when, I can safely assure you, they will give to both a hearty assent and con- currence. I entreat your Excellency’s attention to the great proba- bility there is of the enemy’s paying a visit to Rthode-Island, in case they do not succeed to their wishes at New- York ; and that we are by no means in a condition to give them a suitable reception. I have the honour to be, with the greatest esteem and respect, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient and most hum- ble servant, Nicuonas Cooke. To His Excellency General Washington. « GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Lebanon, July 16, Anno Dom. 1776. Str: This will be delivered to you by the Captain of one of our galleys, two of which, the Whiting and the Crane, are ordered*to proceed to New-York forthwith, and put themselves under your command. ‘The third is stationed at Stonington, which may be exposed to suffer from the attack of a single ship, (several of which are now cruising near it,) if the galley is removed from thence. The great desire I have to comply with every requisition which concerns the defence of the American States, at this critical juncture, has induced me to send you these galleys, although I am sensible they are not furnished with such guns as may be necessary to render them so useful as they might be with heavier metal ; the guns intended for them by the Colony are not yet completed at Salisbury, from whence we hope for them soon. I have directed the Captains to move your Excellency for some heavier guns, while in your service, or until we can get such as are more suitable from Salisbury down the North River, if possible. I am sorry we cannot possibly spare you any heavy can- non, it being wholly out of our power; we have no more than are necessary, and are mounted upon our forts at New- London and Groton. Should any of them be taken away, those fortresses will become in a great measure useless, and the town and fort, upon an attack, might fall into the pos- session of the enemy, which could not happen but with the greatest detriment to the United States in general, as well as to this in particular. I am, with great esteem and regard, sir, your obedient humble servant, JONATHAN ‘TRUMBULL. CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council, Monday, July 15, 1776, according to adjournment: Present: His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyar, Jz. Huntington, Wm. Williams, Jed. Elderkin, Benj. Huntington, Nath. Wales, and Titus Hosmer, Esquires. In the forenoon, Captain Harding came in, having just arrived with his Brig from Boston. Gave an account of his 379 cruise, taking the Ships and Brigs, &c., and his reasons for leaving the port without orders, &c.; and is excused and justified for so leaving, &c.; and wants directions about clean- ing, graving, and refitting, and about the men who are probably infected with the small-pox; and is directed to do the necessaries, with the advice, &c., of Mr. Shaw, who is Colony Agent for naval supplies, as per 15th. Many things to say to them; and about prizés brought into Bos- ton, &c. Post from Hartford, and Brown the Albany post arrived with many Letters from General Schuyler, Mr. Trumbull, &c.; read and attended to, &c. On representation of the Committee of Inspection for Symsbury and others, of the dangerous situation of Newgate Prison, and especially since a number of Tory prisoners are committed there, and the great uneasiness of the people concerning them, and that the keeper is uneasy with his situation, &c., and requesting liberty of a guard, &c., con- sidered; and Voted, That the Overseers of Newgate Prison be advised and directed, and they are hereby advised and directed, to procure and place a guard of two faithful men every night, or more if they shall judge necessary, carefully to watch and guard said Prison, and all the avenues thereof, in order to prevent the escape of any of said prisoners, and any access to them -by unknown or suspicious persons; and that said Committee be advised to examine into the true situation and circumstances of said affair, and inform his Honour the Governour as soon as may be, and of the necessity of the case, in order to receive further instructions in the premises. Many other matters of a publick nature considered, &c.; and adjourned till to-morrow morning. Tuesday, July 16, 1776. At a meeting, &c., adjourned from yesterday. Present: His Honour the Governour, Honourable Deputy- Governour Griswold, Eliph. Dyar, Jz. Huntington, Win. Williams, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Nath. Wales, Benj. Huntington, and Wm. Hillhouse, Esquires. — Messrs. Brown and Gardner, (sons, &c., of Mr. Brown, of Fisher's Island,) present, applying for pay for the stock lately taken from FYsker’s Island, &c. It seems the affair is not ripe, &c.; but the matter to be previously settled between him and Mr. Winthrop, as to who has a right to receive, &c.; and a Letter written to the Committee at New-London. Captain Mygatt, of a provision vessel, stopped by Cap- tain Niles, agreeable to order, moving for leave to proceed, &c.; but it seems not safe, the enemy so many about, and could not consent to it, &c. Engineer Waters came in. Moves to have some extra allowance for the Carpenters and Masons, at the works at New-London, above the amount of their wages. Voted, That the tradesmen, as Carpenters and Masons, who have been employed about the works at New-London, be allowed nine Pence per day, over and above their wages, for the time they have laboured, or shall labour there, under the direction of the Engineer, &c.—a particular account to be kept of the days; and that one Shilling and six Pence per day, above their wages, be allowed to the Master Mason, Master Carpenter, and Master Blower, who have laboured, or shall labour, as aforesaid. Account to be kept as afore- said. Said Mr. WVaters laid in his account for his services as Engineer, from November 23 to July 15: Amount, deducting for absent days, leaves four months thir- teen days, at £12, - - - - - - - £538 4 0 Eighteen weeks’ board, at 12s, - - - - 1016 O Allowance for sundry small expenses, - - had BS Pay os | £65 19 3 Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Committee of Lead Mine at Middletown, in favour of Joseph Webb, of Wethersfield, for one thousand weight of Lead, to replace the same quantity sent by the Selectmen of Wethersfield, by request, and delivered to Captain Wadsworth, of the Army, at Cambridge. Order delivered to Mr. Hosmer. On application of William Law, for cash towards his bill CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 380 for building Carriages for the armed Vessels and Galleys, &c., Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table, in favour of William Law, for the sum of £80, to be accounted for, on his bill for building Ship-carriages for cannon on board the Galleys, &c., and the cannon brought by Com- modore Hopkins. His Excellency General Washington having requested the loan of the Row-Galleys belonging to this Colony, to assist in the defence of New-York, now attacked by the enemy, Resolved and Voted, Row-Galleys Whiting and Crane proceed immediately to New-York, and there be under the command of his Excellency General Washington, until further orders. (Orders sent.) On application and request of Governour Franklin, now residing, on his parole, at Walling ford, for liberty to remove to Middletown; on consideration, Voted and Resolved, That said Governour Franklin be permitted to remove to, and reside at, Middletown, until further orders, under the obligation of the same parole he has signed on his being ordered to Wallingford. Voted and Ordered, 'That none of the Prisoners residing at Hartford or Wethersfield be permitted any longer to go into the Town of Middletown, without a special license from his Honour the Governour; and the Committee of Prisoners are to take notice hereof, and see that they be restrained accordingly. Copy delivered to Mr. Root. The honourable Congress having requested this Colony to furnish our Troops with Tents, Clothing, &c.; on con- sideration, Voted, A Committee be appointed to purchase and pro- cure all the ‘Vow Cloth and other suitable Cloth or materials for making of Tents, that can be had in the Colony. Captain John Deshon came in. Moves for a supply of Money to enable him to procure further quantities of Pro- visions, &c., for the Regiment at New-London, and moves for £2,000. On consideration, Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Treasurer for the sum of £1,500, to be improved for the purpose of procuring Provisions for the support of the soldiers stationed at New- London, and a quantity of Molasses to be distilled and otherwise used for said soldiers, and said sum be accounted for on settlement of his accounts in said service. Whereas General Schuyler has earnestly requested his Honour the Governour to furnish his Army with a number of felling Axes, not exceeding one thousand, &c.: Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table, in favour of his Honour the Governour, for the sum of £150, to be by him put into the hands of proper persons, to pur- chase felling Axes for General Schuyler, according to his request, to be repaid by said General ; and that an Order be also drawn on the Pay-Table, in favour of T%tus Hosmer, Esq., for the same sum of £150, for the same purpose. (The two above sums sent for by Captain Deshon.) On application of the Selectmen of Lebanon, that they cannot obtain Firearms sufficieut for the Company under Captain Clark of said Town, Voted, That they may receive a number, not exceeding fifteen, of the Guns and Bayonets now in the hands of his Honour the Governour, which were fitted up from old bar- rels received from Crown-Point. And they were delivered, and receipt taken to the Governour. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Council Chamber, Watertown, July 16, 1776. Sir: Messrs. Jackson, Tracy & Tracy, merchants of Newburyport, are very solicitous to procure a release of the officers and men of their late Privateer Yankee Hero, which was taken, after a brave and manly resistance, by the Mil- ford frigate; they are now in the hands of our enemies, They take leave to recommend their case to your Excel- lency’s consideration, not doubting but you will attend to any application made to you on their behalf, by the gentle- men above named, and afford every reasonable assistance to accomplish their benevolent purpose; and if they should be happy enough to effect it, it will give us a particular pleasure, as those men, by their past conduct, merit our regard, and 381 should they be obtained, may be greatly serviceable in the American Army. We cannot neglect this opportunity of recommending to your Excellency’s particular consideration the case of Mr. James Lovell, who suffered a long and severe imprisonment in Boston, and was carried off in the fleet to Halifax, where he has remained a close prisoner ever since. His enemies have not been able to fix any crime upon him, and when he has repeatedly desired to be brought to a trial, they have always declined it. We are very desirous to procure his liberation; and if there is a possibility of effecting it, should esteem it a favour if your Excellency would give in exchange for him any prisoner you may think proper. In behalf, and by order of the Council, lam your Excel- lency’s most obedient and most humble servant, B. Greenurar. To His Excellency George Washington, General and Com- mander-in-Chief of the Forces of the United States of America, New-York. MESHECH WEARE TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 25, 1776.] New-Hampshire, in Committee of Safety, at Exeter, July 16, 1776. Sir: This moment the Committee were honoured with the receipt of your letter of the 6th instant, enclosing a « Declaration separating the United States of America from any connexion with Great Britain, and for their being Independent States.” It is with pleasure, I can assure you, that, notwithstanding a very few months since many persons in this Colony were greatly averse to anything that looked like independence of Great Britain, the late measures planned and executing against us have so altered their opin- ions that such a Declaration was what they most ardently wished for; and I verily believe it will be received with great satisfaction throughout the Colony, a very few indi- viduals excepted. The fifteen hundred men of our Militia requested to recruit the Army in Canada are mostly raised. One com- pany marched from Portsmouth yesterday; more are coming forward, and I believe most of them will march this week. No cloth fit for tents could be procured in this Colony, and the men must remain destitute, unless they can be supplied from the southward. That He who putteth down potentates and setteth up States may guard and protect the United States of America, is the most fervent and sincere desire of your obedient, humble servant, Mesuecu Weare. P. S. The General Court and Committee of Safety sit at Exeter, where you will please to direct in future. This express went thirty miles out of his way, by being directed to Portsmouth. CAPTAIN BARROW TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Merrimack, July 16, 1776. GentLemMEN: In consequence of the orders I received from Major-General Folsom, for raising sixteen men out of the company under my command, in this town, for the service in Canada, I have raised thirteen good, effective men, who are all well equipped. Iam myself chosen to the command, which makes fourteen in the whole. Caleb Stevens, an inhabitant of this town, inlisted into said service and passed muster before the date of my orders. I have called upon Captain John Chamberlain and sons, who treated my Lieutenant (the messenger) and myself, with great abuse and ill-language, and refused to assist by man ormoney. Messrs. Charity Lund, Robert Nesmith, Samuel Gibson, Jun., Michael Dalton, and James Taylor, have all utterly refused to send any assistance. I have received orders from the Mustermaster to march my men forthwith; I shall pay strict obedience thereto. I wish it may be in my power t6 give a good account of the enemy on my return from Canada. 1 am, gentlemen, with great respect, your most humble servant : : WiciraM Barrow. To the Honourable Committee of Safety. . CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 382 EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN BOSTON FROM CAPTAIN JACOB DUNNELL, DATED ST. PIERRE, MARTINICO, JULY 17, 1776. I sailed from Dartmouth, in the sloop Nancy, on the 9th day of September, 1775, bound to the coast of Africa. On the 4th of November, arrived at Goree, at which place I began to make 'my trade. From thence proceeded down to Montserado. On the 10th of January, 1776, while lying at anchor at the above-mentioned place, I was taken by the sloop-of-war called the Atalanta, Thomas Underwood com- mander; at which time they had taken a schooner called the Juno, belonging to the same owners, one Shockley mas- ter, on a whaling voyage. I had the liberty of remaining on board my own vessel with the prize-master, so long as [ behaved well ; but if any complaint should be found against me, the Captain told me he would put me in irons. . My mate and one of the people were taken on board the ship, and the three others remained on board the sloop. They then proceeded with the prizes down to Cape Coast, where they disposed of upwards of six thousand gallons of rum, some rice, and other articles, on their own account, and purchased slaves. ‘These goods were part of said sloop Nancy’s cargo. From thence they proceeded with the prizes down the coast, in search of the Americans, but luck- ily found none. ‘Then sailed over to St. Thomas, where we found the Pallas frigate, and the Weasel sloop-of-war. They had cruised the coast down, and the Pallas had taken one prize, a schooner, registered at New-York, one Seanett master. The Weasel had taken two prizes, a sloop belong- ing to New-York, one Darbey master, and a small schooner belonging to South- Carolina, which had been a long time on the coast ; and when at St. Tomas, there was an infor- mation given of a brig lying up Gzbboon River, one Marshall master, from London, with American papers, and belonging to New-York, mounting fourteen guns. The Dartmouth schooner, one of the prizes mentioned above, was imme- diately armed, and the Weasel sloop-of-war went in search of said brig; but I think she may have got clear, as I be- lieve Captain Marshall had information of their coming. On the Ist day of May, 1776, the Pallas, Captain Cornwall, and the Atalanta, with their prizes, sailed in company from St. Thomas, bound to Jamaica ; and on the 15th of May, in the latitude of 2° south, and longitude of 5° west, we parted with the said vessels. The 8th of June, we arrived at St. Vincent’s. The prize-master being on shore, we all agreed (eleven in number, four men-of-war men and seven prisoners, with myself) to run away with the sloop Nancy; and at the time of our making the attempt, two of the prison- ers, who belonged to Captain Shockley’s schooner, which were his mate, by the name of Beatle, his brother, and one of the men-of-war’s men, failed in said attempt. We then put them all three on shore, with their chests and clothes, and got said vessel under sail, about three miles from the land, when it became quite calm. We tarried on board said sloop until daybreak. We then thought the prize- master might be apprised of our attempt, and therefore left said sloop, took to our boat, and proceeded for Marti- nico, where, thank Almighty God, we are all safe arrived, but with loss of said sloop Nancy, and all my papers of every kind. Captain Shockley and his people were all put on board the Atalanta. COLONEL JORDAN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. Mary’s County, St. George’s River, July 17, 1776. Gentiemen: I arrived down here on the 15th instant, with about one hundred of the Militia, where I found Cap- tain Beall, with part of his company, and one company of Colonel Barnes’s battalion. About daybreak yesterday, we were visited by a row-galley, or row-gondola, carrying five swivels on each side, a six-pounder in her head, and another in her stern. They rowed alongside of our sentinel, and not a man to be seen, and instantly began a very heavy firing, which lasted about one hour, but without doing any execution, although their shot reached the ground on every spot where the men were stationed. In the evening, she returned again, and engaged us again for upwards of two hours; and at the same time the troops landed from the ships on St. George’s Island, to the amount of about three hundred, pushed down to the point opposite to us, with swivels and musketry, and kept up a heavy fire, from which 383 Captain Beall was dangerously wounded in the shoulder with a ball (as he says) froma rifle, which has rendered him incapable of duty. I shall endeavour to keep the post we are at present at, if possible ; if not, I shall retreat to the woods, about half a mile. From a report we had given us yesterday, they are constructing another vessel like the above, and that they intend attacking us on the Potomack side, 1 think, from all appearances, the fleet will continue some time; if so, some cannon and swivels will be absolutely necessary, to dislodge the men they have landed on the Island. With what assistance we can give in this quarter, I think five hundred of the Militia of the upper battalion will be full enough to oppose the enemy. We have now, at different posts, about six hundred men. For further particulars, I refer you to Mr, Hopewell, by whom this goes express. He will also mform you of the difficulties we labour under in getting provisions for the men, without money to pay for it immediately. ‘Three hundred pounds, I think, would be-sufficient. Colonel Barnes, with his battalion, is on the other side of the river, watching the motions of the enemy there. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, JEREMIAH JORDAN. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. R. HOOE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Chingoteague, July 17, 1776. GentLemen: On my way to this place, I heard that two of our flour vessels were at Annemessick. I called to know their situation, and found there was no chance of escaping the enemy, if they attempted to get into the Potomack. Under these circumstances there appeared no better method of getting the flour here, than by carting it from Annemes- sick to Pocomoke, bringing it in a craft some distance up the river, landing it again, and carting it over to the inlet. For this purpose, I directly engaged carts on both sides of the river, and a craft in Pocomoke; but to this moment I have received no more than seventy-eight barrels. ‘The Baltimore, I am told, will be here on Monday, but from what I have experienced, I do not expect it so soon. Mr. Crocket informs me that three vessels more have come off with flour. I have inquired, but can get no tidings of them; however, I still hope they are safe in some harbour ; but shall not count upon them for part of this cargo. When I shall be able to despatch the brigantine I cannot say, this being the most uncertain and difficult place to do busimess in that ever I experienced. ‘There is no corn, but such as lies much scattered, at great distances, in small quantities, and at extravagant prices. ‘Tobacco | find very scarce, and lying in much the same manner; indeed, any that I have yet seen is ordinary, and they ask twenty and twenty-five shillings, Virgimza money, for it. But this article must be our dependance, and [ shall, as expeditiously as possible, ship as much of the best as I can find, as will, with the flour, put the brig in a light load, and send her off. As to the schooner John, I decline loading her for account of the Province ; and as soon as I can have the pleasure of waiting on the Council of Safety, I will give them satisfactory reasons why it ought not to be done. The muskets, powder, sulphur, and swivels, still lie in a very dangerous situation, in an old shattered house. I there- fore thought it prudent to send an express to the Worcester Committee, to hire carts to get it away, and they have accordingly got all the articles to Snow-Hill, except a few barrels of sulphur, that will be removed to-morrow. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your Honours’ most humble servant, RH . Hoor. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. CAPTAIN BARNES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 17, 1776. Tn a letter written to your Honours by Captain Elliot and myself, praying a reinforcement to be sent to our assist- ance, we omitted to mention the want of powder and ball, which we stand in great need of, not having above one quarter of a pound of powder and one pound of Jead per man, for the Militia on the Island. And if your Honours CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 384 think fit to order any companies to our assistance, I hope you will order ammunition for them, as well as for the company on the Island. I am, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Tuomas Barnes, Jun. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Baltimore, July 17, 1776. Sirs: I have not received the money for the order sent me by Captain Nicholson, for £250. I have sent Mr. George Wells, Sen., with it. If he should meet with any difficulty, please let Mr. Cromwell, your clerk, assist him; and if you have any order for me concerning bread or flour, please write. Ihave been these two days getting timber for the galleys. Please not to let him come without the cash. From your humble servant, Jesse HoLuincswortu. GORDON AND PATTON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 17, 1776. We, the subscribers, do propose to make knapsacks, with oil covers, at seven shillings each; country linen knapsacks, at six shillings each; and Ausisa duck knapsacks, at six shillings and six pence each, provided we get a quantity. Joun Gorpon, Matruew Patron, WILLIAM WATERS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Somerset County, July 17, 1776. Genriemen: The Militia is called into action, and have been for some time. The field officers say they cannot supply them, without being supplied with a small sum of money. We have dealt on credit for some time, but find it necessary to have a smallsum. If you can supply us with about £300, this Committee will be answerable for it. The bearer, Mr. Denwood, will bring the money safely. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, Wiiuram Warers, Chairman Committee. To the Honourable Council of Safety, Annapolis. WILLIAM WATERS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Somerset County, July 17, 1776. GenTLEMEN: The enclosed is an extract of the Proceed- ings of our Committee against James Layfield. Have sent him up under guard to you. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, - Winuiam Waters, Chairman. — At a meeting of the Committee of Somerset County, July 10, 1776: David Mc Donald, Jun., informed the Committee, on oath, that he was told by his father and wife, that they heard James Layfield say that he wanted this deponent to join and take the ammunition from Lazarus Maddox, which he was carrying to the Guard; and that his father and wife told him that said Layfield told them that he would tie said Maddox, and carry him aboard of Dunmore. ‘Ordered, That James Layfield appear on Tuesday next, before the Committee; also that David McDonald, Sen., and Sarah McDonald, (wife of David MeDonald,) appear before said Committee,» to testify against said Layfield. Tuesday, July 16, 1776. The Committee met. Present: Thomas Bruff, Thomas Haywood, Wilkam Waters, George Waters, John Jones, Daniel Dashiell, James Bounds, and Peter Waters. Tuomas Brourr, in the Chair. James Layfield appeared before the Committee. David McDonold and Sarak McDonald also appeared. The Committee proceeded to examine the witnesses, They depose as follows: David McDonald, Sen., of lawful age, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith: That, some time in June last, James Layfield came to this deponent’s house, and said, if he had had help, he would have taken the am- munition that Lazarus Maddox had carrying down to the ee 385 guard, and that if he (said Layfield) had been going down to Dunmore, he would have tied the said Maddox, and have put him in his canoe, and carried him to Dunmore. This deponent saith, that he had several times before this heard Layfield say that he would not muster, and that if he could get persons to join him, he would stand in opposition to mustering, and would not muster for any person. And further saith not. Sworn before Perer Waters. Sarah McDonald, of lawful age, being sworn, deposeth and saith: That, some time in June last, James Layfield came to her father’s, (David McDonald’s,) in company with John Redden and Lazarus Maddox. Layfield and Redden came into the house; Maddox went to tie his horse. Layfield asked this deponent where her husband was, and desired this deponent to tell her husband to come out to him. She answered that he was not athome. ‘This deponent saith that some little time afterwards, Maddox went off to the guard, which was at Jericho, and Layfield and Redden came up to the door, and Layfield told this deponent what he wanted with her husband; which was, that if he had been at home, and was as willing as he was, he would have tied Maddox, put him in a canoe, and carried him and his ammunition on board of Dunmore, for it was a bargain they had made, as they came along, to do so. And further saith not. True copy from the Minutes: Joun Dasuiexy, Clerk. THOMAS B. HANDS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Langsford Bay, July 17, 1776. Sir: My most sincere and grateful acknowledgments are justly due to the honourable the late Convention for their con- tinuance of me as a member of the Council of Safety; and although it gives me great pain, yet I should consider myself highly unworthy of the good opinion they had entertained of me, did I not signify to you that I find my situation such that I think myself bound to decline that honour. You there- fore, sir, will be pleased to accept of my resignation of the appointment of me a member of the Council of Safety; and believe me, with due respect to yourself and the other gentlemen of your Board, your most humble ser- vant, Tuomas B. Hanps. To Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety of Maryland. STEPHEN STEWART TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Gentiemen: The bearer, Captain Ewing, has a ship to dispose of. She is a new vessel, and as well built a one as ever | saw. She is really a complete piece of work, and stout enough to carry eight or ten six-pounders with fifty men. She draws less water than any vessel of her size. She has new anchors, cables, and rigging; her main-sails are new, but not large enough for the revenue service. I would agree with him for her, but am in some doubts of her sailing fast by the wind. ‘There is no doubt of her sailing exceedingly fast from the wind. Captain Ewing has agreed to carry her to Annapolis to you. I have told him you would get Gil- bert Middleton to try how she sails by the wind. Gilbert Middleton will make proper allowance for her being badly sailed, If she will answer the end of sailing by the wind, she may be made so able that nothing but sloops can hurt her; and then she can run into such shoal water that they could not get at her. I think when she has fifty men, with . water and provisions and ten six-pounders, she will not draw more than six-and-a-half feet of water. If Mr. Middleton finds she will answer the end of sailing by the wind, she may be bought from Captain Ewing for £450 to £475, and he must find you a new mast, boom, and all other spars, for they are all too short. 1 am your most obedient humble servant, STEPHEN STEWART. To the Honourable Council of Safety. P.S. I have had a good deal of business with Captain Ewing, and have always found him very punctual. S. S. Firtu Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 386 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN CRAWFORD. [No. 47.] Annapolis, July 17, 1776. Sir: This is to advise you that we are ordering some am- munition to St, Mary’s County. You are therefore desired to prepare a wagon, with all expedition, to be ready to receive it as soon as the cart sent from hence may arrive with you, which we think will be this evening or to-morrow morning, and to forward it under a guard of eight men and an officer to Leonardtown, in said County. We trust you will use all diligence, and give the greatest despatch to this necessary business. We are, Xc. To Captain David Crawford. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL DENT. [No. 48.] Annapolis, July 17, 1776. Sir: We received a letter from Colonel Jordan last night, advising that some of Dunmore’s party had landed on St. George’s, and that the boats were going off to the vessels, it was imagined, for more. As the further orders which we may give must depend in a great measure on the numbers, situation, and movements of the enemy, we request you will communicate to us by the return of the express all the in- formation you can collect relative to them, and be very particular therein. We have countermanded the orders given Captains Thomas and Hindman to march to Phila- delyhia, and expect them here to-day or to-morrow. Upon receiving intelligence from you, we shall be able to form an opinion whether it will be necessary they should be ordered to your assistance. Powder, lead, and flints, are sent off this morning to Leonardtown, and we hope will arrive there to-morrow night or on friday morning. We approve of the Committee detaining Captain Forrest’s company, and think it would be best, if the Militia will part with their guns, that that company should be armed with them, and immediately be subject to your orders. We are, &c. To Brigadier-General Dent. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THOMAS RINGGOLD AND OTHERS. [No. 49.] Annapolis, July 17, 1776. GentLemen: We have sent a barrel of gunpowder and four hundred pounds of lead, addressed to you, for the use of Kent Island, and doubt not your care of it. We think ourselves obliged, however, to tell you we have seen the ill effect of distributing ammunition among the Militia, and to desire you will lodge such a proportion of it with the Cap- tains of the companies only as you may think proper, and they upon emergencies will deliver it out to their men. We are, &c. To Messrs. Thomas Ringgold, Aquila Brown, and Dr. Ringgold. . MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THOMAS SMYTH. [No. 50.] Annapolis, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: We send you by the bearer £400 currency, for paying off the wagons, and to answer other contingent expenses. We are sorry we cannot comply with other re- quests you have made of us relative to the two companies raised in Kent. Our Province is actually invaded by Lord Dunmore with his whole fleet, who are now come into Potomack, and are landing on St. George’s Island. Our own battalion and Independent companies are marched off to the eastward by order of Convention. In this distressed situation, every gun we can muster from Mr. Winters, and all other parts, must be first applied to arm the battalion and Independent,companies that are to stay in the Province to supply the place of those who are gone to New-York. As to tents, we will write you more fully hereafter, when we know certainly what canvass we have at Chingoteague. Were we to make the ample provision you wish for two companies in the Eastern--Shore battalion, and leave the others bare of everything, we should justly subject ourselves to the charge of partiality. You may depend we will do as much for those two companies as we possibly can, at least equal to others in the same battalion. We are, Xe. To Thomas Smyth, Esq. 25 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAINS BARNES AND ELLICOTT, [No. 51.] Annapolis, July 17, 1776. GentLeMEN: We received your favour of the 16th instant about an hour ago, and are sorry to find the people of Kent Island so very uneasy from an opinion Dunmore will attack them. We do not apprehend, unless he should receive a considerable reinforcement, that he will attempt anything of that sort, as, from the best information we have of them, his party is unequal to such a measure. However, héaring of the apprehensions which prevailed among you, and that you were not sufficiently provided with ammunition by the Com- mittee of Observation for Queen Anne’s, who we expected would supply you, and being desirous of guarding against every possibility of danger, we had ordered, before the receipt of your letter, a barrel of powder and four hundred pounds of lead to be lodged with Messrs. Thomas Ringgold, Aquila Brown, and Dr. Ringgold, for the use of the Island, and that Captain Dean’s company of the Flying-Camp Militia should, as soon as they could be armed, march down for your protection. But as your recommendation of such as would answer the purpose would probably expedite the business, we think you had better make the proper inquiry, and write us. We are, &c. To Captains Barnes and Ellicott. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL EWING. [No. 52.] Annapolis, July 17, 1776. Sir: The Militia of the Flying-Camp are not to draw pay or rations until they receive orders to march. We are, &c. To Colonel Thomas Ewing. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 17, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 14th instant was duly received, and immediately laid before Congress. In obedience to their commands, I do myself the honour to forward sundry resolves. The Congress being of opinion that a quantity of powder should be distributed through the several Counties of New- York and New-Jersey, I am to request you will give direc- tions to have it lodged in the hands of such persons as may be depended upon. I have delivered Monsieur Kirmovan his commission, and directed him to repair immediately to the Jerseys, and put himself under the officer who commands the Flying-Camp. You will please to give orders respecting the appointment of a Sergeant-Major, a Quartermaster-General, and Pay- master-General in each regiment; and likewise necessary directions to General Schuyler with regard to cleansing the Army of the small-pox. Mr. Humpton and Mr. Dawson have been officers in the British Army, and I hope will be of service in ours. They will be ordered to Head-Quarters as soon as possible. Upwards of a thousand troops from Maryland are now in this city, on their way to join the Flying-Camp in New-Jer- sey. ‘They are an exceeding fine body of men, and will begin their march this day. Agreeably to the enclosed resolves of Congress, I have writ- ten in the most vehement and pressing manner to the Massa- chusetts-Bay, Connecticut, and New-Jersey, to forward their Militia, anp [ have no doubt of their compliance immediately. With the most fervent and incessant wishes that your head may be covered in the day of battle, and that success may crown your arms, I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO PENNSYLVANIA CONVENTION, Philadelphia, July 17, 1776. Gentiemen: The Congress, previous to the meeting of the Convention of the State of Pennsylvania, have received information of sucha nature as induced them to appoint a Cominittee, who are under an injunction of secrecy, to make the necessary inquiry; but as this State is mostly interested in the subject of the inquiry, Congress have thought proper CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 388 that the matter should be made known to a Committee of your body. I have it, therefore, in charge to request that you will be pleased to appoint a Committee from your Con- vention, to be under an injunction of secrecy, to confer with the Committee of Congress on this important matter. Having the honour to be of the Committee of Congress, I should be glad to be informed of the names of such persons as you shall appoint on the Committee, that a time and place may be fixed on for the conference. I have the honour to be, with respect, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Convention of Pennsylvania, now sitting. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO COLONEL SMALLWOOD. Philadelphia, July 17, 1776. Sir: I have it in charge from Congress to direct that you, as soon ds possible, march the troops from Maryland, now in this city, to New-York, and there put yourself under the command of General Washington. The exigency of the service requiring as speedy a junction as possible of your troops with those at New-York, I recommend you to use all despatch in your power. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Colonel William Smallwood, Philadelphia. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL MERCER. Philadelphia, July 17, 1776. Sir: I am reduced to the last minute, and have only time to enclose you sundry resolves of Congress for your direc- tion, to which I beg leave to request your attention. . I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancocx, President. To Brigadier-General Mercer, New-Jersey. In Committee of Safety, Philadelphia, July 17, 1776. It being recommended to this Committee by the Conven- tion to take the necessary steps respecting the Guard directed by Congress to be kept in this City: Resolved, ‘That the four companies of Militia of this City and Liberties, detained by General Roberdeau as guards for this City, namely, Captain Smythers, of the First Battalion, Captain Peters, of the Second, Captain Wharton, of the Third, and the company lately commanded by Captain Burkhard, of the Fourth, be required to attend their duty regularly and punctually, under the orders and command of Captain Peters. And the commanding officers of the said companies are required to enrol into the same all such Asso- ciators as, from particular circumstances, cannot march with the Militia now calied into service for the Flying-Camp; and all such Associators are earnestly exhorted to enrol them- selves in some one of the said companies, for this necessary and important service, in which they are to continue during the absence of the companies to which they respectively belong. Extract from the Minutes: Witu1am Goverr, Secretary. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 17, 1776. Str: Colonel Hand having informed me that he means to purchase regimentals for his battalion in Philadelphia, 1. must take the liberty to request you will have the nine thou- sand dollars, resolved by Congress of the 12th ultimo to be paid him here for that purpose, to be advanced to him or his order there. The state of our chest is extremely low, and many pressing demands against it; besides, as the clothes are to be paid for there, it seems unnecessary to send money from hence. An account of the advance may be transmit- ted, in order to a stoppage from the men’s pay. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, Go. Wasuineron. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. 389 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 18, 1776, and referred to the Board of War.] New-York, July 17, 1776. Sir: I was this morning honoured with yours of the 15th in- stant, with sundry resolves. I perceive the measures Congress have taken to expedite the raising of the Flying-Camp, and providing it with articles of the greatest use. You will see, by a postscript to my letter of the 14th, that I had written to the commanding officer of the Pennsylvania Militia, arder- ing them to be marched from Trenton to Amboy, as their remaining there could not answer the least publick good ; for, having consulted with many gentlemen, I am informed if the enemy mean to direct their views towards Pennsylvania, or penetrate the Jerseys, their route will be from near Amboy, and either by the way of Brunswick or Boundbrook, the lower road from South-Amboy being through a woody, sandy country; besides, they will be then able to throw in succour here, and to receive it from hence in cases of emergency. The Connecticut Lighthorse, mentioned in my letter of the 11th, notwithstanding their then promise to continue here for the defence of this place, are now discharged, and about to return home, having peremptorily refused all kind of fatigue duty, or even to mount guard, claiming an exemption as Troopers. ‘Though their assistance is much needed, and might be of essential service in case of an attack, yet I judged it advisable, on their application and claim of such indul- gences, to discharge them; as granting them would set an example to others, and might produce many ill conse- quences. ‘The number of men included in the last return, by this, is lessened about five hundred. I last night received a letter of the 12th instant from General Schuyler, with several enclosures, copies of which T have herewith transmitted. They will give Congress every information I have respecting the northern Army, and the situation of our affairs in that quarter, to which I beg leave to refer their attention. I cannot but express my surprise at the scarcity of provision which General Schuyler men- tions, after what the Commissary assured me, and which formed a part of my letter of the 14th; he still assures me of the same. ‘This is a distressing circumstance, as every article of provision and everything necessary for that de- partment can have no other now than a land conveyance, the water communication from hence to Albany being en- tirely cut off. Congress will please to consider the enclo- sure No. 6, about raising six companies out of the inhabitants about the lakes, to prevent the incursions of the Indians. The General Officers, in their !Minutes of Council, have determined it to be a matter of much importance, and their attention to the price of goods» furnished the soldiery may be extremely necessary. ‘They have complained much upon this head. The retreat from Crown-Point seems to be considered in opposite views by the General and Field Officers: the former, I am satisfied, have weighed the matter well, and yet the reasons assigned by the latter against it appear strong and forcible. I hope whatever is done will be for the best. I was apprehensive the appointment of General Gates over General Sullivan would give the latter disgust. His letter, which I transmitted to Congress, seemed to warrant the sus- picion. He is not arrived yet; when he does, I shall try to settle the affair with him, and prevail on him to continue, as I think his resignation will take from the service a useful and good officer. By a letter from the Committee of Orange County, re- ceived this morning, the men-of-war and tenders were yes- terday at Haverstraw Bay, about forty miles above this. A number of men, in four barges from the tenders, attempted to land, with a view, they suppose, of taking some sheep and cattle that had been previously removed. A small num- ber of Militia who were collected obliged them to retreat, without their doing any damage with their cannon. They were sounding the water up towards the Highlands, by which it is probable they will attempt to pass with part of the fleet, if possible. Yesterday evening a flag came from General Howe, with a letter addressed “'l'o George. Washington, Esq., &c., &c., &c.” It was not received, on the same principle that the one from Lord Howe was refused. I have the honour to be, with great esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Gor Wituikeros CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 390 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. New-York, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: Yesterday evening I was favoured with yours of the 12th instant, with its several enclosures. As to the propriety or impropriety of giving up Crown- Point, and vacating that post, it is impossible for me to deter- mine. My ignorance of the country, my unacquaintance with its situation, and a variety of circumstances, will not permit me to pronounce any certain opinion upon the subject, or to declare whether it might or could not be maintained against the enemy. I doubt not the measure was duly weighed by the General Officers in council, and seemed to them best calculated to secure the Colonies and prevent the enemy from penetrating into them. However, I cannot but observe, (though I do not mean to, encourage in the smallest degree, or to give the least sanction to inferior officers to set up their opinions against the proceedings and councils of their supe- riors, knowing the dangerous tendency of such a practice,) that the reasons assigned by the officers in their remonstrance, appear to me forcible and of great weight: they coincide with my own ideas. I have ever understood Crown-Point to be an important post, and, from its situation, of the utmost consequence to us, especially if we want to keep the superi- ority and mastery of the Lake. If it is abandoned by us, it is natural to suppose the enemy will possess it. If they do, and my judgment does not mislead me, any vessels or galleys we employ upon the Lake will certainly be in their rear, and it will not be in our power to bring them down to T%con- deroga, or the post opposite to it, or from thence to have the least communication with them, or the means of granting them succours or supplies of any kind. Perhaps it is intended to employ the galleys only on the communication between the two posts, that of Crown-Point and the one now to be established. How far they would there answer our views, I cannot tell. As I said before, I have not a sufficient know- ledge of the several posts, or the neighbouring country, to form an accurate judgment upon the matter, and of conse- quence do not design anything I have said by way of direc- tion, trusting that whatever is best to advance the interest of the important struggle we are engaged in will be done. I am extremely sorry to hear such unfavourable accounts of the condition of the Army. Sickness of itself is sufficiently bad; but when discord and disorder are added, greater mis- fortunes cannot befall it, except that of a defeat. While they prevail, there is but little hope of things succeeding well. I must entreat your attention to these matters, and your exertions to introduce more discipline, and to do away the unhappy pernicious distinctions and jealousies between the troops of different Governments. Enjoin this upon the officers, and let them inculcate, and press home to the sol- diers, the necessity of order and harmony among those who are embarked in one common cause, and mutually contend- ing for all that freemen hold dear. I am persuaded, if the officers will but exert themselves, that these animosities and disorders will in a great measure subside; and nothing being more essential to the service than that they should, I am hopeful nothing on their part will be wanting to effect it. The scarcity of provisions which you mention surprises me much. I had hoped that an ample and competent sup- ply for a considerable time was now in store; nor can I but believe the most lavish and extravagant waste has been made of it. Not longer than three or four days ago, and just after the two men-of-war and tenders passed by, as mentioned in my last, the situation of the northern Army, in respect to this article, occurred to my mind, and induced an inquiry of the Commissary about it, being certain the water communication with Albany would be entirely cut off; and I was happy to find from him, that the supplies he had forwarded would be fully sufficient for ten thousand men for four months. This I informed Congress of as a most fortunate event. ‘To be told now that there is none, or next to none, is so con- trary to what I expected, that I am filled with wonder and astonishment. I have informed the Commissary of it, who is equally surprised; and’ must request, as our navigation is so circumstanced, that you will direct those whose business it is, to use every possible means to provide such supplies as may be necessary; and that proper attention be paid to the expenditure, or it will be impossible ever to subsist that Army. As to intrenching tools, I have from time to time forwarded all that can possibly be spared. I have directed the Quar- 391 termaster to send such things contained in your list as can be had and may be transported by land. The greatest part it would be difficult to procure, and if they could be had, would be attended with immense trouble and expense to forward them; I must therefore entreat your utmost diligence and inquiry to get them; and not only them, but every ne- cessary you want, wherever they may be had. ‘The water- course being now at an end, but few supplies can be ex- pected from hence; and I make not the least doubt, if active proper persons are employed, in many instances you will be able to obtain such articles as you stand in need of. 1 am under the necessity of doing so here, and by much pains and industry have procured many necessaries. As for the articles wanted for the gondolas, | should suppose many of them may be purchased of the proprietors of craft about Albany, and of persons who have vessels there, by allowing them a good price. The communication by water being now stopped, they cannot employ them, and I presume may be prevailed on to part with most of their tackle for a good consideration. I transmitted Congress a copy of your letter and of its several enclosures, and recommended to their particular attention the resolution No. 6, for raising six companies to guard the frontiers, and the high price of goods furnished the soldier, and that some measures might be taken thereon. There is a resolve of Congress against officers holding double commissions, and of long standing. None are allow- ed it except Adjutants and Quartermasters; and they gene- rally are also First or Second Lieutenants. In this Army there is no instance of double officers but in the cases I mention. The carpenters from Phaladelphia unfortunately had not time to get their tools, &c., on board a craft here before the men-of-war got up. ‘They set out by land next day, and I suppose will be at Albany in the course of this week, as also two companies from Connecticut. I have inquired of Mr. Hughes, and find that the six anchors and cables were on board Captain Peter Post’s vessel belonging to Esopus, who, upon the first appearance of the fleet coming above the Narrows, went off without taking the necessaries brought by Captain Donn. Mr. Hughes says Captain Donn, who bought you the lead, had orders to get them. . I have enclosed you a list of the naval articles the Quar- termaster expects to obtain and send from hence, which will evince the necessity of your exertions to get the rest else- where. Many of the articles, I should suppose, may be made at Albany and within the neighbourhood of it. I am in hopes that, in consequence of your application, the different Governments will take some steps for apprehending deserters. It isa growing evil, and I wish it may be remedied, From the Northern Army they have been extremely numer- ous, from report, and should most certainly be returned if they can be found. How far the mode suggested by you may answer, the event will show; but I am doubtful whether many will return of themselves. I fancy a part of your letter was omitted to be sent. When you come to speak of deserters, what I learn on the subject begins a new sheet, and seems to suppose something pre- ceding about them. After requesting Mr. Hughes to be spoken to about the anchors, &c., the next page begins, “unanimously agreed that I should write,” &c. You will perceive by tlie enclosed resolve, that Congress mean to raise the garrison for Presque-Isle, &c., in the Coun- ties of Westmoreland and Bedford, in Pennsylvania. Iam, &c., To General Schuyler. P.S. July 18, 10 o’clock A. M.—I this minute spoke to Mr. Trumbull again about provisions, and pressed his most vigorous exertions. I believe he is determined to leave nothing undone on his part, and has already sent off some persons upon the business, of which I suppose he will inform you or Mr. Livingston. G. W. Go. WasHINGTON. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL JAMES CLINTON. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 17, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 13th instant was duly received. The steps you have taken appear to me extremely proper, and that there may be no discouragement in the purchase CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 392 of arms, of which we stand in great need, I have, by the bearer, sent you the £300 you request. You will please to keep a particular account of the disbursement, in order that it may be brought into its proper place of statement at a future day. Before this reaches you, two officers of the Artillery, whom I despatched last Sunday, will have arrived, to supply the place of those so unhappily disabled. I trust these accidents will, form a Jesson of prudence and calmness at such times, and particularly excite care and caution. It is a melancholy consideration, that in these cases we suffer more from our own artillery than the enemy. As the enemy weighed anchor yesterday, with a seeming intention to pass up the river, I trust everything is in the best readiness and preparation to receive them. The rafts, if properly constructed, and executed with spirit and intrepidity, are most dangerous and alarming ene-_ mies to shipping. Unacquainted with the river, the situation of the ships, and many other circumstances necessary to form a judgment of the probability of success, I can only say, that I agree in opinion with your brother, that expenses ought not to be regarded, if the prospect of success is any way en- couraging. You must, with those upon whose opinion you can depend, form the best judgment you can, and act ac- cordingly. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. Wasuineron. To Col. James Clinton, Fort Constitution, 3d New-York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 17, 1776. GentLemen: Your letter of the 15th instant, covering the resolution of the same date, was duly received, which I beg leave to say was noble, and does honour to your respectable body. It likewise adds a further proof of your determination to afford me all possible assistance in discharging the im- portant duties of my office. It is impossible to say what may be necessary, but I shall conduct as the exigencies of the case may require, and I doubt not your cheerful aid and assistance will be rendered whenever called for. ; It has been out of my power to procure more whale boats than are absolutely necessary for the night-guards. Doubt not you will be able to procure the number you want from the western shore of the Sound, which may be easily trans- ported by land, or by the way of King’s Bridge, to the North River. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, with respect and esteem, your most humble servant, Go. Wasuineron. To the Honourable the Provincial Convention of the State of New-York. COMMITTEE OF NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO GENERAL WASH- INGTON. White-Plains, July 17, 1776. Str: The Convention have thought it proper to appoint us a Secret Committee, among other things to form and ex- ecute any plan which we may conceive necessary for the defence of Hudson’s River, which unfortunately has been too long neglected. We wish to have your Excellency’s advice on this important subject, and shall think ourselves happy to codperate in any design you may have formed. The obstructing the navigation at Mount Washington we suppose to be an object which your Excellency has particu- larly in view; we shall therefore direct our attention to such others as we may conceive necessary. Mr. Duer is in some measure apprized of our designs, and will give your Excel- lency every information that you may require. Your Excellency’s commands will reach us if directed to Poughkeepsie. We remain, with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most humble servants, Roserr R. Livines ; TON, Roser Yates, Gitsert Livingston, CurisTOPHER TappEn, WitiiaM Pavutpine. To His Excellency General Washington. 393 COLONEL DUBOIS TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 1, 1776.] New-York, July 17, 1776. Sir: On my arrival at New-York, I applied to General Washington for recruiting orders for the officers of my regi- ment, according to appointment of the honourable Congress, which he granted me. I thereupon notified the several offi- cers of their appointments; but, to my great surprise, I found many of them offended, and soon after they sent me their resignations, with their reasons, which I now enclose you. I could hardly have believed that gentlemen would have disputed for rank they all the winter acquiesced in, and performed duty accordingly in the Army before Quebeck ; especially as the arrangement of the officers of the regiments to be recruited out of the four New- York regiments in Canada was made on the same principle, to wit: agreeable to the appointment by the late worthy General Montgomery. { also enclose you a certificate of the rank of the officers of the Third Regiment, in which I served in Canada, certified by Colonel Weissenfels, who then acted as Brigade-Major, by which it will evidently appear that the gentlemen who have resigned assigned false reasons, and that the arrangement of my regiment,-as far as it respects the late officers of the Third Regiment, is perfectly agreeable to the rank they bore therein. And should there be any mistakes in respect to any of the officers of the other regiments, it was without any design in me to injure them; nor do I believe there is any, except in the case of Lieutenant Gano, which I offered to have corrected, as it might have been done, as the men in whose favour it was unintentionally made, resigned. It is true, there was one Mr. Gilliland left out of my regiment, who served last winter in Canada; but I hope I shall stand justified in not returning his name in my list of officers made by the Convention of this Colony to Congress last spring, because he is noted as unfit to serve, as is mentioned by that return. If 1am rightly informed, the Congress of this Colony decline appointing the remainder of my officers. This will tend so much to delay the filling my regiment, that I would beg to be informed by your honourable House, how they are to be appointed, that I may take the proper steps for tgat purpose. A number of good men have offered their services, and say they can raise their proportion of men in a few days. I am, with the profoundest respect, your most obedient servant, Lewis Dusors, Colonel. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Conti- nental Congress. To Lewis Dusors, Esq.: We, the subscribers, do hereby resign the appointments we held in the regiment lately ordered to be raised and com- manded by Lewis Dubois, Esq., for the following reasons : First: We have been ungenerously superseded, which the old arrangement of officers, made by the Provincial Congress will fully evince; for we assert that the youngest Lieutenant in the Third Regiment, to which Mr. Dubois belonged, is appointed a Captain over the heads of the First Lieutenant of the First, and other regiments; likewise, that Sergeants and Corporals, who went out in said Third Regiment, have superseded officers who bore commissions in the last cam- pie Aaron Arrson, Lieutenant. JonaTHan Pease, Lieutenant. Ricuarp Puarr, Lieutenant. Dantet Gano, Lieutenant. Garret Van Wacenen, Lieutenant. New-York, July, 1776. Arrangement of the Third Battalion of Yorkers. Returns of the Officers belonging to the Third Battalion of Yorkers, commanded by Colonel Cuinron, in rank, as they served at Canana, the last campaign, agreeable to General Monreomery’s appointment. Lewis Dubois, Major. Carrains.—lst, Jacobus S. Bruyn. 2d, Robert Johnson, provided for at Canada. 3d, David Dubois. 4th, Elias Van Bunschoten. : 5th, E. Cooper, provided for at Canada. 6th, Thomas De Witt. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 394 1st Lreurs.—I1st, Philip Dubois. 2d, Albert Pauldings 3d, Cornelius T. Jansen. Ath, James Gregg. 5th, William Martain, provided for at Canada. 2d Lizurs.—lst, Evens Wherry. 2d, Henry Vandenburgh. 3d, Nathaniel Conklin. Ath, Henry Docty. I can certify that the above gentlemen were appointed by General Montgomery, and did duty as such the time I was Brigade-Major to the Army before Quebeck. Frep. Weissenrets, Lieutenant- Colonel. July 17, 1776. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. German-Flats, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: Your Excellency’s favour of the 11th instant was delivered me this morning, with the sundry papers mentioned in it. It gives me a very sincere and heartfelt pleasure that I can declare that the difference in opinion between General Gates and me has been simply such, un- attended with that little jealousy which would have reflected disgrace on both of us. Be assured, sir, that the most per- fect harmony subsists between us, and that I shall, by every attention to General Gates, strictly cultivate it, as well to increase my own felicity as to promote the publick service. You have a formidable and well-appointed Army to con- tend with; but I still hope that when Americans see the danger, nay, the ruin with which they are threatened, they will with alacrity support you, and put it in your power to give a good account of the foe. May Heaven aid and direct you, and make you the happy instrument of ensuring freedom to the Western World. Colonel Dayton arrived at Fort Stanwix on the 13th. I cannot learn that taking post there gives any umbrage to the Indians, of whom we have about one hundred and fifty here, and momently expect very large numbers. We have hopes, from what information we have received, that we shall be able to keep them neuter at least. I am extremely happy to hear that your Excellency has ordered three regiments from Boston to the Northern Army. I believe General Burgoyne will attempt to penetrate into the Colonies, but I think it will be impossible for him to effect it, even if he should cross the lakes, which I cannot conceive he will be able to do, as our naval strength greatly exceeds his, and as we shall certainly build as fast as he can. I am very much afraid that Mr. Livingston will resign his office, if Mr. Trumbull appoints any person to act to the northward independently of him. If so, I shall be under great apprehensions that the service will not at this critical time be carried on so well as I wish. Will you be so good as to communicate this to Mr. Trumbull. I shall immediately transmit the Declaration of Congress to General Gates, and desire him to proclaim it throughout the Army. I am, dear sir, with every affectionate wish for your health and happiness, and with perfect esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Puitie SCHUYLER. To His Excellency General Washington, &c., &c. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, 1776. Referred to the Board of War.] German-Flats, Wednesday, July 17, 1776. Sir: I am honoured with your letter of the Sth instant, covering the resolutions of Congress of the same day. When gentlemen act with candour to each other, a differ- ence in opinion will seldom be attended with any disagree- able consequences. Iam happy, sir, that I can assure you that the most perfect good understanding subsists between General Gates and me, insomuch that it gave him pain that I was under the necessity of quitting the Army to repair here at this critical juncture. You will please to assure Congress that I am deeply impressed with the necessity of mutual confidence amongst all its officers, and that I shall never neglect any measure that may have a tendency to so desirable an end. I have seen with the deepest affliction the unhappy jealousy which reigned in the Northern Army, occasioned by Colonial distinctions—distinctions both injurious to the 395 cause of America, and disgraceful to the authors of them. I have pointed out to the several Colonels and commanding officers of corps, in language as pointedly as I could, the pernicious consequences of such a fatal dissension, and I hope it will soon be eradicated. I arrived here about ten yesterday morning, in hopes to have found the Six Nations here before me; but I fear the whole will not be here until the last of the week. Mr. Peter Ryckman, a trader of Albany, who has been detained at Niagara since last year, on a well-grounded suspicion of his affection to the American cause, and from apprehensions that his influence among the Indians would be exerted in our favour, has found means to make his escape, and arrived here last night, attended by twenty-one Seneca warriors. He left Niagara on the 27th ultimo, and tarried ten days in some of the Seneca villages. He advises that the garri- son consists of about two hundred men; that the fort is well repaired; that they were not under any apprehensions of a visit from us; but that in the beginning of May they were in great want of provision, and the soldiers wished for our coming; that Colonel Butler had frequently attempted to engage the Indians against us; that they constantly refused to comply, greatly commending us for recommending neu- trality to them, and severely reprimanding him for some scurrility thrown out against us; that a Seneca sachem, named Cajaghsoda, from some town towards the Ofzo, (a man of great influence and much respected by all the nations,) in a long speech inveighed bitterly against Butler for attempting to make the Jndzans parties in the war, and concluded with declaring that he would not interfere, but let the father and son (as he expressed himself) settle their difference between them; that this man opened the eyes of the Indians to their true interest; that the few Indians that went down to Canada had been kept drunk for some time before, and went contrary to the inclinations of the sachems of all the Six Nations; that the Council at Onondaga had sent a sachem of note express to Nzagara to bring away two sachems, whom Butler, by dint of money and ‘liquor, has kept about him all this spring. Ryckman understands and speaks the Indian language very well, and he assures us that he does not believe that the upper nations of the Six can be brought to act against us. If so, the more western nations will not be suffered to harass our frontiers. He advises that we should be liberal at this treaty. The goods we have brought up are neither such nor so many as we could wish; for although we have about seven hundred pounds’ worth, yet as the price of goods is so extra- vagantly high, they will not be considered by the Indians as of more value than half that sum. I have therefore des- patched an express this morning to General Gates for some Indian goods that were brought from Canada, and have ordered up fifteen hundred dollars in specie. If our treaty turns out favourable, I shall propose to my colleagues to publish such parts of it as will dispel the fears of the fron- tier inhabitants, without waiting for the determination of Congress, as the apprehensions of those people are very high. If, however, Congress should not approve of this measure, I believe there will be time sufficient to advise us of it before it can take place. Mr. Ryckman observes, that Cajaghsada, the Seneca sa- chem above mentioned, has been at Congress, and believes he will pay another visit, and wishes that particular atten- ‘tion should be paid him. He lives near Pittsborough. Per- haps it might be well to send a message to him, thanking him for his conduct at Niagara, and that it was communi- cated by Ryckman, whose Indian name is Queder. I am, dear sir, with every wish for your health and hap- piness, and with the greatest respect, your most obedient, humble servant, Puitie ScHuUYLER. To the Hon. John Hancock. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. German-Flats, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: Your favours of the 5th and 12th instant, by Captains Winslow and Lester, were sent me from Albany, and received this day. I have written to my Secretary to give those gentlemen the fullest assurances that your wishes with regard to them will be fully complied with, and that they will certainly receive every assistance the Hospital can afford, in case of sickness, in the same manner as the soldiers have ; CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 396 so that I hope they have already marched, without any difficulty. ; I arrived here yesterday, and found very few Indians. This day, about one hundred and fifty Indians have come in, and we expect a numerous body of them in a few days. Mr. Ryckman, a trader from Albany, who has been detained at Niagara by the British officer commanding there, since last year, because he was a friend to our cause, and had influence among the savages, has found means to make his escape, and arrived here last night, accompanied by twenty- one warriors of the Seneca nation. ‘The account he brings of the temper of the Senecas (the nation who could distress us most) is very favourable; and he assures me that he has reason to believe the Indians will not attack our frontiers. Numerous and formidable as our enemies are, I cannot despair of success against them, provided we are unanimous. I mention this, because of the unhappy dissensions in the Northern Army, where some unfriendly or unthinking people have set up Colonial distinctions. I have always deprecated every attempt to divide us, by that or any other means; and when I was last at Crown-Point, I convened the command- ing officer of every corps, and pointed out, in the most forcible manner [ was capable of, the danger of such distinctions, and how much and how justly the enemy would exult to learn it.. The goodness of your heart, my dear sir, and your zeal for our cause, will induce you to give me all the assistance in your power to eradicate this evil. But whilst I entreat you to recommend to the troops from your Colony to cultivate harmony, I would not wish to be understood that they have been the promoters or principal supporters of the unhappy dissensions; on the contrary, I have reason to believe them as little culpable as any. I am, dear sir, with every friendly wish, and with great esteem and respect, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHuyLer. To the Honourable Governour Trumbull. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: I was in hopes to have found the greater part of the Stx Nations here, as I did not arrive until yesterday; but a few only, as yet, have repaired to this place. The meeting will, however, from all the information I have received, be a numerous one. Last evening, Mr. Peter Ryckman arrived here. He is a trader of Albany, and has been detained at Niagara by the commanding officer there, on a well-grounded suspicion that he was a friend to our cause. He left Niagara on the 27th ultimo, and remained ten days with the Senecas on his way down, and was accompanied to this place by twenty- one warriors of that nation. He advises that the Senecas are extremely well pleased with the measure we have adopt- ed, in asking nothing more than a neutrality; and he does not believe that they can be induced to act against us, as the Crown agent, Colonel Butler, has several times in vain attempted to make them take the hatchet, and has been as often disappointed and even rebuked by them. | The few goods we have been able to collect at Albany are greatly inadequate to our wants. I must therefore en- treat you to send all the Indzan goods which General Arnold brought from Montreal, to this place, with all the despatch possible; and that they may not be delayed on the way, permit me to beg you to send an active and early-rising officer with them, to accompany them all the way here. I hope your endeavours to establish good order, and to eradicate the dangerous jealousy which has unhappily arisen amongst the troops, will meet with the desired success. The five officers, who went off from Lebanon, in Penn- sylvamia, were met by Mr. Ryckman, on his way from Niagara. I am, dear sir, most sincerely, your obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHUYLER. To the Honourable General Gates. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL WATERBURY. r Tyonderoga, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: This will be delivered to you by Dr. Ely, sent here by Governour Trumbull, and the authority of Connecticut, to concert with me the best means to prevent 397 the infection of the small-pox from spreading amongst the Militia daily expected from that Colony, and the other East- ern Governments. The Doctor highly approves of the method taken here to stop the progress of that pestilential disease, and goes to your post, by my direction, to give you his advice and assistance, to promote the salutary purpose of his journey to the Army. I have no doubt you will give him all the attention and countenance requisite to so impor- tant a business, and that you will continue to exert your utmost vigilance and power to make us once more a healthy Army. I send you by this conveyance a large quantity of provisions, five barrels of powder, two hundred and _ fifty weight of lead, some cartridge-paper and thread, and a set of bullet-moulds. You will employ proper persons, and, as quick as possible, have the ammunition made up into car- tridges. ; A gentleman, of credit and reputation, brings a report to Albany, that’a French fleet had arrived at Rhode-Island, with Mr. Deane on board. I am, sir, &c., &c. Horatio Gates. To General Waterbury. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL ARNOLD. Tyonderoga, July 17, 1776. Srr: As Iam entirely unacquainted with the Lake below ° Crown-Point, I send the Commodore, with the largest and best schooner, to receive his instructions from you in regard to the cruise he ought to make. I think, until the rest of the vessels are fitted, it will not be advisable to serd the schooner into the narrow part of the Lake below. I wish you were here to give directions for putting our whole squad- ron afloat. It seems to me they are very tardy about it; but I am entirely uninformed as to Marine affairs. I like Captain Mayhew, whom you sent here; but I think the Commodore seems slow, and wish he may retain all that prowess for which he says he was so famous last war. It is of the greatest consequence to our affairs to have the armed vessels commanded by men of firmness and approved courage. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To Brigadier-General Arnold. TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER AT FORT GEORGE. Head-Quarters, at Ticonderoga, July 17, 1776. Sr: I understand that there is a wanton waste of powder at your post, in firing a morning and evening gun, and in unnecessary salutes. It is my positive order that this practice be immediately discontinued, and no ammunition expended on any account whatever, except in opposition to the attacks of the enemy. I am, sir, your humble servant, Horatio Gates, Major-General. GENERAL GATES To the Commanding Officer at Fort George. GENERAL GATES TO LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GANSEVOORT., Tyonderoga, July 17, 1776. Str: On the receipt of this, you will send any spare oars you may have to Mr. Donn, at the Landing on this side the Lake. ‘The oars will be wanted here, therefore beg you’ll forward them as soon as possible. You will be very careful, sir, to prevent any desertion of those who are sent to the General Hospital: some villains may perhaps feign themselves sick, merely with the design of gaining an opportunity of deserting. The utmost care will be necessary to guard against this evil. Many complaints, sir, are made by the officers here, that their letters, both going and coming, are interrupted, and sometimes broke open. I beg, sir, if anything of this kind has happened at your post, it may for the future be prevented. If any person can be discovered either to open or retard any letters going to or from the Army, he must be immediately apprehended and tried, for a crime of this kind cannot be too severely punished. In fine, sir, you will in everything be very careful for the publick good and the security of your post. I am, sir, your very obedient servant, Horatio Garrs. To Lieut. Col, Gansevoort, commanding at Fort George. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 398 CAPTAIN BROWNSON TO GENERAL GATES. Pittsford, July 17, 1776. May ir PLEASE your Honour: I sent an express to Crown-Point, respecting Brice Dunlap, whom I confined on the 13th instant, a second time, for the murder of Corporal Colley, of the Pennsylvania forces. Your Honour being at Ticonderoga, I received orders from General Arnold to send the prisoner to you there. I have sent Lieutenant Samuel Tubs, with eight men, to convey the said prisoner to Ticonderoga. These from your Honour’s very humble servant, Gipeon Brownson, Captain. His Honour Major General Gates, Commander at Ticonde- rogd. PETITION OF THE OFFICERS OF COL. BEDEL’S REGIMENT. To Major-General Gates: The petition of the Officers, &c., belonging to Colonel Bedel’s Regiment, inhabitants on the frontier towns of New-Hampshire, and the interior parts of some other Pro- vinces, of New-York, &c., humbly showeth: That your petitioners, from a true sense of liberty and an utter abhor- rence of slavery, engaged in the honourable cause of liberty under the command of Colonel Timothy Bedel, under whose command we have cheerfully encountered many difficul- ties and sustained many losses without the least reluctancy. Beg leave to lay before your Honour, that it is not through any dislike to the cause, or any part concerned therein, that we do now petition for liberty to take post in the frontier towns, but from the first principle of nature, self-pre- servation itself; as, at this time, by information and letters received from the families of chief of us, we find that their case is truly deplorable, being under the disagreeable neces- sity of abandoning their farms, leaving their grain and the whole of their substance behind them, for fear of the sava- ges coming upon them, and obliged to crowd into some of the lower towns for safety, where it is but meanly fortified, through want of men, as that part of the country was left bare, most part of the regiment being raised in those parts; and at this time it is obvious to view, from the behaviour of the savages, that the first incursion will be on the frontiers, and those parts are entirely exposed since abandoning Ca- nada, ‘There has, upon computation, for these several years past, been raised, in only two of the towns, upwards of ten thousand bushels of wheat for sale, more than what the families stood in need of, besides corn, &c., and great quan- tities of hay cut on said farms. ‘The inhabitants have moved above one hundred miles below us, into the towns further down, so that they are one hundred miles from all assistance, which has been the means of a great number of good and brave men leaving the service. Your petitioners beg leave to inform your Honour that since they were taken prisoners at the Cedars, (as also those at the retreat of Quebeck, which was made so sudden,) lost chiefly all they had—the officers in said regiment being stripped of every part of their clothing that was either comfortable or valu- able, and have not had, since the 19th day of May, a shirt to make a change, but areeobliged to put on their outside garments when they get their shirts washed; and are not in any capacity to appear among gentlemen, or even to do their proper tour of duty, and nothing can be purchased here to make us comfortable. Your Honour’s petitioners do not desire the liberty to take post in the frontier towns in any other view than that of taking care of their poor, distressed families, and also providing themselves with clothing. We are confident the men who have left the service would heartily and freely join the regi- mentagain. Those whose families are most exposed would be glad to go upon furlough to take care of and remove them to some place of defence, if it is not your Honour’s pleasure for the whole to go. Your petitioners are and shall always be most cheerfully disposed to stand firm, at the expense of our lives and property, to defend the cause we are engaged in, could we but ease the distressed situation of our poor families. Your petitioners humbly hope your Honour will take the matter into your consideration, (as we are sensible your Honour is endowed with compassion and humanity for the distressed,) and grant such relief as in your Honour’s wisdom 399 shall seem most meet ; and your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray, &c. James Osgood, Captain, Jason Wait, Captain, Edward Everett, Captain, Samuel Fowler, Lieutenant, Ephraim Stone, Lieutenant, . Ebenezer Chamberlain, Lieut. Joseph Thurbe, Lieutenant, John Webster, Lieutenant, William Campbell, Lieutenant, William Bradford, Ensign, John Greggs, Ensign, * Benj’n Chamberlain, Ensign, Charles Hill, Ensign, Amos Webster, Ensign, Frye Bayley, Ensign, Abner Barker, Surgeon, Thomas Hibbard, Adjutant. Ticonpgeroca, July 17,1776. DANIEL TILLINGHAST TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Providence, July 17, 1776. By yesterday’s post I wrote your Excellency, and therein enclosed copy of an invoice of S A, No. 1 to 3, three cases Scotch arms. With this you will receive, via New-London, to the care of Nathaniel Shaw, Esq., Nos. 8 and 9, two cases more Scotch arms, as per invoice herewith; and like- wise Nos. 4 and 5, a chest and barrel, containing arms and flints, from Thomas Greene, Esq., being Continental property in his hands, as per invoice herewith; all of which wish safe to your hands; and am, with the greatest respect, your Ex- cellency’s most obedient and very humble servant, Danie, Tintinenast, Continental Agent. To His Excellency General Washington, Commander-in- Chief of the American Army, at New-York. Providence, July 17, 1776. Invoice of one case and one barrel containing twenty small-arms, thirty cutlasses, and fourteen thousand five hun- dred gun-flints, sent by Joseph Bradford, from Thomas Greene, of Providence, to Nathaniel Shaw, Esq., at New- London, and by him to be forwarded his Excellency Gene- ral Washington, at New-York, viz: No. 4, a chest containing twenty small-arms and seven- teen cutlasses; No. 5, a chest containing fourteen thousand five hundred flints, in the chest and in the barrel; thirteen cutlasses packed in S A No 9, a case. Errors excepted : Per [have examined and received the contents of the within. Ezextet Cueever, Com. Artillery. New-York, July 27, 1776. Tuomas GREENE. Providence, July 17, 1776. Invoice of two cases containing seventy-five Scotch arms, &c., sent by Joseph Bradford, from Daniel Tillinghast, of Providence, to Nathaniel Shaw, Esq., at New-London, and by him to be forwarded to his Excellency General Wash- ington, at New-York, viz: S A Nos. 8 and 9, cases of Scotch arms, viz: No. 8, a case containing thirty-nine arms, thirty-nine bayonets, and eleven broadswords; No. 9, a case containing thirty-six arms and thirty-six bayonets. N.B. Packed in No, 9, thirteen brass-mounted hangers, belonging to Mr. Greene’s invoice. Errors excepted. Per Dantet Titimenast, Continental Agent. Ihave examined and received the within mentioned arms. Ezexiei Curever, Com. Artillery. > GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, July 17, 1776. Sir: Agreeable to your request in your letter of the 12th instant, which I had the honour to receive by the return of our post, I have employed suitable persons to procure the felling-axes you mention, and have furnished them with £300 to defray the expense, and make no doubt I shall soon be able to send them forward. In the mean time, should be glad to be advised whether you would have them with helves and ground, or whether it will answer to send them forward without either. I have also issued a proclamation promising pardon to such deserters from the Northern Army as shall return to their Colonies by the 12th day of August next, and enjoin- ing all officers, civil and military, to apprehend all such deserters found in this Colony after said 12th August, and confine them in some prison, giving notice, that they may be returned to the respective corps to which they belong. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 400 The scarcity of materials renders it extremely difficult, if not impracticable, to supply the troops now raising in this Colony with tents. May not temporary barracks be erected at a moderate expense to supply the want of them? I took the liberty in a former letter to inquire whether a considerable number of the old gun-barrels and locks taken at Ticonderoga and Crown-Point, were not yet on hand, and to propose that they might be sent and fitted for use here. One hundred and eighty were formerly sent me, out of which one hundred and seventy good arms fit for service have been made; which encourages me to repeat my inquiry and request respecting other arms under like circumstances, and to hope for like success with them; and the teams returning that carry the axes may bring them. I have advanced out of the Colony Treasury £50 to each of the head carpenters sent forward from this Colony to join you agreeable to your request, which it is expected will in proper time be replaced. I hope the design of Dr. Ely’s journey to the northward may not be mistaken, The infection of the small-pox in the Northern Army, accounts of which were spread by every traveller from thence, and represented in such a light as induced a belief that it was inevitable by any who should join that Army, greatly retarded the levies for that service, as scarcely one in twenty of our people have had that dis- temper. To prevent the bad effects of this terrour, almost universal, it was Judged expedient to send a person of known skill in that distemper, who might examine the true state of the matter upon the spot, in confidence that his report would lessen the apprehensions of danger, and facilitate the raising of men to join and support that Army. We meant not to invade your province or the business of the physicians in the Army, nor did we entertain the shadow of a doubt that you would use every prudent and practicable expedient to stop the progress of the infection and provide for the safety of the Army. To obviate the ill effects of exaggerated reports from weak or designing men, by which the levies for that service in this Colony were obstructed, was our only motive to send Dr. Ely to that quarter. His great skill and expe- rience in that distemper generally known here, as well as his character for candour and probity, will naturally gain the fullest credit to the favourable report expected from him, and enable us speedily to fill up the battalion destined for that service. It is with great satisfaction that I receive your information of the measures concerted for preventing the further progress of the infection, and hope the same may be effectual for that purpose. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your humble ser- vant, To Major-General Schuyler. JonaTHAN ‘TRUMBULL. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Lebanon, July 17, 1776. Sir: Your favours of the 7th and 9th instant were duly received. It gives me pleasure to meet your approbation of the measure of sending our regiments of Horse to join you. I make no doubt they will cheerfully acquiesce in whatever you shall direct respecting their horses, as the gen- eral good of the service ought to be, and I believe is, their governing principle. I find our battalions are filling up fast, and moving to your assistance. The stock of horned cattle and sheep are removed from Fisher’s Island. Block Island lies in the Colony of Rhode- Island, and the Elizabeth Islands and Martha’s Vineyard are in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay: I cannot, therefore, with propriety, give any orders for the removal of the fresh provisions from them. I am sorry it is not in my power to comply with your requisition for heavy cannon, without leaving our port and harbour of New-London in too defenceless a state. By a return from the overseer of our cannon-foundry at Salis- bury, I find they have cast fourteen six, eighteen nine, and eight twelve-pounders, and are proceeding to bore them out and fit them for use. He has my orders, when the twelve- pounders are finished, to deliver them to your Excellency’s order, to be used where they may be most wanted, without waiting for further orders from me. Ball for twelve-pounders are also to be had there. Should you have occasion, you will please to give orders accordingly. I expect eighteen- 401 pounders will be soon cast there, which is the largest size we can hope for from that furnace. I have ordered two of our row-galleys to proceed to New- York, and trust they will be with you at the receipt of this; they have no guns larger than nine-pounders. I wish it may be in your power to make them more useful, by placing heavier metal upon them, whilst they continue in your ser- vice. The Continental regiment raising in this Colony is now in some measure filled up, mustered, equipped, and ready to march; but as there seems to be much danger from the prevalence of the small-pox in Boston, should they march there, and as the whole force of the enemy on this side seems to be directed against you at New-York, I have thought it best they should suspend their march towards Boston till your pleasure might be known whether they should join the Army at New-York or proceed for Boston. Since the arrival of the fleet and army at the Hook, seve- ral frigates and ships have been stationed between Montauk Point and Block-Island, to intercept the trade from the Sound, in which they have been so successful that they have derived great advantage from the provision vessels they have taken; and by frequent advices from the Captains of our armed vessels, and others, it appeared highly improbable that any vessel going out or coming in by that passage could avoid falling into their hands; and as several vessels were prepared and preparing in sundry places to proceed to sea with cargoes of provision, the owners of which must be pre- sumed to be ignorant of the hazard they ran in getting out; and sensible of how great importance It is that all supplies of provision should be kept back from the enemy; and having good grounds to believe that some evil-minded persons had designedly carried provisions to the enemy, or thrown themselves in their way, as your Excellency will see by the enclosed copies of depositions taken and sent to Congress,—I have given orders to the Captains of the armed vessels in the service of this Colony to stop and detain all provision vessels coming out of any port in this Colony, or through the Sound, and bound to sea, for the present, and until the Continental Congress and the Congresses or Conventions of the Colonies or States to which they respectively belong, may be apprized of the hazards attending their proceeding in their voyages, and, on consideration, shall give such orders as they may think fit respecting the same. ‘The apparent necessity of this measure will, I flatter myself, justify me in taking it, where it is known and properly explained. To prevent or obviate any misrepresentation, is my motive for troubling your Excellency with this account. I am, with great esteem and regard, sir, your obedient humble servant, JoNATHAN TRUMBULL. 19¢h.—Received your favour of the 15th instant, which induced me to send orders immediately to Theo. Stanton, Captain of our other row-galley, the Shark, to proceed with her forthwith to New-York, and subject himself to your command. Wish him safe, and serviceable to your designs. 20th.—Colonel Ward, of the Continental battalion lately ordered to be raised here, and mentioned above, informs that his regiment is not much beyond half filled, occasioned by their being raised for a longer time and receiving less bounty than others. Since many are ordered from Boston, and this may be stationed on the works below or in the environs, at places out of danger of the infection from the small-pox, will it not be best this battalion should be ordered to march to that place, first mentioned for their destination? They are principally men who have not seen service. Please to give the earliest notice of your pleasure therein. Nathan Spicer, (late a hand on board the sloop Macaroni,) of New-London, of lawful age, testifies and says: That on the 22d of May last he was made a prisoner, carried to Halifax, and there detained on board the Ministerial fleet until they sailed for New-York, when he was put on board a transport, and removed near to Staten-Island, and from thence escaped on the 14th instant; that while this depo- nent was on board said transport, viz: on the 5th instant, there arrived and sailed up and near to the fleet a ship of about two hundred tons burden, marked and called the Charming Polly; that she was conducted near to the Ad- miral’s ship, where she lay several days, during which this deponent’s duty was often to row near to and by said ship; Fietx Serves.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. A402 that on Sunday, about the 7th instant, this deponent, when ° passing said ship, saw the people on board selling fowls, &c., to the people of the fleet; that this deponent often heard the officers, and others belonging to the fleet, say that said ship belonged to New-York; that she was loaded with flour, live stock, &c., and that she came on purpose to supply the fleet. And this deponent further adds, that had not the fleet been successful in making prizes of American vessels when on their passage to New-York, they must have been much distressed for provisions, their allowance being very short before they had made prizes of nine vessels, chiefly loaded with flour. And further saith not. NaTHAN Spicer. July 17, 1776.—Copy of an affidavit taken before civil authority. JonaTHAN ‘TRUMBULL. Samuel Smedley, Second Lieutenant of the brig Defence, of lawful age, testifieth and saith, That on the passage from New-London to Boston, in said brig, by order of Captain Harding, commander of the said brig, having boarded sun- dry of the Block-Island boats on his way thither, and in conversation with the people belonging to said boats, this deponent formed in his mind the judgment that they were not so friendly as they ought to be to the American cause; and further saith not. SAMUEL SMEDLEY. July 17, 1776.—Copy of an affidavit taken before civil authority. JONATHAN ‘l'RUMBULL. Robert Niles, of lawful age, and Captain of the schooner Spy, testifies and says: ‘That in the beginning of the present month, a ship, to appearance of about one hundred and sixty or seventy tons burden, loaded with flour, lay at anchor in Fisher’s Island Sound, for the term of about one week; that during said term this deponent spoke with said ship, and advised and ordered her to make New-London harbour, assigning for reasons, that her situation was unsafe, being exposed continually to the ships of the enemy; and also that her remaining there was very disagreeable to the people of New-London, fearing that her cargo would fall into the hands of the enemy. However, the commander refused to comply with said advice and order, but remained in that situation until a number of small vessels came up and joined her, when she sailed, without waiting or attending to any signal of safety, as has been practised by other vessels. ‘This deponent further says, that when cruising on his station he very frequently has seen the Block-Island boats passing to and from; that he has good and sufficient reason to believe that they are much employed in furnishing the enemy’s ships and vessels with intelligence, supplies, and every comfort in their power to afford; and that the people of New-London, Groton, and Stonington, are generally of the same opinion, appear to have no doubt of the truth of that fact, and are much dissatisfied with that circumstance. ‘This deponent further says, that at the time of the Commodore’s fleet lying in the harbour of New-London, after his return from New- Providence, one Littlefield, of Block-Island, came over to Stonington, and there, or near there, purchased a hogshead of Jamaica spirits, and paid therefor about one hundred and twenty dollars in milled money, as it was then and ever since has been universally said and believed, and returned with it to said Island, at which time there lay watering at said Island one of the King’s ships; and further saith not. Rosert NIwes. The above is a true copy of the deposition, attested 17th July, 1776. Wint. Satronstatu, J. P. The above is a true copy, extracted from an attested copy . of the original. Examined by y,. auraw TRUMBULL. Ebenezer Colefox, late mate of the schooner Macaroni, of lawful age, testifies and says: That on the 22d of May last he was made a prisoner by a British ship, carried to Halifax, and there detained until the British fleet sailed for New-York, when he was put on board one of the transports, and removed near to Staten-Island, and from thence escaped on the 8th of July instant ; that while this deponent was on board said transport, viz: on the 5th instant, there arrived within the Hook, below New-York, a ship of near two hun- 26 A403 . dred tons burden, loaded with flour; that she continued her course up until not far distant from the fleet, when the Ad- miral sent out a boat, which met and conducted her up near to the stern of the Admiral’s ship, soon after which this deponent heard Captain Knowles, commander of said trans- port, say to the people on board, that the ship then arrived was not a prize, but that she came from New-York on pur- pose to supply them, and that she was loaded with flour; and further saith not. Pic pen aeey New-London, July 17, 1776. Copy of an affidavit taken before civil authority: JONATHAN ‘TRUMBULL. The testimony of Matthew Thompson, of London, in the kingdom of Great Britain, late of the armed brigantine Diligence, Dodd, commander, mounting twelve carriage guns, belonging to the King of Great Britain, of lawful age, is as follows, viz: The deponent, some time in the month of April, deserted from said brig, when sent on shore on Block- Island to assist in watering said brig, when the deponent remained on said Island six days; the deponent applied to several of the boatmen for assistance to get to the main, who refused; and finally this deponent, together with one Thomas Nixon, a fellow-deserter, obtained their passage from said Island in acanoe. ‘The deponent further says that the livers on the Island, except as above said, treated him very kindly, excepting also one John Wright, a taverner on said Island, and his brother-in-law, who used their endeavours to prevail on this deponent and Thomas Nixon to return on board said brig. And the deponent further says, that he observed a number of cattle, sheep, and horses, on said Island, and that the brig Diligent and the ship Cerberus were supplied from said Island with calves, hogs, ducks, geese, and fowls, which articles this deponent assisted in transporting on board said vessels. And further this deponent saith, that John Little- field, of said Island, was very kind in using his endeavours to get this deponent off said Island; and further saith not. July 17, 1776.—Copy of an affidavit taken before civil authority. JONATHAN ‘T’RUMBULL. Thomas Kanady, master of the ship Mary, of lawful age, testifies and says, That some time in the beginning of the present month, he discovered lying at anchor at Fisher’s Ssland a ship of about one hundred and eighty tons burden ; that this deponent, when on board said ship, found her to be partly loaded with provisions, &c., some valuable house fur- niture in the cabin, &c., and on board Mr. Damune, of New- York, part owner, and two youths, sons of the Captain, John Hilton; that this deponent observed to the Captain, that he admired at his lying in that situation, as he must be exposed to be taken by the enemy’s ships, &c.; to which Captain Hilton replied, that he was not in the least afraid of being taken; and if they did take him, he was not in the least afraid that they would take from him any of his cabin furni- ture; and further saith not. Tuomas Kanapy. July 17, 1776.—Copy of an affidavit taken before civil authority. JonaTHAN ‘TRUMBULL. MAJOR HAWLEY TO ELBRIDGE GERRY. Northampton, July 17, 1776. Dear Sir: IJ have often said that I supposed a Declaration of Independence would be accompanied with a declaration of high treason. Most certainly it must immediately, and without the least delay, follow it. Can we subsist—did any State ever subsist, without exterminating traitors? I never desire to see high treason extended here further than it is now extended in Britain. But an act of high treason we must have instantly. ‘The Colonies have long suffered inexpressibly for want of it. No one thing made the Decla- ration of Independence indispensably necessary more than cutting off traitors. It is amazingly wonderful, that having no capital punishment for our intestine enemies, we have not been utterly ruined before now. For God’s sake, let us not run such risks a day longer. It appears to me, sir, that high treason ought to be the same in all the United States, saving to the Legislature of each Colony or State the right of attainting individuals by act or bill of attainder. The present times show most clearly the wisdom and sound policy of the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 404 common law in that doctrine, or part thereof, which consists in attainting by an act of the whole Legislature. Our Tories (be sure the learned of them) knew very well the absurdity of punishing as high treason any acts or deeds in favour of the Government of the King of Great Britain, so long as we all allowed him to be King of the Colonies. Dear sir, this matter admits of no delay; and when the act declaratory of high treason is passed, the strongest recommendation for a strict execution of it, | humbly conceive, ought to accom- pany it. Our whole cause is every moment in amazing danger for want of it. The common understanding of the people, like unerring instinct, has long declared this; and from the clear discerning which they have had of it, they have been long in agonies about it. They expect that effectual care will now be taken for the general safety, and that all those who shall be convicted of endeavouring, by overt act, to destroy the State, shall be cut off from the earth. The levying an army for the war, after the Ist of January next, liesheavy uponme. ‘The present levies for reinforcing the armies, are, by order of Congress, only till the Ist of December next. 1t appears to me high time to set seriously and in the greatest earnest about it. 1 observe, sir, that you charge the miscarriages in Canada partly to the short time for which the troops were raised. You know that nothing will detain our people after the expiration of the term for which they were engaged. It will be in vain to attempt to inlist New-England people for a longer term than two years. No bounties will induce them to engage for a longer time— I fear for no longer time than one year. I have not time to add a word more. ‘Too early or ear- nest care cannot be taken for the providing good barracks and covering for our Northern Army, or Armies, against the cold season of the year. ‘They suffered much last campaign, when about Boston, for want of seasonable covering and firing. We are apt to delay. Let us strain every nerve. Don’t let us hesitate a moment at any necessary expense. We will conquer or die. Amen. If you judge anything in this confused epistle worth com- municating to your brethren of this Colony, to whom I present my sincerest respects, you are at liberty to commu- nicate it, And I am, dear sir, your true friend, and faithful humble servant, JosepH Haw.ey. To Mr. Gerry. GENERAL LINCOLN TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS. Boston, July 17, 1776. How to remedy the inconveniences that may arise to this State from the removal of the Continental troops, and how we shall supply forces sufficient to garrison the works already thrown up, complete and garrison those that are begun, is a question truly important—a question that has or will call for the attention of the honourable Board. And as it is neces- sary to know the state of the several fortifications in and near Boston, previous to a determination what number of men will be necessary for the purpose aforesaid, the Committee, under whose eye the fortifications have been erected, thought it their duty to lay before your Honours the following state of the forts, and their idea of the number of men necessary to garrison them: The fort in Boston, that in Charlestown, one on Noddle’s Island, and one on Grovernour’s Island, are nearly finished. Properly to man the lines of the fort in Boston, it will require seven hundred men, and an equal number, considering the unarmed state of the inhabitants of Boston, as guards in the different parts of the town. As Charlestown and Noddle’s Island can be reinforced by the Militia, if at any time a reinforcement should be necessary, it is therefore proposed that one company only be placed in Charlestown and two on Noddle’s Island ; and that one com- pany be placed on the small redoubt on Governour’s Island, of seventy-five men each. The works on Castle Island are quite incomplete. How much the security of the town of Boston depends on our maintaining that post is too evident toneed a comment. It hath been thought that five hundred men at least, were necessary to complete the works there, and to defend them when completed. The two forts on Dorchester Heights are in the same unfinished state as are the works on Castle Island. Such hath been the idea of the importance of those A405 posts and the post on Dorchester Point, that seven hundred men have been assigned as absolutely necessary to complete and garrison them. ‘The Committee are of opinion, as these posts are justly considered as a key of the town of Boston, that the number was not extravagant, and, indeed, far short of what they ought to be, was there not the highest probability that they could be reinforced by the Militia from the neighbouring towns in case of an alarm. Orders have been issued to us from the Court, that works should be erected on Long Island. Very little hath been done there, as we had no cover for the men. Barracks are now ready to receive them. Four hundred men are pro- posed for that post. The next is Nantasket. To maintain that ground, which commands the road, is too important to be neglected. The st is about half finished. It is in a state that it may be defended by musketry. The cannon for it are not yet stocked, nor are the works ready to receive them. From the many convenient places there are in town for an enemy to land, and from the situation and height of the neighbour- ing hills, the possession of which, if possible, must be secured, and from the extent of the works, it will be found that a large number of men will be necessary—one thousand, at least. We cannot promise ourselves a reinforcement from the Militia. As a further security to the several posts, the Committee beg leave to suggest whether it will not be necessary to have a small camp formed in the vicinity of Boston of one thousand men, to act in any part where they may be wanted in an emergency. When we mention garrisons, we suppose that a suit- able number of the ‘Train are to be in addition to them. We are also of opinion, as the Continental Train is to be removed, and as our number was insufficient before, that it will be necessary to add three companies more to Colonel Crafts’s regiment. ‘The number for the several garrisons, without the Train, amounts, as estimated, to five thousand three hundred. In Colonel Whitney’s and Colonel Mar- shall’s regiments, and in the four Independent companies from Weymouth, Hingham, and Braintree, if full, there are seventeen hundred and forty; which leaves three thousand five hundred and sixty, upon our estimate, to be raised. From a view of the services in which they must be employed, it is, in the opinion of the Committee, very evident that draughts from the Militia will by no means answer the pur- pose; as in that case, perhaps, men will be drawn out who have good estates and large families. ‘To content these for any considerable time from their homes, hath, by experi- ence, been found impossible; and the present busy season of the year will make it very difficult to keep them even for a short time. ‘The Committee beg leave to ask whether it is possible to garrison properly our fortifications, &c., but by inlisting the men to serve a certain term; and to wish, as the cir- cumstances of this State are so materially altered since the Court was prorogued, and it being so evidently necessary for them to be together, that the House might be sum- moned to attend on this matter, for in a few days we shall not have men in the pay of this Colony, near its capital, for a proper garrison thereof. Bens. Lincotn, per order. To the Honourable Council of the State of Massachusetts- Bay. CAPTAIN FISK TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Salem, July 17, 1776. This may serve to acquaint your Honours that in the latitude 40° 26° north, longitude 65° 50’ west, I fell in with the armed schooner Despatch from Halifax, bound to New- York; and after an engagement of one-and-a-half hour, she struck to the American arms. I boarded her, and found on board eight carriage guns and twelve swivel guns, twenty small-arms, sixteen pistols, twenty cutlasses, some cartridge- boxes, and belts for bayonets, nine half-barrels powder, all the accoutrements for said cannon. ‘The commander and one man were killed, seven others wounded. The crew consisted of thirty men and one boy. I lost one man killed and two wounded, and my vessel was much shattered, which obliged me to return with the prize, which I have at anchor in Salem Harbour, and wait your Honours’ orders how to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. * 406 proceed with the prisoners. orders were thrown overboard. I am your Honours’ humble servant, Joun Fisk. To the Honourable Council and House of Representatives of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, now sitting at Water- town. All the Captain’s papers and NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO COL. WINGATE. In Committee of Safety, July 17, 1776. You are directed to repair to Charlestown, on Connecticut River, and there take charge of such companies as you may find there, whose officers are commissionated under you; and take all necessary care, with the persons appointed at that place to supply the troops, to have the soldiers fixed off, taking their route for Crown-Point, or Ticonderoga, or the place where the Continental Army may be; and when you have done what appears necessary to you to do at Charlestown, you will proceed forward and join the Conti- nental Army as aforesaid, putting yourself and regiment under the command of the General and Commander-in-Chief of said Army. If no Continental officer has made provision at Charlestown for the soldiers, you will apply to Benjamin Giles, Esq., appointed by the Colony, to deliver six days’ provision at marching, to last the troops to Crown-Point. By order of the Committee: To Colonel Joshua Wingate. Mesuecu Weare. FRANCIS SALVADOR TO WILLIAM H. DRAYTON. Camp near Dewett’s Corner, July 18, 1776. Dear Str: You would have been surprised to have seen the change in this country two days after you left me. On Monday morning one of Captain Smith’s sons came to my house with two of his fingers shot off, and gave an account of the shocking catastrophe at his father’s. I immediately galloped to Major Williamson’s to inform him, but found another of Smith’s sons there, who had made his escape and alarmed the settlement. The whole country was flying; some to make forts, others as low as Orangeburgh. Williamson was employed, night and day, sending expresses to raise the Militia; but the panick was so great, that the Wednesday following, the Major and myself marched to the late Captain Simath’s with only forty men. ‘The next day we were joined by forty more, and have been gradually increasing ever since; though all the men in the country were loath to turn out till they had pro- cured some kind of fancied security for their families. How- ever, we had last night five hundred men, but have not been joined by any from the other side of the river.* I rode there last Saturday, and found Colonels Williams and Liles, and two companies from Colonel Richardson’s regiment, amounting to four hundred and thirty men. ‘They were attacked on Monday morning, July 15th, by Indians and Scophelites,t but repulsed them, taking thirteen white men prisoners; the Indians fled the moment day appeared. I will not trouble you with more particulars, as Major William- son will send a circumstantial account to his Excellency. I am afraid the burden of the war will fall on this regi- ment, and that the people over the river will do nothing. They grumble at being commanded by a Major; and I fear, if they join us at all, (which I doubt,) they will be very apt to prejudice the service by altercations about command. I cannot help saying, that if Williamson is fit to conduct such an expedition, he certainly ought to have a much higher rank than any of these chaps, who don’t object to his person but his rank. I likewise think it an omission that the Colo- nels on the other side the river have no written orders to put themselves or their men under his command. On the last accounts from town, that Cunningham and his companions were set at liberty, we were very near having a mutiny in camp; and it is really a measure which, though certainly intended for the best, is very alarming to all ranks of people. The ignorant look upon it as turning their enemies loose on their backs in the day of their distress; and the sensible part consider it as a dangerous exercise of a dispensing power, assumed contrary to the express deter- * Saluda River is intended when the word River is mentioned in the above Letter. t Scophelites, alluded to those who had joined the Royal cause, being named so after one Scophel, of infamous character, who had done so. A407 mination of Congress, and a corroborating resolve of the succeeding House of Assembly. Pearis’s house having been a rendezvous for the Indians and Scophelites, Colonel Thomas intended to attack it on Monday. We are not yet informed if he did or not; but one of our spies was there on Twesday, and saw many of our spies about the place, and all the buildings in ashes. Whether they were burnt by friends or foes is still uncertain ; if by the first, I fear Pearis will injure us much. Our men seem spirited, and very much-exasperated against our ene- mies. They are all displeased with the people over the river for granting quarter to their prisoners, and declare they will grant none, either to Indians or white men who join them. We have just received an account that two of the Cherokee head warriors were killed in the late skirmish at Lindley’s Fort. July 19.— Cunningham and Pearis came here last night, and by the conversation of the former, I imagine he was much caressed in town. Here he was treated politely, but with reserve; the Major and myself having advised him to go home and mind his private business, at which he seemed chagrined. I am clear he had not yet given up the idea of being a man of consequence; but the friends of liberty in this part of the world are determined to have no connexion with him, and to consider him for the future merely as an individual, and not as head of any party. We have just heard from over the river, that the white people in general had quitted the Indians after the repulse at Lindley’s, and were delivering themselves up to Colonel Liles. He has sent all those to Ninety-six Jail against whom there is proof of having been in the action. I hope you will pardon the freedom with which I express my sentiments, but I look upon it as an advantage to men in power to be truly informed of the people’s situation and disposition. ‘This must plead my excuse; and believe me to be, with great respect, dear sir, your most obedient, hum- ble servant, Francis SALVADOR. To the Hon. Mr. Chief Justice Drayton, Charlestown. NORFOLK (VIRGINIA) COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee of Norfolk County, July 18, 1776: It having been made appear to the Committee for this County, held on the 20th of June last, that Bennet Arm- strong had violated the ninth article of the Continental As- sociation, which was then ordered to be published in the Gazette, and the said Armstrong this day appearing, and presenting a recantation, promising in future to give no just cause of complaint: Resolved, ‘That the said Bennet Armstrong, on publish- ing his apology in the Gazette, be recommended to the pub- lick as a proper object of clemency. Latimer Housteap, Clerk pro tempore. Whereas I have been so imprudent as to act contrary to the 9th article of the Continental Association, as well as of a Resolution of the Committee of Norfolk County, in the sale of a parcel of corn; I do now declare my sincere sorrow for the said offence, which proceeded entirely from my misun- derstanding the matter; and I promise so to conduct myself in future as to give no just cause of complaint, and humbly hope the publick will accept of this acknowledgment, by again receiving me into their favour and protection. Bennet ARMSTRONG. Norfolk, July 18, 1776. JOHN WEST TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Alexandria, July 18, 1776. Sir: At a meeting of the Committee for this County and District, a resolution was entered into to write to your Council of Safety, and the Committee appointed me for that purpose, I am informed that your commanding officer or officers in each County have it not in their power to raise the Militia (on any occasion) under his or their command, without application to your Council of Safety, and instructions from them for that purpose. Permit me to say, I apprehend many dangers may be CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 408 avoided, many good consequences (in case of a sudden attack from the enemies of America) are obvious, had the commanding officers in each County on Potomack river full power to raise the Militia, and order them to march where there was a real occasion, either In your own Province or to the assistance of a sister Colony. We have been fre- quently alarmed with Dunmore and his banditti, with the vessels of war, paying us a visit; and when he lately made his appearance in our river, it was presumed his intention was to make this place an object worth his attention. His well known enmity to liberty, his untoward disposition towards this Commonwealth in particular, and his corrupt principles, capable of committing the most atrocious villa- nies, give cause to suspect his intention might be to distress this place, and the inhabitants of each side the river, by which your Province would experience the dire effects of the marauders. Should you be attacked, and our assistance necessary, we would cheerfully obey the summons of liberty, humanity, and neighbourly affection, and fly to your assistance ; we should be wanting in duty if we did not, because we are not bound up by any ordinance, nor command, but are at full liberty to exert ourselves in behalf of ourselves and in that of a sister Colony. I hope that you and the gentlemen of your Council of Safety, will excuse this remonstrance to you, and that you will see the necessity in the same light that we do of em- powering at least your commanding officers on the river to raise the Militia under their respective commands, in case of danger, and to march them where there may be a call for them. Iam convinced the gentlemen and soldiers would cheerfully do it, from a principle of humanity and friendship, though the danger was more remote from them, was this request put in execution. Iam, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun West, Chairman pro tem. To the Honourable the President of the Council of Safety at Annapolis. COLONEL DORSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Elkridge, July 18, 1776. Sir: When the Elkridge Militia went from this place for Annapolis, 1 promised to send down an’ equal number on Sunday, the 21st, to relieve them; but as Captain Daniel Dorsey’s company, of the Flying-Camp, will certainly be down on that day, and Captain Edward Norwood’s the day following, I am at a loss to know whether you will stand in need of the Militia. Please to inform me by Mr. Larkin Dorsey, that I may take measures accordingly. I am, with respect, your most obedient servant, Tuomas Dorsey. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Esq., President of the Council of Safety of Maryland. N. B. Captain Norwood and Dorsey’s companies will have few or no fire-arms. CAPTAIN NICHOLSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. 1 Baltimore, July 18, 1776. GentLemen: I was favoured with your orders of the 16th. I shall finish heaving down the ship this evening, and expect to sail from this on Sunday or Monday at farthest. I have been detained in caulking the ship all round. This I have sent by the small tender to wait your further orders until the ship comes down. The large tender sails this morning with the ten nineteen-pounders, shot, wads, &c. I am, gentlemen, your most obliged humble servant to command, James NicHouson. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER AT ST. MARY'S. [No. 53.] Annapolis, July 18, 1776. Sir: We have received your favour of yesterday, and observe the contents. Some powder and ball we despatched to you yesterday, and shall immediately send you four field- pieces, &c. You will receive by Mr. Hopewell £300, according to your desire. You will judge what additional number of the upper Militia may be necessary, and order | 409 them down. It gives us concern to hear that Captain Beall is wounded, but hope it is not dangerous ; and as we under- stand you have several Surgeons with you, trust he will soon do well. We are, &c. To the Commanding Officer, St. Mary’s. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL SOMERVILLE. [No. 54.] Annapolis, July 18, 1776. Sir: Your letter of yesterday we have received, and approve of the disposition you are making. By Mr. Hope- well we send you £50, We are, Nc. To Lieutenant-Colonel Alexander Somerville. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CHARLES RIDGELY, SEN. {No. 55.] Annapolis, July 18, 1776. Sir: We are in immediate want of a number of round shot, of the different sizes, particularly eighteen, nine, six, and three; also, some grape, and request you will imme- diately send them down to Baltimore, and write to your correspondent there, as soon as he receives them, to apprise Captain Nathaniel Smyth of it, that he may forward them to Annapolis. We are, &c. To Mr. Charles Ridgely, Sen. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN SMYTH. [No. 56.] Annapolis, July 18, 1776. Sir: We have written to Captain Ridgely, with whom we have contracted to supply us with cannon-shot, imme- diately to send down a quantity to Baltimore; and as we are in immediate want of them, we desire as soon as they arrive there, that you will forward them to Annapolis. We are, &c. To Captain Nathaniel Smyth. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. At a special meeting of the Committee, July 18, 1776: Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman; James Calhoun, William Buchanan, Edward Talbot, Isaac Griest, Thomas Sollers, William Aisquith, John Cockey, Darby Lux, and Benjamin Griffith. The gentlemen appointed by the Committee at the last meeting, to examine a situation near Armstrong’s to build a Magazine, report several places which they examined suitable for the purpose. Qn consideration of which, it was agreed, that Messrs. Benjamin G'riffith, James Calhoun, John Cockey, and Edward Talbot, be directed-to bargain with Captain Charles Ridgely & Co., for one acre of Land, which was thought most convenient, near to the spring at Armstrong’s. Ordered, That Mr. Darby Lux, with the gentlemen above mentioned, be a Committee to agree with the Work- men for constructing the Magazine for the publick use, and that they make a report of their proceedings at the next meeting of this Committee. It is agreed that the dimensions of said Magazine shall be forty feet long, and eleven feet wide, in the clear, and arched over with brick or stone, and covered with a shingled roof. Gro. Lux, Secretary. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 18, 1776. Sir: Mr. Griffin delivered me your letter of the 15th, with the packets, which I have laid before Congress. No resolution is taken in consequence thereof, nor has anything new occurred since my last, except the enclosed resolves. I have the honour to be, sir, your obedient humble ser- vant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO PENNSYLVANIA CONVENTION. Philadelphia, July 18, 1776. Gentiemen: I have it in charge from Congress to inform you, that they have come to a resolution of raising a bat- talion in the Counties of Westmoreland and Bedford, in Pace for the defence of the western parts of that tate. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 410 I am, therefore, to request you will immediately recom- mend proper persons to Congress for Field-Officers of said battalion. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble, servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Convention of Pennsylvania, now sitting. ? 5 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Philadelphia, July 18, 1776. Sir: In consequence of the resolve of Congress respect- ing the petition of Captain Benedict, 1 am most earnestly to recommend to you to give attention to the subject-matter of it, and to desire that the proper payments may be made, so far as they appear just and well supported, or that the objections to the adjustment of the accounts, as set forth by the petitioner, may be explicitly stated to Congress, to pre- vent any prejudice arising to the general service. I am, with respect, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Schuyler. WILLIAM ALLIBONE’S REPORT ON FLINT QUARRIES. Memoranda. Tuesday, July 16, 1776.—Left Philadelphia ; arrived at Wrights Park. Wednesday, July 17.—In search of flint-stone near the Delaware, in Upper Makefield, Bucks County, on the plantation of John Knowls, in a gully made by former inun- dations of the Delaware, I find the black flint-stone, but not in an entire bed, as I supposed, but mixed with other stone and sand, the best of which, that had lain near the surface, carried away for domestic use; but find the low lands near the river, for two or three-miles, (which is, in general, stony,) to be mixed with the same kind of black flint-stone, but nowhere in separate quantities. I went as far up as Prtcock’s Creek, in the lower part of Salisbury township. Thursday, July 18.—Like for rain. Made what inquiries I could in the neighbourhood. Friday, July 19.—At John Lacey’s, in the lower part of Buckingham township, about three miles from Wright’s Town Meeting-house, from former digging in a bank, find the earth and other stone mixed with black and bluish flint, as persamples. ‘The same day find the white and the gray, as per sample. In a ridge of land about three-quarters of a mile, on the Bristol road, from a place known by the name of the Four Lane Ends, great quantity of the white, and a little gray. Find one single small piece of yellow flint, which | think much superior to any other in this County, and has been much used formerly by the natives to head their arrows, the heads being frequently found in the fields to this day; also some black and white ones. I have no doubt but some quantity of the yellow lies in the neighbourhood of the Delaware ; but cannot as yet discover where, and hope some more successful hand has been employed. Saturday, July 20.—F ind the dark flint in scattered stones on land of Mr. Denormandie, Bristol road, eighteen miles from Philadelphia ; and, fifteen miles from Philadelphia, on the post road, great quantities of the white; and, at sides of Perryfork Creek, one hundred and seven miles from Phila- delphia, considerable quantities of light gray flint mixed with other stone. A sample. W. Auimone. SAMUEL CHASE TO GENERAL GATES. Philadelphia, July 18, 1776. Dear Garns: I wrote to you from this city immediately on my arrival. I was obliged to return to Maryland on account of Mrs. Chase’s illness. Every moment of my stay there was engrossed by my attendance on my lady and our Convention. On yesterday, I came to Congress with Mr. Carroll. I am extremely concerned for the very disagreeable situa- tion of our affairs with you. I am apprehensive, unless some effectual and speedy measures are taken, we shall lose the command of the lakes. While we are masters of Lake Champlain, the enemy cannot penetrate into the Colonies. All If they become superior, I cannot conceive the propriety of erecting fortifications at Crown-Point. How can a garrison there be relieved, if the enemy can prevent supplies by water? I took the liberty of communicating my opinion on these subjects to General Arnold, by a letter from Saratoga, and if you think the sentiments of a gentleman not of the military, worthy of perusal, General Arnold will show it to you. I am very anxious to know the real state of your Army, and to know what you think proper to be done by the Con- gress. IT am compelled to return to Maryland on the 8th of August. Farewell. Your affectionate and obedient servant, SaMUEL CHASE. To General Gates. LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE TO COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. In Committee, Lancaster, July 18, 1776. Gent Lemen: At the time the officers absconded from Lebanon, they were indebted to sundry persons there, par- ticularly to one Matthew McHugh, for their diet, &c., about £100. After the confinement of Lieutenant Barrington in this jail, McHugh applied to him for payment of his quota of the debt, and obtained an order from this Committee for Mr. Barrington’s baggage to be brought from Lebanon to this place, to be delivered to him on payment of his debts. Upon his baggage being brought here, Mr. Barrington pro- posed to McHugh to pay him his whole demand against all the officers, if the Committee would order all their baggage to this place, and give it into his custody, as his security for what he should advance for his brother officers. The Com- mittee thought it best to have all their baggage secured in this place; therefore sent for it, and have it now deposited in a part of the new jail here, packed up in upwards of twenty trunks and boxes, besides some bales and portman- teaus. ‘The keys to the trunks we likewise have; but have not yet opened them to examine their contents, neither have we delivered them to Mr. Barrington, choosing to have the sentiments of the Committee of Safety, or Congress, on the propriety of that measuse. ‘The members of the Committee of Lebanon have sent us an account of their expenses in advertising, pursuing, and endeavouring to retake those gen- tlemen, amounting to above £30, besides carriage of the goods. Perhaps by selling a part of the goods at vendue, the whole moneys might be raised. The Committee of Lebanon are desirous to have their moneys refunded, Mr. McHugh mentions that he has gone to join the camp in the Jerseys, and wants his money to leave with his merchants in Phila- delphia. We therefore beg the sentiments of the Committee of Safety, and their directions how to proceed in this matter; but should the Committee think the instructions ought more properly to issue from Congress, as those officers were Con- tinental prisoners, we hope the Committee will not charge us with presumption in requesting the favour of them to ob- tain the directions of Congress for our government. We also beg leave to mention to you, gentlemen, that we have now about seven hundred men, women, and children, prisoners in the Barracks here, over whom, agreeable to order of Congress of the 10th instant, we keep a strong guard, and are erecting a stockade fort round the Barracks. The number confined there we conceive full enough, and rather too many, for the building to contain at this warm season. It is rumoured here that a large number more of prisoners are intended for this place. Should any more arrive, it will be necessary to make some additional buildings to the Barracks, that these poor people may not suffer by being crowded ; and that work might be best done at this time, when we have a number of tradesmen of different kinds employed at the place, and the whole work might be superintended at the same time. We beg the advice of the Committee of Safety therein. In placing the stockades, we shall place them at such a distance from the Barracks that there may be a free circulation of air, to keep them as healthy as possible, and that there may be room for additional barracks, and are digging wells within the stockade to supply them with water. Lieutenant Barrington now asks to be released from con- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. A12 finement, on his parole. We beg to know if his parole may be taken, and he sent to the place of residence of the other officers of his corps; and are, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servants. By order of the Committee: R W. Arter, Chairman. COLONEL BURD TO LANCASTER COMMITTEE. Middlétown, July 18, 1776. Gentiemen: I herewith send you, by the worthy Captain John Reed, who commands the first draught of my battalion, the returns of eight companies. ‘The ninth company has not yet come to my hand, owing to the resignation of Cap- tain Robert Elder, but it shall be sent to you as soon as it comes tomy hand. Talsosend youa certain John W hite, prisoner, with what information is come to my hand from the County of Northumberland; and I think he is guilty of the allegation, but this I leave to your better judgment; and I am, with much esteem, gentlemen, your most obedient and humble servant ’ Samue., Burp. To the Chairman of the Committee of the County of Lan- caster. [Endorsed: Letter and examinations relating to John White, a prisoner, charged with assisting the officers to escape from Lebanon. Read July 20, 1776.] NEW-JERSEY ORDINANCE FOR PUNISHING TRAITORS AND COUNTERFEITERS. In Convention of the State of New-Jersey, ; Trenton, July 18, 1776. Whereas it is necessary, in these times of danger, that crimes should receive their due punishment, and the safety of the people more especially requires that all persons who shall be found so wicked as to devise the destruction of good Government, or to aid or assist the avowed enemies of the State, be punished with death: Therefore be it Resolved and Ordained by the Conven- tion, and it is Resolved and Ordained by the authority of the same, That all persons abiding within this State of New- Jersey, and deriving protection from the laws thereof, do owe allegiance to the Government of this State, as of late established on the authority of the people, and are to be deemed as members of this State; and that all persons passing through, visiting, or making a temporary stay in this State, being entitled to the protection of the law during such passage, visitation, or temporary stay, during the same time owe allegiance to this Government. And be it further Resolved and Ordained, That all and every person or persons, members of, or owing allegiance to this Government, as before described, who, from and after the date hereof, shall levy war against this State within the same, or be adherent to the King of Great Britain, or others, the enemies of this State, within the same, or to the enemies of the United States of North America, giving to him or them aid or comfort, shall be adjudged guilty of high treason, and suffer the pains or penalties thereof, in like manner as by the ancient laws of this State he or they should have suffered in cases of high treason. And be it further Resolved and Ordained, That all and every person or persons, who, from and after the date hereof, shall be found guilty of reviling the Government of this State, as by this Convention established, or of other seditious speeches or practices, shall be punished in lke manner as | by the former laws of this State such person or persons might or ought to have been punished, for such seditious speeches and practices against the Government then in being. And be it further Resolved and Ordained, That all and every person or persons, who, from and after the date hereof, shall be found guilty of counterfeiting or altering the Conti- nental Bills of Credit, the Bills of Credit issued by the late Provincial Congress of this State, or the Assemblies, Con- ventions, or Congresses of any of the United sStates of North America, or uttering the same knowing them to be counter- feit or altered, shall be adjudged felons, and be punished with death, in like manner as persons found guilty of counterfeiting or knowingly uttering the former Bills of Credit of this State might or should have been: Provided always, That no per- son or persons shall suffer death, or other pain or penalty, for any of the offences aforesaid, until he or they shall have 413 been first found guilty of the same offence or offences whereof he or they shall be charged and accused, in a due course of law, and by the verdict of a jury. Provided also, 'That nothing in this Ordinance contained shall be construed to divest any Committee of the power they now possess of examining and committing any offenders, so that they do not proceed to the infliction of punishments for any of the offences in this Ordinance contained, but leave the same to be deter- mined in due course of law, in manner aforesaid. By order of Convention: Samuet Tucker, President. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 18, 1776. Str: If nothing unlooked for intervenes, I intend to pro- secute the plan mentioned in my letter by Major Putnam, to-night. We hope to defer the attack till break of day, but if discovered before that time our operations will commence sooner. From our being able to discover no unusual move- ments in the enemy’s quarter, it is presumable they have no hint of being surprised. Our men are drawing together near this place. Some guides are provided, on whom I hope we may depend, and doubt not but our officers and soldiers will with alacrity execute this service. Your Excellency’s most obedient, ' Houeu Mercer. GENERAL MERCER TO MAJOR KNOWLTON. Elizabethtown, July 18, 1776. Sir: You are to march your party of three hundred men to attack the enemy’s post at New Blazing-Star. If pos- sible, have your men near the enemy before break of day. While you attempt to surprise the enemy, be careful that you are not discovered. Have a small guard advanced, and if they come unexpectedly on a sentinel, endeavour to seize his arms and prevent giving an alarm by firing, unless the enemy is prepared and formidable. Let a profound silence be observed during the march, and keep your men in Indian file, about one pace asunder. If obliged to appear openly against the enemy, have some of your best Riflemen on your flanks, with orders to gain, if possible, the flanks of the enemy. If they have artillery, a sudden push is necessary to gain possession of them. Should you be successful enough to take any of the Britesh troops prisoners, secure them well and treat them with humanity. Use the people on the Island with civility, unless they appear in arms. As soon as it is light, send out flanking parties to secure you from surprise. Lam, sir, your most humble servant, Huewn Mercer. To Major Knowlton. SAMUEL B. WEBB TO GENERAL WARD. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 18, 1776. Sir: His Excellency General Washington, having occasion to ride out early this morning, has dictated and ordered me to acknowledge and answer your two letters of the 11th instant, which came safe to hand by yesterday’s post. He is nota little displeased at the Agent’s taking the liberty of removing, or rather disposing of the cargoes of, the prizes, without your knowledge, and begs you immediately to forbid anything of the kind again. He is surprised that, out of upwards of four hundred prisoners, only seventy-three arms have been sent on, as he supposed every man must have had his arms with him. He begs your attention in collecting, from the Agents and others, all the arms that have been taken, and forward them immediately to this place, where they are much wanted. Enclosed is a list of articles he has taken from the invoices, and would have you send on as soon as may be. By express, yesterday, we learn of the arrival of the north- ern Army at Crown-Point, where those infected with the small-pox will be immediately sent to a distant Hospital, so that the troops from your State bound that way need not be under any apprehension of danger from that disorder. The enemy on Staten-Island remain as when I last wrote. I have the honour to be, with respect and esteem, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, SamuEL LB. Wess, A. D. C. To General Ward. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 414 List of articles, taken in the Transports, which his Excellency General Washington requests General Ward to forward from Boston to New-York as soon as possible: From ship Grorce: All the fusees, small-arms, and bayo- nets, shoulder-straps, gun-straps, leather bullet-pouches, hair knapsacks, canvass knapsacks, belts, flints, markees, and soldiers’ tents, common tent poles, tin canteens, camp-kettles, blankets, watch-coats, soldiers’ clothing, stockings, black plumes. From ship Anne: All the checked and striped Hollands, check shirts, writing paper, thread stockings, check trowsers, men’s shoes, ticking trowsers, men’s hats. From ship Lorv Howe: All the small-arms, bayonets, and cartouch-boxes, part of canteens and kettles, soldiers blankets, cutlasses, canvass knapsacks, markees. From brig ANNaBELLA: All the small-arms, shoes, soldiers’ tents, sheet lead, pack-saddles, cartouch-boxes, leather bullet- pouches, shoulder-straps, gun-straps, cutlasses, bayonets, and belts. By order of His Excellency General Washington : SamueEL B. Wess, A. D. C. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 18, 1776. Sir: The General has rode out this morning, and directed me to acquaint your Honour, that on the arrival of the Light- horse, under the command of Colonel Seymour, he acquaint- ed them that they could not be of use as horsemen; on which they concluded to stay and do duty as foot, till the arrival of the new levies. ‘The latter part of the time they grew uneasy, and refused their duty as soldiers, though their services were much wanted, pleading, in excuse, that there was an express law of the Colony which exempts them from doing duty separate from their horses. It was only requested that they should mount guard, which they refused; on which the General was obliged to discharge them yesterday, although but a small proportion of the new levies had arrived. I have the honour to be, yours, &c., S. B. Wess, A. D. C. To Governour Trumbull, Connecticut. TO MALCOM McEWEN AND DANIEL GREEN.—INSTRUCTIONS TO SUPERINTEND EAST-RIVER FERRIES. It is General Washington’s orders, that Malcom McEwen and Daniel Green do daily attend, from sunrise to dark in the evening, at the Hast-River Ferry to Long-Island, and Peck’s Ship, at which, or between which places, all boats coming to the east of the town are to land, where they, in the first place, are to examine all passengers going from town, and to see that they have genuine passes from the Commit- tee, or one of the General Officers. In the next place, they are to be particularly attentive to the passengers who arrive in town. If they are travellers, such as they can have no suspicion of, they are only to require their names, and the places where they intend to lodge, and report them to the General at noon, and in the even- ing. If they are, in any manner, of suspicious characters, they are to detain them at some convenient house, to be appointed for that purpose in the neighbourhood, until they can send their report, which is to be done immediately, to Head-Quarters, and the General’s determination be had thereon. They are also to examine the passengers of all other boats, besides the ferry-boats, which may arrive, and report in like manner. And, in order the better to enable Malcom McEwen and Daniel Green to carry these instructions into execution, the commanding officer of the East-River Guard is to give them every necessary aid in his power. The said McEwen and Green are to communicate these instructions to the Committee appointed to give passes. By the General’s orders, at Head-Quarters : Sriruine, Brigadier-General. July 18, 1776. If officers or soldiers of the corps posted on Long-Island should come to town with passes from their commanding oflicer, the same are to be sufficient to pass them out of Ald town again. Artillerymen are to pass by Colonel Know’s order ;.and those in the Quartermaster-General’s department by Colonel Moylan’s, or Mr. Hughes’s, Deputy Quarter- master-General. Mr. McEwen is, by the General’s order, to be allowed one dollar a day, after deducting his pay in Colonel Lasher’s regiment. Mr. Green is to be allowed one dollar per day, he having no employ in the Continental service. By the General’s orders: Sririine, Brigadier-General. July 18, 1776. TO CAPTAIN JOHN JOHNSON AND LIEUTENANT ABM. MESIER. INSTRUCTIONS TO SUPERINTEND NORTH-RIVER FERRIES. Similar to the above, with directions to attend the ferries to Powles Hook and Hooghbook, and all the boats on that side. Each to have half a dollar per day, in addition to their regimental pay. COLONEL JOSEPH REED TO ROBERT MORRIS. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 18, 1776. Dear Sir: IJ received this letter by Lord Howe, from a gentleman of character in England. You will observe it has the appearance of a mere private letter; but from the contents, and some corresponding circumstances, I have reason to believe it was not intended merely as such. _ In this view, I communicated it to the General, and now forward it, to be made use of as your good judgment may direct. If it can be improved, in any respect, for the publick advan- tage, either to give time to discover the true powers these Commissioners have, or in any other way, I shall most cheerfully take such a post as my situation and abilities will admit, and as may be directed. Or if you think no advantage or benefit can arise from taking notice of it, you will please to suppress it. I fear the die is irrevocably cast, and that we must play out the game, however doubtful or desperate. My princi- ples have been much misunderstood, if they were supposed to militate against reconciliation. I had one dogma of political faith, to which | constantly adhered, that as united councils and united strength alone could enable us to support this contest, private opinions and those of mere local autho- rity should be subservient to the supreme decision of Con- gress. From the purity and extent of its intelligence, and the abilities of its members, I derived my hopes of political safety, and therefore beheld with concern every attempt to control the judgment and bind down the opinions of any of its members by instructions or other devices, formed, as they must be, on the partial intelligence of some, and the inter- ested or timid views of others. My private judgment led me to think, that if the two great cardinal points, of exemp- tion from British taxation, and charge of internal Govern- ment, could have been secured, our happiness and prosperity would have been best promoted by preserving the depend- ence. ‘The Declaration of Independence is a new and very strong objection to entering into any negotiation inconsistent with that idea. But I fancy there are numbers, and some of them firm in the interests of America, who would think an overture ought not to be rejected; and if it could be im- proved into a negotiation which could secure the two points I have mentioned above, would think the blood and trea- sure expended well spent. I have no idea, from anything I have seen or can learn, that if we should give the General and Admiral a full and fair hearing, the proposition would amount to anything short of unconditional submission; but it may be worth considering whether, that once known, and all prospect of securing American liberty in that way being closed, it would not have a happy effect to unite us into one chosen band, resolved to be free, or perish in the attempt. There was a time when one sentiment pervaded the whole country. Whig and Tory, however differing in other things, agreed that the claims of taxation by a British Parliament could never be admitted. If these Commissioners have no concessions to make on this point, it must be evident to the whole world that resistance cannot be called our choice. It is the only alternation left to slavery and wretchedness. What will become of our affairs in Canada, or rather in this Province, in the Northern Department? Our General has more trouble and concern with that department than his own; and yet, after every step taken, and supply sent, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. A416 we are told of great necessities and wants, arising from incredible waste. If Mr. Schuyler is so good a Quarter- master and Commissary, why is there such incredible waste ? In short, my dear sir, if some speedy measure is not taken in this matter, in my opinion that Army will waste and disperse, leaving the enemy an easy passage into the heart of these Colonies. I trust and hope, amidst the changes which have been made in our Province, and in most of which I could not agree, the publick will not lose your services in Congress. I know many things must be very repugnant to your temper and judgment; but so it has proved in the struggles of all free States and countries. ‘The time and place will come when publick virtue will meet its reward— *¢' The firm patriot there, Who made the welfare of mankind his care, Though vex’d with envy, and by faction cross’d, Shall find his gen’rous labour was not lost.”’ Be pleased to present my respects to Mr. Wilhng ; and believe me, with much truth and esteem, &c., &c. To Robert Morris, Esq., one of the Delegates of the Pro- vince of Pennsylvania in the honourable Continental Congress. DR. MORGAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, New-York, July 18, 1776. Sir: The Congress having come into a number of re- solves respecting the General Hospital, &c., I find that one of them, as it now stands, gives great uneasiness to the regimental Surgeons. It is that which prohibits them from drawing upon the Hospital of their department for any stores, except medicines and instruments; and orders, that when any sick person shall require other stores, they shall be re- ceived into the General Hospital, and the rations of the said sick persons be stopped so long as they are in the said Hos- pital. The regimental Surgeons seem to think, that if this re- solve should remain as it now stands, without any pallia- tive construction in favour of supplying the sick under their care with necessary articles of diet, &c., (for no provision is made by any of these resolves for changing the diet of the sick, and their rations would be very improper diet,) they have nothing left but immediately to order the whole of their sick into the General Hospital. What would be the consequence? Instead of about three hundred, which is the present number of the sick in the General Hospital, it would immediately amount to two thousand or upwards, and the number would increase every day. But where we shall get room for them, is the difficulty; and in case of an ac- tion, and many persons being wounded, that difficulty would increase. ‘The General Hospital would be crowded, and the regimental Surgeons, who profess their ardent desire of being usefully employed, would complain of having nothing to do. But what is the worst part of it, as the dysentery and fevers of a putrid kind now prevail, the crowding so many together into the General Hospital would certainly engender a malignant, pestilential fever, that would threaten the ruin of the Army. These difficulties, in my opinion, might, for the present, be got over in one of these two ways, the choice of which is left to your Excellency: The first, is by adopting a set of regulations, drawn up and agreed upon betwixt the regimental Surgeons and my- self, (if it met with your Excellency’s approbation,) and which I laid before your Excellency a fortnight ago for your consideration. Otherwise, let the regimental Surgeons be suffered to keep such men in their own Regimental Hospitals, under their own care, whose cases would endanger the spreading of putrid and infectious distempers. Let them be reported to, and borne on the list of patients admitted into the General Hos- pital, but remain with the regimental Surgeons under their care. Then their rations will be stopped, discounted with the Commissary-General, and in lieu thereof, they will receive supplies of such articles as the General Hospital can furnish them with, of wine, vinegar, molasses, meal, &c., which, I believe, would not far exceed the amount of those rations. This would answer to a plan I proposed to your Excel- lency last winter, and which was approved. Your Excellency only wished then, that some method might be taken to pre- vent the rations of the sick being twice drawn. I appre- A417 hend that matter is fully guarded against by the method pointed out by the sixth resolve of Congress, of July 17, on the subject of the General Hospital. The first method would give the greatest satisfaction, not only to the regimental Sur- geons, but to the officers and to the men; and an experi- ment would be made of the real expense attending Regimen- tal Hospitals, and every cause, or even shadow of complaint, vanish. It would encourage the soldier in his duty; and if it is found, on trial, subject to any abuse, I imagine that abuse could be easily remedied by future regulations, or a stoppage in the men’s pay at the time of a new inlistment. The present increase of the sick is a serious matter, and requires a speedy remedy. I regret the calling for your Excellency’s attention (for ever so short a time) to my de- partment; but I flatter myself the importance of the sub- ject, and the advantages which may accrue to the service from it, will evince the necessity, and be a sufficient apology for it. I remain, your Excellency’s most obedient and very hum- ble servant : Joun Morean. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL WADSWORTH TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, July 18, 1776. Honovrep Str: As I have the honour to command a brigade of Militia from the Colony of Connecticut, I think it my duty to give such information from time to time as may relate to the interest or honour of the Colony. I am there- fore to inform your Honour, that on the 8th instant Colonel Seymour arrived here, and informed the General that a body of about five hundred of the Troop of Horse from Connecticut had arrived near this city, and also showed him his instruc- tions. ‘The evening following, at a meeting of the General Officers, the matter was under consideration, when it was unanimously agreed that the men were much wanted here; but, as Troopers, could be of na service in case of an attack, and that those men who were not armed with carbines, or good fire-arms, should return to Connecticut with the horses, as forage for them could not be had here, and that the de- tachment whilst here should do duty in the brigade under my command. And thereupon I received the General’s com- mand to acquaint Colonel Seymour with said resolution next morning, which I accordingly did; when he informed me he thought it would be disagreeable to his party to leave their horses, but said he would return to them and sound their minds; when a plan of sending their horses, at their own expense, (or trust the Colony to reimburse them,) so far back as not to prejudice the foraging of the Army, was proposed, and, as I understood by Colonel Seymour, was approved by the General; and thereupon, upon the 10th instant, they marched into the city, were barracked, drew provision, am- munition, &c. Yet many of the officers objected to their being subjected to fatigue duty, on account of their clothing; but were answered, that a partial treatment of the several parts of the Army would create jealousy, animosity and strife, and would produce great mischief in the Army. Little duty was required of them till the 16th instant, when a number were warned out to mount guard, who complied; a number of others being ordered on fatigue duty did not go. The same day I received a writing, addressed to me, signed by Colonel Seymour and some of the principal officers of the ‘Troop, representing, that by the laws of the Colony of Con- necticut, the ‘Troop were not obliged to do garrison duty, or on foot, yet were willing to mount guard, but could not consent to do fatigue duty, and unless exempted therefrom should presume they were at liberty to return home. Which writing, by reason of the General’s absence and my tour of duty that day, was not communicated to the General til] done by Colonel Seymour in the evening, when the Gene- ral, as Colonel Seymour informed me, said he could make no distinction in favour of any one part of the Army on this ground, but offered Colonel Seymour’s regiment liberty of going to Bergen Point in the Jerseys, to relieve Colonel Bradley’s regiment, which is there at present. ‘To this it was objected many of them had no blankets. The General replied, if they had not blankets, they could not go; and further added, if they would not submit to the duty in camp, in common with others in the Army, he did not care how soon they returned home. Being advised of what had passed, I suggested every argument I was able, to Colonel Firtu Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 418 Seymour and those of his officers I saw, to induce them to tarry; but if they were determined to return, not to do it without the General’s permission in writing. In consequence of which, application was made to the General, who wrote a letter to Colonel Seymour, which I have not seen, but have it from the Colonel that it contained in substance the decla- ration made to him the night before, and that he had used his utmost endeavours to persuade his men to stay; notwith- standing which they shave almost all left this city. The troops are almost daily arriving from Connecticut in small parties, which makes it difficult to ascertain the number every day. I hope they will soon be completed—an event much to be wished, under our present circumstances. Last Friday two ships passed all our batteries, up the North- River, under a heavy fire from our guns, which they returned without any loss on our side, except six men by an accident in firing one of ourcannon. What damage the ships sustained I cannot learn, or how far they are gone up the river. Two flags have come from the fleet, but the letters not being properly addressed, were not received. The officers in one of them were very polite, and one of them said Lord Howe was very unbappy that he did not arrive a few days sooner. I am, with great truth and respect, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, a etaien ae aaa To the Hon. Governour Trumbull. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 18, 1776. Sm: I received a line from Colonel Webd last evening, directing me to inquire how many ships had passed the Narrows. Colonel Hand reported one yesterday morning, which I thought was reported in my morning’s report, and if it is not reported there, it was an omission of mine. I beg your Excellency toexamineit. Colonel Hand reported at four o’clock in the afternoon that a brigantine had gone down towards the Hook; and that the ship that went through the Narrows in the morning, had come to, off New- Utrecht shore. At seven in the evening, he reported that the ship had gone down to the Hook, and that the enemy were intrenching on the heights of Staten-Island. The two last reports I did not come to the knowledge of until within night. I went over to the city at five, and did not return until eight. I thought it would be too late to get them to Head-Quarters seasonably, therefore concluded to report them in the morning. I have not received Colonel Hand’s morning report yet. I was down at Red-Hook about sunrise, and saw a sloop stretching down towards the Narrows. Nothing extraor- dinary has happened the last twenty-four hours. Our out- guards suspect that there ar® spies about the camp. The sentries have fired half-a-dozen times a night the three pre- ceding nights. Colonel Hand’s morning report is this moment come in; he mentioned everything continues in the same situation as last evening, except the sloop going through the Narrows, that I observed from Red-Hook. I wrote to your Excellency yesterday morning that I thought it would be an advisable measure to have Cobdle- Hill fixed upon to give notice by the fire of one, two, or three guns, that the enemy had landed on this Island. Colo- nel Cary wrote me an answer to that proposition, and said your Excellency had no objection. If it is to alarm the camp on your side, it should be mentioned in general orders, that the guards may govern themselves accordingly. We don’t want it to alarm this camp; what I proposed it for was, to give your Excellency earlier intelligence than could be done by express, and the express to follow with the particulars. I submit it to your Excellency’s further con- sideration. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant, N. Greene. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. New-York, Thursday, July 25, 1776. On Thursday last, pursuant to a resolve of the Repre- sentatives of the Colony of New-York, sitting in Congress, 27 A419 the Proclamation issued at Philadelphia the 4th instant, by the Continental Congress, declaring the Thirteen United Colonies to be free and independent States, was read and published at the City-Hall, when a number of true friends to the rights and liberties of America attended, and signified their approbation by loud acclamations. After which, the British arms from over the seat of justice in the Court- House was taken down, exposed, torn to pieces, and burnt. Another British arms, wrought in stone, in the front of the pediment without, was thrown to the ground and broken to pieces, and the picture of King George LI, which had been placed in the Council-Chamber, was thrown out, broken, torn to pieces, and burnt, of all which the people testified their approbation by repeated huzzas. ‘The same day, we hear, the British arms fiom all the Churches in the city were ordered to be removed and destroyed. New-York, July 18, 1776. Under a tyrannical Government it generally happens that the officers in Administration, from the highest to the lowest, are a set of villains, who countenance and support each other in every species of oppression, injury, and abuse of the unhappy people who fall into their clutches. The laws, even those that were well intended, in the hands of such officers, are only instruments of oppression, but afford no protection from it. Of this, the following Narrative of Cap- tain Robert Campbell affords a remarkable instance, and Is a slight specimen of what every American might expect, if ever these Colonies should again fall under subjection to the tyrannical power of Great Britain or any other State or person. Narrative of the case of Captain Rosert Campsent, of New-York. On the 24th of October, 1775, Captain Robert Campbell, master of the sloop America, having on board sixty-five hogsheads of sugar, a mare, and a chariot, shipped by and belonying to inhabitants of St. Croix, sailed from that place, bound to New-York, where he intended to pay the duties, having refused other freight offered, on condition of his attempting to run it at New-York. Meeting with bad weather soon after he sailed, his vessel and rigging received some damage. On the 24th November, latitude 35°, longi- tude 68°, he was brought to by the Viper sloop-of-war, Captain Graves, who sent for and examined him, looked over his papers, and returned them, saying he would put an officer on board to keep the sloop by him, as he was going to New-York ; but soon after took the papers again, saying he would enclose and send them to Boston, where sugars bore a better price than at New-York. However, he assured Captain Campbell that if his vessel had no powder on board she should not be condemned. Some time after Captain Campbell was returned to his sloop, the man-of-war’s boat came again, with a message frém Captain Graves, demand- ing Captain Campbell's sword and pistols, which the officer having received, took of his own accord a small box, con- taining six bottles of castor oil and a small cup of jelly; meanwhile the men were not idle, but, like their officer, took many little things that lay in their way, and broke open a cask of sugar, from which they stole as much as they could conveniently hide from their superior thief. Captain Graves, as he proceeded in villany, growing more callous, now demanded and took away Captain Campbell’s mate and people, putting five of his own men on board in their stead, with orders to steer N.N.E. for Boston. Soon after setting sail, Captain Campbell perceived that neither of Graves’s men understood working the vessel nor taking an observa- tion, and told them that as they proceeded they would never reach Boston. On the 30th of November, all the provisions the Viper’s men had brought being expended, and having only ninety pounds of bread on board the sloop, which he observed the men used very lavishly, he proposed dividing it among them, which was done, and amounted to about ten pounds each man. ‘The sun not having appeared for five days, they now stood south, and continued so three days, to latitude 35° 11/; then put it to vote whether to go on the coast or to the nearest port. ‘The bad condition of the vessel and shortness of bread and water induced Captain Campbell to vote for the nearest port; which being agreed to, they sailed for Bermuda three days, but not being able to reach it, the officer ordered his second to sail for Antigua, where, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 420 with Captain Campbell’s best assistance, they arrived in St. John’s harbour the 2lst day of December last. On the day of his arrival, the vessel was seized by a custom-house officer, on suspicion of having on board foreign rum and sugar, Captain Campbell then entered his. protest against Graves and the custom-house for all losses, &c., occasioned by the detention, seizure, &c. Captain Campbell perceiving his vessel detained, and no likelihood of any redress, applied for advice to a lawyer, one Philip Hicks, who, on his behalf, drew up and presented a petition to the Honourable Robert Christian, Esq., Judge of the Court of Vice Admiralty for the Island of Antigua, reciting the foregoing particulars, and setting forth the great injury he had sustained in his property, and the many personal insults he had suffered by oppro- brious language, &c.; that though Captain Graves was arrived, and pretended the sloop America and her cargo were lawful prize, yet he had instituted no process, nor taken any step towards her condemnation; the petition, therefore, prayed that the Judge would issue a monition against him and all other persons concerned in the seizure and detention, &c., citing them to appear at a certain day, and answer to the complaint against their conduct respecting the said sloop. The Judge granted the petition, and appointed the 26th day of January for holding a Court of Admiralty, for the purposes mentioned in the petition. After this monition, Graves found it necessary to bestir himself, in order to secure the plunder (which, by an act of piracy, he had violently taken from an innocent man, and the right owner,) from being wrested out of his rapacious hands. He therefore applies first to the officers of the custom-house, who had, as well as himself, seized the vessel, and as they no doubt agreed to share the plunder between them, they jointly concurred in a letter to the Attorney-General, who was also a Justice of the Peace and the King’s Proctor, of which Letter the following is the substance, viz: “To Thomas Warner, Esq.: “What can or shall we do with the vessel we have taken, brought into port, and seized? ‘Though her papers are good, and she has not broken any of the acts of trade, neither is there anything on board that will confiseate her, but her owners are in a state of rebellion against the King and his Parliament.” The Attorney had as yet come upon no terms with them, and therefore it was necessary he should let them know his importance, in order to enhance his share in the plunder. The following is a copy of his Answer: “Though you have the vessel in port, and you actually know that her owners are in a state of rebellion against the King and Parliament and his troops, yet their goods and effects cannot be forfeited nor confiscated before they are convicted or fled.” What secret measures were taken after this to induce the Attorney-General to become an accomplice in the villany, we know not; but that he did become an accomplice, appears from the part he afterwards acted in the business. In order to embarrass Captain Campbell, and put it out of his power to prosecute his suit, two of his sailors, Thomas Pacey and John Lawrence, were tampered with, treated, and intoxicated, when they were suborned to swear, on the 23d January last, before the same most conscientious Attor- ney, Proctor, Justice, &c., Thomas Warner, Esq., (at least so he certifies,) that Captain Campbell had to each of them acknowledged, that since the rebellion in North America he had served as an artillery soldier in the Rebel Army, and that when he was at New-York and St. Croix he wore a cockade in his hat. ‘Therefore, he (the illustrious Thomas Warner, Esq.) issued a warrant to John Jackson, Constable, requiring him to take up and keep in safe custody the said Captain Campbell, till he should be dealt with as the law directs. After this warrant was served on Captain Camp- bell, he was not immediately put under close confinement, as might have been expected from the tenour of the warrant, but suffered to go at large for several days, no doubt to give him an opportunity to go off, if he chose to do so, because, in that case, by the new act, the vessel and cargo becomes forfeited. But Captain Campbell, aware of the snare, made no effort to go off, but, on the contrary, urged on his suit. Finding this plan ineffectual, it was dropped, and recourse had to another. He was now taken up, and closely confined in a jail with felons, at a short allowance of raw provisions, 421 which were to be dressed by the common negro hangman ; and under this rigorous and ignominious confinement and treatment he continued for eight weeks and three days, during which time, and afterwards, till his departure, he was treated with continual insults and the utmost contempt, being shunned by the men with whom he had been acquainted, who would scarcely dei¢n to speak to him; some, indeed, told him that they should give offence to their superiors if they showed him any countenance ; and one considerable merchant, with whom he had often done business, told him that he feared his coming to his house would expose him to censure, and be a disadvantage to him ; after which Captain Campbell never went near him. During this time, (on a combination of all the villains concerned,) there was exhi- bited (on the 9th of March, 1776) against the vessel and cargo a libel, which was designedly made a false one; that upon its being proved false another might immediately take place, upon another act, which was not in force till after the commencement of the first process. In the libel, the seizure of the vessel by the Viper, which was on the 24th Novem- ber, (when no act by which it could be seized was In force,) was set forth to be on the 6th of January, when the act for seizing American vessels was in force. After the (allega- tion or) libel above mentioned was issued, (signed by George William Jackson, Register in Admiralty,) Mr. Hicks, (before mentioned,) Captain Campbell’s attorney, acquainted him by note that he (Mr. Hicks) was employed to prosecute the claim of Mrs. Alletta Heyliger, for twenty-eight hogsheads of sugar, her property, (part of the sixty-five,) on board the America; that he was clear the vessel could not be con- demned, and advises Captain Campbell to put in his claim, and give security as the law directs. It appears by a note of Isaac Harvey, that he had provided security for the vessel, and Captain Campbell was at liberty to take every advan- tage on that account that the law would afford him. On the 3d of May came on the trial; when, after a full exami- nation and hearing, the judgment sets forth “the claim of Mrs. Heyliger, that it was allowed, and her property ordered to be restored; but that, no other claim being made, the Court, as their definitive sentence, declared the sloop Ame- rica, her tackle, apparel, and furniture, and the lading on board, (except Mrs. Heylger’s twenty-eight hogsheads of sugar,) to be condemned as lawful prize, for the use of the captors.” The night before the trial, Mr. Hicks, the law- yer, who appeared to be very intimate with Mr, Christan, the Judge, was a long time in close conversation with him. Mr. Hicks told Captain Campbell that he had said, if a claim for the vessel and remainder of the cargo should be made by Captain Campbell, it would have been allowed in Court, and the whole restored; but if it should be done, prepara- tions were made to exhibit another libel immediately on the new act, which would certainly have produced a condemna- tion of the vessel and cargo, at fifty or one hundred pounds more expense; so that, by Mr. Hicks’s advice, Captain Campbell thought proper to waive his claim, and acquiesce in the judgment. ‘The custom-house officer had thought proper to quit his claim on the seizure he had made of the vessel, which being at that time in custody of the man-of- war, was of no real damage to Captain Campbell, and there- fore he could recover no damage on that account; and of the Captain of the man-of-war none could be recovered, because, by the act, no damage shall be recovered of any persons seizing vessels, though it should appear on trial that the seizure had been illegally made, and the vessel should be cleared. ‘Thus every way was Captain Campbell cut off from any redress; and after suffering a long and cruel im- prisonment and innumerable insults, was obliged to acquiesce in the loss of vessel and cargo, without the breach of any law, even those oppressive and tyrannical laws of our ene- mies themselves. The following Accounts were for charges on the imprison- ment of his person: Captain Robert Campbell 1776. To the Hon, Robert Christian, Esq., Dr. March 28. My fee for calling and attending a special Court to admit you to bail - - -£5 0 0 March 28. For summoning three Judges and the Attorney-General, at 3s. 6d. each - - 014 O March 28. A writ of habeas corpus to produce your person in Court - - - - - - - 0 38 9 * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 422 Fee per docket - = - - = - + = ©£2:4 33 Writing four notes to the Judges and Attorney- Genéral) at. Bsdd.eathi-, ~ .- -- .-' - 0 18 14 Wut ofjhabeas corpus .=.-) - - - -,-/0 6,48 Constable’s (Jackson) trouble for apprehending you for treasonable practices, and bringing you before Mr. Warner - - - - - - 110 4 £10 12. 64 A Note sent with the Constable’s account : “Mr. Warner sends his compliments to Captain Camp- bell, and if he will not pay Mr. Jackson’s account, Mr. War- ner may issue his warrant to compel him to do it.” N. WOODHULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, White-Plains, July 18, 1776. ; Sir: I have the honoar to enclose your Excellency a copy of a letter this moment received from Colonel Van Cort- landt and Captain Zephaniah Platt, who were sent from this Convention for the purpose of providing for and stationing the Militia that might come down from the country to guard the river, and assist the other Militia at the forts in the High- lands. I am, with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, By order: NaruanteL Woopuutt, President. To His Excellency General Washington, at Head-Quarters, New-York. ——- P, VAN CORTLANDT AND Z. PLATT TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Peekskill, July 18, 1776. GrentLemMeN: We proceeded, in consequence of your orders, up the river. When we came to Croton, found the ships anchored in Haverstraw Bay. We posted Colonel Hammond, with one hundred and forty men, on the banks of the river to the best advantage, and proceeded to Peeks- kill, rallying, as we wentalong, the people near the river, to keep out proper sentries along the river to watch the motions of the enemy. As soon as we came here, we despatched an express to Dutchess County to call in half of the Militia, and forwarded your letter to Captain Van Zandt, &c.; at the same time sent out for half of the Militia of Cortlandt’s Manor to march immediately to this place. Wednesday morning went over to Fort Montgomery, to confer with General Clinton, where, to our great joy, we found six hun- dred of the Militia of Orange and Ulster Counties, and great numbers had been sent back, all in high spirits. We then returned back, in order to go up to £ort Constitution, but, on our return, being informed that a number of troops were within six or eight miles of this from Connecticut, we thought prudent to stay until they came, in order to provide for them and fix their stations. About this period, one of the tenders hove in sight, beating up into Peekskill Bay. She beat up within about two miles of Fort Montgomery, and then bore away and stood down the river, when our people at the fort fired one gun at her. She*ran round the point of the Dun- derbergh, sent her barge ashore and plundered a poor man’s house and garden, stole a hog, and put off. As she went down between Verplanck’s Point and the west shore, our men galled them much with their musketry. The tender, in her turn, returned a heavy fire with her cannon, but did no damage that we have heard of. About three o’clock Major Gay, of Sharon, came in with two hundred and sixty men. Soon after, General Ten Broeck, from Dutchess, and General Fellows, from Massachusetts, arrived, with part of their brigades, and many more are on their march. We sent an express last evening to General Clinton, to send for Colonel Clinton to meet us at Fort Montgomery at ten o’clock this morning, to confer with us and Generals Ten Broeck and Fellows, in order to form a general plan of operation. ‘The returns are not properly made out as yet, but conclude there are about six hundred men now here, and expect there will be, by night, twelve hundred. From, gentlemen, your very humble servants, Pierre Van Cortnanpr, Zeru. Pruarr, To the Hon. the Representatives for the State of New- York 423 COMMITTEE OF NEW-YORK CONVENTION TO GENERAL WASH- INGTON. Fort Montgomery, July 18, 1776. Str: We informed your Excellency of our appointment, in consequence of which we took a survey of the fortresses in the Highlands. We are extremely sorry to say that, not- withstanding their importance and advantageous situation, they are by no means in a proper posture of defence. Part of the few cannon at Fort Constitution were sent away, and the whole number now there, and at Fort Montgomery, are not sufficient; this want, we suppose, your Excellency will be unable to supply; we have, therefore, sent for those that were designed for the ships that are building at Poughkeepsie; but if we should obtain them, they will be of little use unless some Matrosses can be spared from New-York, since there are only fourteen at both forts. If your Excellency could spare a few howitzers, they might be of singular use at this place. A skilful engineer could be at no place more ser- viceable than here, as many small posts which command this ought to be fortified. We cannot think the garrison by any means proportioned to the extent of the works or the impor- tance of the place. We know the difficulty that your Ex- cellency will find in supplying these wants; yet we cannot but suggest them, since we are satisfied that even if the enemy should be defeated at New-York, they might take such posts here as we should find it impossible to dispossess them of. We remain, with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servants, Rosert Y Ares, Joun Jay, Rosert R. Livineston, CHRISTOPHER T'apPEn, Givpert Livingston. To His Excellency George Washington, Esq., at New- York. P. 5. Since writing the above, we have been informed that the Salisbury furnace, at which place the cannon are cast, is under the direction of the Government of Connecti- cut; so that we have some doubt whether we can procure those for which we wrote, unless your Excellency will be pleased to lend us your assistance, by writing to Governour Trumbull on the subject. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, July 18, 1776. Dear Sir: General Washington has enclosed me the Declaration of Congress of the 4th instant, declaring the American Colonies free and independent States; and directed that it should be proclaimed throughout the Northern Army; for which purpose I do myself the honour to enclose it to you. Fifty carpenters from Connecticut I hope have reached Skenesborough by this time, and a like number from Phzla- delphia are, { hope, on the point of arriving. Fifty more are to come from the Massachusetts, and as many from Rhode Island. 'Toemploy all these to advantage will require great exertions. I wish, therefore, that General Arnold should pay a visit to Skenesborough, and arrange matters there. General Washington has ordered three of the fullest regi- ments from Boston to join you; these, with the Militia, will, I hope, give us a superiority, and enable us to prevent the enemy from doing anything decisive in that quarter. I have ordered all the lead at Albany to be cast into balls of various sizes, and into buckshot. General Washington writes me that Congress “have de- termined the matter between Mr, Trumbull and Mr. Living- ston, and decided the right of supplying the Northern Army, and appointing persons for that purpose, to be in the former.” I mention this that you may conduct yourself accordingly upon any application in the Commissary-General’s branch. I have assured Congress and General Washington that the difference in opinion between you and me had not caused the least ill will, or interrupted that harmony which is so essentially necessary to subsist between their officers; and I have entreated them not to entertain an uneasy thought on that account, for that a good understanding will be carefully cultivated between us. Adieu, my dear sir; and believe me, with unfeigned regard, most sincerely yours, &c., &c., &c., Pu. ScHUYLER. To the Honourable General Gates. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 424 GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 18, 1776. Dear Sir: I received your favour of the 16th, and your Honour may be assured I shall execute your orders as far as lies in my power. I would inform your Honour there are no troops arrived yet. I have had intelligence of their being on their march to this place, and hope they will soon arrive. I have a small party now clearing out Wood Creek, and a small party building a place proper to keep a guard on the hill east of the mill, and the rest are employed in getting timber for the carpenters, and mills, and on guard. I have not men sufficient to begin the fortification on the west side of the mills. Your Honour will see by the return, that there are but few men here; but what there are I shall endeavour to keep well employed ; and as soon as others come in, I shall do the same by them. I have picked up all the axes, and the blacksmiths have overhaled them. But there are but very few here in the whole. I shall stand in great need of tools at the arrival of the troops. Sir, I shall with pleasure receive your orders as you see cause to send them, and hope I shall be able to put them into execution, agreeable to your Honour’s expectation; and am, with the greatest esteem, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant ; Davin Watersury, Jun. P. S. Would acquaint your Honour there were thirteen carpenters at work at the galley, separate from Colonel Schuyler’s company, who were not included in the return, by not knowing of the same when the return was made out. The saw-mill is not yet got at work on account of a mis- take in the irons, and I was obliged to send them here to get them done. ‘They are now altered and returned. It is ex- pected the mill will soon get at work, as I have used my utmost endeavours to forward the thing. I have this moment received your favour, per Doctor Ely, and everything shall be complied with, so far as lies in my power. Still remain yours, &c. RESOLUTIONS FOR ARREST OF SUSPECTED PERSONS IN CON- NECTICUT. At a meeting of the Governour and Committee of Safety of the Colony of Connecticut, held at Lebanon, on the 18th day of July, A. D. 1776: Whereas many persons inimical to the United States of America, do wander from place to place, with intent to spy out the state of the Colonies, and give intelligence to their enemies, whereby confederacies may be formed and strength- ened, and other great inconveniences may ensue therefrom : Which to prevent, Resolved, That no person or persons unknown or sus- pected, whether they appear in the character of gentlemen, expresses, travellers, or common beggars, be permitted to travel or pass from town to town in this Colony, unless he or they can and do produce a certificate from some Con- gress, Committee of Safety or Inspection, some Magistrate, Justice of the Peace, or General, or Field-Officer in the Army, therein mentioning from whence and to what place the person producing the same is travelling, and that he is friendly to the liberties of the American States, unless he be a person well known, and friendly as aforesaid, And all officers, civil and military, Selectmen, Commit- tees of Inspection, Sheriffs, Grand Jurors, and 'Tythingmen in this Colony, are directed to require every person travel- ling as aforesaid, to produce such certificate, and to stop and examine such persons travelling without such certificate as aforesaid; and unless he or they can give full satisfaction that he or they are pursuing their lawful business, and are friendly to the liberties and interests of the United American. States, and has no design to hurt or injure them in his or their journey, that they apprehend such person or persons, and him or them carry before the civil authority, Selectmen, or Committee of Inspection of the town in which he or they shall be found, to be further examined and dealt with as the nature of the case, in his or their opinion, may require. And it is further recommended to the civil authority and Selectmen of the larger towns in this Colony, that proper watches and wards be kept in suitable places in said towns, by night, to apprehend any such persons as aforesaid, that may travel from place to place, and practise mischief against. this or the rest of the United Colonies, and bring them 425 before proper authority, that they may be dealt with in such manner as the nature of their several cases may require. A true copy, Attest: Wiitiam Witurms, Clerk. TIMOTHY PARKER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-London, July 18, 1776. Sir: I received your Honour’s favour of the 11th instant, wherein I am made acquainted with my appointment to the First Lieatenancy of the Colony ship, to be commanded by Captain William Coit, a gentleman | much esteem for his patriotick principles, as well as the bravery and valour he hath so often manifested in the cause of this our much in- jured and oppressed country. I have to thank your Honour and his Council for the good opinion they must entertain of my skill and ability in naval affairs, as being worthy the appointment. Sir, Lam diffident of my own ability in the performance of so great a trust; and am sorry I am under the necessity of declining so honourable an appointment, for reasons (to me of weight) already communicated to Benjamin Hun- tington, Esq., one of your Honour’s Council. lam, with the greatest esteem, your Honour’s and Coun- cil’s most obedient and humble servant, Timorny Parker. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Lebanon. JEHIEL TINKER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-London, July 18, 1776. Honovurep Sir: I received yours of the 16th instant, ordering me to New-York. I shall be ready by to-morrow night, if the small-arms are ready, that I am to apply to Colonel Huntington for. I have applied for them, but Colonel Huntington was not at home. I could not get them. There is a postscript on the back of the letter your Honour sent me, informing me there is a letter at Lebanon to General Washington, which I shall wait for. I have got on board three cannon, (nine-pounders,) of the five that were here, which is all that will answer; and two three-pounders out of the old fort. I should be glad if your Honour would give me an order on Captain Dicker- son, at Saybrook, for part of a hogshead of rum that is there, as cider is very scarce and dear, and it is likely rum will be dear at New-York. From your most humble servant, To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. JenqieL TINKER. Boston, Thursday, July 18, 1776. This day, pursuant to the orders of the honourable Coun- cil, was proclaimed, from the balcony of the State-House in this town, the Declaration of the American Congress, ab- solving the United Colonies from their allegiance to the British Crown, and declaring them free and independent States. There were present on the occasion, in the Council Cham- ber, the Committee of Council, a number of the Honourable House of Representatives, the Magistrates, Ministers, Se- lectmen, and other gentlemen of Boston and the neighbour- ing towns; also, the Commission Officers of the Continental Regiments stationed here, and other officers. Two of those regiments were under arms in King Street, formed into three lines, on the north side of the street, and into thirteen divisions; and a detachment from the Massachusetts regi- ment of Artillery, with two pieces of cannon, was on their right wing. At one o’clock the Declaration was proclaimed by Colonel Thomas Crofts, the Sheriff of the County of Suffolk, which was received with great joy, expressed by three huzzas from a great concourse of people assembled on the occasion; after which, on a signal given, thirteen pieces of cannon were fired from the fort on Fort-Hill; the forts at Dorchester-Neck, the Castle, Nantasket, and Point-Alder- ton, likewise discharged their cannon; then the detachment of Artillery fired their cannon thirteen times, which was fol- lowed by the two regiments giving their fire from the thirteen divisions in succession. These firings corresponded to the number of the American States united. The ceremony was closed with a proper collation to the gentlemen in the Coun- cil Chamber ; during which, the following Toasts were given CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 426 by the President of the Council, and heartily pledged by the company, viz: _ Prosperity and perpetuity to the United States of Ame- rica. The American Congress. The General Court of the State of Massachusetts-Bay. General Washington, and success to the arms of the Uni- ted States. The downfall of tyrants and tyranny. The universal prevalence of civil and religious liberty. The friends of the United States in all quarters of the globe. The bells of the town were rung on the occasion, and undissembled festivity cheered and brightened every face. On the same evening, the King’s arms, and every sign with any resemblance of it, whether Lion and Crown, Pestle and Mortar and Crown, Heart and Crown, &c., together with every sign that belonged to a ‘Tory, was taken down, and made a general conflagration of in King Street. Watertown, Monday, July 22, 1776. Last Thursday, a number of the Members of the Council, (who were prevented attending the ceremony of proclaiming the Declaration of Independence at Boston, on account of the small-pox there,) together with those of the honourable House of Representatives who were in town, and a number of other gentlemen, assembled at the Council Chamber, in this town, where the said Declaration was also proclaimed by the Secretary from one of the windows; after which, the gentlemen present partook of a decent collation prepared on the occasion, and drank a number of constitutional toasts, and then retired. On the same day, the Tyrannicide privateer, in the ser- vice of this State, commanded by John Fisk, carried into Salem an armed schooner of eight carriage and twelve swivel guns, and thirty men, which he took off George’s Banks, about three weeks ago, after an obstinate engagement of three glasses. The schooner belonged to and sailed with the fleet which is arrived at New-York, and was one of those which belonged to the rear division. The Tyranni- cide had one man killed, and one wounded, and was much shattered; but is now refitting, and will soon be ready for another cruise. ‘The Captain of the schooner and one man were killed; the master lost one arm, and about ten were wounded, several mortally. The King’s arms in this town were, on Saturday last, defaced. The post for Crown-Point sets out this day (and every Monday) at ten o’clock, from the house of Mr. Stephen Harris in this town, where letters are to be sent, in order to be forwarded gratis. He returns on Saturdays. TIMOTHY PICKERING, JUN., TO RICHARD DERBY. Salem, July 18, 1776. Sir: Lam directed by the Selectmen and Committee of Safety of this town to inform you, that the inhabitants are very uneasy, and urge the erecting a gate at the entrance of the town to secure them against the small-pox, of which they think themselves in danger, by means of persons coming from Boston unexamined and uncleansed, which they do to this day, and it is feared will continue to do, unless the honourable Council take some effective order to prevent it. Captain Peele tells us that he came out of Boston yes- terday, without seeing any guard, or being asked a question. If there be a continuance of such carelessness in Boston, the infection may be spread far and near, and a great many towns put to a very great expense in erecting gates and providing guards. ‘The Selectmen and Committee pray you to use your endeavours in Council that effectual measures be taken to prevent such extensive mischief. ‘The Select- men and Committee are also desirous that the poor of Boston may be removed from our Hospital. ‘Their continuance there any longer will be attended with many disadvantages to the town. We have two patients already with the natural small-pox, and we expect many more. It is no longer expedient to remove them to the Neck, because, in case of an alarm in that quarter, the whole country would be in danger, if they ventured on to the Neck, and perhaps they would refuse to go. ‘The Court of Sessions may also order A427 it to be used as a County Hospital. There are other reasons ; but the bearer is waiting with impatience. You are requested to urge this point also in Council. In haste. I am, yours 70 vee Tim. Pickerine, Jun. To the Honourable Richard Derby, Esq. SELECTMEN OF NORTHFIELD TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Northfield, July 18, 1776. Honourep Grentiemen: These are to inform you, that five of the prisoners from Northampton came to us on the ninth day of July last, and are in want of some supply of money for their present subsistence. Some of them are in want of some clothes. Having an opportunity now to send to your Honours of their need, we beg the favour that you would be pleased to send some here by the bearer, Captain Hopkins King, or give order on the Town ‘Treasurer of Northfield, as there is some money ordered there, to be paid to the Treasurer of the Massachusetts-Bay, which we hope will be sent in soon. Doctor Samuel Mattson is now ‘Town Treasurer. We would also inform your Honours that many people are very uneasy. The prisoners are sent so near our frontiers, that they may easily make their escape, and inform our enemy of our poor situation to defend ourselves. ‘They can also, with the liberty the Congress gives, have an opportunity of converse with Tories every day, which has been observed from time to time. If your Honours, in your wisdom, shall think proper to remove them to some more interior part of the country, it would be greatly pleasing to your very hum- ble servants , Exisan Honv, EBENEZER JANES, Epwarp WrieuHt, Selectmen of Northfield. To the Hon. Council of Massachusetts-Bay. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO COLONEL JACOB BAYLEY. In Committee of Safety, July 18, 1776. The Committee are in expectation that you will accom- plish your desire of keeping in Continental pay, per order of General Washington, the sixty men employed by you to clear a road to Canada; and as you have thought fit to desist working on said road, that you now employ them as scouting parties to guard the country. But if you should be directed to disband them, you are hereby empowered to inlist fifty men, to be under the pay of this Colony, until the first of December next, unless sooner discharged, and see that the men fairly choose a Captain-Lieutenant and Ensien to com- mand them. Said company, if raised, to take orders, from time to time, from yourself, Colonel John Hurd, and Colonel Charles Johnson, to direct their conduct. Said men to receive 30s. bounty, and 40s. per month wages. By order of the Committee. I am, sir, your most humble servant, M. Weare, Chairman. To Colonel Jacob Bayley. —_————_ ORDER ON SAMUEL DYER. In Committee of Safety, July 18, 1776. Samuel Dyer, an inhabitant of Berwick, in the County of York, and Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay, being brought before the Committee, charged with being unfriendly to the liberties of this country; and, after hearing his defence, and considering the matters objected against him, the Com- mittee do determine that the said Samuel Dyer ought to confine himself to the aforesaid town of Berwick, and in no case to come within the limits of this Colony, under pain of imprisonment, unless Captain John Langdon should see fit to receive him aboard the Continental frigate under his care at Portsmouth ; in which case, he may inlist and con- tinue in that service. By order of the Committee. Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, July 20, 1776. The day before yesterday, pursuant to an order from the Great and General Court of this State, the Independent CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 428 Company under Colonel Sherburne, and the Light-Infantry Company under Colonel Langdon, were drawn up on the parade, in their uniforms, when the Declaration of Indepen- dence from the Grand Continental Congress was read, in the hearing of a numerous and respectable audience. The pleasing countenances of the many patriots present spoke a hearty concurrence in the interesting measure, which was confirmed by three huzzas, and all was conducted in peace and good order. An express passed through this town last Thursday, who brought an account that Captain Mowat, in the Canceaua, had taken all the fishing-boats that lay within his reach, to the number of twenty sail, at the eastward of Casco-Bay, and is supposed to have carried them into Halifax. Last Wednesday set out on their march for our Northern Army, the first company of the first battalion of New-Hamp- shire forces, commanded by Captain James Arnold, late of Boston, consisting of about one hundred stout, active, enter- prising volunteers, who have all engaged in the service, and marched off with great spirit and good order, within the short space of ten days. Such is the ardour, such the reso- lution of freemen to support a cause in which their all is interested. ——— GENERAL LEE TO A MEMBER OF CONGRESS. Charlestown, South-Carolina, July 19, 1776. My pear Frtenp: I have received yours of the 28th of May, and did not think it possible that anything could come from your hand to give me so disagreeable sensations. You tell me a dark, mysterious story of a certain great General, of whom Prince Ferdinand has declared, si lon vent un officier, &c. This great General in the clouds will, it seems, graciously condescend to serve America, on condition that Congress will give him assurances of stepping over the heads of every officer but one, and this he submits to, only on con- sideration of the confidence due to an American. You ask my opinion on this subject; but the palpable meaning of your letter is, to prepare me for a cession of my rank in favour of some impudent adventurer. Buckwith is the man, as you conjecture, from his known political principles and military abilities, which are so transcendent that I ought, for the publick interest, to make a second sacrifice. I am not, I believe, naturally proud; I do not think myself conceited of my talents; but to be put in competition, much more to be spurned aside, to make room for so despicable a character as Buckwith, a generally reputed coward, and a b d sycophant,—lI say, to be kicked out of my station for such a creature as this, would swell a man more humble than my- self into a trumpeter of his own merits. Great God! is it come to this? Iam not, it seems, an American; but am [ not (if I may so express myself) Americanior ipsis Ameri- canis? Have | not, such has been my zeal for your cause, once already waived my military claims in deference to the whim and partiality of some of your members? Did I not consent to serve under an old Churchwarden, of whom you had conceived a most extravagant and ridiculous opinion ? Your eyes were at length opened, and Deacon Ward returned to his proper occupation; and would you now, a second time, (do you think it consistent with decency, I may say gratitude or common honesty,) load me with a similar dis- grace? Have | betrayed any ignorance in my profession ? Have I shown a deficiency in courage? Am I slackened in my zeal or industry? What have I done to merit such an indignity? What part of my conduct can justify your har- bouring such an idea? Have not I staked my fortune, life, and reputation, in your cause? Is there a service in Europe, to speak proudly, (your injurious proposal forces me to it.) is there a service in Europe, where, with some small reputa- tion and my powerful friends, I might not expect the same rank L now hold? Have I not made myself a voluntary slave for the insurances of American freedom? Have I, sleeping or waking, employed a single thought bat for her welfare, glory, or advantage? But enough of this. You ask my opinion, and I will freely, explicitly, and concisely give it to you. If the Con- gress supersede me, I will, 1 must obey; but I hope, in common justice, and for their own honour, that they will reéstablish me, at least in part, in the easy fortune which I have forfeited, so as to enable me to retire from a service to which I am no longer thought adequate. 429 Before I conclude, let me once more repeat confidentially to you, that if Buckwith is the man in whose favour you meditate so gross a piece of injustice, you will make a very bad bargain, as he is certainly, unless fame belies him, neither possessed of courage, abilities, or integrity. In God’s name, if a real genius, or acknowledged hero, favour- ed by Heaven with a more than common portion of ethereal spirit, should present himself, (a la Lippe, or Braganza,) receive him with open arms, as an immediate present from God, aud invest him with the command of the whole. No man loves, respects, and reverences another, more than I do General Washington. 1 esteem his virtues, private and publick; I know him to be a man of sense, courage, and firmness; but if a hero should start up, endowed with the attributes which, according to my persuasion, reside in the two I have mentioned, and who would charge himself with the mighty task of your political salvation, General Washing- ton ought, and, Lam convinced, would resign the truncheon. But that a little, paltry, impudent adventurer should sneak- ingly stipulate for the second rank, when, if his motives were pure, he could be equally serviceable in the third, fourth, fifth, or sixth, it is not to be endured, it is a gross imposition on common understanding, and a grosser attempt to rob an individual. I must beg and conjure you, my dear friend, for such I am sure you are, to consider the delicate, perhaps you will say false, notions in which soldiers are bred; and that you will be careful of putting to so severe a trial the sensi- bility of one, who is, most sincerely, devotedly, and affec- tionately, yours, Cuarwes Lee. Do Eads P.S. Iam extremely shocked with the pallid complexion of your publick councils. Is it possible that such a despicable group as the Maryland Convention should lay an embargo on the great vessel of the Commonwealth! Can you be so weak as to hunt for the chimera Absolute Unanimity! Why do you not advise the aggregate of the people to enfranchise themselves? Your idea of quitting Canada from want of specie is to me inconceivable, when you can or ought to command plate sufficient to purchase ten Canadas. Williamsburgh, July 19, 1776. From Hampton we learn, that advice was brought there, from the Eastern-Shore, of a tender, mounting two carriage and twelve swivel guns, being driven ashore in a squall of wind, five or six days ago, with eighteen pirates on board, (among them Mr. James Parker, late of Norfolk, merchant,) who immediately surrendered themselves to a party of our troops, and begged for quarters. A boat from another tender, her consort, attempted to cut her out from the creek where she was secured, but our people, perceiving their design, laid in ambush for them, and, when nigh enough, rushed into the water and fired upon them, killing five of the crew, it was sup- posed, as three were seen to fall overboard, and two to drop down in the boat ; upon which the pirates tacked about, and rowed faster than they came to their tender. Benjamin Woodward, against whom an information was lodged for attempting to counterfeit the paper currency of the American States, was brought to town last Wednesday, with four other persons, suspected to be accomplices, and lodged in the publick jail. They were taken in Pittsylvania County, with types and other implements to carry on their wicked and destructive schemes. COLONEL A. SOMERVILLE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 17, 1776. GeytLemen: You will be informed by Mr. Hopewell that the enemy hath landed on S¢. George’s Island; that Captain Beall is wounded; that they want men in S¢. Mary’s. I shall proceed down to their assistance with about fifty of the best men that I can get, now stationed at Drum Point, and shall leave orders for as many more to follow, unless ordered otherwise by you, and shall leave a guard at Drum Point. 1 shall want cash to victual the men who go to St. Mary’s. Please send us such sum by bearer as you may think sufficient, which. shall be accounted for. You will also send orders. Major Wilkinson commands in Cal- vert until Colonel Marshall's return. Gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Avex, SOMERVILLE. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 430 GEORGE SCOTT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 19, 1776. Honovurep Sir: Some time past I purchased a parcel of country linen, about four hundred and twenty yards, in order to send into the lower Counties to get a quantity of wool for our factory, but on inquiry found it could not be had, there being a great scarcity of that necessary article. It is very well calculated for the troops, and I have been told that the Council of Safety wanted a quantity for that purpose. Should you incline to take it, please give me an answer by Mr. John Ross Key, the bearer of this, who will return in a few days. I am, honoured sir, your obedient servant, Grorce Scorr. THOMAS BOURK TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Cambridge, July 19, 1776. Gent iemen: I have to acquaint you that we have not met with the wished-for success in raising the company you ordered us to raise in this County. ‘The Militia having been discharged till after harvest, we have not had an opportunity of recruiting the men; add to this, that on my returning from Annapolis, the Cambridge Blues were ordered to march to the straits, where the enemy was said to have landed; unwilling to desert them at a time of danger, I commanded them on that occasion, so that it has not been in my power to exert myself as yet. Mr. Lynch has made up his com- plement; they are here, and are a likely set of men. We have about forty or fifty men engaged; in Somerset there were none willing toengage. I expect some next week from Worcester, I wait to know how many, which, when informed of, shall proceed to_Annapolis, to receive your orders whether [ shall continue to inlist or not. Our Militia companies will meet next. week, when we shall have a better opportunity of completing our number. Could I have engaged to take the men into immediate pay, the company would have been nearly completed. Mr. Lynch carries our watr- rants. I am, gentlemen, your obedient humble servant, Tuomas Bourk. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland, An- napolis. GENERAL HOOPER TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Dorchester County, July 19, 1776. Sir: On receipt of yours of the 15th instant, I immedi- ately ordered a draught of fifteen privates and proper officers to be made from each company of Militia of this brigade, and those draughted in Dorchester and Caroline Counties to be stationed in Dorchester, and the draughted Militia of Somerset and Worcester Counties to be stationed in Somerset County. The men so draughted are ordered to be at the several places of rendezvous on Wednesday, the 24th instant. If your Board should not approve of this disposition of the Militia, you will please to let me know it, and I shall make such alterations therein as you may direct. Although I have ordered out the Militia, to be in readiness to repel any at- tempt of the enemy to land in this district, agreeably to your directions, yet [ think it will be difficult to keep them to- gether without some money. ‘The country people here who have provisions to sell show a great unwillingness to part with it, unless paid for at the same time. I would therefore wish that your Board would take some order about subsist- ing the Militia of this district, when called out in defence of the Province, by directing that the Treasurer of the Eastern Shore should pay to the Committee of Observation for Dor- chester County such a sum of money as you may think neces- sary, to be applied for the purpose of victualling and subsisting the Militia of the lower district when in actual service, as the commanding officer of said brigade shall direct. I have applied to General Chamberlain for four hundred pounds of cunpowder and sixteen pounds of lead. If you should have received any further intelligence of Dunmore and his fleet, T should be glad to know it. I am, respectfully, sir, your very humble servant, Henry Hooper. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenzfer, President of the Council of Safety. 431 COLONEL WILLIAM HARRISON TO THE MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, July 19, 1776. Sir: Under cover hereof you will please receive enrol- ments of two Militia Companies, viz: John Thomas’s and Richard Bennett Mitchel’ s, the former in the Twelfth and the latter in the Twenth-Sixth Battalion. They have been properly examined; and as I am in momentary expectation that the whole or part of the Militia here may be called to the aid of St. Mary’s, must request your Board to issue com- missions thereon, and have them transmitted me by the ear- liest opportunity. [ am, very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, Wit. Harrison. GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles River, Head-Quarters, July 19, 1776. GentLemen: On my arrival at this place on the 16th instant, I found there had been an engagement with the enemy, with no other loss but the misfortune of Captain Rezin Beall being badly wounded, though it is hoped not mortally. By four deserters who came over to us yesterday, we are informed the mate or Midshipman of the Roebuck was killed in the action. By the best information, the enemy have not more than fifty regulars of the Fourteenth Regiment, about one hundred and fifty Tories, and one hundred negroes, that bear arms; all of whom are landed every morning and em- barked in the evening, under cover of the fleet, which con- tinues in the mouth of the St. Mary’s river, opposite to the lower end of St. George’s Island. Our strength at present is about four hundred Militia, exclusive of the Independent and Captain Forrest’s company. I made bold, immediate- ly on my arrival (the strength of the enemy being much magnified) to order to our assistance three full companies of Militia from Colonel Hawkins’s battalion, to be selected from the interior part of the County, which I expect will arrive about to-morrow evening, when I shall discharge an equal number of the most necessitous of those now on duty. The fleet (which at first consisted of eighty sail) is now reduced to little more than half that number, many of the tenders and square-rigged vessels having gone to Virginia, opposite the mouth of Potomack, where a pretty constant cannonade has been kept up ever since I have been here. We are told by the deserters (two more of which have come over since I began to write) that the fleet intend only to wood and water on the Island, burn all or most of their small craft, and proceed to sea. Had we a few great guns at a place called Cherry Fields Point, well planted and served, we might annoy the fleet so as to oblige them to quit their station. Captain Forrest's company has relieved an equal number of the Militia, who readily parted with their arms, such as they were. I shall, as often as anything of consequence happens, com- municate it to you with the utmost despatch; till when, I am your most obedient servant, To the Honourable the Council of Safety. Jno. Denrv.. CUNNINGHAM’S EXAMINATION. Q. In what occupation did you act in Virginia? A. I was a book-keeper there to Messrs. Jameson & Co. Q. What became of Mr. Jameson? A. In the fleet. Q. What vessel were you on board? A. The Dolphin brig. Q. Did you continue in the same vessel, or did you land at Gwin’s Island? A. No. I never landed. Q. What time did you leave Gwin’s Island, and what was the cause? A. We were obliged to leave it by batte- ries being erected on shore. Q. Was any damage done to the shipping? A. To Dunmore’s vessel: the boatswain was killed; a man lost his arm. Q. None killed on the Island?) .A. None. Q. What condition were the people in on board? Sickly—the small pox ; the negroes had the jail fever. Q. What number were there? A. Not above three hundred in arms. Q. Who commands them? mands. A. A. Col. Bird’s son com- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. A32 Q. How many died and were buried at G@. Island? A. 1 think there must have been five hundred. Q. How were you provided with provisions? A. Salt beef enough for troops. Q. How many families on board the fleet? 4. I sup- pose one thousand souls. Q. How many did the ships bring from the Eastern Shore? A. One hundred and fifty; fifty belonging to the Fourteenth Regiment. They did not exceed three hundred in all. Q. How many did land upon St. George’s Island? A. I don’t know. None but soldiers. Q. How many marines on board? Fowey 25, Otter 15. Q. Did you know where they were going? A. No. Q. Did you come up, or did you drift ashore? A. I came up voluntarily. Q. Whose property was that in the vessel ? sold at vendue. Q. Were the people inoculated on board? Q@. Whose property was the molasses? part. Q. Was Governour Eden on board the Fowey? A. Yes, I have seen him walking the deck. Q. Did you know the Fowey was upon the Eastern Shore? A. Yes. The Governour was not on board. Q. Did they consent you should come off? .A. No. Q. Was it in the night that you left the fleet? 4. In the night; the fléet was after wood and water. Q. Have you plenty of bread? A. Yes. Q. Were there any troops armed at G. Island? A. No. No troops, but part of the Fourteenth Regiment. Q. Do the tenders ply out in the bay? A. Yes. They were cruising. Q. Do you know when Governour Eden goes home ? A. Yes; he goes in a store-ship. Q. How much stock was got upon Eastern Shore? A. The private families get no share of it. I saw cattle on decks. . Do the tenders go out in the bay a cruising? Yes; I have seen them out in the bay. Q. How long were they inoculated, and was it done to communicate it to the people on shore? .4. By no means; every one in the fleet inoculated that had it not. Q. How many men in the gondolas? A. Ten men on each side. As to the fleet, Captain Hammond and Lord Dunmore at variance. I don’t think Governour Eden has anything to do with the fleet. The Lively frigate at the Capes. Molasses at a bit; good West-India rum at 2s. Qd. Marines and sailors would desert, but no others. Not the 14th. Q. What distance Fowey from the shore? A. Musket- shot. . What number of vessels in the fleet ? two. Many small boats. Q. Did you not say that the fleet was going to sea? A. Yes; a signal given from Dunmore for masters of ships to come on board to receive orders, that they were going to St. Augustine. Q. Did you leave any vessels? A. Two tenders in the straits. ‘['wo four-pounders, two two-pounders. Dunmore three six-pounders fired, &c. Slipt her cables. The Otter upon careen with her guns out. Q. How long was it after the cannonade commenced before you left it? .A. Immediately upon the first discharge of cannon. Q. Where did you get beef? A. From Antigua: a brig with five hundred barrels; a store-ship with five hun- dred barrels. Q. What execution was done to your tenders on the Eastern Shore? .A. One man kilied, and eight or nine wounded. Q. Money plenty? .d. Yes. Commodore Hammond the best man in the Navy. Captain Hammond will convey them all out safe to sea. Q. Has not Lord Dunmore sent people about to commu- nicate the information? A. Not tomy knowledge. Captain Hammond not to continue on the Eastern Shore—to go to New-York. Q. How many guns has the Lively? A. Thirty or thirty-six, Eleven shot. The Dunmore, eighteen. A. Roebuck 75, A. It was A. Yes. A. I bought A. A. Seventy- 433 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL DORSEY. [No. 57.] Annapolis, July 19, 1776. Sir: At present we do not desire you to send in any more of your Militia. Should it be necessary hereafter, we will inform you; and from their readiness, which we have hitherto experienced, doubt not their being here in proper time. We are, Xe. To Colonel Dorsey. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COUNCIL OF SAFETY OF VIRGINIA. [No. 58.] Annapolis, July 19, 1776. Sir: Your favour communicating the intelligence that the enemy’s fleet had been driven from their station, and their forces obliged to abandon Guin’s Island, came safe to hand, and demands our acknowledgments. They have since arrived in Potomack, and landed some men on St. George’s Island, at the mouth of St. Mary’s River, where they have thrown up intrenchments. We are making preparations to dislodge them as soon as possible. In return, we congratulate you on our success in the southern quarter; and we are, Xc. To the Hon. John Page, Esq., President of the Council of Virginia. P.S. We have ordered Mr. Hughes to send immediately to Georgetown two eighteen-pounders, for the use of your Colony, to be delivered to Messrs. Mayson and Dalton’s orders. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DOCTOR WEISENTHALL. {No. 59.] Annapolis, July 19, 1776. Sm: Doctor Tootle has been with us. Since his journey to Baltimore, he is uncertain how far you intend to act as physician to the Matross company now at Baltimore town, or any of the Militia of the Flying-Camp that may be sta- tioned there, in lieu of those companies of the battalion who are marched to New-York. We should be obliged to you for a line given in answer to these doubts of his, that we may know how to conduct ourselves in the nomination of an assistant to act in that department. We are, &c. To Doctor Charles Frederick Weisenthall. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JOHN WEST. [No. 60.] _ Annapolis, July 19, 1776. Sir: Your letter of yesterday I received, and laid it before our Council, who have directed me to assure you, that every friendly assistance in their power shall be cheerfully afforded our neighbours, upon every emergency that may require it. We derive great comfort from the competence of your powers and the promise you have been pleased to make, of flying to our assistance whenever it should be necessary. We can order our regular forces out of the Province; the Militia we cannot; but the Colonels in each County are authorized to call out the Militia to act in the. Province, whenever they see occasion to do it. Iam, &c. To John West, Esq., President of the Committee of Alex- andria. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO STEPHEN STEWART. [No. 61.] Annapolis, July 19, 1776. Sir: James Cray attends you, with a vessel that he is offering for sale to the Council of Safety; but as we are by no means judges of the value, or whether or not she will answer our purpose, we have referred him to you for exami- nation, and shall be very glad to hear from you upon that head. We are, &c. To Mr. Stephen Stewart. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THE CHARLES COUNTY COMMITTEE. [No. 62.] Annapolis, July 19, 1776. Gentiemen: We have sent you £200 by Charles Lans- dale, which we request the favour of you to apply to the account of subsistence of that part of Captain Beall’s com- pany stationed at Port-Tobacco. We are, Xc. To the Committee of Observation of Charles County. Firtu Serics.—Vot. I. 28 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 434 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS, [No. 63.] Annapolis, July 19, 1776. GrntLemen: Enclosed we send you copies of some let- ters we have received from Colonel Barnes and Colonel Jordan, giving us an account of Lord Dunmore’s squadron having appeared near the mouth of S¢. Mary’s River, in a hostile manner, and that some of them had landed on St. George’s Island. In consequence of these advices, we have countermanded the orders to Captain Thomas and Captain Hindman, whom we wish to keep in the Province, to assist in repelling the invasion. We do not expect Dunmore will stay long at St. George’s Island. Expect he will move up Potomack, or to the Kastern-Shore; perhaps up the Bay to Annapolis, or Baltimore town. We shall send you further intellizence as soon as we receive it. Our Flying-Camp are coming in almost every day. But many a question has arisen as to their subsistence. Neither Congress nor Convention have made any provision for rations during the time the men are drawing together, nor whilst they remain unarmed, and unprovided with necessaries, which will amount to something considerable. We intend finding rations for the battalion that is to supply the place of our own regulars. We wish you to apply to the Congress, and let us know what is to be done about subsistence for the other battalions. ‘They are all coming to us to be supplied with almost every necessary, and you may judge our situa- tion is very disagreeable, not having it in our power to answer their demands. Our Militia, in a general way, during this time of invasion, cannot be persuaded to lend their arms. Most of those who inlist have none of their own. We take it for granted, it would answer very little purpose to send you a number of men unarmed, and unprovided with neces- saries, and therefore do not order them forward. We congratulate you on the victory that hath been obtained in South-Carolina by the Americans over the British fleet. Some of Commodore Parker’s squadron have met with a severe drubbing, according to the particulars we have heard, of which we doubt not you have more perfect information before this time. We send you the Maryland Gazette, in which are inserted some particulars of the damage sustained by Commodore Parker. We have information from below, that Lord Dunmore hath been beat off at Gwin’s Island; and we have too much reason to believe, by intelligence from a deserter, who was examined before us yesterday, that Governour Eden is still on board the Fowey. ‘They have seventy-two sail of ves- sels—divers of them small sharp-rigged sloops or boats. We have received Mr. Stone’s letter of the 12th; but know not what answer to give as to supplying tents, until we can see how our canvass holds out. Do not believe it will be in our power to furnish any in time. We are, &c. To the Deputies for Maryland, in Congress. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 19, 1776. Sir: My earnestness to convey to you, as soon as pos- sible, the intelligence this moment received from South- Carolina, on which I most ‘sincerely congratulate you, I am confident, will apologize for my not adding more than to tell you, that enclosed you will find the copy of General Lee’s letter, and the account from the deserters who escaped after the action. Iam loath to hinder the express one mo- ment. He is ready; and I will only say, that the enclosed resolves of Congress were this day passed, and to which I beg leave to refer you. I will write General Schuyler to-morrow. You will please not to print the letter, &c., received from General Lee, as by to-morrow’s post I shall write you again, and forward the account printed for the publick information. I have the honour to be, with great regard, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. N.B. I cannot detain the express to give you the par- ticulars of Governour Rutledge’s letter; but will print it, with the other parts submitted to me by Congress, and for- ward you by to-morrow’s post. God bless you, my dear sir. May you ever be under the Divine protection, and see a happy issue to your noble exertions! Yours, 435 Charlestown, July 2, 1776. Sir: I should have done myself the honour sooner of informing the Congress of the attack made by the enemy’s squadron on Sullivan’s Island, and their repulse, but conjec- tured that by waiting a day or twoI might probably be furnish- ed with the means of sending a more minute, full, and satisfac- tory account. My conjecture was right; for yesterday five seamen made their escape, one of whom is a more intelligent fellow than is commonly found amongst men of his level. En- closed is a copy of their narrative: some parts of it are perhaps too whimsical and trivial to merit the attention of Congress; but I think it my duty to present it as It Is, without adding or curtailing a circumstance. I think, sir, 1 may venture to congratulate the Congress on the event: not only the advantages must be considerable, but the affair reflects no small credit on the American arms. On Friday, about eleven o’clock, the Commodore, with his whole squadron, consisting of two line-of-battle ships and six frigates, the rates of which are marked in the enclosed narrative, anchored at less than half musket-shot from the Fort, and commenced one of the most furious and incessant fires I ever saw or heard of. Jt was manifestly their plan to Jand at the same time their whole Regulars at the east end of the Island, and of course invest the Fort by land and sea. As the garrison was composed entirely of raw troops, both men and officers, as I knew their ammunition was short, and as the bridge by which we could reinforce or call off the troops from the Island was unfinished, you may easily con- ceive my anxiety. It was so great that I was in suspense whether [ should evacuate it or not. Fortunately, whilst I was in this state of suspense, some ammunition arrived from the town, and my aid-de-camp, Mr. Byrd, returning from the Island with a flattering report of the garrison’s spirit, I deter- mined to support it at all hazards. On this principle, I thought it my duty to cross over to the Island, to encourage the garrison by my presence; but I might have saved myself that trouble, for I found on my arrival they had no occasion for any sort of encouragement—I found them determined and cool to the last degree; their behaviour would in fact have done honour to the oldest troops. I beg leave, sir, therefore, to recommend, in the strongest terms, to the Con- gress, the commanding officer Colonel Moultrie, and his whole garrison, as braversoldiers and excellent citizens. Nor must I omit at the same time mentioning Colonel Thompson, who, with the South-Carolina Rangers and a detachment of the North- Carolina Regulars, repulsed the enemy in two several attempts to make a lodgment at the other extremity of the Island. Our loss, considering the heat and duration of the fire, was inconsiderable. We had only ten men killed on the spot, and twenty-two wounded, seven of whom lost their limbs; but with their limbs they did not lose their spirits, for they enthusiastically encouraged their commander never to abandon the standard of liberty and their country. This I do assure you, sir, is not in the style of gasconading romance, usual after every successful action; but literally a fact. I with great pleasure mention the circumstance, as it augurs well to the cause of freedom. At eleven the fire ceased, having continued just twelve hours without the least inter- mission. What the enemy’s intentions are now, it is impossible to divine. I am inclined to think they will (if they can repass the bar) bend their course to Chesapeake or Hampton Bay. Perhaps shame and rage may prompt their land forces to some attempt before their departure. On my part, I shall spare no pains to discover their intentions and bafile their schemes. As Georgia is a district of the command with which you have honoured me, I thought it prudent to request some of their Members to a conference with the President of this Province and myself; they accepted the invitation, and gave us great satisfaction, from their intelligence and good sense. Enclosed is their deliberation. That Province is certainly of the last importance to the common cause, and the mode of protecting it pointed out by these gentlemen is, in my opinion, in all its parts, wise and necessary. ‘T’hey had conceived a notion that I had powers to augment their establishment. I assured them that I had no such powers; but both Mr. Rutledge and myself gave it as our opinion, that any expenses manifestly beyond their faculties, which they might incur in the common cause, would CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 436 be repaid by the Congress; and in this persuasion we ven- tured to encourage them to augment their Cavalry without loss of time, and make the proposed present of cattle to the Indians. Indeed, sir, without a strong corps of Cavalry, I do not see how it is possible to protect these southern Col- onies; and with one thousand good Cavalry I think I could insure their protection. From the want of this species of troops, Charleston and its dependencies had certainly been lost, if the enemy had acted with the vigour and expedition we had reason to expect; but a most unaccountable languor and inertness on their part saved us. If the scheme I pro- posed in Virginia had been approved and adopted, it would have been not only a security, but considerable economy ; the forage was to have been the only expense. Now I am upon this subject, I cannot help mentioning that I have been informed that this project has been considered by some gen- tlemen as a sort of presumption in me arrogating such a power; but I fancy the affair was not properly understood: I saw the immediate necessity of such a corps; I knew they could be raised immediately by these means; and at the same time I was given to understand by several gentlemen of the Vir- ginia Convention, that, should the Continental Congress dis- approve of the expense, (trifling as it was,) there was little doubt of their Convention defraying it. But in fact, sir, the measure seemed necessary for the salvation of the Provinces, and not a day was to be lost, which I hope will fully justify my conduct. And I must beg leave to repeat my assertion, that without Cavalry these Provinces cannot be easily defended. I wish some means could be devised of reducing East Florida to an American Province. Had I force sufficient, I should, with your permission, certainly attempt it. The advantages would be great and manifold. The augmentation of the Georgia Cavalry, I sincerely hope may be approved of by the Congress. Enclosed is the establishment and pay proposed for them. I think the terms not high. I shall now, sir, conclude, with expressing the high satis- faction I have received from the zeal, activity, and publick spirit, of the gentlemen and inhabitants of this city and Province, from the President of Council down to the lowest order of the people; and assuring you that I have not in my military capacity met with the least obstruction or difficulty, but that we have all worked in concert and harmony for the common good. I most earnestly request you will pay my respects to the Congress; and be persuaded, sir, that Iam, most entirely and devotedly, your most obedient servant, rere a To the Honourable John Hancock, President of the Conti- nental Congress. P.S. As Georgia has been particularly unfortunate in their adventures for powder, and as my command is so extensive, I must conjure Congress to send an ample supply. Circumstantial account of the proceedings of the Bririsu Fleet and Army, both before and after their defeat at Suuiivan’s Isnanp, on the 28th of June, 1776. On the Ist of June, his Excellency the President received advices of a fleet of forty or fifty sail being at anchor about six leagues to the northward of Sulhvan’s Island. Accounts of the arrival of Sir Peter Parker’s fleet in North- Carolina, and that it was destined either for Virginia or this Province, having been received about three weeks before, put it beyond a doubt that this was his fleet. Next morning the alarm was fired, expresses having been sent, ordering the country Militia to town. ‘The fortifications were all visited by his Excellency and General Armstrong, and preparations for the most vigorous defence ordered. In the evening a man- of-war, thought to be a twenty-gun ship, beat up to wind- ward, and anchored off the bar; next day she was joined by a frigate; and on the day following, (June 4,) by upwards of fifty sail of men-of-war, transports, tenders, &c. We have since learned that the men-ol-war were the Bristol, of fifty guns, on board of which the Commodore had his flag; the Solebay, Captain Symonds, twenty-eight; Syren, Captain Furneaux, twenty-eight; Active, Captain Willams, twenty- eight; Acteon, Captain Atkins, twenty-eight; Sphinx, Cap- tain Hunt, twenty; Ranger sloop of eight; Thunder (bomb) of six guns and two mortars, one of them thirteen inches, and the other eleven; an armed ship, called the Friendship, 437 of eighteen guns, with some smaller armed vessels. . The same day Captain Mowat arrived from North-Carolina, with an express from General Lee, informing that the fleet had left North-Carolina, and that he would be here as speedily as possible, with several Continental regiments, to our assistance. A few days after the arrival of the fleet, several transports and small armed vessels went to Long-Island, (situated to the eastward of Sullivan’s Island, from which it is separated by a small creek called the Breach,) where they landed a large body of troops, who encamped there. ‘The wind and tide being favourable for the four following days, about thirty- six vessels came over the bar, and anchored at about three miles distance from Sudlivan’s Island. ‘Two of their trans- ports got aground in coming over; one got off, but the other went to pieces. On the 10th the Bristol came over, her guns being previously taken out. On the 7th, a boat, with a flag of truce from the enemy, came towards the Island, but was fired on by an ignorant sentinel. The boat thereupon immediately put about, and would not return, notwithstanding the officer who was sent to receive the flag waved his handkerchief, and desired them to come ashore. Next day Colonel Moultrie sent an officer to the fleet to acquaint them of the sentinel’s having fired without orders, and that he was ready to receive anything they had to send. General Clinton was satisfied with the apology, and said the intention of the flag’s being sent was only to deliver the following Proclamation, which the officer brought ashore: By Major-General Cursronx, Commander of His Majesty’s Forces in the Southern Provinces of NortH AMERICA: A ProcLAMATION. Whereas a most unprovoked and wicked rebellion hath for some time ast prevailed, and doth now exist within his Majesty’s Province of Warne Caroling: and the inhabitants (forgetting their allegiance to their Sovereign, and denying the authority of the laws and statutes of the Realm) have, in a succession of crimes, proceeded to the total subversion of all lawful authority, usurping the powers of Government, and erecting a tyranny in the hands of Congresses and Committees of various denomi- nations, utterly unknown and repugnant to the spirit of the British Con- stitution; and divers people, in defiance to all legal authority, are now actually in arms, waging unnatural war against their King; and whereas all attempts to reclaim the infatuated and misguided multitude to a sense of their error have unhappily proved ineffectual,—I have it in command to proceed forthwith against all such men, or bodies of men in arms, and against all such Congresses and Committees thus unlawfully estab- lished, as against open enemies to the State. But, considering it a duty inseparable from the principle of humanity, first of all to forewarn the deluded people of the miseries ever attendant upon civil war, I do most earnestly entreat and exhort them, as they tender their own happiness and that of their posterity, to appease the vengeance of an injured and justly incensed nation by a return to their duty to our common Sovereign, and to the blessings of a free Government, as established by law, hereby offering, in his Majesty’s name, free pardon to all such as shall lay down their arms and submit to the laws, excepting only from the benefit of such pardon Cornelius Harnett and Robert Howe. And I do hereby re- quire that the Provincial Congress, and all Committees of Safety, and other unlawful associations, be dissolved, and the Judges allowed to hold their Courts according to the Jaws and Constitution of this Province, of which all persons are required to take notice, as they will answer the contrary at their utmost peril. Given on board the Pallas transport, in Cape-Fear River, in the Pro- vince of North-Carolina, the 5th day of May, 1776, and in the sixteenth ar of his Majesty’s reign. Mh org = H. Cuinton. By command of General Clinton: R. Reave, Secretary. Major-General Lee, Brigadier-General Howe, Colonel Bullitt, Colonel Jenifer, Otway Byrd, and Lewis Morris, Esqs., Aids-de-camp to General Lee, with some other gen- tlemen, arrived at Haddrell’s Point in the morning of the 9th. After having viewed the fortifications there and on Sullivan’s and James’s Islands, they came to town. Orders being given on the 10th for a number of buildings on the wharves to be pulled down, intrenchments to be thrown up all around the town, and barricadoes to be made in the prin- cipal streets, every person, without distinction, were employed on those works. On the 12th there blew a violent storm, in which an hos- pital ship and the Friendship, which were at anchor on the other side of the bar, were obliged to put out to sea, but returned in a few days after. A schooner having on board some provisions and coals, drifting a little way from the fleet, was taken by one of our pilot-boats, and brought totown. Her crew took to their boat on observing the pilot-boat’s approach. His Excellency the President on the 14th proposed to the Militia under arms an oath of fidelity, which was volun- tarily and readily taken by every one present excepting three. ‘The next morning it was proposed to the country Militia doing duty in town, and to the Artillery companies, when it met with their unanimous assent. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 438 A sloop from the West-Indies for this port, with a cargo of gunpowder, arms, rum, &c., having, in the afternoon of the 16th, descried the fleet, attempted to make her escape ; but, through the ignorance of her pilot, run aground and bilged. Next day she was discovered by the men-of-war ; and a tender, with several boats full of armed men, came towards her. The crew, being only twenty-two men, unable to cope with such a force in the situation the vessel was in, quitted her. She was soon after boarded, set on fire, and blew up with great explosion. By some sailors who deserted from the Ranger sloop, lying near Long-Island, we were informed that the land forces were about two thousand eight hundred (some say three thousand three hundred) men, under the command of Major-General Clinton, who had under him Major-General Lord Cornwallis and Brigadier-General Vaughan. On the 2lst, our advanced party at the northeast end of Sullivan’s Island fired several shot at the armed schooner Lady Wilham, an armed sloop, and a pilot-boat, lying in the creek, between Long-Island and the main; several of which hulled them. For several mornings and evenings the enemy threw shells, and fired from some field-pieces on our advanced post, but without any effect. A large ship hove in sight on the 25th, in the morning. She was thought to be the Roebuck, but we have since learned she was the Experiment, Captain Scott, of fifty guns. Next day she came over, having her guns out. On the day following, the 27th, between nine and ten in the forenoon, as soon as the Evvperiment had her guns all in, the Commo- dore hoisted his topsails, fired a gun, and got under way. His example was followed by several others of the men-of- war; but a squall coming on, and the wind shifting from southeast to the opposite quarter, prevented their coming much nearer at that time. In the afternoon, the Commo- dore again got under way, and came about a mile nearer Sullivan’s Island. Next morning, June 28th, the following was the disposi- tion of the ships-of-war: The Friendship, at the distance of about a mile and a half from Sullivan’s Island, covering the Thunder (bomb); the Solebay, Sphinx, Bristol, Active, Ex- periment, Acteon, and Syren. About half an hour past ten o’clock in the forenoon, the Thunder began throwing shells on Fort Sullivan, and the Active, Bristol, Experiment, and Solebay, came boldly up to the attack, in the order their names are put down. A little before eleven o’clock the garrison fired four or five shot at the Active, while under sail, some of which struck her; these she did not seem to regard till within about three hundred and fifty yards of the fort, when she dropped anchor and poured in a broadside. Her example was in a few minutes followed by the other three vessels, when there ensued one of the most heavy and incessant cannonades perhaps ever known. The bomb ves- sel was at the same time throwing shells; a firing was heard from the advanced post at the northeast end of the Island, and more vessels were seen coming up. Our brave garrison, (consisting of the Second Regiment of Provincials, a detach- ment of Artillery, and some Volunteers,) under all these difficulties, which to the far greater part were entirely new, encouraged by the example of their gallant commander, Colonel William Moultrie, and the rest of the officers, behaved with the cool intrepidity of veterans. Our cannon were well served, and did dreadful execution. About twelve o'clock the Sphinx, Acteon, and Syren, got entangled with a shoal, called the Middle Ground. The two first ran foul of each other; the Sphinx got off with the loss of her bow- sprit, but the Acteon stuck fast. The Syren also got off. Much about the same time, the bomb vessel ceased firing, after having thrown upwards of sixty shells. We have since Jearned that her beds got damaged, and that it will require much repairing before she is fit for service again. In the afternoon the enemy’s fire was increased by that of the Syren and Friendship, which came within five hundred yards of the fort. Till near seven o’clock was the enemy’s fire kept up without intermission. It slackened considerably after that, and they only returned the garrison’s fire, but generally twentyfold. At half after nine, the firmg on both sides ceased, and at eleven, the ships slipped their cables. About the time the ships came up, an armed schooner and sloop came nearer our advanced post, in order to cover the landing of their troops, and every other preparation for 439 that purpose was made. The soldiers even got into their boats, and a number of shells were thrown into our intrench- ment, but did no other damage than wounding one soldier. Notwithstanding which they never once attempted to land. At the advanced post were stationed Colonel Thompson, with his Rangers, some companies of Militia, and a detachment of Artillery. They had one eighteen-pounder and two field- pieces, from which they returned the enemy’s fire. They were reinforced in the afternoon with Colonel Muhlenberg’s Virginia battalion. Next morning, all the men-of-war, except the Actcon, were retired about two miles from the Island, which they had quietly effected under cloud of night. The garrison fired several shot at the Acteon, which she returned. But soon after, her crew set her on fire and abandoned her, leaving her colours flying, guns loaded, with all her ammu- nition, provisions, and stores on board. ‘They had not been Jong gone before several boats from the Island went to her. Lieutenant Jacob Milligan, with some others, went on board, and brought off her jack, bell, some sails, and stores. While the flames were bur-ting out on all sides, he fired three of her guns at the Commodore. In less than half an hour after they quitted her, she blew up. The Bristol, against which the fire was chiefly directed, is very much damaged. — It is said that not less than seventy balls went through her. Her mizenmast was so much hurt, that they have since replaced it with another. ‘The main- mast is cut away about filteen feet below the hounds, and instead of her broad pendant soaring on a lofty mast, it is now hardly to be seen on a jury-mainmast, considerably lower than the foremnast. The Experiment had her mizen gaff shot away; the other vessels sustained little damage in their rigging. The loss in the fleet, according to the report of the de- serters, is about one hundred and eighty killed and wounded; among the former, is Captain Morrison, of the Bristol. Sir Peter Parker had the bind part of his breeches shot away, which laid his posteriors bare: his kneepan was hurt by a splinter. ‘There have been several funerals in the fleet since the engagement, and from the parade of some, it is conjec- tured they were of officers of rank. Some of the deserters say that Captain Scott, of the Experiment, is among the killed. The loss of the garrison was as follows: Artillery: Killed, one Matross; wounded, two Matrosses. Second Regiment: killed, one Sergeant, nine rank and file; wounded, Lieutenants Gray and fall, the Fife-major, one Sergeant, nineteen rank and file. An officer’s mulatto waiting-boy was killed. Total killed, twelve; wounded, twenty-three. Both the officers were but slightly wounded, and are now well. Five of the wounded privates are since dead. The works are very litthe damaged; but hardly.a hut or tree on the Island escaped the shot entirely. Many thou- sands of the enemy’s shot have been picked up on the Island. General Lee was at Haddrell’s Point at the beginning of the action, and went in a boat, through a thick fire, to the fort, where he staid some time. He says, in the whole course of his military service, he never knew men behave better; and cannot sufficiently praise both officers and soldiers for their coolness and intrepidity. The behaviour of two Sergeants deserves to be remembered. In the begin- ning of the action, the flag-staff was shot away; which being observed by Sergeant Jasper, of the Grenadiers, he imme- diately jumped from one of the embrasures upon the beach, took up the flag, and fixed it on a spunge-staff; with it in his hand, he mounted the merlon, and, notwithstanding the shot flew as thick as hail around him, he leisurely fixed it. Sergeant McDonald, of Captain Huger’s company, while exerting himself in a very distinguished manner, was cruelly shattered by a cannon-ball; in a few minutes, he expired, after having uttered these remarkable words: ‘My friends, Tam dying; but don’t let the cause of liberty expire with me.” His comrades felt for him; the gallant Jasper imme- diately removed his mangled corps from their sight, and called aloud, “Let us revenge that brave man’s death!” The day after the action, his Excellency the President pre- sented Sergeant Jasper with a sword, as a mark of esteem for his distinguished valour. We hear that the fort on Sullivan’s Island will be in CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 440 future called Fort Moultrie, in honour of the gallant officer who commanded there on the memorable 28th of June, 1776. The men-of-war dropped down several miles further from the Island a few daysafter. ‘The carpenters in the fleet had sufficient employment in repairing the vessels. Several de- serters came from both fleet and army, who all agreed we need not expect another visit at present; that it was talked, that the two large ships would go to English harbour, in Antigua, to get refitted ; the transports, with the troops, to proceed to New-York, under convoy of some men-of-war, to join the grand Army; and that two frigates would be left to cruise between North- Carolina and Georgia. On the 2d of July, General Lee sent a flag to the enemy, with a proposal to exchange a prisoner for Colonel Ethan Allen, who, it was said, was in the fleet; a present of some meat and vegetables was sent at the same time. General Clinton being at Long-Island, an answer was not received till two days afterwards, when he informed General Lee that Colonel Allen was not on board; and in return for his present, sent some porter, cheese, &c. Two engineers came in the boat; but as they were received at some dis- tance from the Fort, they were deprived of an opportunity of seeing what they were probably sent to observe. A sloop from the West-Indies, with gunpowder, &e., ran aground on the 5th, in coming into. Stono Inlet. She, a few days afterwards, went to pieces, the cargo having been previously taken out. A number of the enemy’s transports went to Long- Island, about ten days after the repulse, and took on board all the troops on it and Goat-Island. About the same time, some of their frigates and armed vessels went over the bar; and on the 14th, the Brzstol made an attempt to go out, in which she failed, having struck on the bar. She succeeded in another attempt four days after, and came to an anchor off the harbour. The transports, with the Solebay, Thunder, Friendship, and some of the small armed vessels, sailed on the 20th, steering a southward course. They were afterwards seen standing to the eastward. On the same day, a brigantine, having on board fifty soldiers and six sailors, got aground near Dewees’s Inlet. She was left unobserved by the rest, and. on the day afterwards was taken by an armed flat or floating battery, commanded by Lieutenant Pickering. The brigantine could not be got off, and was therefore burnt. She was mounted with six four-pounders. The soldiers threw their small-arms overboard, on seeing the approach of the flat. Four of the crew escaped in their boat. On the 25th, the Experiment went over the bar, her lower tier of guns being taken out. She came to anchor near the Commodore, Syren, and three transports, lying off the har- bour. A frigate, which had not been here before, came to the Commodore in the afternoon of the 25th. Next morn- ing, she sailed for the southward, and two days after, the Syren followed her. On the 2d of August, the Active, Sphinz, and a large transport, being all of the enemy’s vessels within the bar, went out, and with the Bristol, Experiment, three transports, and a tender, stood out to sea, steering an E.N.E. course. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO NEW-JERSEY CONVENTION, Philadelphia, July 19, 1776. GentLemen: The Congress being informed that there is a large quantity of stock on the sea-coast of your Colony, which are much exposed to the incursions of the enemy, and that many of the proprietors of them, actuated by mo- tives of interest, or disaffected to the cause of their country, would be glad to dispose of them to the enemy, I am ordered to forward to you the enclosed resolution, and earnestly recommend it to you to cause the stock to be removed back into the country toa place of safety. Iam, gentlemen, your most, obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Honourable Convention of New-Jersey. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO NEW-JERSEY CONVENTION. Philadelphia, July 19, 1776. Gentiemen: I have only time to acquaint you, that a letter from your ageut to Mr. Ainsey was read in Congress; 441 in eonsequence of which, I am desired to forward you the enclosed resolve; and enclose you copies of Lord Howe’s letter and declaration, which require no comment. 1 am to inforin you that Congress wish to know by what means that letter to Mr. Kinsey reached his hands, and am to desire you will take every method to prevent any communication with the enemy from your Colony. This L have in charge most earnestly to recommend to you, and beg your imme- diate attention to it. I most sincerely congratulate you on the agreeable intel- ligence just received from South-Carolina, by express. Have not time to be particular; can only say the enemy twice attempted to land, and were repulsed; their capital ships disabled, one blown up, and, in short, a total stop put to the business of the fleet for a long time; the Commodore wounded, one Captain killed, one Captain lost an arm, and many officers and men killed on board the several ships. General Lee writes, the officers and men on our side behaved as well as any old troops could. Our loss very trifling, not one officer killed, and not more than ten men killed, and twenty-two wounded. General Lee writes, he never saw such a fierce, incessant fire in all his life. I hope He who controls all events will still espouse our cause, and give such success to our arms in other quarters, as, from the righteous- ness of our cause, and our real reliance on Him, He shall judge fit. I am, with real regard, gentlemen, your very humble vant , servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Honourable Convention of New-Jersey. N. B. Lam vastly hurried. Excuse me, I have not time to have it copied. WILLIAM GODDARD TO THE BOARD OF WAR. Philadelphia, July 19, 1776. Respectep GentLemen: Your complaisant reception of my application to be taken into the service of my coun- try, and your attention to the meritorious officers of the Army, in which I am desirous of serving, do equal honour to the benevolence and justice of your Board, and call for my warmest acknowledgments. As I presume the cause of my not being hitherto provided for arises from a want of information how it might be done with propriety, I beg leave to lay before you the following particulars, collected from several officers of distinction. Atthesame time, permit me to assure your honourable Board, that I do not wish to be gratified at the hazard of disobliging any worthy officer; neither, indeed, should I incline to serve in any corps in which I was not perfectly agreeable. In the Army under the immediate command of his Excel- lency General Washington, there are two regiments whose Colonels are removed, viz: the Fourth, late Larned’s, and the Twentieth, Arnold's. Lieutenant-Colonel Tyler, of Colonel Parsons’s regiment, is the first Lieutenant-Colonel in rank in the lines; and Lieutenant-Colonel Shepherd, of the Fourth Regiment, is the second in rank. These two gentlemen served all the last war, and distinguished them- selves as brave and gallant officers, and during the present struggle for “ peace, liberty, and safety,” have been highly esteemed. It appears, therefore, to be their right to take the command of those regiments. -Arnold’s was raised in Connecticut, and Lieutenant-Colonel Tyler would, I am persuaded, be as acceptable to them as any man out of the regiment. Lieutenant-Colonel Shepherd, if preferred, will command the regiment he now belongs to. Major Prentis, of Colonel Parsons’s regiment, is the first Major in rank in the lines, and has always approved himself an able com- mander. Lieutenant-Colonel Putnam, of Colonel Wyllys’s regiment, is chief Engineer, and does no duty in battalion; and as he cannot act in both capacities, and he is very skilful in that important profession, the good of the country, it is thought, might be better promoted by making an establish- ment for Envineers, and confirming Mr. Putnam in that office, with the rank of Colonel. If this should take place, and Major Prentis should be preferred in Colonel Wyllys’s regiment, there would then be a vacancy in Colonel Par- sons’s regiment, in which [ am assured there would be no objection to my appointment to the rank of Lieutenant- Colonel. Captain Chapman, of the same regiment, an oflicer of real worth, would then of course be appointed to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 442 the rank of Major, he being the oldest Captain in the regi- ment. In addition to what I have here recited, I am further informed that there is a Lieutenant-Coloneley vacant in a new battalion of A:tificers, commanded by Colonel Parke. I have mentioned these several particulars with great deference to your honourable Board, as well as to his Excel- lency the General, and hope I shall not be considered as in the remotest degree dictating to either. If I have gone further than Lought, I beg it may be imputed to my anxious desire of stepping forth, at this very interesting crisis, in defence of my country. I am, gentlemen, with the highest esteem, your most obedient humble servant, Witty tis Geena To the Honourable the Board of War, &c., for the United States of America. To the Honourable Commissioners, or Delegates, from the several AMERICAN Slates, now sitting in General Congress in the City of PuitapeLPHia: The Memorial of Wiuttam Gopparp, most respectfully showeth: That the intolerable severity of Ministerial oppression having exposed to innumerable hardships your memorialist, and other printers who manifested their zeal in defence cf the invaded rights of America; and the iron hand of tyranny having, by means of the Parliamentary Post-Office, pressed upon him more heavily, perhaps, than upon any other; his own sufferings, and an ardent desire of serving his country, prompted him to devise a plan for the total abolition of that engine of Ministerial extortion, fraud, and revenge, by sub- stituting to it a Post-Office on constitutional principles. His undertaking was countenanced by all the friends of American freedom, several of whom contributed largely towards raising a fund sufficient to prosecute his plan, which the artifices used by the tools of despotism to discourage it rendered more expensive than it might otherwise have been. He was, however, very near reaping the fruits of his labour, and reimbursing bis friends, when your most honourable House appointed one of your colleagues to superintend that important department, under your direction; but the worthy officer intrusted with it, not having been authorized to indemnify your memorialist or his friends for the expense incurred by establishing Postmasters, hiring riders, and bringing the temporary establishment, in all its parts, to that state where your officer found it when it was resigned with all those advantages, a great loss is sustained by your memorialist, as well as the persons who were more inti- mately connected with him in that voluntary service of the publick. : The Secretary and Comptrollership (the two principal places which the Congress instituted under the Postmaster General) having been disposed of, it was judged that, as your memorialist has repeatedly travelled through most of the Colonies, for the purpose of carrying on his own pro- jected plan, he was more capable than many others to make a proper choice of inferior officers, and knew many local eircumstances that would be essentially useful in the regula- tion of that department, should he be invested with the Surveyorship, on the present establishment. To serve this country, he accepted it, insufficient as the salary was to afford him a decent maintenance, and though he well knew that the greater his exertions should be, the sooner his office must be discontinued, all sinecures being inglorioys to the incumbents, and burdensome to the State. Having brought the Surveyorship to that period, for one year at least, he entreats your honourable House to favour him with an opportunity to serve his country in the Army, wherever the scene of action may be, if he be permitted to share in the glorious struggle in which his country is now engaged, and be rendered as serviceable as may be reason- abiy presumed from his known principles and character. He is informed, by officers of distinction, that there are three vacancies, one of which, the Mustermaster-General’s, being more lucrative, might indemnify him for a part of the pecuniary losses already mentioned; but as it is less liable to those personal dangers which his natural disposition im- pels him to encounter, he would think himself more happy should you honour him with a commission amongst the gen- AAS tlemen who shall be appointed Field-Officers, to supply the consequential vacancies occasioned by the alterations expect- ed to happen in two regiments, which have no Colonel. Your Memorialist would not presume to solicit employment to the prejudice of the officers in any regiment; but he is assured that it will give no disgust to the worthy gentlemen of two corps on this station, who, having honourably served in them, might with propriety claim such preferments. Now that this country is threatened with a most formida- ble invasion, to assist in defending, at the risk of his life, those sacred rights which, as a citizen, he has asserted on every opportunity that his humble station offered him, is the most fervent wish of your memorialist, who will strive to render himself worthy of the confidence that may be reposed in him by your honourable House, and to demonstrate that he is ever ready to sacrifice his own advantage to the publick good. New-York, June 21, 1776. Wicuiam Gopparb. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabethtown, July 19, 1776. Sir: After making such preparations as our circumstances would admit of, I marched, about eight o’clock yesterday evening, to the mouth of Thompson’s Creek, with the Con- tinental troops under the command of Major Knowlton; the Rifle battalions were to follow. The wind and tide being against them, the boats could not be so soon brought to us as we expected. In the mean time the weather became too tempestuous to venture over the Sound in scows. We remain- ed on the shore, in hopes of calmer weather, till near eleven o'clock, but finding no probability of getting over in time to reach the enemy’s quarters before day, were under the ne- cessity of relinquishing the enterprise. It cannot be renewed till we have more forces here; nor would it be prudent to attempt any surprise for some days, as our motions are probably communicated to the enemy. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, Huey Mercer. A PLAN FOR ATTACKING STATEN-ISLAND. First. A party to attack the southeast part of the Island, at a landing called Pullion’s, about two miles westward from the Narrows, where are several scattered farm-houses, where it is said troops are quartered; this party to consist of four hundred, and to go from Long-Island. Second. A party to embark at Piscataway Landing, on Raritan River, about six miles above Amboy, to make their descent on the southwest side of the Island, about two miles east of Billop’s Point; to consist of five hundred men, to endeavour to surprise the rear of the camp, opposite to Amboy. Third. A party to embark from the Old Blazing-Star, near Woodbridge, and to make their descent on the best landing opposite, and to endeavour to surprise the town of Richmond, or Cuckold’s Town; to consist of five hundred men. Fourth. A party to embark at a place about three miles south from Elizabethtown Point, where there is a wood that will cover them to the place of embarkation; to make their descent on the Island on the opposite shore, where there is a good landing on the upland, covered with woods not far off. The object here is uncertain, but there are a number of good, large farm-houses in the neighbourhood, where it is probable troops are lodged without much caution; to consist of four hundred men. Fifth. A party to embark in Newark Bay, from a place about a mile below Brown’s Ferry, to make the descent at a place opposite the east end of Shutter’s Island, marked Mushereau; this party to consist of eight hundred men, two hundred of which are immediately to march westward, in order to cut off the guard opposite to Elizabethtown-Point; the remaining six hundred to march slowly, firmly, and care- fully, eastward, towards the church at Decker’s, with small parties ahead to surprise and break up the parties lodged in the houses along the shore. Sixth. A party to attempt to surprise the enemy’s guard on Buskirk’s Point, which is the southeast corner of Bergen Point; this party, or guard, doés not seem to be large, but itis said they are possessed of two six-pounders. The party CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. A44 that makes the attack must not attempt to go over the cause- way or road over the meadow, the cannon being in all proba- bility pointed to command that pass, but should be provided with some boards, and proceed in two or three columns over the meadow, where they will meet with no other obstraction than a small creek or ditch, which they will easily pass with the help of the boards. If this place is carried, a cannonade and bombardment should, as soon as possible, commence on the ships, a great number of which now lie within reach of the place. A cannonade should also commence on Bergen Point, opposite the church and Decker’s, where it is said about six hundred men are posted; this cannonade, with round and grape shot, would confuse the troops in forming, and prevent their succouring the guard at Elizabethtown- Point or opposing our party who make their descent near Shutter’s Island. 'The cannonade should also be kept up on such parts of the shore of Staten-Island where any boats are collected or may assemble. ‘The party for these several matters on Bergen-Neck should be about seven hundred men, besides the Riflemen. About the time the troops make the descent, which should be at the beginning of the ebb, as great a number of fire- rafts and fire-ships as can be provided, should be towed down, so as to fall in with the head of the fleet. The commanding officer of each party to reconnoitre the ground where he is to embark, and where he is to make his descent, in the best manner he can, by the help of glasses or otherwise; and also to get the best information he can of the roads and country in general in the way to the place of his destination; they should also be provided with faithful, good guides: plenty of them are to be had in New-Jersey. All the boats in New-Jersey, from Raritan River to Powles Hook, should immediately be collected and secured under proper guards, as well to prevent intelligence going to the enemy as to serve for these embarkations. The com- manding officer, before he sets out, to determine whether the boats are to remain at the place of descent, or to meet him at some other place, and to direct the guards of boats accord- ingly. A number of spare boats should be collected in Elizabethtown-Creek, Newark-Bay, and towards Blazing- Star, to be ready to serve on any emergency. As the success of the attempt will depend on a proper timing of the different attacks, the commanding officers of all the parties should regulate their watches by one standard, and be punctually at the place of their destination at the time agreed on. Suspected persons on Bergen should be immediately re- moved: there are several gone from New- York. As the safety of the troops in these enterprises will entirely depend on securing a safe retreat, the utmost caution and attention must be paid to the having the boats ready at the proper places, to take off the respective parties. Instead of the fourth article, it is proposed to adopt a plan of Major Knowlton’s, which is, to march a body of about one thousand men to the point X, and there to embark and pro- ceed to the place A, and to march up the Neck into the country by the pricked line to the place B, and there to send off a party toward C, to fall upon the rear of the troops posted in the houses along the north side of the Island; the rest to proceed to D, and there to divide and proceed to the several places E, I’, G, and in their way to sweep the whole country before them, and then to embark again at the two last mentioned places, where the boats must be ready to receive them; but the guard of the boats should be cautious of going to those places before they are sure of our people being in possession of them. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 20, and referred to the Board of War.] . New-York, July 19, 1776. Str: [ have been duly honoured with your favours of the 16th and 17th, with the several resolves they contained, to the execution of which, so far as shall be in my power, I will pay proper attention. In my letter of the 17th instant, I transmitted you a copy of one from General Schuyler, and of its several enclosures. I confess the determination of the council of General Officers on the 7th, to retreat from Crown-Point, surprised me much; and the more I consider it the more striking does the impro- 445 priety appear. The reasons assigned against it by the Field- Officers in their remonstrance, coincide greatly with my own ideas and those of the other General Officers I have had an opportunity of consulting with, and seem to be of considerable weight—I may add, conclusive. I am not so fully acquainted with the geography of that country and the situation of the posts as to pronounce a peremptory judgment upon the matter; but if any of my ideas are right, the possession of Crown-Point is essential to give us every superiority and mastery upon the Lake. That the enemy will possess it as soon as abandoned by us there can be no doubt; and if they do, whatever galleys or force we keep on the Lake will be unquestionably in their rear. How they are to be supported there, or what guccour can be drawn from them then, is beyond my comprehension, Perhaps it is only meant that they shall be employed on the communication between that and Ti- conderoga. If this is the case, I fear the views of Con- gress will not be answered, nor the salutary effects derived from them that were intended. I have mentioned my sur- prise to General Schuyler, and would, by the advice of the Generals here, have directed that the posts should be main- tained, had it not been for two causes: an apprehension that the works have been destroyed, and that if the Army should be ordered from Ticonderoga to the post opposite to it (where I presume they are) to repossess it, they would have neither one place or another secure and in a defensible state. The other, lest it might increase the jealousy and diversity of opinions which seem already too prevalent in that Army, and establish a precedent for the inferior officers to set up their judgment whenever they would in opposition to those of their superiors, a matter of great delicacy, and that might lead to fatal consequences, if countenanced ; though in the present instance I could wish their reasoning had prevailed. If the Army has not moved, what I have said to General Schuyler may, perhaps, bring on a recon- sideration of the matter, and it may not be too late to take measures for maintaining that post; but of this I have no hope. In consequence of the resolve of Congress for three of the Eastern regiments to reinforce the Northern Army, I wrote General Ward, and, by advice of my General Officers, directed them to march to Norwich, and there to embark for Albany, conceiving that two valuable purposes might result there- from: first, that they would sooner join the Army by pur- suing this route, and be saved from the distress and fatigue that must attend every long march through the country at this hot and uncomfortable season; and, secondly, that they might give succour here in case the enemy should make an attack about the time of their passing. But the enemy having now, with their ships-of-war and tenders, cut off the water communication from hence to Albany, I have written this day, and directed them to proceed by land across the country. If Congress disapprove the route, or wish to give any orders about them, you will please to certify me theréof, that I may take measures accordingly. Enclosed I have the honour to transmit you copies of a letter and sundry resolutions, which I received yesterday from the Convention of this State. By them you will perceive they have been acting upon matters of great importance, and are exerting themselves in the most vigorous manner to de- feat the wicked designs of the enemy, and such disaffected persons as may incline to assist and facilitate their views. In compliance with their request, and on account of the scarcity of money for carrying their salutary views into execution, [ have agreed to lend them, out of the small stock now in hand, (not more than sixty thousand dollars,) twenty thou- sand dollars, in part of what they want, which they promise speedily to replace. Had there been money sufficient for paying the whole of our troops, and not more, I could not have done it; but as it was otherwise, and by no means proper to pay a part and not the whole, I could not fore- see any inconveniences that would attend the loan; on the contrary, that might contribute in some degree to forward their schemes. I hope my conduct in this instance will not be disapproved. I enclosed to Governour Trumbull a copy of their letter, and of their several resolves, to-day, by Colonel Broome and Mr. Duer, two members of the Convention, who are going to wait on him; but I did not think myself at liberty to urge or request his interest in forming the camp of six thousand men, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 446 as the levies, directed by Congress on the 3d of June to be furnished for the defence of this place by that Government, are but a little more than one-third come in; at the same time, the proposition I think a good one, if it could be carried into execution. In case the enemy should attempt to effect a landing above King’s Bridge, and to cut off the communi- cation between this city and the country, an army to hang on their rear would distress them exceedingly. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of great esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. Wasuineron. P. S. The enclosed paper should have been sent before, but was omitted through hurry. P.S. After I had enclosed my letter I received one from General Ward, a copy of which is herewith transmitted. I have written to him to forward the two regiments now at Boston by the most direct road to Ticonderoga, as soon as they are well, with the utmost expedition. I consider their having had the small-pox as a fortunate circumstance. When the three arrive which had marched for Norwich, I shall immediately send one of them on, if Congress shall judge it expedient, of which you will please to inform me. [No. 1.] In Convention of the Representatives of the State ae New-York, White-Plains, July 16, 1776. Sir: We cannot but express our satisfaction at the unre- mitted attention which your Excellency manifests to the interests of this State. We see the force of your observa- tions, and have taken, and shall continue to take, every measure which we conceive most conducive to defeat the designs of our enemy. ‘This will in part appear from the enclosed resolution. We are extremely sorry that the state of our finances reduces us to the necessity of applying to your Excellency for a loan, which it may perhaps be inconvenient for you to make, but we shall take the earliest care to replace what nothing but urgent necessity would have induced us to bor- row. As our troops are but ill supplied with ammunition, we hope that your Excellency will order them an immediate supply, as part of them are already in motion, as well as direct the Commissary-General to take the necessary steps for their subsistence. New levies, who have never seen ser- vice, will, without doubt, require a commander of some expe- rience. Such an one, we trust, your Excellency will supply as soon as possible. Our apprehensions of an attempt on the part of our ene- mies to cut off the communication between the city and country, by landing above King’s Bridge, makes us wish to have some force ready to hang on their rear in case such a step should be taken: for which reason we have not only called out all the force we could possibly collect, (exclusive of that which may probably be wanted in the frontier Coun- ties,) but would take the liberty, if it should meet your Excellency’s approbation, to suggest the same idea to Go- vernour Trumbull, who, by forming a camp on Byram River of six thousand men, might render any design which the enemy may have to land above King’s Bridge extremely hazardous. We have been just informed that the ships which sailed this morning have anchored about ten or twelve miles below ‘ort Montgomerie. We have great reason to believe that their design is to pass it, and burn our shipping at Pough- keepsie. We shall be happy to codperate with your Excellency in every measure which may tend to secure the liberty of Ame- rica, which we conceive to be nearly connected with the preservation of this State. We have this moment heard that the Phenix is aground in Haverstraw Bay, and have some reason to believe it. We remain your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servants, By order: NaruHanten Woopnu Lt, President. [No. 2.] In Convention of the Representatives of the State nh New-York, White-Plains, July 16, 1776. Resolved, unanimously, That all persons abiding within the State of New-York, and deriving protection from the laws of the same, owe allegiance to said laws, and are mem- bers of the State; and that all persons passing through, visit- ing, or making a temporary stay in the said State, being 2?) AAT entitled to the protection of the laws during the time of such passage, visitation, or temporary stay, owe during the same time allegiance thereto. That all persons members of, or owing allegiance to, this State, as before described, who shall levy war against the said State within the same, or be adhe- rent to the King of Great Britain, or others the enemies of the said State within the same, giving to bim or them aid and comfort, are guilty of treason against the State, and being thereof convicted, shall suffer the pains and penalties of death. Extract from the Minutes: Rost. Benson, Secretary. [No. 3.] In Convention of the Representatives of the State an New-York, White-Plains, July 16, 1776. Whereas this Convention have the strongest reason to believe that the British Armies in New-York and Canada will endeavour, by means of Hudson’s River, to effect a junction, and thereby cut off all intercourse between the Eastern and Southern States: And whereas the Counties contiguous to the Sound and Hudson’s River will be greatly exposed to the ravages and incursions of a cruel and unnatu- ral enemy, which, if not prevented, will render them a scene of ruin and desolation: And whereas, from the situation of said country, intersected with defiles and narrow passes, it will be extremely practicable to repel the hostile attempts of the enemy, provided the inhabitants exert themselves in its defence with the union, spirit, and alacrity, of men deter- mined to defend their rights, and transmit the blessings of freedom to posterity: And whereas it is the indispensable duty of this Convention, by every means in their power, to provide for the happiness and security of their constituents, reposing the highest confidence in their virtue and publick spirit: ‘Therefore, Resolved, 'That one-fourth part of the Militia of the Coun- ties of Westchester, Dutchess, Ulster, and Orange, be forth- with drawn out for the defence of the liberties, property, wives and children, of the good people of this State. And as at this busy season of the year the service may be inconvenient to many of them, Resolved, ‘That each man be allowed twenty dollars as a bounty, with Continental pay and subsistence, and be continued in the service until the last day of December next, unless sooner discharged. Resolved, That it be recommended to such of the inhabi- tants who remain at home, to give all possible assistance to the families of those spirited persons who stepped forth in defence of the rights and liberties of this invaded country; and that the Sub-Committees in the several Districts in those Counties pay particular attention to see this recommendation be complied with. Resolved, That the Brigadier-General, and the Field-Offi- cers of the Militia of each County, be directed to adopt the most equitable and expeditious mode of raising these levies, and of furnishing with arms those who are not supplied, (the price of the arms to be deducted out of each man’s pay;) and that they be authorized to call on the Committee of each County for their assistance. Resolved, That the levies be formed into Companies, to consist of one Captain, two Lieutenants, three Sergeants, three Corporals, one Drummer, one Fifer, and fifty Privates; and that the Captain and Subalterns be appointed by the Field-Officers of each Regiment of Militia from which the quotas were to be raised, and the Non-Commissioned Officers by the Captains of each Company. Resolved, That each man furnish himself with a Blanket and Knapsack, and every six meh with a Pot or Camp- Kettle. Resolved, That two Deputy-Commissaries be appointed to provide four months’ Provision for six thousand men, to be deposited in two Magazines, one on each side of the river, at such places as his Excellency General Washington shall think proper to appoint. Resolved, That all the men now raised in the Counties of Ulster and Orange be stationed in the Highlands, on the west side of the river, to guard those defiles the possession of which Brigadier-General Clinton shall think most condu- cive to the safety of the State. Resolved, That the men raised in the Counties of West- chester and Dutchess repair immediately to Peek’s Kill; and that General Washington be requested to appoint an Officer CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 448 to take the command of all the levies on both sides of the river, to fix upon what station they shall occupy, and to nominate the two Deputy-Commissaries for the ‘Troops on each side the river. Resolved, That General Washington be informed of the measures which this Convention have taken for the safety of the State; and that he be requested to advance the sum of £20,000 in order to expedite the raising these levies, Resolved, That all the 'l'roops raised in the above Counties shall be subject to the Articles of War established by the Continental Congress. Resolved, That his Excellency General Washington be requested to write to Governour Trumbull, desiring bim to devise and carry into execution the most expeditious and effectual measures for keeping up the intercourse betwixt the Army now at New-York and the State of Connecticut ; and that two of the members of this Convention wait on Governour Trumbull, to enforce, by such arguinents as they shall think of most weight, the purport of General Washing- ton’s letter. Resolved, That the Brigadier-Generals and Committees of the respective Counties be immediately furnished with copies of these Resolutions. Extract from the Minutes: Rosr. Benson, Secretary. [No. 4.] Boston, July 15, 1776. Sir: Iam this moment favoured with your Excellency’s letter of the 11th instant. I have also received yours of the 7th and 9th. I have paid, and shall pay, the utmost atten- tion to all your directions. ‘Two regiments will march on Thursday morning, one on Friday, and the other two as soon as they are well, which I trust will be in ten days. As the small-pox prevailed so much in Boston, the Legis- lature of this Government gave permission for the inhabitants to inoculate; and as so many of the troops in town had taken the disorder, I thought it might be most for the gene- ral good to permit the remainder of the two regiments in town to be inoculated. I have made a return to the Board of War and Ordnance of the stores in this division of the Continental Army. J am, sir, your Excellency’s obedient humble servant, Artemas Warp. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE NEW-YORK COMMITTEE. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 19, 1776. Gentiemen: I enclose you a copy of a resolution of the Provincial Convention of the State of New-York, dated the 16th instant, recommending it to all the General and Sub- Conimittees, to apprehend and secure all such persons whose going at large, at this critical time, they may deem dangerous to the safety of the State. As this city is hourly threatened with an attack from a powerful enemy, and as there is too much reason to appre- hend, from their vicinity to this city, and from the number of suspicious characters still in it, that they may receive intelligence which may counteract all my operations for its defence, I strongly recommend it to you to remove for some time all equivocal and suspicious characters. This appears to me to be the spirit of the resolution of the Provincial Convention; and the propriety of it is founded on the law of sel{-preservation, and confirmed by the practice of all nations in a state of war. I esteem it my duty to add my recommendation to that of the Provincial Convention, that if, through an ill-timed lenity, my attempts to secure this Province should be baffled, the blame of it may not be imputed to my want of vigilance. I have enclosed a list of persons represented as dangerous. As [can only speak from information, I must rely upon your taking proper steps with them; unless, from your better knowledge, you determine them to be of a different character than represented. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, Go. Wasurneron. To the Committee of the City of New-York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO ROBERT LIVINGSTON AND OTHERS, Head-Quarters, New-York, July 19, 1776. Gentiemen: I am favoured with yours of the 17th instant. My unacquaintedness with Hudson's River, and with every A449 other circumstance necessary to form a judgment of the mode of defending it, will incapacitate me from giving you the assistance and advice you politely ask. I must entirely refer it to your own judgment and skill, only assuring you that it will give me great pleasure if anything effectual can be done, and that I will most readily give all the assistance in my power. I had some intentions of throwing obstruc- tions in the passage at Mount Washington, but so many dif- ficulties and obstacles have retarded it, that 1 much fear my being able to complete it. However, it is a matter so purely confidential, if it can be effected, that 1 must desire the most profound secrecy may be observed on the subject. I heart- ily wish you success in the measures you may adopt; and am, with much truth and esteem, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, Gos Weenreron To Robert Livingston, Esquire, and others, Members of the Secret Committee of the Convention of the State of New- York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 19, 1776. GentLemen: By Messrs. Broome and Duer I was yester- day favoured with your several resolves of the 16th instant. The spirit and decision in which they are formed will, I doubt not, appear in their execution; and, as far as I can codperate, | shall most cheerfully contribute all my aid and assistance. ‘The state of this Army would make it improper for me to send up any General Officer in the Continental service to take the command of the levies proposed to be raised; and, from the nature of the service, I should appre- hend a knowledge of the country and its inhabitants would be very necessary. General Clinton, on all accounts, ap- pears to me the most suitable person; and as the appoint- ment is made dependant on me, I shall nominate him, unless some objection should be made or difficulty arise, which I do not now know of. The Deputy-Commissaries I will take advice upon, and have them appointed as soon as possible, The state of the pay office here did not admit a full com- pliance with your request of the loan of £20,000, there not being so much in the Paymaster’s hands at this time; however, that so good a work might not be delayed, I im- mediately gave a warrant for $20,000, and .as fast as cir- cumstances will admit, shall make up the remainder. I have enclosed your resolution to Governour Trumbull, on the subject of forming a camp at Byram River, for the security of the communication with New-York, but at the same time I very much doubt his ability to carry it into execution. ‘The quota of troops to be furnished by Con- necticut for the assistance of this Army is not half completed, notwithstanding the most urgent and pressing instances on the subject; which affords a very dull prospect of fixing a new camp adequate to the intended design; and I very much fear the attempt would obstruct the raising the levies now ordered, and in the end prove ineffectual. At the same time I most heartily approve the measure, and should rejoice to see it carried into execution in the completest manner. Since writing the above, your favour of the 18th instant, enclosing Colonel Cortlandt’s and Captain Platt’s report, is come to hand. ‘The spirit and alacrity of the Militia in so readily turning out at this busy season is a very encouraging circumstance, and does them great honour. _ I observe Colonel Fellows, of Massachusetts-Bay, men- tioned as having marched in. If his troops compose a part of those destined for this Army, it is my intention that all under that circumstance should come immediately down and properly arranged; and I observe there will be the less in- convenience, as Messrs. Van Cortlandt and Platt observe that they had such a surplus of men as to enable them to dis- charge a number. } Iam, gentlemen, with the greatest respect and esteem, your most obedient and very humble servant, Go. WasHINGTON, To the Hon. the Convention of the State of New-York. P.S. With respect to ammunition, I had flattered myself that the Provincial stock would not only have been sufficient for the purposes of its immediate defence, but, in case of necessity, to have assisted us. I shall endeavour, under a late direction of Congress, to procure what is to be had from the adjoining mills. Firra Serires.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 29 450 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, July 19, 1776. Sir: The enclosed extract from the proceedings of Congress, which I have the honour to transmit you, will discover their anxiety respecting our Army here, and their wishes to have it reinforced. I shall only add, that the situ- ation of our affairs demands the most speedy succour, and my request that you will use your good offices for expediting the new levies as fast as possible. I have also enclosed you a copy of a letter, and sundry resolutions, which I received yesterday from the Convention of this State. You will perceive thereby that they have been deliberating on sundry important measures, and are exerting themselves, in the most vigorous manner, to defeat the wicked designs of our common enemy and such disaffected persons as may attempt to favour their views. ‘They also contain a request that I should solicit you to devise some mode for keeping up a communication and intercourse between your State and this, and suggest the expediency of your forming a camp of six thousand men about Byram River, to codperate with those they are collecting, in order to hang on the rear of the enemy in case they land above King’s Bridge, and attempt to cut off the communication between the country and this city. As the quota of men requested by Congress for the defence of this place is not yet arrived, I could not conceive myself at liberty to ask of you to furnish such an additional number, although I cannot but observe that the scheme seems well calculated for the purposes they have in view, and might be productive of the most salutary consequences in case of an attempt of that sort. Colonel Broome and Mr. Duer, two members of the Convention, wait on you upon the subject, and will fully point out the object they have in view, and their ideas of the importance and expediency of the plan, and to them I beg leave to refer you. I am, sir, with great regard and esteem, your most obe- dient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To Governour Trumbull. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL GATES. New-York, July 19, 1776. Dear Sir: I expected ere this to have heard from you; and I will open the correspondence, by expressing my ex- ceeding great concern on account of the determination of your Board of General Officers to retreat from Crown-Point to Ticonderoga, assigning (contrary to the opinion of all your Field-Officers) for reason, that the former place is not tenable with your present force, or the force ex- pected. My concern arises from information, and a firm belief, that your relinguishing Crown-Point is, in its consequences, a relinquishment of the Lakes, and all the advantages to be derived therefrom; for it does not admit of a doubt but that the enemy will possess themselves, if possible, of that pass, (which is a key to all these Colonies,) the moment you leave it, and thereby confine your vessels to the narrow part of the Lake in front of that post; or, by having them in the rear of it, cut off all kind of supplies from, and intercourse between, your camp and them, securing, by this means, a free and uninterrupted passage into the three New-England Governments for invasion thereof. Nothing but a belief that you have actually removed the Army from Crown-Point to Ticonderoga, and demolished the works at the former, and the fear of creating dissensions, and encouraging a spirit of remonstrating against the con- duct of superior officers by inferiors, have prevented me, by advice of the General Officers, from directing the post at Crown-Point to be held till Congress should decide upon the propriety of its evacuation. As the case stands, I can give no order in the matter, lest, between two opinions, neither of the places should be put into such a posture of defence as to resist an advancing enemy. | must, however, express my sorrow at the resolution of your council, and wish that it had never happened, as everybody who speaks of it also does, and that the measure could yet be changed with propriety. We have the enemy full in view of us; but their opera- tions are to be suspended till the reinforcement, (hourly expected,) arrives, when I suppose there will soon be pretty warm work. Lord Howe is arrived. He and the General, his bro-. 451 ther, are appointed Commissioners to dispense pardons to repenting sinners. My compliments to the gentlemen with you of my ac- quaintance. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WAsHINGTON. To Major-General Gates, Ticonderoga. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 19, 1776. Dear Sir: In my letter ofthe 7th instant, I mentioned the propriety of forwarding a quantity of powder, and lodging it between thisand Boston. Iam now more fully convinced of the necessity of such a measure, and would wish you to forward, with all convenient speed, five hundred barrels, to be stored at Norwich, in Connecticut, till further orders. In a postscript to my letter of the 9th of June, I was of opinion it would be much easier for the troops bound from Boston to the northward to proceed this way, for the benefit of water-carriage ; but this being entirely cut off by the ships up Hudson’s River, you will speed their march by the nearest and most convenient route. The several articles wrote for in my letter of yesterday, you will please to forward to Norwich, with orders for them to be sent on by water, pro- vided the enemy’s ships should not stop the communication, in which case land-carriages must be procured. Tam, sir, Xc., Go. WasHINGTON. To Major-General Ward, Boston. P.S. In speaking of the troops marching to the northward, I have reference to the three regiments bound to T?conderoga. The other two I hope will be on their way for this place before this reaches you. G. W. P. S. Since writing the above, your letter of the 15th instant came to hand, If the three regiments you mention have marched, they may proceed to this city; if not, one of them to march for Ticonderoga, the two remaining (sick) to follow to the last-mentioned place, by divisions, as fast as a Field-Officer’s proportion is well enough, as they will be much the properest (having had the small-pox) for that department. Ge DY EPHRAIM ANDERSON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 19, 1776. HonouraBeE Sir: I have the honour now to inform you that I am preparing for the destruction of the British fleet in this harbour, and hope in a few days to be able to givea good account of the greatest part of them. I should be extremely thankful if the Congress will honour me with the appointment of Deputy Adjutant-General to the Flying-Camp. It is a department in which I am sure I can be of infinite service to the cause, by disciplining young troops, both officers and men. I will leave myself upon the Congress for the above, or any other appointment they may honour me with, &c. I am, honoured sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, Erxuraim ANDERSON. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., President of Con- gress, at Philadelphia. JOSEPH TRUMBULL (COMMISSARY-GENERAL) TO THE PRESI- DENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 19, 1776. Honourep Sir: Walter Livingston, Esquire, Deputy Commissary-General at Albany, writes of the 15th instant, as he has done several times before, that large supplies of fresh beef, &c., are wanting in the Northern Army; that he has no money to procure them with; and that the chest there is empty. That the chest is empty, is confirmed to me by my brother’s letter of the same date. Mr. Livingston writes me that he is in debt already more than $30,000; and my brother, that the whole $500,000 ordered some time ago, $200,000 of which went by General Gates, would not pay their old debts. For fear my department should suffer for want of cash, I am sending an express this afternoon to Mr. Livingston, with $18,000, which can but illy be spared from here; but as eating cannot go on without cash, and they are worse off for it than we are at present, I thought it my duty to do it, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 452 and at the same time to write Congress, and beg that my department to the northward may not suffer for the want of so necessary an article as cash. I am, honourable sir, your most humble servant, JosEPH TRUMBULL. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Congress of the United States of America, at Philadelphia. P.S. Mr. Gerry is here—better than when he left Phila- delphia. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 19, 1776. Str: Colonel Hand reports that the ship that went down the day before yesterday morning, still continues there at the Hook. An armed sloop came up last night. All the rest of the fleet continue as they were. Nothing extraordinary has happened since yesterday in this camp. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant , 4 NatTHANAEL GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, at Head-Quarters, New- York. COLONEL HAY TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Haverstraw, July 19, 1776. Sir: I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of yours, directed to the County Committee of this County. The enemy now lie in Haverstraw Bay, and are using every effort to land and destroy the property of the inhabitants. The great extent of shore I have to guard obliges me to keep the greatest part of my regiment on duty, in order to prevent their depredations. I have received a reinforce- ment from General Clinton, at Fort Montgomery, of about eighty men, and hope when he receives your Excellency’s letter he will send me further relief, as the enemy seem to direct their operations against the west shore. We are in want of powder and ball—a supply will be absolutely ne- cessary. IfI bad had two or three small cannon, I should have been able to have destroyed one of the cutters that grounded near Stony-Poznt, and lay there six hours. The enclosed examination of a deserter from Captain Wallace, will-give your Excellency all the information I am able to communicate at present. I am, with esteem, your most obedient servant, A. Hawkes Hay. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. P. S. The bearer can bring up im his saddle-bags twenty weight of powder. The Examination of Richard Turpin, a native of the town of Boston, in the Province of the Massachusetts-Bay, who saith: That in his passage from Bedefort, in New-Hamp- shire, to the West-Indies, he was taken in a schooner call- ed the Hannah, commanded by Captain Peurly, on the 17th of May last, by the ship Rose, Captain Wallace, on board of which ship he has been ever since; that he sailed from Halifax with the fleet, which consisted of about one bun- dred and fifty sail; that from the best information he was able to procure, the troops consisted of about ten thousand men fit for service; that the ships that came from Halifax were, the Chatham and , each of fifty guns, the Rose, Greyhound, Swan, and the Tamar, each twenty guns; that when they arrived at Staten-Island, a man came off and informed Captain Wallace that there were five hundred men ready to join their troops, and the next morning about one hundred and fifty men came down and joined them, and the next day the rest joined them—in all about five hundred; that the inhabitants appeared very ready to afford them every necessary; that they got a number of cattle on the Island. That they lost no men on board the Rose, but three men were wounded on board the Phenix, in passing New-York; that the Rose received three shot in her hull, and her rigging was damaged; that the Phenix was also damaged in her hull and rigging; that the intention of the ships in coming up the river was, to procure stock, receive Tories, burn the ships building up the river, and destroy the buildings on the shore; that a few people (not exceeding twenty) had come on board in the river; that they had received no provisions since they 453 came up; that they have but two months’ provisions on board, and their water is very bad; that it is the general talk on board, that they will not attempt to pass the forts in the Highlands tll they hear from Governour Carleton. That there were two transports from Greenock, that had joined General Howe, with three hundred men; that these were all that were with General Howe when the examinant left the fleet; that it was expected that the Hessians were to join them at New-York. That yesterday Captain Wallace went up to the Highlands, with the tender, and went on shore and set fire to a house, and then went off with six poor hogs and pigs; that he heard before he left the ship last night, that they intended to land at Mr. Kiers’s house and burn the buildings; that on Wednesday the tender went up the river, and one gun was fired from the fort, which struck the tender’s stern; that there are not above four hun- dred men on board the ships and tenders in all; Wallace has about thirty negroes, which he brought from the east- ward, who are entered, and receive pay. ‘That a man left the ship on Monday last, with letters to Governour Carle- ton, who undertook to go by land; he appeared to be about twenty-eight years old; had on a short light cloth coat and vest, about five feet eight inches, has a blemish in his right eye, sandy hair, and says he is a native of Old England: he came on board on Sunday last from Haverstraw; he gave information that there was pork, rum and molasses, in Mr, Kiers’s store. That when the fleet came into the Hook, a considerable number of men joined them from Long-Island and Amboy, and a party of about seventeen Lighthorse from New-Jersey ; that the man who first came from Staten-Island on board Captain Wallace, he understood had the command of the Continental colours on the Island; he is a tall well- made man, with black hair and brown complexion, and is now employed as a Colonel of the Staten-Island men in the Ministerial service. nie Ricuarp % Turpin. mark. Haverstraw, July 19, 1776. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, Friday, July 19, 1776. Dear Sir: I have this moment received the enclosed, from General Washington, with an order to forward it to General Burgoyne. You will please to appoint an officer to carry it to him, after having sealed it. The Indians come on so tardily, that I am afraid of being detained much longer than I expected. A scout just now returned from Oswego advises that all is well there, and no signs of an enemy approaching. The Honourable President Hancock informs me that Colo- nel Greaton, and he believes some other Colonels, before they left Boston, took some French horns, bassoons, and other instruments of musick, which he had imported for the use of a corps under his command, and requested that I would order Colonel Greaton, and such others in whose possession they may be, to deliver them to me, to be sent to PAzladel- phia. Will you be so good, my dear sir, as to order one of your Aids-de-Camp to make inquiry, and to cause the in- struments to be collected, safely packed up, and sent directly to me at Albany. I am, dear sir, most sincerely, your most obedient hum- ble servant, Pu. ScHUYLER. To the Hon. General Gates. GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, German-Flats, July 19, 1776. First Lieutenant Robert Hagan and Second Lieutenant Samuel Hazelet, both of the Third New-Jersey Regiment, commanded by Colonel Elias Dayton, being by sickness rendered incapable of doing duty in the regiment, and having requested leave to resign their commissions, the General has accepted their resignations, which causing a vacancy and promotion in the regiment, the General has been pleased to promote Second Lieutenant William Gordon to the rank of First Lieutenant, Ensign Joseph Anderson and Cornelius Kenion to the rank of Second Lieutenants, in the said regi- ment; he has also been pleased to appoint Messrs. Edmund Disney Thomas and John Kinney, volunteers in said regi- ment, to be Ensigns therein. By order of the General : James Van Renssetarr, Aid-de-Camp, * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 454 GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL SCHUYLER, Tyonderoga, July 19, 1776. Sir: [ have this morning received a letter from General Waterbury, at Skenesborough. He says the Militia are not any of them arrived from the eastward, but that he has heard of their being upon the march, and hopes they will soon arrive at that post. ‘he General has employed a party in clearing Wood-Creek, and another to erect a small work upon the hill to the eastward of the saw-mill. He complains for the want of tools, and partieularly felling-axes. Not one gondola is arrived since that which came with us, (the 4th instant,) from Skenesborough, and I am assured by the offi- cer who came from thence yesterday, that we cannot expect more than two by this day se’nnight. So you must be much deceived in expecting that Mr. Schuyler would get five finish- ed every week. Sixty carpenters are now employed at Skenesborough: they must be very, ill-attended to, or very ignorant of their business, not to do more work. At this rate our superiority upon the Lake will be of short continuance; and I hope you will not deceive yourself, or the Congress, by fancying other- wise. General Waterbury tells me the saw-mill at Cheshire’s is not yet got to work, on account of a mistake in the irons. They were obliged to send the irons to Skenesborough to be altered. ‘That is now done, and the mill expected to get soon to work. Your letter of the 17th, is just come to hand, from the German-Flats. I shall immediately send you all the Indian goods here. General Arnold will get them collected to-day, and send them without delay by the best person we can find to make despatch, to Herkimer’s. He must take his direc- tions in regard to the route from Lake George to the Flats, from the commanding officer at Fort George, as I know nothing of that road. I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Horatio Gates. To General Schuyler. WALTER LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, July 19, 1776. Dear Genera: The King of Britain’s ships having cut off the communications between this and New-York by water, and the pork which the Commissary-General promised to send me not being arrived, I have written to him to send some from the magazine which lies above the ships, if any is left. My stores are entirely empty, except a few barrels I want here. I have sent out ten hands different ways to purchase cattle, and have ordered five hundred head to be sent up immediately, many of which I hope are arrived. I have ordered two hundred head to be delivered every week. I know not who acts as Commissary to your Army at pre- sent, therefore take the liberty to request that you will order nothing but fresh meat to be delivered out while there is any on the ground. I cannot get a barrel of pork, neither do I expect that the Commissary-General will be able to send me any. When, upon emergencies, pork is issued to the troops, I must entreat you to order the Commissary to issue only twelve ounces to a man per day. ‘This is the allow- ance of Congress; and pork is become so exceeding scarce that more cannot be given them, unless the Commissary- General can furnish me with an additional supply. The three kegs of sturgeon will be ready on Monday, when they shall be forwarded, and all other your orders complied with by, dear sir, your most humble servant, Water Livinesron. To Major-General Gates. NICHOLAS MARSELIS TO WILLIAM COBB. Bennington, July 19, 1776. Sir: I send you by the bearer, William Ferrin, thirty fat cattle, marked with the left ear cut off and the end of tail, which I have purchased by order of Walter Livingston, Esq., at Albany. You will please to receive them, and send your receipt for them. I am, sir, your humble servant. By order of Walter Livingston, Esquire: Nicnoxtas Marseuis. To William Cobb, or Commanding Officer at Ticonderoga. ’ 455 PETITION OF THE INHABITANTS OF SHELBURNE, ON LAKE- CHAMPLAIN. To His Excellency General Gares, Commander-in- Chief of the Continental Forces at Ticonprroca and Crown- Point: The Petition of the Inhabitants of Surteurne, on LaKe- Cuampcain, humbly showeth: That we live twenty-six miles from Crown-Point, and twelve from Onion River. Being well attached to the American cause, were much alarmed when we heard of the retreat of our Army out of Canada to Crown-Point, and thought we must be forced to leave here. But when the Army came down, Colonel Winds not having had the small- pox, halted here with fourteen men, and obtained leave of General Sullivan to stay here some time; upon which the inhabitants got together, and, in conjunction with Colonel Winds, built a stockade fort, and have continued here since. We beg leave to inform your Excellency that the place where the fort stands is a very good harbour; and as the Lake is often ruffled with sudden gusts in the summer, the boats that pass are often wind-hound here, and sometimes out of provision, as hath been the case with two boats coming from Onion River since Colonel Winds hath been here, and were supplied with provision at this place. We, the inha- bitants, being but few in number, and having considerable large crops of wheat and other grain on the ground, besides stocks of cattle, we humbly beseech that his Excellency would be graciously pleased, if he thinks it consistent with the good of the service, to let some of the men who were there go back again, or some others as a small guard. And your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray. Moses Pierson, Revusen Row tee, Jas. Logan, Rurvus Cote, SamuenL Teiwer, Lopwick Porer. JOHN ; To General Gates. Shelburne, July 19, 1776. SAMUEL SQUIER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Fairfield, July 19, 1776. Honourep’ Sir: By yours of the 10th instant I observe you want to know how much pork I have procured for the Colony’s use, where it is stored, and the price. I have pur- chased three hundred barrels of pork, chiefly from the farm- ers. ‘There is yet about two hundred barrels of pork more at Newtown. ‘The owners don’t care to part with it, and for excuse have told me it is engaged to the Commissary- General, which I am since informed is not so. I expect to know the truth of the matter very soon, and shall act accord- ingly. ‘The reason why I have not procured more pork is, that Mr. Wadsworth, of Hartford, and Mr. Coult, of New- Haven, had been into this County and engaged it before I got home from the Assembly. As to the hunting-shirts, I have no other voucher than Daniel Gray’s receipt for them, who went with Colonel Web last summer to Cambridge to carry his baggage. By him I sent those shirts. Said Gray has taken a receipt in his own name of the Quartermaster- General’s clerk for them, a copy of which I sent before, and now you have herein enclosed the original. I made those shirts out of cloth which I had before purchased and charged the Colony with for tents. 1 therefore took an account of how much cloth it took for the shirts, which was three yards apiece. I also charged the making to the Colony, not then knowing there should be a separate account kept of the price of the tow-cloth, which, upon an average, was nearest 164d. I therefore formed my former account that I sent you, from my common account with the Colony, and kept no other copy, as also I have done this account, and expected to give the Colony credit if ever the shirt-account should be paid separate from the other. I have made out this account at 6s. per shirt, which will be very near the cost, as the cloth and making will be 4s, 103d. per shirt. ‘The one-and-a-half per cent. commissions, carting, &c., will make up the rest. 1 am, sir, your Honour’s obedient servant, SAMUEL SQuIER. N. B. The thirty-five barrels of pork I left in the farm- er’s cellar, judging that to be as safe a store as I could get. I find there is more pork among the farmers, which [ trust I shall be able to procure. 5.5. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 456 CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SATrETY, At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, by adjournment, July 17, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour, bis Honour the Deputy-Governour, Eliphalet Dyar, Jz. Huntington, Win. Williams, Titus Hosmer, Jedh. Elderkin, Nathl. Wales, Benj. Huntington, William Hillhouse, Esquires. Voted, ‘That the Paymaster of Colonel Ward’s Regiment be, and he is hereby, directed to pay as a premium to the Soldiers who shall provide theniselves with Fire-Arms, &c., the sum of 6s. for each Gun so provided, and the sum of 4s. for each Bayonet, Belt, and Cartouch-Box, and Knapsack. Colonel Mott came in with sundry motions, &c., respect- ing his Regiment, &c., and many matters to consider. This Board do appoint Messrs. Andrew Huntington, Joshua Elderkin, Chancey Whitilesey, of Middletown, Jona- than Fitch, Samuel Squier, and Lynde Lord, a Committee to purchase all the suitable Tow-Cloth, and other suitable Cloth for Tents, to be obtained in their respective Counties, and cause the same to be made up into proper Tents, for the use of the Troops of this Colony, in the most expeditious manner they can, and report to his Honour of what they shall respectively do in the premises. The Continental Congress having recommended to the Assemblies of the United Colonies to procure a quantty of Clothing for the Continental Army, Voted and Resolved, That a quantity of home-made Cloth, or other if that can’t be obtained, as far as may be, of a brown or cloth colour, sufficient for three thousand Coats, and the same number of Waistcoats, and as many Blankets as can be obtained in the Colony; three thousand Felt Hats: cloth of check Flannel, or some Linen if that can’t be obtained, sufficient for six thousand Shirts, and also six thousand pair of Shoes, to be collected as soon as may be, and deposited in the proper stores in the several Counties ; and the same above-named Committee are appointed to pro- cure the same; and the said articles are proportioned to the several Counties as follows, viz: oe na Felt hats. | Shirts. Hartford County.......... 1,000 800 1,600 New-Haven County....... 400 450 1,000 New-London County...... 700 850 1,400 Fairfield County... ......0.. 300 300 600 Windham County......... 400 400 1,000 Litchfield County.......... 200 200 400 3,000 | 3,000 | 6,000 And Letters to be prepared to each of said Commissaries, directing them accordingly ; and is done. On motion, &c., considered, and this Board do appoint, Timothy Larabee, Paymaster of Colonel Mott’s Regiment. On application by Colonel Mott that it is expedient his men should be furnished with a small quantity of Ammuni- tion on their march, &c., Resolved, That his Soldiers, supplying themselves with four Bullets each, Colonel William Pitkin be desired and directed to deliver Colonel Mott, or his order, at the rate of one pound of Powder to every eight men of his Regiment, and the same quantity to Colonel Swift, or his order, for the use of his Regiment. Being informed by Colonel Porter that eighteen nine- pound and other Cannon are cast at the Furnace in Salis- bury, which are greatly wanted, &c., on consideration, this Board do appoint Colonel Jonathan Pettibone a Committee to procure proper Teams and Carriages for transporting twenty nine-pound Cannon from Salisbury Furnace to Hartford; and he, said Colonel Pettibone, is authorized and appointed to take care of and procure the same, to be brought and transported in the cheapest and most proper manner he shall be able, and the same deliver to Captain William Tuley, at Hartford, with all convenient speed, and make report to his Honour the Governour. N. B. Ordered eight hundred pounds of Powder from Colonel Pitkin’s Mill, to be sent to Colonel Porter, for use at Salisbury Furnace. ; Adjourned till to-morrow morning. 457 Thursday, July 18, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present: His Honour the Governour, Hon. Deputy-Gover- nour Griswold, Elipht. Dyar, Jz. Huntington, William Wil- liams, Titus Hosmer, Jedr. Elderkin, Nathl. Wales, Ben. Huntington, Wm. Hillhouse, Esquires. Letters prepared for General Schuyler, &c., and sent by Brown, the Albany Post, and for Colonel Porter, about the Cannon, and Colonel Pettibone’s appointment to procure Cannon to be brought to Hartford ; and copies of the ap- pointment of the Commissaries to procure Clothing, &c., as mentioned page 456. Mr. Root came in, and moves in the name of the Com- mittee of Prisoners and the County Court, to have a yard erected around the Jail at Hartford, to secure the Prison- ers, &c.; and is considered and largely discoursed, &c.; and it being represented to this Board by a Resolve of the honourable County Court of the County of Hartford that it is absolutely necessary that a good yard be forthwith built around the Jail in said County, which they judge will be particularly useful to secure the Prisoners of War that are or may be taken in, or sent into, this Colony; and, on con- sideration, Voted and Resolved, That it be recommended to the County Court for the County of Hartford, forthwith to make and construct a good and sufficient yard for said Jail, with pickets or plank, in the best and most prudent manner they can. And it is further Resolved, That one-half the expense of constructing said yard be borne and paid out of the pub- lick Treasury of this Colony, the residue by the County of Hartford aforesaid. Whereas the Regiment raised in this Colony for Conti- nental service, under the command of Colonel Andrew Ward, is now in great measure raised, mustered, equipped, and ready to march, and his Honour the Governour hath given orders for their march to Boston: And whereas intel- ligence is received that Lord Howe, with a very large body of troops, hath joined General Howe at New-York, and the whole force of the enemy seems ready to fall upon the city of New-York and parts adjacent, and the small-pox now greatly prevailing in and about Boston, and would probably spread in said Regiment and disable it from service should they march there: Resolved, That it will be most advisable and best, that the Colonel of said Regiment be ordered to suspend their march for the present, until further orders from the Congress or General Washington may be had, which, from the state of publick affairs, may be expected. The matter of publishing the Independency taken up again, and largely discoursed; and the manner of choosing the Delegates, &c., a good deal considered, &c.; and finally thought best to let the matter of publishing the Independency remain for the determination of the General Assembly at their next stated session. Whereas many persons inimical to the United States of America do wander from place to place, with intent to spy out the state of the Colonies, and give intelligence to their enemies, whereby confederacies may be formed and strength- ened, and other great inconveniences may ensue: Thereupon, which to prevent, Resolved, That no person or persons, unknown or sus- pected, whether they appear in the character of Gentlemen, Expresses, Travellers, or common Beggars, be permitted to pass from ‘Town to Town, in this Colony, unless he or they can and do produce a certificate from some Congress, Com- mittee of Safety or of Inspection, some Magistrate, Justice of the Peace, General or Field-Officer of the Army, therein mentioning from whence, and to what place, the person pro- ducing the same is travelling, and that he is friendly to the liberties of the American States, unless he be a person well known and friendly as aforesaid; and all Officers, civil and military, Selectmen, Committees of Inspection, Sheriffs, Con- stables, Grand Jurors, and Tithingmen, in this Colony, are directed to require every person travelling as aforesaid to produce such certificate, and to stop and examine such per- sons travelling without certificate as aforesaid; and unless he or they can give full satisfaction that he or they are pur- suing their lawful business, and are friendly to the liberties and interests of the United American States, and hath no CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 458 design to hurt or injure them in his or their journey, that they apprehend such person or persons, and him or them carry before the civil authority, Selectmen, or Committee of Inspection of the ‘Town in which he or they shall be found, to be further examined and dealt with as the nature of the case, in his or their opinion, may require. And it is further recommended to the civil authority and Selectmen of the larger Towns in this Colony, that proper watches and wards be kept in suitable places in said ‘Towns by night, to appre- hend any such persons as aforesaid that may travel by night fiom place to place, and practise mischief against this or the rest of the United American Colonies, and bring them before proper authority, that they may be dealt with in such manner as the nature of their several cases may require. An attested copy delivered Mr. Root, to be printed in handbills. Adjourned to eight o’clock, to-morrow morning. Friday, July 19, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present: His Honour the Governour, Honourable Deputy- Governour, Elipht. Dyer, Jz. Huntington, Wm. Williams, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Benj. Huntington, Nathl. Wales, and William Hillhouse, Esquires. Letters preparing for General Washington, &c., for Con- gress, &c. Copies made of a number; about six Depositions taken at New-London, of the conduct of some New-York Provision vessels throwing themselves into the enemy’s hands, &c.—in order to send General Washington. Originals for the Congress. On representation of Messrs. Elderkin and Wales, of the necessity of a Magazine to store the Powder wrought or to be wrought at their Mill, Voted, That Colonels Elderkin and Wales be directed to build a good and_ sufficient Magazine of stone, of the dimensions of eight feet by ten, at least; to be arched, cov- ered with earth, and situated in a good dry side hill, near their Mill and Works; and that they receive out of the pub- lick ‘Treasury a sum not exceeding £14, to enable them to perform said service, for which they engage to erect such Magazine, so as to well and thoroughly answer the end proposed, and to be, and belong to the Colony, and they to supply the deficiency, if any there be. On pressing application from Mr. Brooks, one of the Selectmen of Stratford, for a supply of Powder for the Town, Voted, That an Order be drawn on Messrs. Doolittle & Co.’s Powder-Mill, at New-Haven, for eight hundred pounds in favour of the Selectmen of Stratford—they to account for to the General Assembly, or to this Board, at the rate of 5s. 4d. per pound, or in such manner as shall be further considered and ordered. (Order given; sent in letter by the Deputy-Governour.) On repeated application from General Washington, &c., Ordered, That Captain Stanton, of the Row-Galley Shark, shall, in addition to the order before, immediately repair to General Washington, at New- York, and subject him- self to the command of said General, until further orders. Voted and Ordered, That Captain Harding, of the Brig Defence, immediately cause said Brig to be fitted and repaired with necessary repairs, and that he cruise in the Sound, and in proper places and grounds, for the best advan- tage and interest of the Colony. Voted, That his Honour the Governour be, and he hereby is, desired to give proper Commissions to such Officers as shall be duly chosen and returned as Commission Officers, in all such Companies of men not obliged by law to bear arms in the Militia in this Colony, as shall associate into military order, and stand ready to serve the publick, under the com- mand of the Captain-General. Adjourned till Tuesday next, unless sooner called. MEETING OF COMMITTEE FOR SYMSBURY, CONNECTICUT. Ata meeting of the Civil Authority, Selectmen, and Com- mittee of Inspection for the ‘Town of Symsbury, on the 19th day of July, A. D. 1776: Colonel JonatHan Pertrrsone, Chairman. Whereas, by frequent complaints, it appears to this meet- ing that there is great grounds of suspicion, that inimical 459 combinations and correspondence are formed and carrying on with the enemies of the United American States, by means of persons travelling from one town and part of the country to another, under pretence of selling Indigo, Feathers, Wood- en Dishes, Teas, and many other goods and wares of various kinds: Therefore, Resolved, That no person or persons belonging to said Town of Symsbury, on any pretence whatsoever, shall carry, vend, or offer for sale, any of the aforesaid goods, wares, or merchandise, or any other goods or merchandise whatsoever, from house to house, or from one Town or part of the County to another, or purchase any such goods, wares, or merchan- dise, or any other merchandise whatsoever, from any such strolling petit chapmen, in like manner, without leave or license first had and obtained from some one of the Civil Authority or Selectmen of this Town, on penalty of being treated as enemies to the interest of the United States of North-America, and dealt with accordingly. Published by order of said meeting. Certified from the Minutes. Test: Joun Owen, Clerk. At a Court of Inquiry held in Symsbury, in the County of Hartford, upon the 19th day of July, 1776: Present: The Civil Authority, Selectmen, and Committee of Inspection for said ‘Town. Pursuant to a complaint of the Grand Jurors of said Syms- bury, John Moses and Jesse Cosset, of said Symsbury, appear- ed upon an arrest; and upon examination, and hearing the witnesses, and considering their cases, each of them were found guilty of inimical conduct towards the interest of the United States of North-America; and judgment was ren- dered that each of them should be immediately disarmed, and also each of them were bound to their peace and good behaviour, and to answer to said complaints before the next Superior Court of this Colony, to be held at Hartford, on the first Tuesday of September next, and be further treated agreeable to the statute of this Colony in such cases made and provided. Likewise, Ordered, That these proceedings be published in the Connecticut Courant. Certified from the Minutes. Test: . Joun Owen, Clerk of said Court. BENJAMIN GREENLEAF TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 30,1776. Referred to the Board of War.] Watertown, July 19, 1776. Sir: Your letter of the 25th of June, enclosing a reso- lution of Congress earnestly recommending it to this State to send immediately two regiments of their Militia to aug- ment the troops destined for the Northern or Canada Depart- ment, has been communicated to the General Assembly; and considering the disagreeable complexion of our affairs in that quarter, and the absolute necessity of the measure, they bave ordered such a proportion of the Militia of this Government forthwith to be draughted for that purpose as will be sufficient to make up the regiments requested. Since which, General Washington, agreeable to the power vested in him by the Congress on the 4th and 8th of July, has ordered the whole of the five regiments stationed in Massa- chusetts-Bay to the southward; so that our lines and fortifi- cations in and near Boston are left entirely destitute of Continental troops; for the General Court have been so closely engaged in taking effectual measures for furnishing the troops they were desired to send to New-York and Canada, that they have not had opportunity to raise the two regi- ments they were permitted to raise upon the Continental establishment for the defence of this Government, and as the General Court is now prorogued, it cannot at present be done. Under these circumstances, the Council have thought it abso- lutely necessary for the security and protection of this State to order such a proportion of the Militia of this Government to be forthwith draughted out, and to march to the lines and fortifications in and near Boston, to supply the place of the Continental troops ordered from thence to the southward ; and for their encouragement, have assured them that they will have the same pay and establishment as is allowed to the troops of the United Colonies. ‘They are to tarry until the first of December next, and to be under the same regula- tions as the Continental troops, and their service is confined CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 460 to the limits of this Government. We request, therefore, that the honourable Congress would give orders to their Commissary-General to furnish these men with their rations, and to the Paymaster-General to furnish them with their pay as it may become due. Before we conclude, we beg leave to observe, that besides the six thousand five hundred men lately ordered to New- York and Canada, agreeable to the requisition of the hon- ourable Congress, nineteen regiments raised within this Government have been all ordered out of it, a ‘great num- ber of men have been taken from our sea-coast to serve on board the Continental Navy, and over and above these, we have been obliged to keep a great number of companies in pay for the defence of our sea-coast. All these calls have so greatly thinned us of men, that it has become extremely difficult, if not impracticable, to raise any more, or even to carry on our necessary husbandry business. The Courts have been obliged already to give a bounty of seven pounds law- ful money, in addition to which many of our towns have been obliged to give thirteen pounds more, in order to raise their several quotas, and the price of labour is at least double to what it used to be. However, we are engaged in a good and righteous cause, and, heavy as our burdens are, we are determined to exert ourselves to the utmost; but cannot refrain from representing our circumstances to the honour- able Congress, and praying their consideration of the same, that so they may, as soon as the general safety will permit it, order a number of the Continental regiments to return to the lines and fortifications in and about Boston, for the secu- rity and protection of this Government. In the name and by order of the Council, I am, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, B. Greenuerar. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. (To be communicated.) BENJAMIN AUSTIN TO THOMAS CUSHING. Boston, July 19, 1776. Str: I have looked over the Court and Council files for October last, and can find nothing of the order of Court for presents to the Penobscot Indians; I am therefore at a loss what to do in procuring the presents for the St. John’s and Mickmacks. \ beg the favour you would desire the Secre- tary to examine the files preceding October, and those that follow. 1 was told they were all in Boston; but it’s not so. If these articles are not to be found, I beg the favour that the honourable Board would let me know what articles I am to procure, as I shall wait in town this day for the same. The gorget and heart I have two men at work upon, and hope to have them by Tuesday. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, To the Hon. Thomas Cushing, Esq. B. Austin. GENERAL LINCOLN TO THOMAS CUSHING. Boston, July 19, 1776. My pear Sir: It is not necessary that the Council should give orders immediately that the Militia in the neighbour- hood of Point Shirley, Noddle’s Island, Charlestown, Dor- chester-Heights, and Nantasket, be detached, and ordered to hold themselves in readiness to march on an alarm to those posts; and that alarm posts be assigned to such Militia ; that signals for an alarm should be ordered; and that publick notice be given what they are; and, at the same time, notice be given that, on a certain day, the signals will be made. This will call up the attention of the neighbourhood; the people will make such remarks with regard to them as will probably prevent their being deceived when a real alarm is designed. Also, if the signals agreed on will not sound the alarm so generally as we could wish, further measures may be taken in the matter before it be too late. Give me leave to propose that one beacon be erected at Cape Ann, one at Marblehead, one at Malden, one at Bos- ton, one at the Blue-Hills, and one at Nantasket; that a sentry be constantly kept at each beacon, whose duty it should be to observe and report when the beacon in the neighbourhood is fired—(the expense of this will be small, as troops are stationed at each of the places, excepting Malden and the Blue-Hills); that an old cannon be car- ried to the Blue-Hills—such an one there is at Dorchester, 461 near the mills, with an old carriage; and one be carried to Malden; and that upon the approach of a fleet of more than sail, an alarm be made by firing the beacons, and by a discharge of three cannon at each place successively, at one minute’s distance between each discharge between the rising and setting of the sun, and two in the night. And that on an alarm being made, the detached Militia afore- said immediately repair to their alarm-posts, and there wait further orders. In order that people may generally know what signals will be given on the approach of an enemy, &c., and when the same signals will be given for an experiment, would it not be well to have it published by the Clergy in the same manner as the Declaration of Independency is to be made known? It appears to me necessary that some order should be taken for a general spread of an alarm through this State. Tam, with esteem and regard, your most humble servant, Bensgamin Lincoxn. To the Hon. Thomas Cushing. TRISTRAM DALTON TO ELBRIDGE GERRY. Newburyport, July 19, 1776. Dear Sir: I wish you joy on the late full Declaration— an event so ardently desired by your good self and the people you particularly represent. We are no longer to be amused with delusive prospects. The die is cast. All is at stake. The way is made plain. No one can now doubt on which side it is his duty toact. We have everything to hope from the goodness of our cause. The God of justice is omnipo- tent. We are not to fear what man or a multitude can do. We have put on the harness, and I trust it will not be put off until we see our land a land of security and freedom— the wonder of the other hemisphere—the asylum of all who pant for deliverance from bondage. Wishing every blessing to attend you, I am, dear sir, with great regard, your obedient servant, Tristram Da.ron. WENTWORTH TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Portsmouth, July 19, 1776. Gentitemen: Mrs. Levins having informed this Commit- tee that she was about to apply to you for leave to depart this place, in order to proceed to her husband at Quebeck, we beg leave to acquaint you that the situation of her family is such as that, if she can go with safety, we should think it expedient. Major Meigs and Captain Dearborn inform us that Mr. Levins interested himself with General Carleton to obtain leave for them to revisit their families; and that in return for his kindness, they promised him to use their utmost endeavours to have his family sent him. If this measure meets with your approbation, we can see no reasonable objection to Mrs. Levins’s going with her family as soon as she can get away. I am, by order of the Committee of Safety, gentlemen, your most humble servant, H. Wentwortru, Chairman. To the Honourable the Committee of Safety at Exeter. H. H. WENTWORTH TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Portsmouth, July 19, 1776. GentLeMeN: Captain Roach, in the schooner Polly, naving cleared from this port to the eastward, with a cargo consisting of two hogsheads of salt, twenty bushels of corn, three hundred pounds of tobacco, three barrels of rum, and three barrels of cider, sundry of the inhabitants of this town have made application to us to forbid his departure, suppo- sing the risk too great at this time. We have had Captain Roach before us, and he acquaints us that he intends to go to St. Peter’s, and to carry with him, exclusive of the above articles, cash sufficient to purchase a cargo there of such commodities as he supposes will be suitable for this market. We think it our duty to inform you of this matter, and have desired Captain Roach to wait on you, and request your opinion thereon. I am, by order of the Committee of Safety, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, H. Wentworth, Chairman. To the Honourable the Committee of Safety, at Eveter. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. A62 JOSEPH WENTWORTH TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Portsmouth, July 20, 1776. GentLemen: Pursuant to an order from Major-General Sullivan of the 3d instant, to me directed, to raise one hun- dred and fifteen men out of the First Regiment, I now have the pleasure to enclose the return of that number, who have voluntarily engaged in the service of their country. Gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Joseph Wentwortn. To the Honourable the Committee of Safety for the Colony of New-Hampshire. CAPTAIN RICHARDS, OF THE LISBON PACKET, TO THE POST- MASTERS-GENERAL. Falmouth, England, July 20, 1776. My Lorps: Saturday, June 15, received two mails from Mr. Bell, for the Duke of York packet, and sailed for Lis- bon, in company with the Anna Theresa and Eagle packets. Tuesday, June 25, arrived at Lisbon with the Ege packet in company, and off the Bar saw a fleet of French men-of- war, consisting of six sail of the line, two frigates, two sloops, a brig, and two cutters. The 29th arrived six sail of Spa- nish men-of-war in the Tagus. On Monday, the 8th of July afterwards, we sailed in company with the Spanish fleet, which consisted of three sail of the line, one frigate, and two sloops. In the evening saw four sail more of Spanish ships-of-war going in—three sail of the line, and one frigate. The French fleet sailed to the northward. On the 4th of July, his most faithful Majesty of Portugal issued a decree prohibiting all ships and vessels belonging to British-America entering into any ports of the dominions of Portugal; and in case they should arrive, prohibiting any of his subjects from giving them any succour, but imme- diately turning them out of the ports; and for those in the ports, immediately after eight days from the above date; and, in case of disobedience, all such ships or vessels are to be confiscated to the use and benefit of the publick works; and in case of departure, a strict charge is given to the out- ward Consulada to search them, that they do not carry with them any implements of war. I am, my Lords, your Lordships’ obedient, humble ser- vant, Joun Ricwarps. EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED LONDON, JuLY 20, 1776. The Ministry seem so confident of reducing the Colonies — with the formidable force which they have sent for that pur- pose, that they are already employed in devising means for keeping them in subjection after they have subdued them, Lately, there was presented to the King a project for that purpose, which his Majesty approved of. ‘The proposal is, to keep up ten thousand troops, of which two shall be bat- talions of Artillery, and two of Light-Dragoons; and to esta- blish on the Continent two Bishopricks, the titles of which shall be, the Protectors of the English Church. Such are the brilliant chimeras which are spread by the Ministerial party, and which the opposite party are labouring to destroy, by publishing to the world that the Colonies combatting for liberty will not yield but to force; that the force already sent out by the mother country, which at present appears irre- sistible, will soon be reduced to nothing, if the first conse- quences of it should not equal the expectations of Ad- ministration. Dissatisfaction will soon succeed, and diffuse itself through all ranks of people, already much fatigued with civil intestine war; that in this case the consequences must necessarily be very fatal to England, especially if strangers, taking advantage of these dissensions, and in support of America, should attack the most remote English settlements, and occasion a diversion which will greatly weaken the power of Great Britain. It appears plainly already that the formidable armaments which they are fitting out in the ports of France and Spain, have no other object but war; that we may be convinced of this by the evasive answers given to our Ambassadors at the Courts of Versailles and Madrid, as we have them from their representations on that subject; that the distin- guished marks of respect with which they have received the Deputies of Congress in these two Courts, does not leave 463 the least doubt that a treaty has been already formed between them and the Americans, the effects of which, in all proba- bility, will be felt as soon as Independence shall be declared, a period which cannot be at a great distance, since the reso- lutions sent to the General Congress by every of the United States to that effect are already publick. It is by these means that Opposition seeks to weaken the specious reason- ings which Government employs, to warn the people of the melancholy consequences of the war, information which already begins to alarm the nation. LIST OF BRITISH ARMED VESSELS ON THE NORTH AMERICAN STATION. Third rates. Guns Asia, Captain George Vandeput.... 2.0. eecreeeecrseeeereeceeee 64 Boyne, Brod. Hantwell......cees cree cece ce ee eeeetr eee teceees 70 -Eagle, Vice Admiral Howe, H. Duncan.........+-- IO SOME opie 64 Somerset, G. OUrry..ceecserececcsereccrerseeceetreeestreeees 64 Fourth rates. Bristol, Com. Sir Peter Parker, John Morris.....+-seeeeeueeees 50 Centurion, Richard Braithwait.....esceese eer eeee cree eeeree seo) Chatham, Vice Admiral Shuldham, J. Rayner........eeseeeeeee 50 Experiment, Robert Kecler....+-e.seeeeeesceeeeeereceeerecees 50 Jersey, (Hospital ship,) W. A. Halsted... 2... eee eeeee eer eeees 60 Isis, C. Douglass.......-- slavelei sects eleeis oreielcoislnfele, sy] stele lsienlers ilele 50 Preston, J. Robinson... 6.0... .ecscecces%ee vines cccccscr cence 50 Remo wy Hs Banks. - 00 Fifth rates. Blonde, P. Pownal.........cccccssccccrecescrccsccrccscssees 32 HAN cobd coma O aCnnOOnO COCO OOo GdUoba 1d OCUON, I560n 32 Pineralds BaiGald wellisiecieicissveicieie slo's 9% a\:ovjeleie elon wleloveje\e/es olele sie Be Niger, G. Talbot ..-.ccccseccccsscccccccccccceccccccsscccsene 32 Orpheus, C. Hudson... .cereseceecr ee cccrcceccrceeccescenece 32 Penis O- Elotosreietetstecistete cleels'o'e svasle els ches s/ole efosielele alv\s oie) Sis /olew clsteteieete’s eeysnte’s core 28 Carrysfort, FANSNA Wyaineravelore se raleleie taste daetdw: otierel etaienier a) sists 28 WEEE RUN cclotelayeb oe cioiotenistctetelseiateielet en eteleicleatsteielois eis ielectnasl=tale 28 DealuGas tle MVWViorthin. a «te solniale is sale vleatale’sicteastieier shake bialestetetss tates 24 Fowey, G. Montagu .. cscs cecccccecccsesceccives tion ccnceswes 24 MO, HOCH ETING HAs ies ievoles ol sierslesle/e\e elvs.a/e\e elas lel vies se oos0). ic lalate! ols 24 Lively, 1. Bishop «.- oslec pes sien s Sioir's Sten ciple Sieia\sleeicieincls 5's o's 20 DSOlebays pl WSVAMON Sete siete a «efoto here ctatele krale ave retclte leis elesieslelsicierscte 28 SDL Sey ee E DUE tele co dfetol orm epic] eisletecieleieis|sselereis eerels evel site inice fa «a iate 20 FO VME Moe taE UT MOUU Kis storerelotele tele isle elon eislels olele ete eelctatetat= sjctel sta e > 28 MDA Tt AUViste otel o:giates fol olotate nicls/shaje elere leateverots \e, cove leista| ofeloloteleteniatehts catete’ 28 Whniton,, Keil A LUtwid Guess sis lerecte mete) wvioisls jeridp a oinles) on folotarelariate o\ai6 28 Sloops. ‘Atalanta... UNCER WOO Socieeatts oie isloluteretesrere: 6.0 Scieisrewisehelhclotett te 16 Carcassahy. Dine pow or wicvcipiests alee clelsielouie oof iersteste/ ate sets ietaial tas 8 CRUISER AH PAUIY Io. e/e~ eter selere etezerio tel cictas!eie's etariofeln olviniere tale ate tere 8 Balcony) 2ndsey de siete wistos ctele,s selelsle © -piacioamteseiele ote eieid barerolote s 16 Beerret, JG COONEY, 55 cieinat’ wreke ticle te saniviste has mc aisinatir beens oes 18 RALBWAKE PLUM OODEL . serancrolareloit etc aicaislaciacls creel cecclerectetersterietceieis 10 Bip ih ets. Geiss. Sie Serelvns y vbw bhalleen velad se eis a isterer ottelote 16 DViarting WV.2P atersiicte cca corer cts) eters tre tials Sepia eeiat eine. aie eee 14 BPEOTLIN y Vad SULNADY. 0 $010 9.054 winnie os MANghCa Op aw eet srins eee e 18 INES, oO OOllINS esses csreceeeteticevestelea ciseleieiccre stele chrome es 16 Oberg a Soule ss tials waste lela stsicdche Seisieve vio tcte lec ieee eesti ten 10 PAVOLE WEL IOCOMEGLE. fa fates dieseree ofepals ciclo wtervate cfepeie taretate Rickeere hehe hate 8 COL MLO yTo ek OlEMACHE Ee + irs eter siete Sie eia's Jauv © ies aa cle ce'aieie se 10 Armed Vessels.—Canceaux, Cherokee, Lieutenant Ferguson; Dilli- gence, Labrador, Magdalen, Lieutenant John Nunn; Sultana; Bomb- Ketch Thunder, J. Reid. SAMUEL CURSON TO COMFORT SANDS. St. Eustatia, July 20, 1776. Sir: My last respects were of the 80th May. I then for- warded you duplicate of sales of Captain Pullar’s cargo, with bill of lading and invoice of what J shipped in return; also the honourable Congress’s account current: balance due me £620 7s. 2d. If you find it right, I shall be much obliged to you to pay it to Messrs. Curson & Seton, as | owe them a large sum. Powder continues in great plenty. It has lately been sold as low as 30 piastres. Won’t you be in want of blankets next winter? they may be had here at 2 and 3 ps. apiece. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 464 Provisions are likely to be very much wanted soon. There’s but little good in these Islands. If we have not larger sup- plies than heretofore, we may suffer much. The English Islands already feel the effect of America withdrawing their trade from them, and some begin to think with us, Great Britain will lose her object. I am, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, SamueL Corson, To Mr. Comfort Sands, Merchant, New- York. P. S. Superfine flour, 163 ps.; corn, 13a14 ps.; bread, 163 ps.; pork, 22a24 ps.; corn, 14 ps. VIRGINIA COUNCIL. In Council, Williamsburgh, July 20, 1776. Ordered, That the Printers publish in their respective Gazettes the Declaration of Independence made by the honourable the Continental Congress, and that the Sheriff of each County in this Commonwealth proclaim the same at the door of his Court-House the first Court day after he shall have received the same. ArcuipaLp Buatr, Clerk. BATTLE NEAR THE GREAT ISLAND OF HOLSTEIN. Williamsburgh, August 2, 1776. Last Wednesday an express arrived with the following account of a battle fought between the Militia of Fincastle, and some of the Cherokee and Creek Indians near the great Island of Holstein, on the 20th of July last. On the 19th our scouts returned, and informed us that they had discovered where a great number of Indians were making into the settlement; upon which alarm, the few men that were stationed at Katon’s completed a breastwork suf- ficiently strong, with the assistance of what men were there, to have repelled a considerable number, sent expresses to the different stations, and collected all.the forces in one body; and the morning after, about one hundred and seventy turned out in seach of the enemy. We marched in two divisions, with flankers on each side, and scouts before. Our scouts discovered upwards of twenty meeting us, and fired on them. ‘They returned the fire, but our men rushed on them with such violence that they were obliged to make a precipitate retreat. We took ten bundles, and a good deal of plunder, and had great reason to think some of them were wounded. ‘This small skirmish happened on ground very disadvantageous for our men to pursue, though it was with the greatest difficulty our officers could restrain their men. A council was held, and it was thought advisable to return, as we imagined there was a large party not far off. We accordingly returned, and had not marched more than a mile when a number, not inferior to ours, attacked us in the rear. Our men sustained the attack with great bravery and intre- pidity, immediately formeda line. The Indians endeavoured to surround us, but were prevented by the uncommon forti- tude and vigilance of Captain James Shelby, who took pos- session of an eminence that prevented their design. Our line of battle extended about a quarter of a mile. We killed thirteen on the spot, whom we found, and have the greatest reason to believe that we could have found a great many more, had we had time to search for them. There were streams of blood every way; and it was generally thought there never was so much execution done in so short a time on the frontiers. Never did troops fight with greater calm- ness than ours did. ‘The Indians attacked us with the great- est fury imaginable, and made the most vigorous efforts to surround us. Our spies really deserve the greatest applause. We took a great deal of plunder and many guns, and had only four men greatly wounded. ‘The rest of the troops are in high spirits, and eager for another engagement. We have the greatest reason to believe they are pouring in great num- bers on us, and beg the assistance of our friends. James Tompson, James SHELBY, Wiiuiam Bucuanan, JoHN CAMPBELL, Witir1am Cocks, Tuomas Mapison. To Major Anthony Bledsoe; from him to be immediately sent to Colonel Preston. 465 PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. In Council, Williamsburgh, July 20, 1776. Str: We had the honour to receive your letter of the 8th instant, enclosing the Declaration of Independence, and the resolve of Congress respecting the augmentation of the Rifle corps at New-York. We shall take care to have the De- claration immediately published, so as that the people may be universally informed of it, who, we have the pleasure to inform you, have been impatiently expecting it, and will receive it with joy. We are perfectly satisfied of the utility of riflemen, and wish it was in our power to assist in raising the number in our County voted by Congress for the support of New- York, but the Convention has adjourned, and we are vested with no powers which can in any manner enforce or carry into execution that vote. If commissions could be sent to proper persons, they might raise companies which would have a right to march to New-York, but we could not oblige them to do so. {t is with pleasure, sir, we observe that you say, in con- sequence of the Declaration, you are fully convinced that our affairs may take a more favourable turn; and we firmly rely on the protection and continuance of the powerful interposi- tion of that Being whose power no creature is able to resist. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, Joun Pace, President. To Hon. John Hancock, President of Congress, Philadelphia. ELISHA WINTERS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Chestertown, July 20, 1776. GentLemen: Having been absent on business to Phila- delphia, did not receive your much esteemed favour of the 12th instant till this day. I am willing to undertake the repairing the arms which may be borrowed or purchased on the Eastern-Shore for the Flying-Camp, with all convenient speed, though I am sorry to inform you there is no proba- bility that Colonel Hollingsworth can answer your oder in my favour for four hundred bayonets time enough to des- patch the business equal to your wishes. I will use the utmost industry to procure them elsewhere, the Province to be chargeable with the extraordinary expense I may incur, unless you have any other means to furnish me with them. Ramrods and swivels fitted I can and would choose to furnish. Holding in view my contract, and assuring you I will exert every effort for your interest, I remain, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, Exisua WInTERS. CAPTAIN MARTIN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 20, 1776. GentLeMEN: Oxford being a place much exposed to danger, and from which a guard has been lately removed, should you think proper to place a small body of men there, my company is very convenient, and will engage to raise thirty for that purpose, under such officers as you may think proper, that are already officers in my company. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Nicuoxtas Martin. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. George’s, Head-Quarters, July 20, 1776. GentLemEN: From the accounts given me by several deserters, that the fleet entered up Potomack River to water, and from the motions of the Roebuck, five other ships and a sloop, 1 have the greatest reason to believe they are now on their way for that purpose. Nanjemoy we suppose to be the place of their destination. I have, by letter, informed the Committee of Correspondence of the motions of the above ships, and shall endeavour to watch their motions, and prevent their depredations, with all my might. There was a brisk and severe cannonade from two or three tenders and a row-galley off Smth’s Creek about six o’clock this morn- ing, the consequence of which I have not yet heard. 1 am, gentlemen, with much esteem, your most obedient servant, Joun Denr, To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. Firra Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. “fortunately for America. 30 466 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MAJOR SHRYOCK. [No. 64.] Annapolis, July 20, 1776. Sir: We received yours of the Ist of July, by Captain Reynolds, and have no particular orders to give at present, more than to request you would forward the Militia of the Flying-Camp. Use your endeavours to have the men well armed, furnished with blankets and all necessaries. Colonel Williams, we are told, has declined. You stand in the way of promotion; therefore exert yourself to the utmost, and may you be crowned with success. We wish you health, and are yours, &c. To Major Henry Shryock. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. Ata special meeting of the Committee, July 20, 1776: Present : Samuel Purviance, Jr., Chairman; W. Lux, Vice Chairman; J. Calhoun, B. Griffith, J. Griest, T. Rutter, W. Aisquith, J. Boyd. A Letter from John Andrews, Esquire, Chairman of the Committee of Caroline County, was received by express, informing that they bad apprehended John Amos, who lately went away from Baltimore town; and, upon examining him, found a certificate from George Woolsey, of his having paid his fine of £10, asa Non-Associate, which had induced . them to confine hint till the further order of this Committee. An answer was accordingly returned, signifying that (the Convention having, at their last meeting, resolved that the Committee should not hereafter take any further cognizance of Non-Associators or Non-Enrollers, and the Committee having no other charge against Mr. Amos,) he might be discharged. Attested : Grorce Lux, Secretary. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Congress Chamber, 30’clock, A. M., July 20, 1776. Sir: [ have only time to inform you that this moment your favour of the 19th is come to hand. Enclosed is this morning’s paper, to which beg to refer you. My best wishes attend you; and am, your most obedient servant, Joun Hancock, President. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JOHN ADAMS, DATED PHILA- DELPHIA, JULY 20, 1776. We had yesterday an express from General Lee, in Charles- town, South-Carolina, with an account of a brilliant little action between the armament under Clinton and Cornwallis, and a battery on Sudllivan’s Island, which terminated very I will endeavour to enclose, with this, a printed account of it. It has given us good spirits here, and will have a happy effect upon our armies at Nevw- York and Ticonderoga. Surely our northern soldiers will not suffer themselves to be outdone by their brethren so nearly under the sun. I don’t yet hear of any Massachusetts men at New-York. Our people must not flinch at this criti- cal moment, when their country is in more danger than it ever will be again, perhaps. What will they say if the Howes prevail against our forces at so important a post as New-York, for want of a few thousand men from the Massachusetts ? I will likewise send you, by this post, Lord Howe’s letter and Proclamation, which has let the cat out of the bag. These tricks deceive no longer. Gentlemen here, who either were, or pretended to be, deceived heretofore, now see or pretend to see through such artifices. I apprehend his Lordship is afraid of being attacked upon Staten-Island, and is throwing out his barrels to amuse Leviathan until his reinforcements shall arrive. MONSIEUR PELISSIER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 20, 1776, and referred to the Board of War.] Philadelphia, July 20, 1776. Honovraste Sirs: Anxious as I am to avoid giving trouble to this honourable House, I am, nevertheless, obliged to lay before you the following particulars of my situation. At the time the first address from Congress to the Canadians appeared in that country, I was among the foremost who sought to give it support; and, impressed with a strong desire to free this Western world from European tyranny, L A67T hesitated not to furnish petards for the Continental Army, iron, stores, and every other material in my power, on the credit of the officers’ notes, which money has since been paid me at Albany. Ihave been studious and attentive to the success of the cause, by giving every useful information in my power; which circumstance, I presume, some of this honourable House can testify to. I have accepted a com- mission of Colonel, for the District of Three Rivers, from General Arnold; by which act I have put the finishing character to what Mr. Carleton will call rebellion, which renders it impossible for me to appear in that country again with safety. ; In consequence of an order from General Arnold, I pre- pared works for casting and supplying the Army with four thousand shells and twenty-two thousand cannon-balls, and such other supplies as the Army might require of that kind; in doing which, I was at a very great expense; which works, on the retreat of the Army, | was obliged to abandon, to- gether with all my property, and an estate in land which cost fifteen thousand pounds, being six miles long and’ twenty acres broad. In consequence of these misfortunes, I am likely to suffer great inconveniences; I therefore request that this honourable House will take the matter into their con- sideration, and enable me to support myself in some decent character under them, until such time as affairs will permit me to put myself in possession of my Canadzan property; and, in the mean time, I beg that Congress will dispose of my service in any way in which I can be most useful. I am, honourable sirs, with great respect, your most humble servant, PELISSIER. To the Honourable Continental Congress. PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE. In Committee of Inspection and Observation for aA County of Philadelphia, July 20, 1776. Resolved, unanimously, That this Committee most earn- estly exhort the Captains of the Militia of this County to use their utmost abilities to complete their Companies, and march them, under the orders of their Commanding Officer, to Trenton; and that the Associators would, with becoming alertness, join their respective Companies, as they value the reputation of freemen, and wish to hold the foremost place in the esteem of their countrymen. By order of the Committee : Joun Buti, Chairman. ROBERT MORRIS TO COLONEL JOSEPH REED. From the Hills on Schuylkill, July 20, 1776. Dear Sir: I received your obliging letter of the 13th, yesterday, in Congress, and should have been tempted to have laid the enclosure immediately before Congress, had not a letter from the same person, on the same subject, and in a similar style, addressed to Mr. Kinsey, of New-Jersey, been read in Congress the day before. ‘The temper of the House was plain; and you may judge what it was, when I tell you that the only inquiry the letter produced was, how it got into Mr. Kinsey’s hands. I am sorry to say there are some amongst us that cannot bear the thought of recon- ciliation on any terms. ‘To these men, all propositions of the kind sound like high-treason against the State; and I really believe they would sooner punish a man for this crime than for bearing arms against us. I cannot help condemn- ing this disposition, as it must be founded in keen resentment, or on interested views ; whereas we ought to have the interest of our country and the good of mankind to act as the main- spring in all our publick conduct. I think with you, that if the Commissioners have any propositions to make, they ought to be heard; should they disclose powers different from what we imagine them to be vested with, and an incli- nation to employ those powers favourably for America, it is our duty to attend to such offers, weigh well the conse- quences of every determination we come to, and, in short, to lay aside all prejudices, resentments, and sanguine notions of our own strength, in order that reason may influence and wisdom guide our councils. . If the Admiral and General are really desirous of a con- ference, I think and hope they will address our General properly; this may be expected, if they have powers beyond granting pardons; if they have not, it is idle for them to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 468 solicit any intercourse, as no good can possibly arise to them or their cause from it; but, on our part, I think that good policy requires that we should hear all they have to say. I am not for making any sacrifice of dignity; but still I would hear them, if possible ; because, if they can offer peace on admissible terms, I believe the great majority of America would still be for accepting it. If they can only offer par- dons, and that is fully ascertained, it will firmly unite all America in their exertions to support the independence they have declared; and it must be obvious to everybody, that our united efforts will be absolutely necessary. This being the case, why should we fear to treat of peace, or to hear the Commissioners on that subject? If they can offer terms that are advantageous and honourable for this country, let us meet them; if they cannot, we are not in a situation or temper to ask or receive pardons; and all who do not mean to stoop to this ignominious submission will consequently take up their arms with a determination to conquer or to die. If they offer or desire a conference, and we reject it, those who are already dissatisfied will become more so, others will follow their example, and we may expect daily greater dis- union and disaffection in every part of these States; at least such are my apprehensions on this subject. I have uniformly voted against and opposed the Declara- tion of Independence, because, in my poor opinion, it was an improper time, and will neither promote the interest nor redound to the honour of America; for it has caused division when we wanted union, and will be ascribed to very different principles than those which ought to give rise to such an important measure. I did expect my conduct in this great question would have procured my dismission from the great Council, but find myself disappointed, for the Convention has thought proper to return me in the new delegation; and although my interest and inclination prompt me to decline the service, yet I cannot depart from one point which first induced me to enter the publick line: I mean an opinion, that it is the duty of every individual to act his part in what- ever station his country may call him to in times of difficulty, danger, and distress. Whilst I think this a duty, I must submit, although the councils of America have taken a dif- ferent course from my judgment and wishes. I think that the individual who declines the service of his country because its councils are not conformable to his ideas, makes but a ‘bad subject; a good one will follow, if he cannot lead. Until the good news from Carolina raised our spirits, they were constantly depressed by every account we received from the Northern Army. Such scenes of mismanagement, misconduct, and ill success, as have been exhibited in that quarter, ever since the loss of the brave Montgomery, have no parallel. I hope you are, or will be, properly strengthened and supported at New-York. For my own part, I don’t like your situation there, but think you had better give up that city to the enemy than let them get behind and pen you in there, as they were cooped in Boston last year. However, I don’t pretend to any judgment in this matter, nor to have considered the subject. My confidence in the abilities of General Washington is entire. His life is the most valuable in America; and whenever an engagement happens, I sin- cerely hope he will think how much depends on it, and suard it accordingly. The publick papers will announce to you the new appoint- ments and changes here; and as I have not much unemployed time, I am always ready to spare the use of my pen. This. being Sunday morning, and in the country, | have spun out this letter to a length not common with me now-a-days. | beg my compliments to the General. I dmed in company with Mrs. Washington yesterday, at Colonel Harrison’s, and expect her here at dinner to-day. Remember me to General Mifflin, Colonels Shea and Moylan, and believe me to be, very sincerely, yours, Rosertr Morris. P.S. I will lay the London letter before Congress: to- morrow. SAMUEL TUCKER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. In Convention of New-Jersey, Trenton, July 20, 1776. Sir: Before the arrival of your packet this morning we had received the letter from Mr. Kinsey, of which the 469 enclosed is a copy. We had thought the step necessary, which Congress have been pleased to intimate, of inquiring through what channel a letter had been conveyed from Loyd Howe. You are now possessed of the letter, which will speak for itself. . The very agreeable and important news from the southward, for which we had felt the anxiety of brethren for brothers in danger, gives us a joy we cannot name. We hope it is a happy presage of our own success. It will at least animate our people, and thus greatly contribute to our exertions. We shall do everything in our power respecting the cattle. We have such an extent of shore, (more than three hundred miles,) all of which is-more or less exposed, and a great part of it in such a situation that the owners have no places to which they can remove their cattle, that the task is not a little difficult. The Tory cattle of all kinds we shall lay our hands upon at every opportunity. We are, sir, your most humble servants, By order of Congress: Samuet Tucxer, President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. July_19, 1776. Dear Srr: The letter you mention is marked on the back, “ Favoured by Lord Howe,” and came to Mrs. Reed enclosed in a packet from her brother. While my clerk was copy- ing it, my barber came in, and he told Hewlings. Hewlings desired a sight, which, as it was expressly desired to be com- municated to the Assembly, I did not think myself (though really inclinable to do it) at liberty to deny. He then de- sired he might take a copy, which copy was immediately I have reason to think) carried and shown to Odell; since which I have shown it to such as have applied to me. I have sent, or rather written a copy to send, to our Dele- gates, which I intend to forward by the first opportunity. This is all the information you request. I am, with esteem, your obedient servant, J. Kiysezy. To Samuel Tucker, Esq. Bridgetown, Cumberland County, May 6, 1776. GenTLeEMEN: As our situation on the Delaware exposes us to the frequent depredations of our enemies—we having - already had two alarms, and this day a number of our cattle killed and taken away, and we not having a sufficient quan- tity of powder and ball in store to protect our shore, and hourly expecting more visits from the ships that lie i the bay—I am directed to apply to you to solicit the Congress for a further supply of two hundred pounds of powder and one thousand pounds of lead. Your compliance will oblige your very humble servants. By order of the Committee: Tromas Harris, Chairman. To the Delegates of New-Jersey in’ the Continental Con- gress. GENERAL MERCER TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Referred to Board of War.] Head-Quarters, Elizabethtown, July 20, 1776. Str: Your favour of the 17th instant, with the resolves of Congress of the 16th, which I had the honour to receive yesterday, I shall pay all possible attention to. Some days ago I came to this place with a view to exe- cute a plan to surprise some of the enemy’s posts on Staten- Island, formed by consent of General Washington. From what we could observe, and the intelligence we received, there were three stations, including the New Blazing- Star, which, together with some few houses off from the Sound, contained from five to six hundred men. ‘Two creeks en- closed these stations all but a narrow neck of land, so as to prevent an easy access of reinforcements. It was intended to pass the Sound from the mouth of Thompson’s Creek, a little below this town, to Staten-Island, at a proper time of night, so as to be on the back of the ene- my’s quarters before daylight appeared. We were first to have secured, by a strong party, the neck of land between the two creeks, and then to have divided our force in such a manner as to have attacked all the posts at once as soon as it was light, then to have retired, if successful, by the ferry * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 470 at the New Blazing-Star. The night before last was fixed for this enterprise. The first division, consisting of Conti- nental troops under Major Knowlton, marched with me to the mouth of Thompson’s Creek by nine o’clock, with design to pass the Sound. Immediately the two battalions of the Pennsylvania Riflemen, together with the first battalion of the Pennsylvania Militia, were to follow. The whole force would then have consisted of about thirteen hundred. Some of these troops were rendered unfit for service by having hada very fatiguing march from Brunswick. 'This obliged us to think of contracting our plan; but very tempestuous weather coming on, obliged us to desist altogether from the enter- prise, some gentlemen, being well acquainted with the pas- sage there, being of opinion that we should endanger the loss of our whole party in attempting to cross in such boats as we were provided with. I have troubled you with this narrative, partly with design to point out the necessity of having boats of a proper con- struction built for the service of this Army, either to afford a safe and speedy passage to the troops for the attack of the enemy on Staten-Island, or to move our men with expe- dition to New-York or Philadelphia, should the service require their assistance at either place. I have relieved with the troops sent from Pennsylvania all the Militia of New-Jersey, who occupied sundry posts from South-Amboy to Paulus Hook, to enable them to secure their harvest. When that is effected, they will again cheer- fully give their assistance. The command of the Flying-Camp, which the Congress have been pleased to honour me with, will render the assist- ance of an Adjutant-General and a Secretary very necessary. Mr. David Ross, a young gentleman of Maryland, had joined me in hopes of having the appointment of Brigade- Major. I beg leave to represent him to the honourable Congress as fit to perform the duty of Deputy Adjutant- General, or of Brigade-Major, as may be thought most ex- pedient. Give me leave to add my most hearty congratulations on the happy success of our arms in Souwth-Carolina, this mo- ment communicated to me by yours of the 19th instant. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Hueu Mercer. To the Hon. John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress. (Copy to be forwarded to General Washington.) PHILIP B. BRADLEY TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Bergen, July 20, 1776. May rr pLease your Excetiency: I have made strict inquiry, pursuant to your orders, into the conduct of Captain Ephraim Burr; and, upon examination, find that, by order of General Putnam and Colonel Moylan, he was authorized and empowered to secure the property and effects of all the Tory refugees which he could come at, and am of opinion that he no more than fulfilled his orders. I believe that some of his men, without his knowledge or approbation, did take some things which were the property of persons whose principles were not inimical; but these, together with those secured by himself, are safely deposited in the hands of a gentleman in the Jerseys, by orders which he produced from under the hand of Colonel Moylan. Captain Burr has fully satisfied the owners of the last mentioned effects as to his conduct, and the principles by which he was actuated. Upon the whole, am of opinion that Captain Burr’s conduct, upon the strictest scrutiny, will appear unexceptionable. Nothing worthy of observation hath transpired since I reported last to your Excellency, except that our men dis- covered this morning, on an eminence near the Ministerial shipping, that the enemy were erecting a fortification. I have the honour to be, with every possible mark of esteem and respect, your Excellency’s most humble ser- vant, Puitie B. Brapuey. To His Excellency George Washington, Esq. GENERAL WADSWORTH TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, July 20, 1776. Honovrep Sir: Mine of the 18th instant not going by the conveyance [ expected, gives me an opportunity of enclosing a return of my brigade, mentioned yesterday, by A471 which you will see that little more than half are arrived, an event very disagreeable under the present circumstances of our Army. Though I cannot undertake to ascertain its number with precision, having never seen a return of the whole, or been advised thereof minutely by the General, yet I have reason to believe that he most earnestly wishes our battalions complete, and on this ground. If the enemy should attack us, hope, by the blessings of ‘Heaven, to be able to defend ourselves, and defeat the cruel designs of the enemies of the independent States of America. Lam, with great truth and regard, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, 1 Eats Wao To the Honourable Governour Trumbull. New-York, July 22, 1776. On Sunday afternoon, the 14th, a barge from the fleet appeared in our Bay with a white flag, which was there met by the General’s barge, with several gentlemen of the Army on board. The flag was sent from Lord Howe, with a letter to his Excellency General Washington. But as the letter was improperly directed, it was not received, though much solicited by the officer, who, we hear, said it contained nothing of a hostile nature; that Lord Howe came over possessed of unlimited power, and was much concerned he had not arrived a few days sooner, which would have effected a reconciliation, &c. However, it seems his unlimited power did not extend even to the necessary preliminaries of a negotiation—an acknowledgment of the right of the persons to whom he came to treat with him. Indeed, the idea of coming over to propose a plan of reconciliation is, in every view, absurd and ridiculous; for as the Colonies never invaded the rights of Britain, and only defended their own, there was no occasion at all for negotiation. ‘The moment Great Britain receded from her unjust claims, the war was at an end. ‘The very proposi- tion, therefore, of a negotiation, was a proof that Great Britain persisted in her encroachments on the rights of the Colonies, and was, in itself, an act of a_ hostile nature. On Tuesday, another flag from the fleet appeared, and was met as above; when a letter from General Howe was again offered, but, for the same reason as the former, was rejected. On Friday, a third flag from the fleet appeared, which, we hear, brought only an open letter, directed to Miss Mar- garet Moncrieffe.* Saturday forenoon, our people discovered a fourth flag of truce, whereupon the Mechanick’s barge was sent to meet it, and conducted the officer (said to be Adjutant-General of the forces under the command of Lord Howe) to the dwell- ing of Colonel Knox, in this city, where his Excellency General Washington, attended by his Body-Guards, waited his arrival, which was a little past one o’clock. ‘The inter- view was short, and the particulars, we believe, are, as yet, not made known. We can therefore only say, that, at part- ing, much courtesy was seen to pass between the gentleman who bore the flag and those of the Continental forces who had the honour to be present. * LETTER FROM GENERAL PUTNAM TO MISS MONCRIEFFE. New-York, July 26, 1776. I should have answered your letter sooner, but had it not in my power to write you anything satisfactory. The omission of my title in Major Moncrieffe’s letter, is a matter I regard not in the least; nor does it, in any way, influence my conduct in this affair, as you seem to imagine. Any political difference alters him not to me in a private capacity. As an officer, he is my enemy, and obliged to act as such, be his private sentiments what they will. Asa man, [ owe him no enmity; but, far from it, will, with pleasure, do any kind office in my power for him or any of his connexions. I have, agreeably to your desire, waited on his Excellency, to endea- vour to obtain permission for you to go to Staten-Island. He informs me that Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson, who came with the last flag, said he was empowered to offer the exchange of for Governour Skene. As the Congress have reserved to themselves the right of ex- changing prisoners, the General has sent to know their pleasure, and doubts not they will give their consent. I am desired to inform you, that if this exchange is made, you will have liberty to pass out with Governour Skene; but that no flag will be sent solely for that purpose. Major William Livingston was lately here, and informed me that you had an inclination to live in this city; and that all the ladies of your acquaintance having left town, and Mrs. Putnam and two daughters being here, proposed your staying with them. If agreeable to you, be assured, Miss, you shall be sincerely welcome. You will here, I think, be ina more probable way of accomplishing the end you wish, that of seeing your father; and may depend upon every civility from, Miss, your obedient servant, IsranL Purnam. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c.,*JULY, 1776. AT2 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN OFFICER IN THE ARMY AT NEW-YORK, DATED JULY 22, 1776. 4On Saturday, the 20th instant, came up from Lord Howe a flag of truce, Adjutant-General of the British Army. He was met by Colonel Reed, our Adjutant-General, about two miles from the town, who took him into the General’s barge. He Janded near our Battery, and passed through the Life- Guards of General Washington. He was introduced to the General by Colonel Reed, and had a private conference with him at Colonel Knox’s, for near half an hour, the par- ticulars of which I am just informed by a person of distinc- tion. ‘The main point was, with great politeness and com- plaisance, to induce the General to receive a letter he had brought from Lord and General Howe, saying it was the customary mode of address even to foreign Ambassadors. He apologized much for General Howe’s sending a letter with such an address, and said that nothing was further from his thoughts than any failure in respect to his Excellency; that Lord and General Howe both lamented exceedingly that any misunderstanding should interrupt that frequent intercourse between both armies, which the course of the service might require. He said Lord Howe had come out with exceeding great powers. ‘The General replied, he had heard that his Lordship had come with great powers to pardon, but he could not apply that great power to the Americans, who had never offended, for where there is no offence, a pardon cannot be necessary. Colonel Patterson seemed confused, and made no reply. After many com- pliments and polite expressions, he departed, with saying: “ Has your Excellency no commands to my Lord, or Gene- ral Howe?” “None, sir,” replied the General, “but my particular compliments to both of them.” DUTCHESS COUNTY COMMITTEE TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Dutchess County, in Committee of Safety, July 20, 1776. GentLemen: With pleasure we acknowledge the receipt of the resolution of the Convention, directing the raising of two regiments in the County; and be assured we shall enter upon the business with the utmost alacrity. However, we conceive the levies will be completed with infinitely greater despatch if we can be furnished with money in order to pay the bounty immediately upon inlisting. Indeed, we con- ceive it will be impossible to procure a sufficient number of volunteers without it. We must, therefore, earnestly entreat that a sum necessary for that purpose may be transmitted to us immediately. We have authorized Mr. Paul Schenck, of Poughkeepsie, to receive it, and we will pledge ourselves that the utmost care and attention will be observed in the disposition of it. Brigadier Ten Broeck has appointed next Tuesday for the officers and the Committee to meet to fix the quotas of the several regiments. ‘The business would be greatly ex- pedited if we could have the money on that day, to distribute it, and give to each regiment its respective proportion. I remain (by order of the Committee) your most obedient servant, Eepert Benson, Chairman. To the Deputies of the County of Dutchess in the Conven- tion of the State of New-York, White-Plains. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 1, 1776.] German. Flats, July 20, 1776. Sir: I am honoured with your favour of the 13th instant, covering the resolutions of Congress of the 6th and 11th instant. I shall take the earliest opportunity of collecting and auditing the publick accounts of the late General Mont- gomery, and include his pay and table allowance, agreeable to the resolve. It is with infinite pain that I see no prospect of erecting a fort at Oswego, or building galleys on Ontario, during this campaign. With all the assistance that his Excellency General Washington has been able to afford us, with all the exertions we have been able to make to procure a suffi- ciency of intrenching tools for the Army to the northward, we still are greatly deficient of what is absolutely necessary. Nails, carpenters’ tools, whipsaws, and a variety of articles that do not now occur to me, and which are indispensably necessary, are not to be procured, at least not in time. A473 Such of these articles as are to the northward will be wanted there, and even considerably more. Besides these, the great scarcity of pork, which cannot now be got from New-York, will be an insuperable obstacle; but nevertheless, as it is probable that a very few weeks will determine whether troops can be spared from New-York or the northward, I shall make what preparations I can to carry into execution the wishes of Congress. My long stay here must necessarily greatly retard our affairs to the northward, and distress General G'ates; and 1 had proposed to return, if the Indians did not arrive in a day or two hence, and to leave the business to Messrs. Douww and Edwards. The Indians have prevented me, by sending a message and belt, importing that they were informed of my intentions to go down the country, and insisting that I should remain. ‘The necessity of humouring these people, and a deference to the opinion of my col- leagues, put it out of my power to comply with my wishes. I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient and very hum- ble servant, Pu. ScuuyLer. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. German-Flats, July 20, 1776. Dear Sir: Both of your Excellency’s favours of the 15th instant were delivered to me yesterday. The letter for General Burgoyne, and the resolution of Congress to accompany it, were immediately despatched to General Gates, with a request to forward it without delay. To carry into execution the resolution of Congress of the ist of June, respecting the mal-conduct of some of our officers in Canada, will be, as your Excellency very justly observes, “a work of difficulty and delicacy.” Congress was doubtless furnished with a detail of some of the offences, and, most probably, with the names of the offenders, pre- vious to their entering into the resolution. If these, however few they might be, were pointed out and brought to trial, others in the course of the examination might be impeached, and probably most of the offenders be discovered. Perhaps your Excellency may think proper to desire Congress to men- tion some particulars. I shall, however, as soon as I return to the Army, confer with Generals Gates and Arnold, and try to adopt such measures as will best answer the wishes of Congress. Colonel Nicolson’s case, agreeable to your orders, shall claim my earliest attention, and I will order a trial imme- diately on my return. It would give me great pleasure if the situation of our affairs would admit of my doing what Congress has recom- mended to me, in the resolution of the 11th instant; but unless a considerable body of troops and carpenters are moved from Ticonderoga, and the variety of articles neces- sary for erecting fortifications at Oswego, and building galleys on Ontario, can be procured, it will not be possible to carry that resolution into execution; and I doubt much whether such a movement would be prudent at this juncture, even if intrenching tools, materials for building, and the various other necessary articles, could be spared from the northward, or elsewhere procured. A few weeks will probably bring about events that will enable us to determine with more certainty what can be done. If these should be favourable to us, I will not lose a moment thereafter, but immediately possess ourselves of Oswego, and shall therefore take mea- sures accordingly, and make what preparations I can. The Indians have not yet arrived; the more remote ones have sent to apologize for their tardiness on account of the death of one, and the extreme illness of another sachem; but that they propose to be here on Thursday next. Mr. Ryckman, on his return from Niagara, passed through most of the Stx Nations, and he and his party were at every one of their villages entertained with the accounts brought by those that have lately returned from New-York and Phila- delplia; and such is the idea they have conceived of our power and resources, that the opinion that we shall be an overmatch for.our enemies, begins pretty generally to pre- vail. If this be true, (and [have noreason to doubt it,) we shall meet with no trouble from the savages. The account of the two men-of-war and three tenders passing New-York, as transmitted by your Aid-de-camp, reached Albany on Sunday last, and Colonel Van Schaick informs me that he has given the necessary directions to prevent any of our vessels falling into the enemy’s hands. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. ATA I am greatly apprehensive that the service will suffer in this quarter for the want of money; very little, if any, is left in the military chest, and our debts are very consider- able. The five officers, prisoners who deserted from some part of Pennsylvania, were met by Mr. Ryckman on his way from Niagara. Would it not be proper to request General Burgoyne to deliver these and all other prisoners in Canada “who have slighted their parole and joined him? General Arnold writes me that two or three hundred swivels will be wanted, with a number of hand-grenades. Be so good as to order up all (of both) you can spare. I am, dear sir, with every affectionate wish, your Excel- lency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Pu. Scuuyuer. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 20, 1776. Sir: I received yours by Doctor Ely, with the provision and ammunition, which came safe to hand, except the bullet- moulds and thread. ‘The former is not wanted, as there was no bar lead sent, and there were several boxes of ball; but the latter is much wanted, and would be glad your Honour would send some by the first boat. I have sent a boat to Cheshire’s for boards, and it has returned empty by reason of there being none sawed; but the mill is now got at work, and hope we shall soon be furnished. This moment there is part of a company of carpenters from Connecticut arrived. The remainder is at Cheshire’s, and I shall send a boat for them to-morrow morning. ‘The rain has flowed so, that they cannot pass by land. I shall do everything that lies in my power to forward business for the publick good here and at Cheshare’s. I am, dear sir, your Honour’s most obedient servant, Davin Watersoury, Jun. To Major-General Gates. P.S. Some cordage is very much wanted here. GENERAL GATES TO NATHAN CLARKE. Tyonderoga, July 20, 1776. Gentiemen: I received your favour by the bearer, and have sent you by him the eighteen commissions filled up as you request. [ have no authority to appoint any Field-Officer to command the six companies, nor do I see the necessity of it, as they are to act separately for the protection of the inhabitants in the several districts where they are posted. You will please to observe that the officers are to rank in the order you recommended. As to advancing money, I have no power or authority to do it; nor has it been done for any troops raised for the protection of the places they inhabit. When they are raised, and have served a month, they may receive a month’s pay. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, Horatio Garrs, Major-General. To Nathan Clarke, Esq., Chairman of the Committee at Manchester. INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIEUTENANT-COLONEL HARTLEY, GOING UPON COMMAND TO CROWN-POINT. Upon your arrival at Crown-Point, you will post the detachment under your command in the most secure man- ner, taking care to preserve a communication with your batteaus and the vessels stationed at the Point. You will constantly report all extraordinaries, and by every means in your power procure intelligence of the mo- tions of the enemy. Such as you think of consequence must, without delay, be sent by an express-boat to Ticon- deroga. ' , As the Indians, especially those of the Six Nations, seem strongly disposed to a neutrality, I would by no means com- mence hostilities against them. If they begin to act offen- sively against us, there is no doubt but we must repel force by force. As the detachment under your command is meant more as an advance guard than a post to be defended to the last extremity, you are carefully to keep your retreat open to your hatteaus; and when the enemy appear with a force to A475 which, from all circumstances, you are convinced you and your detachment are unequal, and with whom it woald be rashness to contend, you are then to make as secure a retreat as possible to Tyonderoga. Given at Tyonderoga, this twentieth day of July, 1776. Horatio Gates. BARON DE WOEDTKE TO GENERAL GATES. Fort George, July 20, 1776. Sir: I have to inform you that I still remain in a very weak and low situation. I find the Canadians are gone on to Albany. I beg leave to advise the General to recall them to this place, with the person who has assumed to himself the title of Major, one Mr. Hare, who, when he arrives here, I pray may be put under an arrest, and deprived of that commission he has assumed to himself, which, I assure you, I never authorized him to take. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servant, Baron pe Woeprke. To Major-General Gates. GOVERNOUR COOKE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Newport, July 20, 1776. Sir: I am favoured with your Excellency’s letter of the 15th instant, which I have communicated to the General Assembly now sitting here. Agreeable to your request, the Captains of the row-galleys are ordered to proceed imme- diately to New-York, there to receive your orders, and to govern themselves accordingly. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Nicuoxias Cooke. To His Excellency George Washington, Esquire, General and Commander-in-Chief of the United States of America, New-York. RHODE-ISLAND ASSEMBLY. State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, In General Assembly, July Session, 1776. Whereas the General Congress of the United States of America, by their Resolution of the 4th instant, after enu- merating many of the various acts by which George the Third, King of Great Britain, hath demonstrated his inten- tion to establish an absolute tyranny over the said States, have declared that ‘ PETITION OF LEVI ALLEN. To the Honourable the Continental Congress: The Petition and Memorial of Livi Auten, humbly showeth: That he has the greatest reason to believe that his bro- ther, Colonel Ethan Allen, is now a prisoner on board the British fleet lying off the coast of South-Carolina; that he is in a low state of health, occasioned by the inhuman usage of barbarous enemies; that his wife and children, with his relations and friends, have the greatest anxiety for and desire to recover him from the chains of captivity, and the wretched state worse than death into which he hath fallen in the de- fence of his injured country. Your petitioner, therefore, moved with the highest principles of fraternal regard for a suffering brother, most humbly requests the honourable Con- gress to take this matter under their consideration, and make out an order for the immediate exchange of his brother, together with the prisoners taken with him, for such other prisoners, and in such way and manner, as they shall think proper, and that the same order may be transmitted to all the General Officers or Commanders-in-Chief for the time being in the Continental Army, as your petitioner determines to spare no cost or trouble until this exchange is effected, if within the bounds of possibility, being now on his way to South- Carolina, where he has no doubt of finding his brother, if the British fleet should not quit the coast before his arrival. Your petitioner has the highest assurance of the interposition and assistance of the honourable Congress in this particular. It is clear and evident that at the time of his brother’s en- gaging in the hazardous enterprise in which he was taken, the late General Montgomery assured him and Colonel Brown, that in case of captivity, every method should be taken and proposed for his or their redemption as soon as might be. And, as in duty bound, your petitioner ever prays, &c. Levi ALLEN. Philadelphia, July 22, 1776. To the Honourable Congress of the free and United States of AMERICA: We, whose names are undersigned, take the liberty to recommend Mr. Levi Allen as a person fit and proper to be intrusted with a flag to the fleet of the King of Great Britain, now within the harbour of New-York, in order to recover his brother, Colonel Ethan Allen, from his captivity, who is supposed to be on board said fleet, under such instructions and limitations as the honourable Continental Congress shall think proper. Jos. Spencer, Brigadier-General. G. Sevieck Sitiman, Colonel. Sami. Wyttiys, Colonel. Joun Tyter, Lieutenant- Colonel. Rurvus Purnam, Lieutenant- Colonel. Sami. H. Parsons, Colonel. J. Warp, Colonel. Jep. Hunrineton, Colonel. Cuartes Wess, Colonel. Comrort Sacer, Colonel. Levi Wetts, Major. Srreet Haru, Lieutenant- Colonel. THomas Seymour, Lieutenant- Colonel. Exisua SHetpon, Major. Witiiam Hart, Major. New-York, July 13, 1776. JOHN BROWN’S CERTIFICATE RESPECTING COLONEL ALLEN, This certifies, that at the Isle-aux-Notx, at the time when Colonel Allen was sent on the enterprise in which he was taken prisoner, Generals Schuyler and Montgomery promised and engaged that in case Colonel Allen should have the misfortune to be taken prisoner, that every proper method should be taken for his redemption and exchange consistent with the rules of war in such cases. July 22, 1776. Jno. Brown. COLONEL THOMPSON TO LANCASTER COMMITTEE. July 22, 1776. Genttemen: The bearers hereof, viz: Messrs. Ross, Johnston, and Paxton, are Captains of three companies in Colonel Porter’s battalion, who have more men in their companies willing to turn out in defence of their country 32 A499 than can be fitted off in firearms. They now call upon you for their part of the publick guns, which I put no doubt you will get for them as soon as possible, as the want of guns is the only thing that hinders their marching according to orders. I remain, with due respect, your most humble servant, Rosert ‘T'Hompson. To the Standing Committee for Lancaster County. GENERAL MERCER TO JOHN HANCOCK, Head-Quarters, Perth-Amboy, July 22, 1776. Str: The declaration enclosed in the letter to Captain Morgan was brought to me yesterday evening. It was found in the fork of a road leading from South-Amboy ferry. We have no reason to suspect the integrity of Morgan, or his attachment to the American cause. He is Captain of Militia in South-Amboy, and a very intimate acquaintance of Cortlandt Skinner. Morgan, on reading the letter, told me he was ready, as soon as I pleased, to pass over to Staten- Island, with all his company, and would convince Skinner he had mistaken his man. Some ships have appeared within a few days coming in from sea. ‘The enemy seem a little alarmed at the number of troops assembled here, but have not changed their position along the shore of Staten-Island. Three battalions of Pro- vincial Regulars and three of Militia from Pennsylvania, together with one company of Artillery and two field-pieces, are now on duty here, stationed from Bergen Neck to South- Amboy, to the great relief of the New-Jersey Militia. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN OFFICER IN THE 2D PHILA- DELPHIA BATTALION, DATED AMBOY, JULY 22, 1776. We arrived here Saturday morning, from Woodbridge, with all our battalion, except Captain Wilcock’s company, who are stationed at Smith’s farm, on Woodbridge Neck. We are now in full view of the enemy, only separated by the Sound, which is about as wide as Schuylkill. Our men are in high spirits, and longing for an opportunity to have a skirmish with them. Yesterday Colonel Atlee’s battalion came in, and marched along the beach. ‘They made a good appearance, and I think alarmed the enemy not a little. We could distinctly see a number of the officers observing with glasses, and their men, drawn up in a line, appeared greatly surprised. We have here Colonel Miles, Colonel Atlee, the Second Bat- talion, Captain Moulder’s company, and a Jersey company of Artillery: in all about fifteen hundred men. It is sup- posed the enemy have about one thousand men opposite us. When our numbers are a little more augmented, it is ex- pected we shall do something. ‘To-day our encampment will be marked out, and to-morrow I expect the battalion will pitch their tents. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, 1776, and referred to the Board of War.] New-York, July 22, 1776. Sir: Congress having been pleased to appoint Mr. Wil- pen to the command of a company in the German battalion now raising, I have directed him to repair to Philadelphia for their orders. From my acquaintance with him, | am persuaded his conduct as an officer will meet their appro- bation; and, thanking them for their kind attention to my recommendation of him, I have the honour to be, with sen- timents of the highest respect, their most obedient servant, Go. Wasuincron. To the Hon. John Hancock, President of Congress. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Received and read July 23, 1776.] New-York, July 22, 1776. Sir: Your favours of the 18th and 19th, with which you have been pleased to honour me, have been duly received, with the several resolves alluded to. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 500 When the letter and declaration from Lord Howe to Mr. Franklin and the other late Governours come to be pub- lished, I should suppose the warmest advocates for depend- ence on the Brittsh Crown must be silent, and be convinced, beyond all possibility of doubt, that all that has been said about the Commissioners was illusory, and calculated ex- pressly to deceive and unguard, not only the good people of our own country, but those of the English nation that were averse to the proceedings of the King and Ministry. Hence we see the cause why a specification of their powers was not given to the Mayor and City of London on their address requesting it. ‘That would have been dangerous, because it would then have been manifest that the line of conduct they were to pursue would be variant from that they had industriously propagated and amused the publick with. The uniting the military and civil offices in the same per- sons, too, must be conclusive to every thinking one, that there is to be but little negotiation of the civil kind. I have enclosed, for the satisfaction of Congress, the substance of what passed between myself and Lieutenant- Colonel Patterson, Adjutant-General, at an interview had yesterday, in consequence of a request from General Howe the day before; to which I beg leave to refer them for par- ticulars. Colonel Knox, of the Train, having often mentioned to me the necessity of having a much more numerous body of Artillerists than what there now is, in case the present contest should continue longer, and knowing the deficiency in this instance, and their extreme usefulness, 1 desired him to commit his ideas upon the subject to writing, in order that I might transmit them to Congress for their consideration. Agreeable to my request, he has done it; and the propriety of his plan is now submitted for their decision. It is certain that we have not more at this time than are sufficient for the several extensive posts we have, including the draughts which he speaks of, and which, I presume, not only from what he has informed me, but from the nature of the thing, can never be qualified to render the same service as if they were regularly appointed and formed into a corps for that particular purpose. I beg leave to remind Congress that some time ago I laid before them the proposals of some persons here for forming a company of Lighthorse, and of the President’s answer a little time after, intimating that the plan seemed to’ be ap- proved of. As those who wanted to make up the troop are frequently pressing me for an answer, I could wish to be favoured with the decision of Congress upon the subject. By a letter from General Schuyler of the 14th imstant, dated at Albany, he informs me that the day before some desperate designs of the ‘Tories in that quarter had been discovered, the particulars of which he could not divulge, being under an oath of secrecy; however, that such mea- sures had been taken as to promise a prevention of the intended mischief; and that four of the conspirators, among them a ringleader, were apprehended about one o’clock that morning not far from the town. What the plot was, or who were concerned in it, is a matter I am ignorant of as yet. With my best regards to Congress, I have the honour to be your and their most obedient servant, Go. WasHtneTon. P. S. Congress will please to observe what was proposed respecting the exchange of Mr. Lovell, and signify their pleasure in your next. The last week’s Return is also enclosed. — Memorandum of what passed at the interview between His Excellency General Wasuineron and Colonel Parrer- son, Adjutant-General of the Army under General Howe, Jury 20, 1776. After usual compliments, in which, as well as through the whole conversation, Colonel P. addressed General Washing- ton by the title of Excellency, Colonel Patterson entered upon the business by saying: That General Howe much regretted the difficulties which had arisen respecting the address of the letters to General W.; that it was deemed consistent with propriety, and founded upon precedents of the like nature by Ambassadors and Plenipotentiaries where disputes or difficulties of rank had arisen; that General JV. might recollect he had last summer addressed a letter to General Howe To the Hon. William Howe, Esq.; that Lord 501 Howe and General H. did not mean to derogate from the respect or rank of General W.; that they held his person and character in the highest esteem; that the direction with the addition of &c., &c., &c., implied everything that ought to follow. He then produced a letter, which he did not directly offer to General W., but observed that it was the same letter which had been sent, and laid it on the table with a superscription To George Washington, &c., &c., Xe. The General declined the letter, and said that a letter directed to a person in a publick character should have some descrip- tion or indication of it, otherwise it would appear a mere private letter; that it was true the Xe., &c., &c., implied everything, and they also implied anything; that the letter to General Howe alluded to was an answer to one received under a like address from him, which the officer on duty having taken, he did not think proper to return, but answered it in the same mode of address; that he should absolutely decline any letter directed to him as a private person when it related to his publick station. Colonel P. then said, that General Howe would not urge his delicacy farther, and re- peated his assertions that no failure of respect was intended, He then said that he would endeavour, as well as he could, to recollect General Howe’s sentiments on the letter and resolves of Congress, sent him a few days before, respecting the treatment of our prisoners in Canada: “That the affairs of Canada were in another department not subject to the con- trol of General Howe; but that he and Lord Howe utterly disapproved of every infringement of the rights of humanity.” Colonel P. then took a paper out of his pocket, and after looking it over, said he had expressed nearly the words. General W. then said that he had also forwarded a copy of the resolves to General Burgoyne. 'To which Colonel P. replied, he did not doubt a proper attention would be paid to them; and that he (General W.) was sensible that cruelty was not the characteristick of the British nation. Colonel P. then proceeded to say he had it in charge to mention the case of General Prescott, who, they were inform- ed, was treated with such rigour, that, under his age and infirmities, fatal consequences might be apprehended. Gene- ral Washington replied, that General Prescott’s treatment had not fallen under his notice; that all prisoners under his particular direction he had treated with kindness, and made their situation as easy and comfortable as possible; that he did not know where General Prescott was, but believed his treatment very different from their information. General W. then mentioned the case of Colonel Allen and the officers who had been confined in Boston Jail. As to the first, Colo- nel P. answered that General Howe had no knowledge of it but by information from General Washington, and that the Canada department was not under his direction or control. ‘That as to the other prisoners at Boston, whenever the state of the Army at Boston admitted it, they were treated with humanity and even indulgence; that he asserted this upon his honour, and should be happy in an opportunity to prove it. General Washington then observed, that the conduct of several of the officers would well have warranted a different treatment from what they had received, some having refused to give any parole, and others having broken it when given, by escaping, or endeavouring to doso. Colonel P. answered, that as to the first, they misunderstood the matter very much, and seemed to have mistaken the line of propriety exceed- ingly; and as to the latter, General Howe utterly disapproved and condemned their conduct; that if a remonstrance was made, such violations of good faith would be severely pun- ished, but that he hoped General W. was too Just to draw publick inferences from the misbehaviour of some private individuals; that bad men were to be found in every class of society; that such behaviour was considered as a dishonour to the British Army. _ Colonel Patterson then proceeded to say, that the good- ness and benevolence of the King had induced him to ap- point Lord Howe and General Howe his Commissioners to accommodate this unhappy dispute; that they had great powers, and would derive the greatest pleasure from effect- ing an accommodation; and that he (Colonel P.) wished to have this visit considered as making the first advances to this desirable object. General W. replied, he was not vested with any powers on the subject by those from whom he derived his authority and power; but, from what had appeared or transpired on this head, Lord Howe and General Howe were only to grant pardons; that those who had committed no * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 502 fault wanted no pardon; that we were only defending what we deemed our indisputable rights. Colonel P. said, that that would open a very wide field for argument. He then expressed his apprehensions that an adherence to forms was likely to obstruct business of the greatest moment and con- cern. He then observed that a proposal had been formerly made of exchanging Governour Skene for Mr. Lovell; that he now had authority to accede to that proposal. General W. replied, that the proposition had been made by the direc- tion of Congress, and having been then rejected, he could not now renew the business, or give any answer, till he had previously communicated it to them. Colonel Patterson behaved with the greatest politeness and attention during the whole business, and expressed strong acknowledgments that the usual ceremony of blinding his eyes had been dispensed with. At the breaking up of the conference, General Washington ,strongly invited him to partake of a small collation provided for him, which he politely declined, alleging his late breakfast and an impa- tience to return to General Howe, though he had not execu- ted his commission so amply as he wished. Finding he did not propose staying, he was introduced to the General Offi- cers, after which he took his leave, and was safely conducted to his own boat, which waited for him about four miles distant from the city. New-York, July 9, 1776. From a view of the present important contest with Great Britain, it appears that the war is but in its infancy. ‘To carry it on with vigour and success, a well-regulated and numerous body of Artillery will be necessary. ‘The present number of officers and men of the regiment of Artillery here, are not sufficient for the posts in and round about this city. To supply this deficiency, a number of men from the different regiments have been draughted into Artillery pro tempore. This is a present remedy; but if the service should require a few companies of Artillery to be sent on command, it could not be complied with unless many posts were left entirely naked. For a variety of extensive service, more officers and men of this profession will be wanting. If it should be thought proper to raise another battalion of Artillery upon the same plan as the present, it could be very easily effected, by taking the men lately draughted into the different com- panies and forming separate companies; or by taking some officers and men of experience out of the different companies, and incorporating them with the new, they would soon be fit for action. The number of men draughted into the different compa- nies would form eight companies of sixty men; Captain Bauman’s, lately raised, would make nine; three companies more would make up a battalion of twelve companies. Upon this plan the Continent would have eleven companies and sixty officers more than they now have, applying themselves to the particular art of gunnery, and ready for any emer- eevee Henry Knox, Colonel Regiment of Artillery. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 13, 1776. (Parole, Ulster.) (Countersign, Winchester.) The Guard at Fort-George to be reinforced with a Field- Officer, two Captains, four Subalterns, six Sergeants, six Corporals, and seventy Privates. The General was sorry to observe yesterday that many of the officers and a number of men, instead of attending to their duty at the beat of the drum, continued along the banks of the North- River, gazing at the ships. Such unsoldierly conduct must grieve every good officer, and give the enemy a mean opinion of the Army, as nothing shows the brave and good soldier more than, in case of alarms, coolly and calmly repairing to his post, and there waiting his orders ; whereas a weak curiosity at such a time makes a man look mean and contemptible. A well-dressed Orderly-Sergeant, from Generals Scott’s, Wadsworth’s, and Heard’s Brigades, to attend at Head- Quarters every day. The Majors of the new Brigades, and all other officers of those corps, are directed to look over the Orderly books before they come into camp, and acquaint themselves well 503 with former orders. -They are also to be very careful that the daily orders are delivered, so as that neither officer nor soldier may plead ignorance, as in that case they will be deemed answerable. A party of eight hundred men, properly officered, to parade to-morrow morning. Learned’s and Wyllys’s Regi- ments to receive tools for making fascines: they are to take their dinner with them. Ensign P’eld, of Learned’s Regi- ment, to attend this party. All the other regiments to attend at the Engineer’s store for tools and orders. ‘Three hours allowed for dinner, and to work till seven, and so continue till further orders. All who have tools belonging to the Engineer’s store, to return them immediately. If any Brigade or Regiment are exempted from fatigue at any time, the Brigade-Majors to inform the Engineer thereof, (except it be in General Crders,) that he may proportion what are sent accordingly. The safety and success of the Army depends so much upon having the works in all possible forwardness, that the General is much concerned to find the Brigade Majors represented as deficient in their part of the duty. Only five Regiments—Learned’s, Reed’s, Bailey's, Parsons’s, and Wyllys’s Regiments—have turned out their working parties this day. The General hopes this is the last time he shall have occasion to take notice of any such neglect. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 14, 1776. (Parole, Andover.) (Countersign, Bristol.) A Court of Inquiry to sit to-morrow morning, to examine into the conduct of Colonel Ratzema, who stands charged with practices contrary to the rules and discipline of the Army: Brigadier-General Heath, President; Colonels Wyllys and Malcolm, and Lieutenant-Colonels Johnston and Brearly. The Judge-Advocate General and witnesses to attend the Court at Mr. Montagnie’s ‘Tavern in the fields, at ten o’clock. The Regiment of Artificers, under command of Colonel Parke, to join Lord Stirling’s Brigade. ‘They will receive orders from the Brigadier, with respect to their alarm posts, arrangement and duty, in case of action. The Regimental Surgeons to meet on Tuesday next, at nine o'clock, A. M., at the Coffee-House, on business of importance. ‘The Adjutants of the several Regiments to give them special notice. The Majors of Brigade and Adjutants of Generals Scott’s, Heard’s, and Wadsworth’s Brigades, are to send into the Adjutant-General’s office a daily report of every Regiment or Company belonging to their several Brigades, as they join the Army, in order that proper arrangements may be made while time will admit. The Majors of Brigade are to be answerable for obedience to this order, and if the Adjutants refuse or neglect their duty, they are to be put in arrest immediately. A]l the Brigade-Majors and Adjutants are again reminded, that the Weekly Returns (as well Brigade as Regimental ones) are to be brought in every Saturday at Orderly time to the Adjutant-General’s office. And as inaccuracy and neglect in their Returns will create difficulties in the payment of their men, the Colonels, or officers commanding, should carefully examine the Returns, compare them with those of the preceding week, and have all the alterations accounted for. The General strongly recommends it to the soldiers to be careful of their arms and ammunition at all times, but more especially in rainy weather. An enterprising enemy, de- pending upon neglect in this article, often makes an attack, and too frequently with success. Officers will also be very attentive to this order, and see it complied with. John Andrews, Jeremiah Williams, and William Cary, late belonging to General Lee’s Guard, to join Captain Ford’s company of Artificers. The Chief Engineer was mistaken in his report yesterday as to Colonel Baldwin’s, Colonel Huntington’s, and Colo- nel Ward’s Regiments’ nevlect of fatigue, and takes the first opportunity to rectify it. THead-Quarters, New-York, July 15, 1776. (Parole, Chatham.) (Countersign, Darby.) The Pay Abstracts for the month of June are imme- diately to be made up carefully, examined by the Colonels, or officer commanding the Regiments, and then certified by the Brigadiers ; after which to be lodged with the Paymas- ter-General.. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 504 A working party of one hundred and fifty men, with a Field-Officer, three Captains, six Subalterns, twelve Ser- geants, twelve Corporals, and three Drums and Fifes, to parade to-morrow on the grand parade, at six o’clock, and go up to King’s Bridge, to relieve the party sent up the 7th instant; to take their arms and two days’ provision; to apply to General Putnam for boats for transportation; and when at King’s Bridge, apply to General Mifflin for orders, It is intended that all detached parties to King’s Bridge shall be relieved once a week in future. General Scott’s Brigade to do duty hereafter in their own encampment. Sy Head-Quarters, New-York, July 16, 1776. (Countersign, Fuirfaz.) The honourable Continental Congress have been pleased to increase the pay of the Regimental Surgeons to thirty- three dollars and one-third per month, to take place from the 5th of June last; and that the pay of the Troops in the Middle Department shall be six dollars and two-thirds per month, from the 10th of June last. The Pay Abstracts are to be made out accordingly, and care taken to prevent confusion or delay. The hurry of business often preventing particular invita- tion being given to officers to dine with the General, he resents his compliments to the Brigadiers and Field-Offi- cers of the day, and requests, while the camp continues settled in this city, they will favour him with their company to dinner, without any further or special invitation. The officers, under whose care and direction the cartridges are made up, having neglected to make daily returns to Head-Quarters, they may depend upon it, that after this day, any officer omitting to send a daily return of the number of cartridges made, will be put under an arrest for disobedience of orders. After Orders.—Colonel Reed, President of the present sitting General Court-Martial, being unable to attend, Colo- nel Webb is to succeed him as President: said Court-Martial to assemble to-morrow morning, nine o’clock, at the brick- house near Colonel McDougall’s encampment. (Parole, Essez.) Head-Quarters, New-York, July 17, 1776. (Parole, Georgia.) (Countersign, Hartford.) A working party of fifty men, properly officered, to pa- rade to-morrow morning, six o’clock, with their arms, near the Laboratory. There Captain Anderson will attend, from whom they are to receive directions: Quartermaster-Gene- ral to supply such tools as they may want. John Berrian, Henry Wilmot, and John Ray, Jun., a Committee of the town, are appointed to give passes to citizens going over the ferries. Officers and soldiers who want passes over the ferries, are to apply to their own Bni- gadier-General. And the General desires that they will give no passes to officers or soldiers of another Brigade. The officers at the Ferry-Guards, to attend to this order particu- larly, and make it known to the sentries. The two Companies of Colonel Van Cortlandt’s Regi- ment at Long-Island, to join their regiment at New- York. Captain Kelsey’s Company, and the Company under the command of Lieutenant Borden, of Colonel Newcomb’s Re- giment, to replace them to-morrow morning, nine o'clock. The Court of Inquiry upon Colonel Ritzema’s conduct, having reported that no other of the charges made against him was supported, except that of using disrespectful ex- pressions of Brigadier-General Lord Stirling, and his Lord- ship generously overlooking the personal affront offered him, the General orders that all further proceedings cease, and Colonel Ritzema to be discharged from his arrest. Yesterday the detachment of one hundred and fifty men, ordered for King’s Bridge, to march from the parade at six o’clock, did not leave it till nine, by which they lost the tide, and then much short of the proportion of officers, an evil which is every day inereasing. The Brigade-Majors will hereafter be deemed answerable for such neglects, unless they report to the Adjutant-General the same day what Adjutant fails in bringing on his quota of men on the parade in time, or put such Adjutant immediately under arrest, and report it at Head-Quarters. vad The Adjutants and Colonels of the new troops arriving, are to take notice that Weekly Returns of their Regiments are to be sent in at Orderly time every Saturday. Blank 505 returns will be given out at the Adjutant-General’s office to those who apply for them, and an Orderly book for each Company. A working party of one hundred and fifty men, properly officered, to parade to-morrow morning at six o'clock, with their arms, near the Laboratory, to take one day’s provision with them, to relieve the party which went up the 10th instant; this party to stay one week, and then to be re- lieved, ins Head-Quarters, New-York, July 18, 1776. (Parole, Italy.) (Countersign, Kent.) Although the General is very sensible that the great fatigue duty of this Army (which he is highly pleased to see the officers and men go through with so much cheerfulness and zeal) does not allow much time for manceuvring and exercising the troops; yet it is a matter of so much conse- quence to have them as well practised as time and circum- stances will admit, that he earnestly recommends it to the Brigadiers, Colonels, or commanding officers of Regiments, to take time for that purpose; and particularly, to have the men instructed and practise the evolutions, manceuvring, and as much of the manual exercise as respects loading and firing, not only with quickness but calmness. John Priest, of Captain Maxwell’s Company, Colonel Prescott’s Regiment, Duncan Grant, of Captain McFar- land’s Company, Colonel Nixon’s Regiment, Jason Kemp, of Captain Bolster’s Company, late Colonel.Learned’s Re- giment, William Baker, of Captain Waterhouse’s Company, Colonel Parsons’s Regiment, all tried by a General Court- Martial, whereof Colonel Webb was President, for “ deser- tion,” and found guilty, were sentenced to receive thirty-nine lashes each; Baker to receive bis punishment at three different times, thirteen lashes each time. The General approves the above sentences, and orders them to be exe- cuted at the usual time and place. Two guns fired from Cobble-Hill, on Long-Island, are to be the signal that the enemy have landed on that Island. Complaints having frequently been made that the sentries, especially those along the river, fire wantonly at boats and persons passing, officers of guards are to be careful upon this head, and acquaint the sentries that they are not to fire upon boats coming to the town, and that they are not to molest or interrupt the ferry-boats. The present number of fatigue to be augmented with one hundred men, properly officered; the whole to parade precisely at six o’clock in the morning; to continue so till further orders. Colonel Malcolm, of General Scott’s Brigade, to have the superintendence of the work laid out near that encampment, and to be excused from other duty. The General invites the Brigade-Major of the day to dine with him in course, with the other officers of the day. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 19, 1776. (Countersign, Maryland.) A detachment of three hundred men, properly officered, to parade to-morrow morning, six o’clock, on the grand parade, with two days’ provisions, to go in boats, by way of East-River, to King’s Bridge, to execute such work as shall be laid out for them by the Engineer. Lieutenant Champion, of Colonel Wyllys’s Regiment, to oversee said works. Major Reed to furnish this party with such tools as Colonel Putnam shall direct. A working party of fifty men, properly officered, to parade to-morrow morning, at six o’clock, on the grand parade, without their arms, to receive their orders from Captain Anderson, and tools from the Laboratory. Wilhiam Herenden, of Captain Warren’s Company, Colo- nel Read’s Regiment, David Ludlow, of Captain Ledyard’s Company, Colonel McDougall’s Regiment, both tried by a General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Webb was Presi- dent, for desertion, and found guilty, were sentenced to receive, the former thirty-nine lashes, the latter twenty. The General approves the sentences, and orders them to be executed at the usual time and place. The Field-Officers of the Picket are directed to attend, on the grand parade, punctually, at a quarter after eight o'clock in the morning, and to continue there till the cuards (Parole, Lewis.) CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 506 are marched off; for there has been great remissness lately of that kind. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 20, 1776. (Countersign, Ormond.) Daniel Grimes, of Captain Shaw’s Company, Colonel Marshalls Regiment, tried by a General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Webb was President, was found guilty of “desertion ;” but some favourable circumstances appearing in the prisoner’s behalf, his punishment is remitted. The Provost-Marshal is ordered to deliver him to Captain Tilton, in’ order to be put into some Regiment, to do duty here until (Parole, Newington.) ‘a good opportunity offers to send him to his own. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 21, 1776. (Parole, Philadelphia.) (Countersign, Quebeck.) William Baker, of Captain Johnson’s Company, in Colo- nel McDougall’s Regiment, charged with “absenting him- self several days from the camp without permission,” having been tried by a General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Webb was President, and found guilty, was sentenced to receive twenty lashes. The General approves the sen- tence, and orders it to be executed at the usual time and place. Sergeant Ballard, late of General Lee’s Guard, now in custody for having presumed to give a pass to a person to cross the East River, appearing to have done it more through ignorance than design, the General is pleased to discharge him}; but if any inferior officer shall hereafter take such a liberty, he will be severely punished ; it being again declared that passes to citizens or country people are only to be granted by John Berrian, Henry Wilmot, and John Ray, Jun., or one of them; passes to officers and soldiers, only by a Major-General, the Brigadier-General of the Brigade to which the person belongs, the Adjutant-General, or General’s Secretary or Aids-de-Camp. The General has great pleasure in communicating to the officers and soldiers of this Army, the signal success of the American arms, under General Lee, at South-Carolina. The enemy having attempted to land at the same time that a most furious cannonade, for twelve hours, was made upon the fortifications near Charlestown, both fleet and army have been repulsed with great loss by a small number of gallant troops just raised. ‘The enemy have had one hun- dred and seventy-two men killed and wounded, among whom were several officers; two capital ships much dam- aged; one frigate of twenty-eight guns entirely lost, being abandoned and blown up by the crew; and others so hurt that they will want great repair before they can be fit for service. And all with a loss on our part of ten killed and twenty-two wounded. ‘The firmness, courage, and bravery of our troops has crowned them with immortal honour. The dying heroes conjured their brethren never to abandon the standard of liberty, and even those who had lost their limbs continued at their posts. Their gallantry and spirit extorted applause from their enemies, who, dejected and defeated, have retired to their former station, out of the reach of our troops. This glorious example of our troops, under the like circumstances with us, the General hopes will animate every officer and soldier to imitate, and even outdo them, when the enemy shall make the same attempton us. With such a bright example before us of what can be done by brave and spirited men fighting in defence of their country, we shall be loaded with a double share of shame and infamy if we do not acquit ourselves with courage, or a determined resolution to conquer or die. With this hope and confidence, and that this Army will have its equal share of honour and success, the General most earnestly exhorts every officer and soldier to pay the utmost attention to his arms and health, to have the former in the best order for action, and by cleanliness and care, to preserve the latter; to be exact in their discipline, obedient to their superiors, and vigilant in duty. With such prepa- ration, and a suitable spirit, there can be no doubt but, by the blessing of Heaven, we shall repel our cruel invaders, preserve our country, and gain the greatest honour. A working party of one hundred and fifty men, properly oflicered, to parade to-morrow morning on the grand parade, at six o’clock, with their arms and one day’s provision, to go up to King’s Bridge, by water, to relieve the party which went up the 15th instant; to apply to General Putnam for tents. 507 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c:, JULY, 1776. 508 The General is much pleased with the alacrity of the orders, the men who are to go upon fatigue shall be excused men in doing fatigue duty; and being resolved to ease them from turning out to their alarm posts for that day, unless in as much as the service will admit, directs that, until further case of real alarm. Return of the Army in the service of the Unrrep Srates or America, in and near the City of New-York, commanded by His Excellency George Wasurineton, Esquire, General and Commander-in- Chief. OFFICERS PRESENT. BPO OR RANK AND FILE. Wanting to Since last Commissioned. Staff. nisin complete. Return. E a | g =| é =| s REGIMENTS. 2 els S ee aan ee a a ee mB) = : He ene hie Shs {eB lea 2. Sta lee pen) Fs #8]. j2)2/4]slsglel2) | 2) 8) s8) 2/2] 2/2 Sabah as Pais] Sela lol] SSiSieisis) 8 12 Se Se ee Sl el 18igia le S\z S| 2/8 alssitis| @ 1218 |Si31S S| 8 |wlel se (Ble ei2 SHSiS|zlélaSeie@ale| 8 |Ala |ala|/s/6/ & |8\A| 8 lelalala Colonel andi pteristeatele cv cine s.<\- LTE fe ARTS SLOT AL =o) OP eT 31726 13") 293 1.77) 947/12) - 1 - | 1 Late Colonel Learned’s.......... = 1 1) 1P 8) 2827S TD) S255 e255: ers ON 23a 545 | - | 1 95} -| -| 4] - Colonel Nixon’s..... avatottcterateie tens Tt UT Ge 5) 6 eT SOR 4s 2865 AO OU OO nas 426 | 2) =| 214) -| - |12} - ColonéelUPrescovtssecs cele oss 7's v6 Tah Tl SEC Ue eT 26s bG sO SL esis emda esse Les landinl eee g ierenllte Palen Colonel Varnumics: oi sic cust ieisiee sels To eG ib 7) 4] eb) = ee 2515912278 3 AG3i Olea Oe SMe eal Saal OU ihe Oe oe Colonels Parsons’s..cipic sje dieleieie clei We DLA 6 Sle 8) ee ete SLE) 16 453826) 146 Gia LA eros ee boaeie en i 45) -| 1] -| - Colonel Hitchcock’s........s0e0- Tal) 8) SS SL DL 2758s O86h 245 Oana s a Btetete | ecse ye | MD ner f ae ig bell oe (OlONEIMETMIS 8s ois o s'ncls elas see ore LIST 1) S7Sies SANG Tae 29a 6 | Sessa leek eg 69} - 464 | -| - L653 \ La lel. = Colonel REeadvs sco; «ic.0ies 3's 0 vfs le oe Hol) ee) Pha Tee Hal Uatedl. SO ey 153) +281 97) 11) 135) - 524 |] -]| - F621 2 el alee Colonel Huntington’s........++--| 1) 1}-| 8 8 8 7 1) 1) 1) 11 32: 16"| 264 | 146) .,5) 192) 3 ie 540 Apna) aT OO ea ene Golonel) Webbs... sll sleclscieis o/s Wea ih 6 6h 23> SS a) ea 20 Aa 319) SS) LO etal) Soe o4n mine 861) -| 4] - Colonel Arnold’s......- ba Risen fie th TRS MSIE S aS eae 1 SSeS S50 Ne Ol 2 Belo et Neb S8r ese let eS ee tee nei COLONEL VATU 8s. sys exciseue oisieilole sole 1) -)|.0) Al 8 S846) 1-1) d=) 1). Son SS 21688126) 12) W67\e- 51D 5-17 25) 29) Senne Colonel Wyllys’s....eseccseoees Ted) Lh S8t Al 7 Spa Dh A) 2a | oSO STON Gin ase me - 548 | 1 | - 92) -| -|1)1 Golonel Barley’s...2 0.55. ose wee sf BY Dy TT GT]. GP eS) ay a Td 30 | 15°) 991 | 105) 9) 133) - DOO | Lali sale kh Oeiiean al irom ae Coloneli Bald win’a.yccss Wd) 1) Th SS ee a a BS apt. 4a8 ie 3020 AG 2 3 S00 Seas 1402 sien Bie PRO teal tere teveeiete sete aie Wiest e she, oie 18 17|17/124/135/131)130/14/20/19)18:18} 549 287 |5,968 14761189 2,002) 33 | 9,668 {13 |20 |3,21231 {10 129 19 Return of General Scorv’s Brigade ; sixty-seven men, rank and file, in a Company, ten Companies to a Regiment, is the establishment. Golonel Lasher’s......1+se1ee+s] 1) 1 1) 10) 9] 10) -|-| 1) 1|-|-] 30| 17] 390, 6) 40, 91; 8] 585) -| 3) 135, 3) - |18 [10 Colonel Malcom’ sii ieiees cies. ad Tut 1 9, TO Siew Te = |. ST V4 934 13) 21 20) 5 293 |316 STIs s| = Colonel Drake’a ssi, ocselsadehiccs 111 10) 6 11) - {-| 1) 1) )-] 28] 16] 395) 55 1) 38 7) 496) 2) 4) 174 10) -| - | - Lieutenant-Col. Hardenburgh’s....| - | 1) - 5, 3| 6 ee ae hoa ato PB Sob aK Bl 254 ee a 81 Ree Notales wi tcake ce cafe 3 4| 3| 34] a8i 35! - (ai 4! 4! 3i-| 100 | 66 la,e41 | 96) 69| 15a] 20 11,578 | 5 (14 | 767| 261 - |a9 111 Return of General Hearv’s Brigade ; seventy-two men, rank and file, in a Company, eight Compames to a Regi- ment, is the establishment. Colonel/Morman’ sh ej -secisiesl sol =P) HOST Pape ea ad 30 | 15 | 400 18) - 2,10 | 430 |2)|1 146, -| -| -| - 7 Companies of Col. Hunt’s......| - 1 1) 7 6) 65} 66) -) 1) 1-|-] 22) 13 | 257) 11) - - 1 | 269 | 6/1] 235) 4) -| -| - 7 Companies of Col. Martin’s....| 1) 1) 1] 7 7 5) 7-| 1 1) 1) 1) 27] 10] 193 | 35) 3) 121) 3 | 355) 1)3] 149) 4 -| -| - 3 Companies of Col. Newcomb’s.|-|-| 1) 2 1) 1) 3} 1) 1 1) 1/1, 9] 38 56 6) - 37| - OO HS oy Ltt) 20 = = 4 Comp. of Col. Van Cortlandt’s.|-| 1) 1} 4) 3) 2) 2 -|-] 1j-|- 13 7 174 9) - - 3 186 |} 1/1 TOS41|e=0) ena Tytler aes ab 1] 4! 5| Qi 24! Q0l a5! a] 4| 5! 31 3| 101 | 48 11,080 | 79] 31 160! 17 |1,339 4319 | v49'69! -| - | - Return of General Wavswortn’s Brigade ; eighty-three rank and file to a Company, and eight Companies to a Regi- ment, is the establishment. Colonel Sillimun’av esac eanan Ti 65) 6 7:1) 4) a) 1 1) 30) 13) 952) 16 9 61; - | 351)2]3)] 313,-|-1-1- GoloneliGaytas.closs ear boned, 1al-| 76 sl Shalala il 24) 16} 273) 37-| sel - | 368|8}- | oed--| -|'-| - 7 Companies of Gol. Bradley’s:..|'1l.1/ 4] :6\, 75/5]: a} Ui t\-| 22/12 |).305|, 27) =.) 931 aly 955)06) Soe QiGh daca Wins 6 Companies of Col. Sage’s......| 1] 1] 1} 4) 4) 3) 5)-| 1 Die 20 9 L781 0 ees ee eee 943) 4 | 3) 255) -7 -) =] = Golonel Seldeti’st.s ote. estceeeee sl l= | @2) 3] S/S Tet ely 23 8 PAID ia 3] - 9981918 | -436) - |] -| -T-- Colonel Douglasa’s.:...+0-0 ees Wak beat calle carleal alotbealalwog |'43 |}. aba |. 36-1) sB6) aime deed O4e ch Colonel! Chester’ Sal wremactesiei-/eeiel12 Ij 1j 1) 5} 6) 6 3) -} 1) 1 ad AEP EEN eet feo KS SANT ND lees leer tage pes ees ee ee 6| 7 5| 39] 38) 35| 37| 4] 7| 7] 6| 6 172 | 83 | 1,819] 147] 8| 309! - | 2,983|40 23 [2,106 - | -| 1| 3 The total of General Heard’s....| 1] 4! 5| 26 24| 20] 25] 1) 4! 5| 3) 3| 101 | 48 | 1,080| 79, 3} 160) 17 | 1,339/13 | 9 |_ 749169) - | - | - The total of General Scott’s......| 3| 4| 3, 34] 28] 35] - | 1] 4) 4| 3|-| 100 | 66 | 1,241] 96] 69] 159] 20 1,578| 5 {14 |_ 767, 26| - [19/11 The old Regiments. .....+++++++«!18|17{17 124135 131[130|14'0 19[18118) 549 |g87 | 5,966|1476|189 2,009| 33 | 9,666 13 |20 |3,214| 31| 10/29/19 Total of the whole... +++. +++ « «(28'32130 225/225'291/199120!35'35/30/97| 922 [aga [10,106 11798'269'2,623! 70 [14,866 '71 |66 | 6,836 226) 10| 49 | 33 “Head-Quarters, July 20, 1776. Return of the Regiment of Artillery in the service of the Unirep Cononies, in and near the City of New-York, commanded by Henry Knox, Esq. 2 w 5 , . i) 2 2 | 3} 9 g EM tine es 3 |. -16 3/8/22 )/A}sel}e] el 8°18 pcs egal oe Sil ihes a || Ss | se Aisles cel is | aol 5 las os rem erty, Sum eee lect ee set ilies Sol pate at emia tele Ps Sl ae ; 2 E/s 3 TSRPietsa S18 | See OR ee a So ee eee tS OlM eto |/Ol4d | nm jou 1S le la l.O bo.! Ole abe & Present, fit fordutyis si. sleeve deueeleetbeiee sas 1 1 1 6 Galo no 1 1 1 1 1 L200 Avaesbelrooey lo i 174) 333 SICK PLesEll. « «ceckis eels sce e seek emai = |) le ae = sah cael be a SPW) ol ear Be Lal elo aio 16) 25 Sick, absent .iieecek ec he ects oe - - - ~ = - - - - - - - - - - 1 = = 5 6 On commandiaaoses deeee ae ee - - - 4 4 6 8 - - - ~ - Loy Tas 26") 26 T1105) 253 Totalleiiats spre ih ae 1! 11 11/10! 101! 11! 20 1! 1/1 11 11 91321331 641 64! 231 3001 577 New-York, Head-Quarters, July 20, 1776. J ; . 509 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO JOHN AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON. New-York, July 22, 1776. Dear Brorner: Whether you wrote to me last, or [ to you, I cannot undertake to say; but as it is some tme since a letter has passed between us, and as [ expect every hour to be engaged in too busy a scene to allow time for writing private letters, I will take an opportunity, by this day’s post, to address to you a few lines, giving a brief account of the situation of affairs in this quarter. To begin, then: We have a powerful fleet within full view of us, distant about eight miles. We have General Howe’s present Army, consisting, by good report, of about eight or nine thousand men upon Staten-Island, covered by their ships. We have Lord Howe just arrived, and we have ships now coming in, which we suppose, but do not know, to be part of the fleet with the expected reinforcement. When this arrives, if the reports of deserters, prisoners, and Tories, are to be depended upon, the enemy’s numbers will amount at least to twenty-five thousand men; ours to about fifteen thousand. More, indeed, are expected; but there is no certainty of their arrival, as harvest and a thousand other excuses are urged as the reasons of delay. What kind of opposition we shall be able to make, time only can show. I can only say, that the men appear to be in good spirits ; and, if they will stand be me, the place shall not be car- ried without some loss, notwithstanding we are not yet in such a posture of defence as I could wish. Two ships (the Phenix, of forty-four guns, and the Rose, of twenty) ran by our batteries on the 12th, exhibiting a proof of what I had long most religiously believed; and that is, that a vessel, with a brisk wind and strong tide, cannot, unless by a chance shot, be stopped by a battery, unless you can place some obstruction in the water to impede her mo- tion within reach of your guns. We do not know that these ships received any capital injury. In their rigging they were somewhat damaged, and several shot went through their hulls; but few, if any, lives were lost. They now, with three tenders which accompanied them, lie up the North or Hudson’s River, about forty miles above this place, and have totally cut off all communication, by water, between this city and Albany, and between this Army and ours upon the Lakes. ‘They may have had other motives inducing them to run up the river, such as supplying the Tories with arms, and the like; but such a vigilant watch has hitherto been kept upon them, that I fancy they have succeeded but indifferently in those respects, notwithstanding this country abounds in disaffected persons of the most diabolical disposi- tions and intentions, as you may have perceived by the several publications in the gazettes, relative to their designs of' destroying this Army by treachery and bribery, which were providentially discovered. It is the general report of deserters and prisoners, and a prevailing opinion here, that no attempt will be made by General Howe till his reinforcement arrives, which, as I said before, is hourly expected. Our situation at present, both in regard to men and other matters, is such as not to make it advisable to attempt anything against them, surrounded as they are by water, and covered with ships, lest a miscarriage should be productive of unhappy and fatal consequences. It is provoking, nevertheless, to have them so near, without being able to give them any disturbance. ‘Their ships that passed us are also safely moored in a broad part of the river, out of reach of shot from either shore. Mrs. Washington is now at Philadelphia, and has thoughts of returning to Virginia, as there is little or no prospect of her being with me any part of this summer. I beg of you to present my love to my sister and the children, and com- pliments to any inquiring friends, and to do me the justice to believe that I am, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To John Augustine Washington, Esq. BARON DE CALBIAC TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-York, July 22, 1776. My Generat: Though it is easy to see your Excel- lency, by the kind reception with which you entertain every- body, [ have, with a good deal of repugnancy, imposed a law to myself, in discontinuing to go and present to you my humble duty—in the first place, by the reason of the diffi- culty that I have to make myselfunderstood ; and, secondly, in the apprehension to trouble you from your business. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 510 In the mean while, a sentiment of patriotism obliges me to trouble you again, being wounded by the sorrow in seeing my countrymen in the greatest want; and what afflicts me the most is, that it is no more in my power to do for them what I have done for the others: so that you will permit me to represent to your Excellency, that the good mind that led those gentlemen to serve under your orders, and to help this Continent against her enemies, has determined them to leave their families, their country, and to despise all sorts of dangers, in order to join you. You know, sir, that necessity has no Jaw, and you must not be surprised if some French- men have behaved so scandalously. I hope that you will be so good as to observe my representation; having the honour to be, of your Excellency, Mon General, the most humble and most obedient servant, Le Baron pe Caxpiac. P.S. The 6th June, 1776, four battalions of the regi- ment of Champagne arrived at Guadaloupe, to garrison that place, while the fleet and army of France go to Quebeck to retake Canada. ‘This account I have just received from that Island. JEDEDIAH HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Camp, New-York, July 22, 1776. Honourep Sir: It passes for some apology in my own mind, for not writing so often as at some times I think I ought to, that, in the first place, my letters cannot carry news, because, in your publick station, you have the best and earliest from all quarters; in the second place, that the urgency of the publick affairs needs all your attention. Since the British fleet placed themselves so near us as Staten-Island, the most of the principal inhabitants of the city have been moving away with their effects. The late ad- venture of the Phenix and Rose determined all the hesitating tofly. Ishould be willing to part with all of them, unless we had some skilful assayist to separate the bad from the good. Since the Declaration of Independence, [ have often thought how anxious you would be that the leaders of the present day, though they themselves may not reap the fruits of their labours, should not spare any pains to have the foundations of the great Continental government well laid, and as well that of particular States, that publick virtue and liberty, which make the publick happiness, may be secured and perpetuated. It is plain to see, from a small acquaintance with the manners of this people, the pernicious influence of some overgrown estates. The landlords, though few in number, have the power of disobliging their numerous dependants, and there- fore assume the right of dictating to them in their most interesting and tenderest concerns. Ought not or cannot a timely remedy be provided against the limitation of the descent of large tracts of land that carry such evil power with them? General Sullivan is returned to this place; he did not meet a very cordial reception, Lam told, fron G. W. Gen- eral Washington and the Adjutant-General of the British Army at Staten-Island had an interview at Colonel Know’s, near Fort George, last Saturday. The application was from their side, and very importunate. Our expectations were raised to look for something considerable ; but it proved to be very frivolous—a proposition to exchange Master Lovell for Governour Skene, which heretofore they had refused to us. The General told him it could not be done without an order of Congress. The Adjutant-General wished for a familiar intercourse between the two armies, and that all proceedings be carried on on the highest principles of honour and humanity. Our General treated him rather coolly, and they parted soon. A small party of the enemy landed on the Jersey side yesterday, under the protection of a tender. Our people repulsed them without firing but a few small-arms. What loss, or whether any, do not learn. My love and respects to all, as is due. I remain, your affectionute son, Jepu. Huntineron. P.S. The papers of this day do not contain the joyful news from South-Carolina; therefore I enclose you a hand- bill. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Camp on Long-Island, July 22, 1776. Sir: Colonel Hand reports this morning that the ships that came in yesterday have troopson board. ‘They appear 511 to be dressed in the Highland habit. Nothing material has happened in this camp since yesterday. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant, N. Greene. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. WILLIAM HOPKINS TO OYSTER-BAY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE. In Committee for Township of Oyster-Bay, July 22, 1776. GentLemeNn: By request of Captain Daniel Noorstrant, we do make application to your honourable House for a commission for Jacob Totten, First Lieutenant under above- said Captain, instead of Daniel Hendrickson, who absolutely refuses executing his commission. Reasons may be given sufficient for his excuse. N. B. The company belonging to Captain Daniel Noor- strant hath unanimously appeared and chosen Jacob Totten First Lieutenant. By order of the Committee: Wixwiam Hopkins, Chairman. To Chairman of County Committee, or his Deputy. ROBERT YATES TO WILLIAM PAWLING. In Committee, Poughkeepsie, July 22, 1776. Sir: We have, among other things, determined to fit out two armed sloops at Albany, in order to protect the river against the depredations of tenders. ‘To eftect this, we have written to the Committee at New-York to furnish us with gunners, or persons who in anywise are used to the manage- ment of cannon on board of ships, and a quantity of com- bustible matter for fire-arrows, and by all means a person who understands the making of them. If your business will possibly admit, we must entreat your attention to this matter also. Mr. Jay is gone to Salisbury for cannon, Messrs. Yates and Livingston to Albany, and Tappen and G. Liv- ingston remain to superintend the works here, where we request your attendance as soon as you conveniently can, We are, sir, your most humble servants. By order of the Committee: Rosert Yates, Chairman. To Wilkam Pawling, Esq., Member of Congress for West- chester County, at New-York or elsewhere. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO COLONEL DAYTON. German-Flats, July 22, 1776. Dear Sir: From the advice contained in an intercepted letter which was yesterday delivered me, there is reason to suspect that Lieutenant McDonald, of your regiment, is concerned in the embezzlement of the effects at Johnstown. You will therefore be pleased to send him immediately, under arrest, to this place, together with such other officers, if any there are, who may lay under similar suspicions, and all such officers and soldiers who may, by their testimony, elucidate a matter which reflects so much disgrace on the regiment. The Representatives of the United American States have lately transmitted me a resolution deprecating, in the most pointed terms, the abuses of a like kind committed to the northward, and have ordered every military offender to be brought to justice. You will, I doubt not, exert your best endeavours to convict the delinquents, and to wipe away that stain which now sullies the whole corps. 1 beg you will attend here yourself, and bring with you the orders I sent you previous to your leaving Albany. I have a sufti- ciency of officers here to hold a general court-martial. I am, dear sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. Scuuyier. To Colonel Dayton. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Tyonderoga, July 22, 1776. Sir: This morning I received your favour of the 18th instant from the German-Flats. General Arnold has writ- ten to you, with the Indian goods he sent you, by this con- veyance, He is disappointed that he has not more to send you. The same express that brought me your letter brought me one from Mr, Livingston, a copy of which I send you CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 512 enclosed. I have also ordered Mr. Commissary Avery to send you an exact state of his magazine here. The fresh provisions mentioned in Mr. Livingston’s letter is not any of it arrived here yet, nor do I know of any cattle being upon their way hither; so we must eat pork, or go without meat. ‘The Militia are beginning to arrive at Skenesbo- rough ;.so the demands upon our magazine will increase daily. General Arnold sets off to-day for Skenesborough, if possible to expedite the building the gondolas. I hope we shall not be too Jate with our fleet. Four gondolas are all that are built, and it will take a fortnight to finish those that are upon the stocks. This I am assured of by an offi- cer who left Skenesborough yesterday; he is an intelligent young man, is well versed in maritime affairs, and is to command one of the gondolas. The corps of carpenters, which you tell me are ordered to Skenesborough, will arrive late; but that, if the enemy move slow, may answer. I have acquainted Mr. Commissary Avery with the paragraph in your letter which relates to Mr. Trumbull, and have directed Mr. Avery to govern himself accordingly. I am told Colonel Gansevoort stopped my letter to the postmaster at Albany, and sent the messenger I ordered down with it back to Tyonderoga. ‘The Army here are outrageous in having their letters stopped at Albany, all correspondence with the lower country being entirely precluded. J have written to Colonel Gansevoort upon the subject, and will certainly bring him to immediate trial, if he dares, for the future, to stop any letters going to or from the Army that he is not very particularly ordered to intercept. The East- ern Governments have established a weekly post to the Army, free of all expense to the officers and soldiers. I am, &c. Ho. Gates. To General Schuyler. P. S. Enclosed is a return of all the provisions at this post. There is at Crown-Point only a bare sufficiency to supply one weak battalion posted there. JOHN TRUMBULL TO COLONEL READ. Head-Quarters, July 22, 1776. Sir: By the General’s order, I wrote you four or five days since, desiring you to collect all the well at Fort George of every corps, and return to the Army with them. Per- haps you have not received that letter. ‘There is now a still more urgent necessity of your immediate return, as you are appointed to the command of a brigade, with whom your presence is absolutely necessary. You will, therefore, sir, on the receipt of this, immediately collect all who are able to return to their duty, and repair with them to this place as soon as possible. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun TRUMBULL. To Colonel Read. CAPTAIN WILSON TO GENERAL ARNOLD. Three-Brothers, July 22, 1776. Dear Generau: We arrived at the east side of the Isle- au-Motte on Friday night, about one or two o’clock, con- cealed our boats, and kept a good look-out till about six in the afternoon of Saturday, when we perceived a canoe creeping up under the east shore of the Lake. A party was imme- diately detached in pursuit of her, and took her, with a Frenchman in her. We had no interpreter amongst us, and therefore found considerable difficulty in understanding him, Thus much we learned, that he had beento St. John’s, and had informed himself of the number of troops there, of the works they were chiefly employed at, and of the number of boats they had in readiness. He informed us, as we understood him, that he met two men in a canoe about a league on this side of Isle-aux-Noix, who informed him that two of our boats Jay at Isle-au-Motte. He says they live near Grlliland’s Creek, and (if we understood him properly) went down with information to the enemy. We hope to be able to intercept them on their return. o We have taken a certain John Davie, who, from the manner in which he was travelling, and the account which he gave of himself, appears to be a very suspicious person, The prisoners are sent up in charge with the bearer, Lieu- tenant Clark, with one batteau and partof the men, With those who remain here we propose to return to Isle-au-Motte 513 this evening. A party of four men was in readiness on Satur- day evening to have proceeded on the east side of the Lake from opposite Point-au-Fer by land to St. John’s; but upon learning from the Frenchman that intelligence was gone down of our being at Isle-au-Motte, it was thought most prudent not to send them. We have neither a bark canoe nora good pilot. I am, dear, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, James A. Witson, Captain. To His Excellency Brigadier-General Arnold. COLONEL SEYMOUR TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Hartford, July 22, 1776. Honourep Sir: As the troops of Lighthorse returned yesterday from New- York, I thought it my duty to give your Honour the earliest account of our conduct and pro- ceedings, with every attending circumstance. I before men- tioned the immediate forwarding of your Honour’s orders to the Majors of the several regiments named therein, as soon as they came to my hand. ‘The companies made so great despatch in their march, that most of them came on (though well-spirited) without the precaution of a blanket, or even a change of clothing. They had conceived the idea, from the suddenness and urgency of the orders, that they were imme- diately to be called to action, and soon to return, which made them too incautious. I must, however, in justice, say, that a better body of substantial yeomen never appeared on such an occasion. ‘They were admired and applauded for their spirit and zeal. We no sooner arrived at King’s Bridge, on Monday morn- ing, than the General’s letter met us, copy of which I now enclose. ‘This at once seemed to check and mortify. We had no idea of sending back our horses, especially as the men had left their farms and crops in the most critical situation, and must return as soon as possible. I ordered them, how- ever, to halt at the bridge, and, with Majors Starr and Shel- don, waited upon General Washington. He soon told us that forage could not be had upon the Island, (the drought being extreme that way,) and that he would by no means be justified to pay for it, if it could be found. This again flung us into some perplexity, for we thought at least if there was so great need of the men, from the danger of a sudden attack, as the General often expressed it, that the Continent ought to undergo the burden of detaining us. There was, however, no reasoning upon the subject. We then proposed finding pastures for our horses, at and this side of the bridge, and depend upon the Colony, and so tarry a short time, rather than be turned directly back, which might throw a discouragement upon the honest intentions and wishes of men forward to serve their country on any emergency. To this the General graciously consented ; and after much diffi- culty to obtain pastures for a small space, we marched into the city, through dust and sweat. Our numbers were soon trebled, and the sound of it rung through the enemy’s camp. ‘The same day our horses were sent out, and the men were put into houses, with nothing but the clothes on their backs, for lodging. As soon as a return of our men could be made, a number were ordered upon guard. ‘This was something unex- pected, but cheerfully submitted to. Soon after, a further order came for mounting guard, and for eight of our men to go to King’s Bridge upon fatigue, there to remain one week. The first of these requisitions was complied with, but the last declined, as unreasonable for men under our circumstances. Colonel Silliman, as well as others, advised against submit- ting to fatigue; that it was counter to the laws of the Colony, and what your Honour had no idea of subjecting us to. Major Hart, with me of course, (by direction of General Wadsworth,) waited upon General Washington, and stated the case, mentioned the exemptions of our law, &c., at same time suggested that the men would freely furnish guards of every kind, and man the lines, as they had done, if they might only be excused from working parties, for which they were in no measure prepared. We were answered, that no distinction could be made between our men and the rest, and if they would not submit to these terms, they might be dis- missed, ‘This reply, after we had come so far, left everything at home in the most suffering condition, had made such de- spatch, and placed out our horses at so much risk and expense, and had done every other duty in the time of the alarm, and ‘Firtu Series.—Vot. I, 33 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 514 also at other times (except that of the pick-axe, the shovel, and the wheelbarrow,) was indeed very humiliating. We could not account for such treatment, unless it was from the quarter of such who always viewed the existence of a body of Lighthorse with a jaundiced eye. It was the opinion of several General Officers that we ought to be excused; that it might be done consistently, and that we deserved thanks and applause instead,of the reverse. And, in short, if so large and respectablea body of men, scattered through the Colony, are to be blamed, under particular circumstances, for not complying with every formal round of duty in camp, from which they knew themselves excused, it must rather create disaffection than otherwise. We are, however, willing, if we have done amiss, to stand amenable at your Honour’s bar. . We left the city on Thursday noon last, when the most, if not all of our inlisted levies had arrived. About seven thousand of the Flying-Camp had also reached the Jersey shore. ‘These at least must treble our number to that of the enemy. Lord Howe also arrived the Friday before, without fleet or army (save a ship or two.) Under these circum- stances, no prospect of any sudden attack, our horses not to be kept any longer, the pressing circumstances of our affairs at home, and the general opinion that we could not be needed soon, (even General Putnam said we were not wanted,) together with the sudden and unexpected reply from the General, all induced us to return. I have troubled your Honour too long with a relation of facts, but thought it necessary, that no mistake might arise from differing accounts. I ought to mention one circum- stance further: that is, that just before I left New- York, after the men were all gone, Generals Spencer and Heath called upon me, and said there was a misunderstanding in the matter, and that they had just come from the General, and he meant to excuse us from fatigue. ‘The matter was now over, the men gone and irrecoverable. And besides, the General had othewise expressed it the evening before, when Major Hart, with me, waited upon him for the purpose. I can’t help remarking to your Honour, that it may be with truth said, General Washington is a gentleman of ex- treme care and caution; that his requisitions for men are fully equal to the necessity of the case; and that if more attention was had to the Northern Department it would be as well. It is much to be lamented that our numbers of volunteers are so slow and deficient. Am persuaded that detachments must, after all, take place, as our only remedy. I should have stopped here, but am this moment informed by Captain Hooker that Mr. Webb, General Washington’s Aid-de-Camp, has written your Honour something dishon- ourable to the Lighthorse. Whatever it may be I know not, but this I do know, that it is a general observation; both in camp and country, if the butterflies and the coxcombs were away from the Army, we should not be put to so much difficulty in obtaining men of common sense to engage in the defence of their country. Your Honour will excuse my freedom and prolixity in this, as it proceeds from no other motive than a sacred regard for the community of which I have the favour to be a member. I am, with every sentiment of esteem and regard, your Honour’s most obedient humble servant, Tomas Seymour. GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, July 22, 1776. Sir: The company of Artificers in the Continental ser- vice here, under the care of Captain Eayrs, your Excellency did not mention in your directions respecting the troops, and I must request your directions respecting said company. It is a very good company, and if such a company be wanted in the Continental service, I believe a better cannot be had. Sargent’s and Hutchinson’s regiments marched the 18th instant for Norwich; Glover’s marched the 20th. The two remaining regiments are recovering fast of the small-pox, and as soon as they can march with safety I shall order them forward. I shall use every precaution to prevent the march- ing regiments from communicating the small-pox, and for this purpose will endeavour that they shall be thoroughly cleansed, being sensible of the destructive consequences that would result from spreading this disorder in our armies, which are every hour liable to be called to action. d15 Application was made to me some days since by the Government of New-Hampshire for some ammunition to supply the Continental regiments now on their march from that State to join our Army in Canada; and as they had none to march through the woods with, and it would be unsafe to go without, I furnished them with eight barrels of powder, two thousand pounds of musket-ball, and two thou- sand flints. e I have ordered the proper returns, that I may be able to make such a return to your Excellency as mentioned in yours of the 11th instant. : I am your Excellency’s obedient and very humble ser- vant : Artemas Warp. To General Washington. ’ COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO COLONEL FOSTER. In Council, July 22, 1776. Sir: In the list or return by you made out and signed in behalf of the Field-Officers of the Sixth Regiment of Militia in the County of Lincoln, of the Captains and subalterns chosen by the several companies belonging to said regiment, you express a desire that commissions may be made out, &c., except those for the third company, for the reasons for which exception the Council are referred to a copy of a petition annexed to said return, signed by Joseph Swett and others, which has been read; and thereupon It is Ordered, That the Field-Officers of the Sixth Regi- ment of Militia in the County of Lincoln be, and they hereby are, directed to make a full inquiry whether the facts set forth in the said petition are true, and whether any corrupt prac- tices were used in the choice of said officers; and they are directed to make return hereof to the Council as soon as possible. To Colonel Benjamin Foster. Worcester, Massachusetts, July 22, 1776. On Monday last a number of patriotick gentlemen of this town, animated with a love of their country, and to show their approbation of the measures lately taken by the Grand Council of America, assembled on the green near the Liberty Pole, where, after having displayed the colours of the Thir- teen Confederate Colonies of America, the bells were set a ringing and the drums a beating; after which the Decla- ration of Independency of the United States was read to a large and respectable body (among whom were the Select- men and Committee of Correspondence) assembled on the occasion, who testified their approbation by repeated huzzas, firing of musketry and cannon, bonfires, and other demon- strations of joy; when the arms of that tyrant in Britain, George I1I., of execrable memory, which in former reigns decorated, but of late disgraced, the Court-House in this town, were committed to the flames, and consumed to ashes; after which a select company of the sons of freedom repaired to the Tavern, lately known by the sign of the King’s Arms, which odious signature of despotism was taken down by order of the people, which was cheerfully complied with by the Innkeeper, where the following toasts were drunk, and the evening spent with joy, on the commencement of the happy era: 1. Prosperity and Perpetuity to the United States of America. . The President of the Grand Council of America. . The Grand Council of America. . His Excellency General Washington. . All the Generals in the American Army. . Commodore Hopkins. . The Officers and Soldiers in the American Army. . The Officers and Seamen in the American Navy. . The Patriots of America. . Every Friend of America. . George rejected, and Liberty protected. . Success to the American Arms. 13. Sore eyes to all Tories, and a chesnut burr for an eye stone. 14. Perpetual itching without the benefit of scratching to the enemies of America. 15. The Council and Representatives of the State of Massachusetts-Bay. wo —_ COmoMDst ND Ue CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 516 16. The Officers and Soldiers in the Massachusetts ser- vice. 17. The Memory of the brave General Warren. 18. The Memory of the magnanimous General Montgo- mery. 19, Speedy redemption to all the Officers and Soldiers who are now prisoners of war among our enemies, 20. The State of Massachusetts-Bay. 21. The Town of Boston. 22. The Selectmen and Committees of Correspondence for the Town of Worcester. 23. May the enemies of America be laid at her feet. 24. May the Freedom and Independence of America en- dure till the sun grows dim with age, and this earth returns to chaos. The greatest decency and good order was observed, and, at a suitable time, each man returned to his respective home. ; JOSEPH PALMER TO JAMES BOWDOIN. Germantown, July 22, 1776. Dear Sir: I have sent expresses to the commanding officers of the several regiments in my brigade for the draught ordered, which I expect will be immediately complied with, I think it was a wise and necessary measure; but permit me to suggest whether it is not necessary that there should be an appointment to general command at Hull, and also at the Castle, if not at each of the other fortified posts. I shall always consider ourselves weak until there is a general com- mand appointed over all the forces when at such or such a station, whether they be Colonial or established regiments, Militia, or any others who may, upon an alarm or otherwise, be there. At present, it is apprehended that there is no such officer; for the particular commander of the Train has no command over Colonel Whitney’s or Marshall’s regiments; nor have either of them over the Militia, or others (except- ing their own corps) who may be at such or such a post, upon any alarm; nor have the Militia officers any command but only over their own corps. ‘The necessity and danger with- out it is so obvious when attended to, that I doubt not im- mediate provision will be made for it. I mentioned Hull and the Castle, because they are singly of more importance than some others, particularly Hull, which I consider is the key of the whole harbour, and therefore demanding more particular and immediate attention. Upon this occasion, as new regiments will be doubtless raised, I would beg leave to mention my son for a Colonel, which is his rank. Upon account of the connexion, I have not pushed him forward; it was a delicate point. I now mention it, not as a favour to be conferred upon him or myself, exclusive of right, but founded therein. He was early engaged on the side of liberty, and was complained of to Governour Hutchinson by the Commissioners as a dan- gerous person. ‘The tea affair witnessed his zeal, which was confirmed in a different way on the memorable 19th of April ; and Colonel Hancock, of the Cadets, gave testimony to General Washington of his military knowledge. His con- duct as the first Quartermaster-General, in the most diffi- cult times, has been approved of by General Ward, and his removal from that office was, professedly, by General Wash- ington, to make way for a worthy gentleman of another Colony, and not for any fault or incapacity; and by the Gen- eral’s recommendation, Mr. Mifflin offered him the deputy- ship in that office; but he, considering that all the blame, if any, would be thrown upon him, and all the praise, if any, would be given to another, declined an acceptance; since which he has been neglected, for what reason I know not. As a gentleman of letters, as a sufferer in the cause, having given up everything to it, as one whose moral character does honour to his religious profession, and as a person of military knowledge, he is, at least, equal to some who have been appointed. He has held himself in readiness to serve the publick, when he might have served his private interest with much greater prospect of advantage. 1 have not con- sulted him upon this application, nor has he seen what I write. He will not dance daily attendance at the levees of the great, humbly petitioning for that which his country ought to thank him for accepting. If he is neglected this time, we shall consider the publick as saying to him, “we have no occasion for your services, we have better men;” in 517 consequence of which he will look out for other means to provide for his family and serve the State; and I shall really suspect that I am a stranger to his true character, that the publick know more of him than I do, and that he is not the man I have taken him to be. I herewith enclose abstracts of the returns of the four In- dependent companies. They have never had any Commis- sary, Which has oceasioned much difficulty to them and me. They have not had any pay since December, as I think, and are now in straits for want of it, being part at Dorchester Heights and part at Hull, and very uneasy at their unset- tled and ill-provided state. If those at Dorchester should be returned to Hull, where they are more wanted, the Com- missary directed to supply them all, and they ordered to make up their rolls and billeting to a certain day, they may be kept quiet until they are regimented, or a Field Officer appointed over them; and when they are upon the same footing as others, they will cheerfully do their duty. I think they may be made part of the new regiments which it is supposed will be raised. I am, dear sir, your very humble servant, J, Paumer. To the Honourable James Bowdoin, Esq., President of the Council. . PETITION OF THE TOWN OF WARREN, To the Honourable Committee of Safety for the Colony of New-Hampsuire: The Petition of us, the Committee of the Town of Warren, humbly showeth : That the inhabitants are destitute of fire-arms and lead, and pray that your Honours will grant us a sufficient quan- tity of fire-arms and lead, or otherwise grant us a sum of money to purchase them, as you in your wisdom shall think proper ; for which we, the Committee of Safety for said Warren, will account, in hehalf of said town. We shall ever pray, &c., Josuua MERRILL Josnua Copp, Ozep. CLEMENT, Committee for the Town of Warren. Warren, July 22, 1776. COLONEL DAVID GILLMAN TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Head-Quarters, Portsmouth, July 22, 1776. GentLemen: I have the pleasure to inform you that the works at New-Castle go on very well. If nothing extra- ordinary happens, I am in hopes the walls of that important fortress will be almost completed this week. I believe I may venture to say, it will be one of the most complete ones upon the Continent of America, when finished. I should have been almost ready to have mounted all the can- non on the fort by this time, could I have got timber to have laid the platforms, but am still at a loss. Should be glad to know how soon some might be procured for that purpose. I flatter myself, gentlemen, when I have got these works a little out of the way, shall have an opportunity to discipline CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. my men, and make them somewhat respectable, in case we. should be attacked. I should think it proper to have some person appointed to muster the men here, as the Captains are daily recruiting. I am, gentlemen, with great respect, your Honour’s most obedient humble servant, Davin Gittman. To the Committee of Safety. Plymouth, England, July 23, 1776. This day Commodore Fielding, with the last of the Hes- sians, Waldeckers, &c., Burgoyne’s Lighthorse, horses for the Artillery, &c., &¢., sailed for America. The Repulse, with the remainder (fifteen hundred) of the former division of the Hessians, sailed for America on the 25th of May. B. JOHNSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 23, 1776. GentLemen: I omitted in my letter in favour of Mr. Morris, to mention anything relative to equipping Captain Hardman’s company. I have since had conversation with the Captain, and he is of opinion, that if you would furnish * 518 him with money, he could get guns, blankets, &c. For my own part, | think, from his assiduity, he will soon do it. Nor do I think it will be in his power to do it without. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, B. Jounson. To the Council of Safety of Maryland. MAJOR PRICE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Upper Camp, St. George’s, July 23, 1776. Gentvemen: I arrived at this place the 21st instant, with one of the four-pounders; the other two I left at Leon- ardtown till further orders. After inspecting this camp, and giving the necessary orders, I went over to the lower camp, commanded by Colonel Barnes, who is stationed much nearer to the fleet than to this camp. I think a nine-pounder could reach the Fowey from one of the points, though I doubt our doing her much damage. The rest of the fleet lay outside of her. ‘They are very quiet, and give us no disturbance. ‘The Roebuck, and three or four large ships, went up the river the evening before I got here, since which a number of cannon have been fired, as I suppose, near the mouth of Nanjemoy. Ihave ordered the other two pieces of cannon to the lower camp, and shall, as soon as the nine- pounder arrives, order that there; and, if intrenching tools, which I have sent after, can be had, throw up an intrench- ment as near the Fowey as possible. I find great difficulty in providing necessaries; it is the poorest part of the country I ever was in, I suppose there are not three spades and shovels to be had within ten miles. We have several deserters from the enemy, most of them in the small-pox. A valuable negro made his escape from us last night, he not being so well guarded as he ought to have been, owing to the people’s being afraid of the small-pox. The shores are full of dead bodies, chiefly negroes. I think, if they stay here any time, they must be ruined; for by deaths, desertions, and the , | think their business must be done completely. The officers who have been here some time, imagine about fifty corpses have been thrown on the shores. Upon my arrival here, I was informed that General Dent had ordered a flag of truce on board the Fowey, to request a passage for Mr. Daniel Wolstenholme to go to England with his property; and this was done in consequence of a pass- port Mr. Wolstenholme obtained from the Committee of this County; and that he expected a boat every day to take him on board; but as matters are circumstanced, I thought it advisable not to suffer Mr. Wolstenholme to leave the Pro- vince, until your knowledge and approbation could be had relative to this business; therefore hope for your instructions by the return of this express, who promises to return imme- diately. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Tuomas Price. To the Council of Safety for the Province of Maryland. P.S. The Fowey and Otter, with about fifty sail of ves- sels, are still here. ‘This express to be paid by your Board. MAJOR PRICE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Upper Camp, St. George’s, July 23, 1776. Genttemen: About two hours after I sent off the express to you, which I had promised to detain till twelve o’clock, and did so, to give Mr. Wolstenholme an opportunity of writing to your Board, I received the enclosed packet from Colonel Barnes. ‘The messenger told me, on delivering it, that it was for me, and, without looking at the direction, I broke the seal. A number of gentlemen were present. However, I discovered the mistake without knowing the contents, and enclosed it immediately. I hope you will pardon this blunder. : I am, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Tuomas Price. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland, at An- napolis. COLONEL BARNES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. George’s Neck, July 23, 1776. GentLemeN: Enclosed you will receive the papers rela- tive to our permitting Mr. Wolstenholme to go on board the d19 fleet here. The first application received from Mr. Wolsten- holme was by myself directed to the commanding officer of the station where I was. On perusing it, I sent a mes- saze by the gentleman that brought it, to inform Mr. Wolstenholme, that as I understood General Dent was at the station at the Narrows, I should consult him about it, and send him an answer; which answer was, that it was not thought proper for him to depart, as you will see by a para- graph in one of Mr. Wolstenholme’s letters; on receiving of which, he sent me his passport from the Committee of the County, a copy of which you have enclosed. Upon demand- ing of him that he would say nothing to the prejudice of the Province, he answered, that he defied his worst enemy to say that he had ever done or said anything inimical, or that had a tendency that way, but that he would not be bound to anything; but that the same principle that had ever been the rule of his actions would govern his future conduct. Well knowing, from the knowledge I had of Mr. Wolstenholme, that he was a man of honour, and his word not to be doubted, and as he had for several years been very anxious to go to England, and an opportunity now offered, which, in all probability, would not again occur for some time, and his passport from the Committee being unanimous, which, without very particular reasons, in my opinion, ought to be adhered to, particularly by the military, were the reasons for me to agree, with General Dent, that Mr. Wolstenholme should depart. By one of the letters written by Mr. Wol- stenholme to Governour Eden, with my certificate to it, which was sent with a flag on board one of the men-of-war, it was understood by all the gentlemen here, and must have been by the fleet, that Mr. Wolstenholme was to depart, if they thought proper to send for him. Whether it is con- sistent with the honour of the Province to detain Mr. Wol- stenholme after what has passed, I leave you to determine. But I must confess to you that I think the honour of the Province, together with General Dent’s and mine, are con- cerned in it. I am really astonished at the slight received from Major Price, not to have been consulted or asked how the affair was really conducted, before he counteracted General Dent’s and my conduct. I doubt not Major Price will inform you of our affairs here, which prevents my troubling you thereon. Reports have been spread to Mr. Wolstenholme’s preju- dice, relative to a conversation passed between him and a gondola under his bank, without any foundation, as I am informed by several of his family, who heard the conversa- tion, and were called on by him for that purpose. I remain, with regard, your obedient servant, Ricuarp Barnes. To the Council of Safety of Maryland. P.S. The substance of the letter from Mr. Wolsten- holme to Governour Eden was, to beg that he would use his endeavours to procure him a passage in a ship that was going to England, and that, if he could be received with conveniency, a flag might be sent from on board the fleet for him. Under which I wrote the following certificate: “By order of General John Dent, I do hereby certify, that if the above shall be approved of, and a flag should be sent on shore, every due respect shall be paid to it. “ RicHarp Barnes.” Papers referred to by Colonel Barnes. St. Mary’s, July 17, 1776. Sir: Doctor Keyman is so kind as to wait on you, in order to acquaint you of the danger my house and family were in this morning from a covered vessel, or galley, in his Majesty’s service, the commanding officer not knowing who was the proprietor. The manner in which it was prevented, and the conver- sation that passed between the,commanding officer and myself on the occasion, which I have great reason to be- lieve caused his immediate return, without any intention of doing further damage, and what happened afterwards to Mr. Morris’s house, as well as the action which occasioned it, I flatter myself you will hear from persons whose veracity may, in general, be less questioned than my own at so critical a juncture. As I mentioned the term of four days, and it was found convenient to be received by the flag, I thought it necessary to acquaint you therewith, in order that you might appoint a proper officer on the occasion, and that CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 520 every due respect may be paid to it, as the Militia, who have returned to my house since the affair, are, I apprehend, very little acquainted with ceremonies of this nature. 1 am, very respectfully. (Signed by Mr. Wolstenholme.) To the Commanding Officer of the Maryland Provincial Troops, at St. George’s, Maryland, St. Mary’s County. St. Mary’s, July 19, 1776. Sir: By Colonel Read, I am just now favoured with yours of this date, acquainting me that you have communi- cated my request to General Dent, “relative to sending and receiving a flag of truce from the fleet, and that he is against sending a flag on board, and permitting any one to go on board from this part, and that you therefore hope I will decline all thoughts of going at present.” If you will please to refer to my letter sent on the ocea- sion, | presume you will find that the purport of it bath been entirely mistaken, as I only acquainted the command- ing officer at St. George’s, (which I find you were at that time,) that I thought it necessary to inform him a flag would be sent for me, and desiring that a proper officer might be appointed on the occasion, and that every due respect might be paid to it, as the Militia, who bad returned to my house since the affair which I had mentioned in my letter, were very little acquainted with ceremonies of that nature. How, from the above request, it could be imagined that I asked the General’s permission to depart the Province, or to go on board any ship in the fleet for that purpose, I am at a loss to determine; as he must, no doubt, be well acquaint- ed with the genteel treatment I met with from the. Com- mittee of Observation of this County, and the unanimous consent they gave me to embark at any time I should judge most convenient to my health and private concerns. If, by the permission granted me, the Committee have exceeded the power delegated to them by the Convention, ) which it is my opinion they have not,) to that body only, 1 apprehend, they are answerable; but their determination is no way sub- ject to any controlling orders of the General; so that, unless the military power is authorized to supersede that of the civil, the General cannot possibly have any right to give the least obstruction to my intended embarkation. I therefore beg you will desire him to consider well the consequences of such a step, as well with regard to the rights which every freeman in this Province is entitled to, as the danger of that resentment which may possibly be expressed against innocent persons here, from a detention of an officer in his Majesty’s service, without the least charge of any crime whatever against him. Iam far from disputing the General’s autho- rity to receive, or not to receive, the flag; but 1 do deny that the military power hath any right to control that of the civil. If it has, the people of this Province are as com- plete slaves as any in Turkey. As a friend, therefore, to the rights and pyivileges of a freeman of Maryland, I do expect and demand that no hinderance or molestation whatever be given to my depart- ure for Great Britain, m any vessel I please, provided that it is the General’s pleasure the flag of truce should not be received. Doctor Keyman, who is so kind as to promise the delivery of this letter, will, at the same time, furnish you with the passport granted me by the Committee, in order to be shown to General Dent, which, after his perusal of it, I must beg you will be pleased to return to him. Should its authority be still disputed, I shall be under the indispu- table necessity of appealing to that power which, as in the case of his Excellency Governour Eden and Mr. Purviance, I flatter myself will support the rights of freemen against every undue invasion whatever. I am, very respectfully, sir, your very humble servant, Danitev WotsTENHOLME. To Colonel Richard Barnes, at St. George’s. } Court-House in Leonardtown, July 1, 1776. In Committee: Present: Colonel Abraham Barnes, (in the chair,) Major James Eden, Major Samuel Abell, Captain John Smith, Captain Edward Abell, Captain Everard Bond, Captain Vernon Hebb, Colonel John H. Read, Major Ignatius Fenwick, Mr. Wilfred Neale, Mr. William Taylor, Mr. Henry Tubman, Mr. Nicholas L. Sewell. On reading a Letter from Daniel Wolstenholme, Esq., Collector of his Majesty’s Customs on North Potomack, set- ting forth that, by advice of his Physicians, he intended to 521 leave this Province and return to Great Britain, his native country, on account of his infirm state of health, for which purpose he had obtained a warrant from the Right Honour- able the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty’s Board of Treasury in London; yet the peculiar circumstances of the times, joined to his own inability to prosecute the intended voyage, had unfortunately prevented him from embracing the opportunity within the time limited by the aforesaid warrant, by which means he is utterly disabled, by peculiar circumstances, from making a second application to their Lordships for a renewal of it, and hoping, under such a pre- dicament, to be able to justify his conduct in his proposed departure, finds himself under the necessity of making imme- diate application to this Committee for the grant of such a passport as may enable him to leave the Province with safety to himself and that security to his property which he hath ever hitherto enjoyed, so soon as he can, with convenience to the present situation of his affairs, procure a passage for that purpose: Thereupon, Resolved, unanimously, That the said Daniel Wolsten- holme, Esq., have leave to depart this Province (with his effects unmolested) to Great Britain, at any time hereafter as shall by him be judged most convenient for his health and private concerns; and that the Chairman make out a pass- port, to be delivered to the said Daniel Wolstenholme, Esq., agreeable to this resolve. Test: Timotuy Bowers, Clerk. MAJOR WILLIAMS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 23, 1776. GenTLEMEN: Colonel Stull informs me that at your last Convention, at Annapolis, you did me the very great honour of appointing me Colonel of the Frederick County Battalion, to serve the United States of America in the Flying-Camp, until the first day of December next. Ever since the commencement of the unnatural war waged by a wicked Ministry against this country, I have considered it as my indispensable duty to exert my feeble abilities in its defence; and entering early into the service, have had the good fortune to be so far recommended to the honourable the Continental Congress as to obtain a commission as Major of a battalion of Riflemen, to serve the United States three years; and being diffident of my abilities to discharge the duties of a more exalted station at present, beg leave to decline the very honourable appointment by which you, gentlemen, have conferred an obligation on me ever to be most gratefully remembered and acknowledged. I beg leave ina particular manner to profess my gratitude to those worthy gentlemen by whose recommendations [ obtained so respectable an appointment. Their favourable opinion I trust will always be maintained by a propriety of conduct in, gentlemen, your most obliged and obedient humble servant, O. Witutams. To the Honourable the Provincial Congress of Maryland. T. HANSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Green-Hill, July 23, 1776. Sir: Enclosed I send you a list of my proportion of men raised as part of the Flying-Camp. ‘This return I should have made sooner had I conceived it a necessary step. Officers that have made their returns taught me to believe that by this opportunity the end would be equally as well answered as if I had come up a few days sooner. I was unwilling, too, to leave the Province whilst I thought I might be of service in repelling Dunmore’s men from landing. I hope, therefore, I shall not be suspected of negligence or in- attention, as my design was for the best. I should thank you for any information respecting arms for our men; if any money is allowed the officers to pur- chase arms; and when the men are to march. I am, sir, your obedient servant, T. Hanson. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. JAMES MURRAY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee of Observation, Dorchester County, July 23, 1776. GentLemen: We received yours of the 16th instant, re- questing our assistance in furnishing firelocks and blankets for the use of the Flying-Camp; which you may be assured CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 522 we shall endeavour to comply with, as far as our situation will admit of; but we think we should be wanting in our regard for the publick cause and the safety and welfare of our country, if we omitted to repeat to your Honours, what we have on several occasions informed you of, our weak and defenceless state. We are satisfied at this time there are not more than a fourth part of the Militiamen in our County who have arms that can be depended on, and these only fowling-pieces and squirrel-guns, not fixed with bayonets. There are others, which are defective, some of which may be repaired, which we are endeavouring tohave done; buta great part of these can never be made fit for service. As to publick arms, we have none that we know of in our County, and but twenty-two taken from Non-Enrollers and Non- Associates. As to blankets, there are none that we know of in any of the stores here; nor is there any way we can think of by which there appears any probability of getting any, unless it be by applying to different families, some of whom may, on this occasion, perhaps, furnish a few, though this is uncer- tain, as there seems a scarcity of blankets among the people; however, on our receiving cash, you may be assured we shall endeavour by every means in our power to procure them, We know of no person this way that can be engaged to make knapsacks with haversacks, priming-wires and brushes, camp-kettles, canteens or wooden bottles; if we should here- after be informed of any such, we shall advise you of it. ° We are, gentlemen, your obedient and very humble servants. Per order of the Committee of Observation : James Murray, Chairman. To the Council of Safety of Maryland. P.S. We learn from Mr. Goldsborough that we are to receive a supply of powder and ball or lead. We should be glad to be furnished with it as quick as possible, being in great want of it. GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, July 23, 1776. GentcLemen: The enclosed is the commission under which I have had the honour to act, and more especially by your late order, until the 21st instant, when an order was presented to me from your Honours, appointing Major Thomas Price to the command. Be pleased to take notice that I will not in future accept of any commission from any body of men, under whom the same controlling power exists that has deprived me of my late command. If you’have had any insinuations touching my conduct during the short time I have been in actual service, justice requires that I should be heard, when, I flatter myself, [ shall be able not only to justify my conduct, but in some measure be entitled to the thanks of every sensible and judicious man; which, together with the success of the American arms, have been and still shall be, the study and sincere wish of, your obedient servant, Jno. Dent. GENERAL JOHNSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 23, 1776. GentLemen: Mr. Peter Harrison, who was appointed a Lieutenant in Captain Hardman’s company of Militia, having been named by the Committee as Lieutenant of the company of Riflemen now raising in this County, Captain Hardman has had the aid of one Mr. Morris, in Harrison’s stead. Morris is a fine, lively young fellow, has been very serviceable in raising the men, and, I think, from what I hear of him, will make a good officer. I shall be glad that his appli- cation to fill Harrison’s place in Hardman’s company may prevail. I am, gentlemen, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, Tuo. JOHNSON. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee, July 23, 1776: Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., (Chairman,) J. Boyd, C. Ridgely of William, J. Calhoun, J. Cockey, J. Griest, J. Standeford, B. Griffith, T. Rutter, J. Moale, W. Buchanan, J. Gittings, E. Talbot, D. Lux, W. Tolly, Jun., A. Britain, T. Sollers, T. Gist. On application from John Hatton to be relieved part of his Tax on account of his poverty, and it appearing to the Committee that his excuse is just, he is excused. 523 A Letter from the Committee of York County, in Penn- sylvania, was read in Committee, respecting the circulation of Convention Money of this State in that State, requesting that this Committee would endeavour to promote the circula- tion of said Money in that State: The Committee resolved, that they would represent the matter to the Legislative authority of this State, to remedy the said inconvenience. A Letter from the Council of Safety of the 16th instant, on the subject of the Declaration of Independence; also a Letter from the Honourable President of the Congress, en- closed by them to our Board on the subject aforesaid, were read: Whereupon, it was Resolved, That on Monday next the Declaration of In- dependence, dissolving all connexion between Great Britain and the Thirteen United Colonies, and declaring them free and independent States, be proclaimed at the Court-House of the County. Ordered, That Messrs. William Smith, John Boyd, and Benjamin Levy, together with the General and Field-Officers of the Town Battalion, and of the Independent Company, be a Committee to form the regulation of the procession for the Declaration of Independency. The Committee acquainted Mr. Robert Christie, Jun., (Sheriff of this County,) of the time agreed on for the De- claration of Independency, and at the same time requested him to attend at the same time, and proclaim Independency; which he promised to do. The Committee, taking into consideration that part of the Letter from the Council of Safety requiring our assistance to furnish the Militia from this Province that are to join the Flying-Camp with Firearms and Blankets, were of opinion, that, in order the more speedily to comply with their requi- sition, the Committee of Safety be immediately desired to furnish this Committee with £1000; which sum, when ob- tained, is to be lodged with Messrs. James Calhoun, William Aisquith, and John Boyd; who are requested to use the utmost expedition and industry in applying to the inhabitants of this County, and earnestly request all those who have it in their power, to supply the publick with Firearms for the purposes aforesaid ; for the return of which in the like good order as when received, or, in case of loss, the value thereof, agreeable to an appraisement to be made by two reputable freeholders, the publick faith be pledged; and that they also be requested to purchase as many good Blankets as the inhabitants in the respective Hundreds in this County can spare; provided they do not exceed the sum of 20s. for every Blanket of equal quality with the best new striped Duffil Blankets, and not much injured by use, and so in proportion for those that, in their judgment, are much impaired by use, or of inferior quality. Messrs. Calhoun, Aisquith, and Boyd, are appointed to write, and acquaint the honourable Council of Safety of the measures taking by this Committee to effect the purposes mentioned in their Letter. They are also to give Instructions to the persons employed in collecting Blankets and Arms, and to write to Mr. David McLure, in York-Town, to know whether any Blankets can be procured in that place in a short time. The above-mentioned gentlemen are appointed a Com- mittee to prepare and get printed, sixty copies of Lists for taking the number of inhabitants in this County, which they are directed to send to the persons appointed to take the numbers in the respective Hundreds. The following persons were appointed to collect the Blankets and Arms in the different Hundreds in this County, viz: Darby Lux, in Back River Upper, Back River Lower, Middle River Upper, and Middle River Lower Hundreds. Captain Thomas Rutter, in Middlesex and Patapsco Lower Hundreds. Shadrach Bond, in North and Soldier’s Delight Hun- dreds. Walter Tolly, Jun., in Gunpowder Upper and Mine Run Hundreds. Charles Ridgely, of Wm.,in Patapsco Upper Hundred. William Lux in Delaware Hundred. Colonel William Buchanan in Pipe Creek Hundred. Mr. John Cockey Owings having by a note advised this Committee, that he declined acting as a Collector of the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 524 Fines assessed on the Non-Enrollers in Back River Upper Hundred, Mr. Shadrach Bond was appointed in his room. Attest : Gro. Lux, Secretary. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 23, 1776. GentLemen: Your order of the 16th, for the purchase of blankets and arms, was yesterday taken into consideration by our Committee, by whom we are directed to inform you of the measures resolved on to accomplish your intentions. Several persons of judgment and activity, and of the most influence, are appointed to ride through different districts of the County, to use their best endeavours to prevail on the inhabitants to spare part of their blankets on the present emergency. ‘The same persons are instructed to purchase all muskets which are either good or capable of being made so. We conceived there was so little chance of borrowing any, that it appeared to us vain to attempt, as those who are well disposed to defend their country will use their own arms, and those who are otherwise disposed, will be more influenced by the money than by any other arguments. In order to despatch this very urgent business the more expe- ditiously, we have borrowed a few hundred pounds, and given it to several of the gentlemen appointed for the pur- pose, who set off to the country this day. As we have recommended the greatest industry to the gentlemen who manage this business, we shall probably be able to inform you against next week of their success. We have some information, which induces us to expect that a quantity of new country-made blankets may be pro- cured in York County; therefore shall send an express this day to a person in York town, who can inform us on this subject. The house-keepers in town spared all the blankets they could in the spring to accommodate the Regulars that were stationed here; so that few can be expected from them. Please to send the Committee £1000, to answer the in- tended purchase. Should we not be able to procure to that amount, the surplus may be returned. We are, with much respect, by order and in behalf of the Committee, gentlemen, your most obedient servants, Samu. Purviance, Jun., Chairman. Wim. AtsquiTH, Jno. Boyn, Jas. CaLyoun. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. MUSTER-ROLL OF CAPTAIN GRAYBILL’S COMPANY. A Roll of thirty-four men inlisted by Captain Philip Gray- bill, in virtue of a warrant issued by the honourable Council of Safety, for that purpose, and to him directed, bearing date the twelfth day of July, in the year of our Lord seventeen hundred and seventy-six. Wolfgone Citzenger, David Mumma, Christopher Begel, Jacob Myers, Frederick Welhelm, Jacob Hardstone, John Moore, Ferdinand Lorance, Vendell Andrews, Henry Millberger, Michael Kersher, William Libzinger, George Hyatt, Jacob Fry Miller, John Shlife, James Caple, Abraham Frantz, John Rich, Frederick Wage, Lorance Knery, Henry Hartman, Peter Baker, John Shafter, I do certify, that I have viewed and examined thirty-four men, answering to the above names, exhibited to me for that purpose by Captain Philip Graybill, and find them effective and fit for duty. Rudolph Krower, Adam Earbaugh, Roland Smith, Wm. Kornmelstone, John Shryork, Joseph Stritter, Jacob Ruturt, Martin Lantz, Philip Kautz, Vendell Lorance, Matthias Byer. Tuomas Jones, Second Major of Baltimore-Town Battalion of Militia. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JOHN YOST. [No. 70.] Annapolis, July 23, 1776. Sir: We are very desirous of knowing exactly what arms you have ready for the publick, that we may send for them. As soon as you get a wagon load, or such number as will be worth while sending for, let us know by first good opportu- nity, and if none offers, and your arms be ready, hire an express, and we will pay him. We are, &c. To Mr. John Yost. 525 AFFAIR OF THE GALLEYS NEAR SANDY-POINT, JULY 23, 1776. Captain Conway’s Statement. Alexandria, August 10, 1776. To the Printer of the Maryuanp GazetTe: Sir: No other motive than in justice to my own charac- ter, as well as that of my officers, could ever induce me to request of you to publish the following Narrative and Depo- sitions; more especially at this important juncture, when it is the duty of every individual to propagate the general har- mony, and to discountenance every domestick contention that would seem in any way tending to frustrate the general good. About five weeks ago, I had the honour to be appointed to the command of the Protector row-galley, belonging to this Commonwealth ; I went down to Yeocomico to recruit men; I inlisted six hands; from the capacity and good be- haviour, as well as the character that was given me of three of them, I appointed one my Second Lieutenant, and the other two Midshipmen. We knew that part of the enemy’s fleet had gone up the river Potomack before us. Instead of coming up in a pilot-boat as we at first intended, we came up with two row-boats, thinking by that means to pass the fleet with greater safety. What happened after we came in sight of the fleet will appear by the following Depositions : “The Deposition of Joun Tuomas, Second Lieutenant to Captain Roperr Conway, of the Prorector row-gal- ley, belonging to the Commonwealth of Vireinta. “Alexandria, in Fairfax County, ss. “This day came before me the subscriber, one of the Magistrates for the County aforesaid, John Thomas, Second Lieutenant to Captain Robert Conway, of the Protector row-galley, and made oath, that on Tuesday, the 23d day of July last, about nine or ten o’clock in the forenoon, near Sandy-Point, seven of us, with two boats, landed on the Maryland shore, within about half a mile of the enemy’s fleet, which consisted of four ships, two tenders, and one row-galley, expecting, as soon as we landed, to have been guarded by a party of the Maryland Militia, having no fire- arms ourselves, thinking to pass the fleet the following night. As soon as we landed we conveyed our baggage to an adja- cent house, when, after inquiry, we were informed the troops were opposite the Roebuck, to whom four of us immediately went; from whence we observed the fleet manning their boats, with intent (as we thought) to land on the Maryland shore, from which the Roebuck man-of-war seemed to be two or three hundred yards; when a gentleman they called Colonel Harrison, said, Come, let us march down; to which several replied, I can’t bear to shoot a man; others, that their guns were out of order, with sundry other excuses; to whom Colonel Harrison said, You that have not a mind to go, give your guns to those men that came with Captain Conway. I then said, Give me a gun and ammunition, and I will go; which one of the Militia readily did; so down we marched, under the command of Colonel Harrison. Soon after we came down to the shore, the enemy gave three loud huzzas, and rowed over to the Virginia side, with two ten- ders, one gondola, and ten row-boats; from which they landed and burnt Mr. Brent’s house, from whence they re- turned in about an hour to their respective vessels. In the mean time we thought ourselves very safe under the protec- tion of the Militia; who, by this time, as we were informed had increased from between thirty and forty men, to between three and four hundred. In justice to Colonel Harrison, I must not omit informing, that he seemed very active and resolute, encouraging his men, and telling them that nature could not form a more convenient place than where he pro- posed they should be stationed. About three or four o’clock in the afternoon, the enemy’s gondola and a schooner tender put off and made for our boats; seeing that, I said, Gentle- men, I hope, as we came to offer you our services, you will be kind enough to assist us in taking care of our boats, having no fire-arms ourselves ; they said one company should go with us; then we ran down ourselves, and hauled the smallest boat about thirty or forty yards into a marsh, the other, which had ballast in, we hauled on the beach and staved. By this time the company of Militia came down, but the enemy being close ashore where our boat was, they stopped in a valley about fifty or sixty yards distance from the boat on the beach; the enemy’s row-galley rowed several times towards the boat on the beach and back again; at last the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 526 row-galley and tender fired, on which the sentinels the Colonel had placed, ran across a cornfield and made for the woods ; to whom the Colonel called, Come back; No, (says I) they will not come back till they get to Port-Tobacco, (at which he laughed.) They would peep at the enemy when they rowed close to our boat, but never offered to fire, ex- cepting it was the Colonel, who presented once, but reco- vered without firing. Some of them said, if the row-galley landed she would rake them up the valley, (which indeed was impossible;) at which they ran, the men first, after whom the Colonel retreated ; notwithstanding, I am pretty well assured the Colonel would have stood, had he been supported by his men. When the enemy saw them (from the Roebuck’s mast-head) running off, they hallooed at them, and called them sundry names; then made signs for the row-galley to pull ashore, which they did, and launched our boat off, then gave three huzzas, and fired several shot, both small and great, at the house where our baggage had been taken to; then returned to their ships with their booty, without having one gun fired at them. Colonel Harrison seemed to have that good opinion of Captain Conway as to say, he was assured that Conway would not be backward in taking a firelock. And further this deponent saith not. “Joun Tuomas. ‘August 10, 1776. “Sworn to before me, “Wm. Ramsey, Justice of the Peace.” “The Deposition of Enywarp Cores and Curupert E..is- ton, Midshipmen on board the Protector row-galley, commanded by Captain Ropert Conway. “Alexandria, in Fairfax County, ss: “Taikewise Edward Coles and Cuthbert Elliston, two Mid- shipmen belonging to the Protector row-galley, came this day before me, the subscriber, one of the Magistrates for the County aforesaid, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and took the accustomary oaths, by virtue of which they depose and say: That on Tuesday, the 23d day of July last, coming up the river Potomack with Captain Conway, came in sight of the enemy’s fleet, consisting of four ships, two tenders, and one row-galley, when we made for the Maryland shore, and landed about half a mile below them, expecting to have been protected by the Militia on shore, the number of whom (as we were informed soon after our landing) was between three and four hundred; we were seven in number, with two boats. Soon after we landed, four of us went up to the troops. After we were with the troops about an hour and a half, some of the men offered to give up their firelocks to us, and one in particular gave his gun to Mr. Thomas, our Second Lieutenant. We saw the enemy’s two tenders, one row-galley, and some row-boats, filled with men, and making for the Virginia shore, (instead of coming to the Maryland shore, as we expected,) where they burnt Mr. Brent’s houses; from thence they returned to their ships. Between three and four o’clock in the afternoon, we observed their row-galley and a schooner tender making down for the place where our boats lay. ‘The little boat we pulled into a marsh out of their way, and hauled the big boat on the beach, which was staved by James Sorrell, by Captain Conway’s order, before the enemy could come nigh enough to fire at us with any certainty. As soon as the enemy’s row-galley began to fire, the Militia made a precipitate retreat, and ran up to the woods, after whom Colonel Harrison went up ; then the enemy came and took the boat from off the beach, without having one gun fired at them, although some of the Militia were within less than one hundred yards of the boat when they took her off, and gave three huzzas. Further said deponents say not. ata Corns bd ‘“ CurHBert Ev.iston. “August 10, 1776. “Sworn to before me: Wm. Ramsay, J. P.” Soon after I arrived at Alexandria, my row-galley was ordered down to watch the motions of the enemy’s fleet, but at my return, to my great surprise, I found the following Advertisement had been stuck up at several publick places in this town: ; “ ADVERTISEMENT. ‘Alexandria, July 31, 1776. “Whereas it appears, by certificates now in my posses- sion, under the hands of Captain John Hl. Lowe, Mr. John 527 M. Burgess, and Mr. George Fraser Hawkins, of Maryland, that Captain Robert Conway has propagated a report, much to the dishonour of the T'wenty-Sixth Battalion of the Militia of Maryland, viz: that three or four hundred of the said Militia betook themselves to flight as soon es the Ministerial row-galley began to fire: in order, therefore, to remove every ill impression made by the said report, I take this method of asserting that it is a malicious, infamous falsehood ; as many gentlemen who were present, as spectators, when Captain Conway says this scene of cowardice was acted are ready upon oath to testify. “S. Hanson, S. of Sam.” No man, conscious of his own integrity, would lay silent under such opprobrious epithets; therefore, in vindication of what I have already asserted, which was altogether to the same effect as the foregoing Depositions, I desire you will publish the foregoing Narrative, for the trath of which I appeal to every impartial spectator; and remain, sir, your humble servant ? Roperr Conway. Certificates of Captain Joun N. Lower and Mr. Joun M. Bureess and Mr. Georce Fraser Hawgins. Prince George’s County. I do hereby certify to all whom it may concern, that some time last week I fell in company with several people, who were on their way, by water, to Alexandria. Amongst these there was one Mr. Conway, as I understood, who said he was just from Sandy-Point, where a party of three or four hundred of the Maryland Militia was stationed; that as soon as the row-galley began to fire, the said Militia all ran; that Colonel Harrison walked after them, laughing at them, and never attempted to rally them; that the only man of spirit amongst them was one Jones, as he described ; that the galley landed a parcel of her men and launched one of his boats, carrying her off, after giving three huzzas, without meeting with any opposition. ‘This conversation, and a great deal more, passed in the presence of many gentlemen. I would have been more particular, but being very unwell with a bad fever, cannot at this time recollect every par- ticular’ conversation that passed. Given under my hand this 29th day of July, 1776. Gro. Fraser Hawkins. To all whom it may concern. We, the subscribers, John H. Lowe and John M. Bur- gess, set out on Wednesday last from Mr. George Hawkins’s, with some other gentlemen, by water, in order to view the situation of the Ministerial fleet that was then lying opposite Sandy-Point ; and on our way down we met with Mr. Con- way, who said he was from Sandy-Point, where a party of three or four hundred of Militia were stationed, and at the appearance of a row-galley, which directed her course to the shore, and on firing, the said Militia ran off. He was asked whether the Colonel did not endeavour to rally the men; he said no, but walked after them and laughed. | He said, as the row-galley approached the shore, the Colonel ad- dressed his men in the following manner: You that will not fight, give your guns to those that will. On which declara- tion every man left the field but himself and one who we suppose to be one Jones. ‘The row-galley landed a parcel of her men, launched one of his boats, gave three cheers, and carried her off, without meeting with any opposition. There were several other matters that he spoke, the par- ticulars of which I do not at present remember, but all tended to the discredit of said Militia. July 29, 1776. Colonel Harrison’s Statement. Charles County, October 21, 1776. Mr. Green: Sir: Reports having been propagated by a certain Robert Conway, of the Protector row-galley, be- longing to the Commonwealth of Virginia, his Second Lieu- tenant, and two Midshipmen, with design to dishonour the Twenty-Sixth Battalion of Militia of this Province; which reports being, within my own knowledge and that of many other persons, entirely without foundation, [ had determined to treat them with contempt; but finding that they have carried the joke rather far, by publishing part of their story in the Baltemore and Virginia gazettes, and some of them CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 528 swearing to the same, I think it high time to publish a little too, as a piece of justice due myself and those whom I had the honour to command. You will, therefore, be pleased to insert in your next paper the whole which Captain Con- way has published in the Baltimore paper of the 20th of August, herewith sent you; also, the certificates under the hands of Captain John H. Lowe and Mr. John M. Burgess and Mr. George Fraser Hawkins. The variation between Captain Conway’s own narrative (as certified by Messrs. Lowe, Burgess, and Hawkins) and the depositions of his Lieutenant and Midshipmen, and again, the variation in what they depose, must make every impar- tial reader suspect the truth of them. Captain Conway asserts, that as soon as the row-galley began to fire, the said Militia (being three or four hundred in number) all ran ; that as the row-galley approached the shore, every man left the field save two. Mr. Lieutenant swears that only one company out of the three or four hundred men ran. Messrs. Midshipmen swear that the whole three or four hundred made a precipitate retreat, and ran up to the woods; then they swear, that some of the Militia were within less than one hundred yards of the boat when the enemy took her off. Men who mean to wound the characters of others in the eyes of the publick, by inventing and circulating falsehoods, should be extremely circumspect in what they say or swear; and, as I have already observed, the variation and inconsis- tency in the assertions and depositions of Captain Conway and his party, would make every impartial man suspect their veracity. However, to evince to every one that they are founded only in malice and mischief, I have taken the depositions of Messrs. F%nley, Hunter, and Lawrason, of Alexandria, and Messrs. Matthews and Stoddart, gentlemen volunteers, which you will also insert, with the certificate under the hands of the Rev. Mr. Fendall and Mr. Warren Dent. ‘¢ Alexandria, October 4, 1776. “On Tuesday, the 23d of July last, we, the subscribers, set off from this place with intention to see the enemy’s ships, which we were informed were proceeding up Potemack, and arrived opposite them at Sandy-Point, in Maryland, about half an hour past six o’clock in the evening, where we found a body of Militia stationed, who informed us there were more men a little lower down the river, to whom we immediately went, and were by them told that Colonel Harrison, with a detachment of twenty-five men, was gone down to prevent the enemy’s taking off Captain Conway’s boats, by means of a gondola and armed schooner, which had left the ships for that purpose, as was conceived. We saw the Roebuck under way turning down, and firing now and then across the field, between the detachment and main body, and heard other great guns, which we supposed were from the gondola and armed schooner. We returned to the main body, when we immediately heard a brisk firing of small- arms and swivels, which was thought to be an engage- ment betwixt the detachment and the enemy. We think about sixteen cannon were fired in the whole. The men appeared to be,all drawn up ready with their arms, and during the firing seemed in good spirits; and we heard seve- ral of them ask if they ought not to go to the assistance of the detachment. We neithersaw nor discovered anything like cowardice, but, on the contrary, a willing spirit seemed rally to prevail. peas a “ Joon Fintey, * Wittiam Hunter, “ James LAawrason. WinwuiaMm Ramsay, J. P.” ‘‘ Charles County, October 18, 1776. “We, the subscribers, jomed three Companies of the Twenty-Sixth Battalion of Militia, under the command of Colonel Harrison, at Sandy-Point, on Tuesday, the 23d of July last, early in the morning, in the character of yolun- teers. About nine o’clock the ships began to man their tenders and small boats; when Colonel Harrison ordered the three companies to stand to their arms, and, after watching the motions of the enemy a few minutes, gave orders for Captain Mastin’s company, consisting of about forty-five men, including officers, to repair to the head of a valley which led down to the river nearly opposite the Roebuck, We fell in with this company at the head of the valley. A little while after, there came three or four strangers, who “Sworn before me, 529 were questioned by Colonel Harrison, and informed him that they had come up the river, were going to Alexandria, and had landed a little below in two small boats. ‘Those we understood to be Captain Conway, his Lieutenant, and two men. By this time ten row-boats, two tenders, and a gondola, were filled with men alongside of the Roebuck, which lay near four hundred yards from the Maryland shore. It was every moment expected the enemy would land and attack us. Colonel Harrison told Captain Mastin’s com- pany, that in case the enemy attempted to land there, he should instantly march down at their head and post them behind the beach; and after admonishing them, begged that if any one felt confused or under any panick, to candidly inform him, and turn out of the ranks; on which one of the privates turned out, and told him that he did not like to march down the hill. He was then ordered to give up his gun and ammunition to some other that would, and Colonel Harrison delivered his gun to Captain Conway’s Lieutenant, who said he would march down with us. About ten o’clock the enemy’s boats, tenders, and gondola, left the Roebuck, giving three cheers, and, contrary to our expectation, went over to Virginia, where they landed, and set fire to Mr. Brent’s houses. Colonel Harrison marched the company down to the beach, in order to show them where he intended ‘to post them, had the enemy attempted, or in case they should attempt, a landing at that place. Before the enemy returned from Virginia, we were reinforced with about one hundred and twenty men under Colonel Hanson. About five or six o’clock in the afternoon, the enemy’s small tender and the gondola were observed to be manning, and in a few minutes left the Roebuck, and directed their course towards the Bay, where Captain Conway’s boats were landed. Colo- nel Harrison immediately ordered the men to arms, and con- ceiving the enemy’s design was to take off Captain Conway’s boats, gave Captain Mastin orders to take about twenty of his best armed men, and follow him down, to watch the motions of the tender and gondola. 'This detachment we joined, with two other volunteers; in the whole, we think it consisted of twenty-five persons. We proceeded down towards the Bay with all haste, and near the head of a valley met with Captain Conway and some of his men. Captain Conway went down the valley with Colonel Har- rison, to show where his boats lay, and we followed close after in Indian file, and were halted at the mouth of the valley. He told the Colonel that one of his boats was drawn over the beach into a marsh; the other was on the shore staved, which was about fifty yards from us, though we could not see her from the mouth of the valley, on account of some bushes which grew on the beach. ‘The tender had got in the Bay before we reached our post, and lay about one hun- dred and fifty yards off. As soon as we were halted, the tender fired one of her carriage-guns, which was presently succeeded by a discharge of grape-shot from the gondola; this load grounded within a few paces of us, and many of the shot, with several cannon-balls, were picked up the next day. Sundry great guns were discharged at us whilst we remained-at this post. ‘The gondola, after she came against the boat, rowed off and on, and, after a short time, seemed to be gradually getting more into the Bay, as if designing to open the valley and rake it. We heard Captain Conway say to Colonel Harrison that he thought she was endeavour- ing to rake the valley, and advised him to order a retreat, or words to the same purpose. The Colonel, after taking a view of the gondola, turned about, and, in a low tone, gave orders for a retreat to the head of the valley—the gon- dola being within seventy or eighty yards of us at the time. Five or six of the men who were in the rear, retreated some distance beyond the place intended, which we firmly believe proceeded from their not having heard the orders distinctly, as most of them returned immediately to the head of the valley, on being called to by some of the officers. Fyrom this place we observed the Roebuck had got under way and fallen down, and began to fire on us; also the tender, our situation being open to them both. ‘The Colonel returned to the mouth of the valley, and we and others went different ways, to take another view of the gondola, which we found lying quite still, nearly opposite the boat, with her hatches close shut, and nothing visible but her oars and guns, though Captain Conway’s Lieutenant had just before informed that her hatches were up and men exposed, which raised our hopes of getting a shoot. We recollect that, previous to Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 34 530 our leaving the mouth of the valley, Captain Conway asked Colonel Harrison to let the gondola be fired at, to scare her off from the shore, which was refused, as there was no living object to shoot at. A retreat was then ordered to the main body by Colonel Harrison, and the detachment directed to scatter as they retreated through the old fields, to observe the flash of the enemy’s cannon, and to fall down whenever they saw it. The fire from the Roebuck, armed schooner, and gondola, grew very warm, and the frequent falling down of the men occasioned a general laughter. We retreated to a fence at the edge of a wood, and lay behind it until the enemy’s fire ceased, then returned to the main body, with which we remained until the ships went down the river, and the troops were discharged. I “i “Joun Marruews, “ Witvtiam Sroppert.” ‘‘ Charles County, October 18, 1776. “Then came Messrs. John Matthews and William Stod- dert, gentlemen, and made oath on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that the above is a true state of the transac- tions at Sandy-Point, under Colonel William Harrison, on the 23d of July last. eC RP Raa? ‘*Charles County, October 20, 1776. “Whereas we find, by sundry depositions published in the Baltimore Gazette, and by certificates under the hands of George Eraser Hawkins, Esq., Captain John H. Lowe, and Mr, John M. Burgess, that reports have been falsely and industriously propagated, reflecting on the courage, and tending to injure the character of the Twenty-Sixth Battalion of Maryland Militia, under the command of Colonel William Harrison: And whereas we think it a duty incumbent on us, and on every man, to rescue injured merit from unde- served reproach, and check any idle reports that may reflect disgrace on the American arms: “We think it but common justice to declare, that many of the most injurious aspersions contained in the above men- tioned publication and certificates, are, within our knowledge, totally false, and in every sense groundless. And we do further assert, that we attended the said Militia from the Monday of the enemy’s arrival at Sandy-Point until their departure from said place; and that said Militia appeared to us to assemble with cheerfulness and alacrity. And we have all the reason in the world to believe, that had the enemy attempted a landing, they would have been warmly and vigorously opposed; for, on two different occasions, the one on Monday during a thunder gust, when the men were obliged to take shelter in a small house, the sentries gave an alarm that the enemy were preparing to land, they, so far from exhibiting any symptoms or signs of fear, were, on the contrary, in our opinion, too warm and impetuous, by spring- ing out of the house without waiting for orders, and running towards the shore in an irregular manner; the alarm proved groundless, and their too eager behaviour drew from the Colonel a gentle reprimand. ‘The other instance happened on the Tuesday morning when the alarm was given that the enemy were manning their boats, and preparing to land; and the general opinion was, and every man expected, that they would attempt a landing at Sandy-Point; on which Colonel Harrison ordered the men to stand to their arms, and in a very short time after, ordered Captain Mastin’s company to the head of a valley which led down to the shore where it was expected the enemy would land. On this trial (and we do not believe men can be put to a greater or severer one) the men behaved with the most undaunted courage and cool intrepidity. Upon the whole, not only in the above particularized instances, but in the whole of their conduct, they appeared spirited, brave, and ready to engage, 5¢5 ‘“ Henry Fenpatu, “Warren Dent.” Were it necessary, a variety of other evidence could be procured to invalidate these idle tales; but I firmly trust that the testimony now offered will fully satisfy every impartial and well disposed person. I would observe, that the gen- tlemen who depose and certify are not of the battalion— three of them residing in Alewandria, Virginia—and can have no further interest in its character than as good mem- bers of community. What motive induced Captain Conway and his officers thus to assert, and thus solemnly to depose, I am at a loss to say, unless it was to divert their constitu- 5351 ents from an inquiry into their own conduct; for, be it known to the publick, that Potomack River at Sandy-Point is near four miles wide, and they, like persons wanting sense, landed their boats within a small distance of the enemy’s ships, on the Maryland shore, when they might have evaded them at least three miles by passing along the Virginia side; and in case they had been noticed and pursued by the enemy, could at any rate have gone ashore, and sued for protection from the opposite Militia of Virginia. Had Captain Conway and his officers reported facts as they happened, they must have given the publick a favourable opinion of the Militia in general at Sandy-Point. A single company, armed and equipped as our Militia too generally are, was drawn up in their presence, ready to advance down to the beach, there to receive the attack of ten row-boats, two tenders, and a gondola, filled with men. On the commanding officer's admonishing this company, and begging that if any of them felt confused or afraid, to candidly inform him, one of the company, out of about forty-eight persons, said he did not like to march down the hill, and turned out of the ranks. Whether this be an instance of general cowardice, or not, the impartial publick will say. For my part, his refusal by no means surprised me, as the expedition appeared very dangerous, and was really so, though I thought it necessary. We were, agreeable to every one’s idea, to oppose the landing of at least four times our number, and could we not have repulsed them, must have retreated up the hill, exposed toa near fire from the Ioebuck, two tenders, and a gondola. The retreat of the detachment in the afternoon, which went down to prevent the enemy’s taking off Captain Con- way’s boats, was by my orders. If it was wrong, I am chargeable with it and not the men. However, I thought it prudent, and, in a similar situation, should act again in the same manner. I shall not, to humour Captain Conway or his crew, expose men to the fire of a gondola, when the chance of killing is only on the side of the enemy; but hope ever to be found ready and willing, with those whom I have the honour to command, to risk life whenever any valuable end can be answered. Before I conclude, I must declare that, from the trial of the men at Sandy-Point, I entertain the highest opinion of their bravery in general; and were they equipped as men going into battle should be, would risk my life with them as soon as with any men in the world. And as Mr. Lieutenant Thomas has, in the course of his deposition, given his opinion of me, I must in return give mine of him: which is, in the sincerity of my heart, this, that he would at any time, to oblige a person on whom he was the least dependant, swear that black is white, or white black. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Witiiam Harrison. SAMUEL CHASE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 23, 1776. GrenTLEMEN: Yesterday’s post brought us yours of the 19th instant. ‘The copies of the letters from Colonels Barnes and Jordan you omitted to enclose. _We hope the necessity of recalling Captains Thomas and Hindman will soon be removed, and that they will be permitted to march to the Flying-Camp as soon as possible. It is of the last conse- quence to collect a sufficient force to oppose the British Army, which may be hourly expected at Staten-Island. General Washington has not above fifteen thousand troops. Two battalions of the Virginia Regulars are ordered to few- York. Four battalions in this Province, and two more in New-Jersey, are ordered to reinforce the Flying- Camp. We agree with you that it will be useless to send men without arms. We have had no opportunity to consult Congress relative to subsistence of the men during the time they are collecting. We doubt not the expense will be Continental. If they should be employed upon your works, it would contribute to their health and defray the expense of provision. A man who professes to be an adept in the refining of sulphur has applied to us, and enclosed are his terms. We are ignorant whether any quantity of sulphur has been dis- covered in our Colony, and do not know whether you want such a man. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 532 We have no intelligence from New-York since the 19th; Lord Howe’s fleet had not then arrived. We shall be obliged by the communication of any intelligence worthy of notice, and at all times ready to obey your commands. Your most obedient servants : Sami. Cuase, T. Srone. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. LETTER FROM A MEMBER OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL LEE. Philadelphia, July 23, 1776. Dear Genera: It would take a volume to tell you how many clever things were said of you and the brave troops under your command, after hearing of your late victory. It has given a wonderful turn to our affairs. The loss of Can- ada had struck the spirits of many people, who now begin to think our cause is not abandoned, and that we shall yet triumph over our enemies. ° The Declaration of Independence has produced a new era in this part of America. The Militia of Pennsylvania seem to be actuated with a spirit more than Roman. Near two thousand citizens of Philadelphia have lately marched towards New-York, in order to prevent an incursion being made by our enemies upon the State of New-Jersey. The cry of them all is for battle. I think Mr. Howe will not be able to get a footing in New-York, and that he will end the present or begin the next campaign in Canada, or in some one of the southern Colonies—the only places in which America is vulnerable. We depend upon Gates in the North, and you oblige us to hope for great things from the South. The Tories are quiet, but very surly. Lord Howe’s Pro- clamation leaves them not a single filament of their cobweb- doctrine of reconciliation. The spirit of liberty reigns triumphant in Pennsylvania. The Proprietary gentry have retired to their country seats, and honest men have taken the seats they abused so much in the government of our State. The papers will inform you that I have been thrust into Congress. I find there is a great deal of difference between sporting a sentiment in a letter, or over a glass of wine upon politicks, and discharging properly the duty of a Senator. I feel myself unequal to every part of my new situation, except where plain integrity is required. My former letters to you may pass hereafter for a leaf of the Sibyls. ‘They are full of predictions; and what is still more uncommon, some of them have proved true. I shall go on, and add, that I think the Declaration of Independence will produce union and new exertions in England in the same ratio that they have done in this country. ‘The pre- sent campaign, I believe, is only designed to train us for the duties of next summer. Adieu; yours sincerely, To Major-General Lee. An oLp FRIEND. DR. CADWALADER’S CERTIFICATE. War Office, July 23, 1776. The bearer, James Carmichael, a Continental soldier, says he is so ill as not to be able to join his regiment. Any physician of eminence certifying this will be of service to the man, as he wants to remain until cured. Ricnarp Perers, Secretary. I have examined James Carmichael, and am of opinion that he is incapable of doing the duty of a soldier. Tuomas CapwaLaDER. Philadelphia, Thursday, July 25, 1776. Last Tuesday, the Convention of this Province appointed the following gentlemen as a Council of Safety, viz: David Rittenhouse, Samuel Mifflin, Jonathan B. Smith, Timothy Matlack, Samuel Morris, Jun., Owen Biddle, James Can- non, Samuel Howell, Nathaniel Falconer, Frederick Kuhl, Samuel Morris, Sen., Thomas Wharton, Jun., Henry Kep- pele, Jun., Joseph Blewer, George Gray, John Bull, Henry Wynkoop, Benjamin Bartholomew, John Hubley, Michael Swoope, Daniel Hunter, William Lyon, Peter Rhoad, David Epsey, John Witzel, and John Moore, Esquires. 533 WILLIAM MACLAY TO RICHARD PETERS. Sunbury, July 23, 1776. Sir: On notification from the War Office that flints were wanted, I immediately determined to examine what could be produced in that way in this country, my former general acquaintance with the country, in the practice of survey- ing, enabling me to prosecute such an inquiry with the greater advantage. The bearer, Mr. Ball, will produce you specimens of our success. Some of our gunsmiths, who have tried them in firearms, do not hesitate to pronounce them superior to imported flints. I will, however, be suffi- ciently happy, if, on general experience, they are found only equal. ‘The vein or quarry appears inexhaustible, situate along the banks of Penn’s Creek, down which and Susque- hannah there is a safe and expeditious navigation for boats and canoes great part of the year; the distance from Sunbury about ten miles. I will only add, that if it is thought ad- visable to establish a manufacture of flints at this place, I will cheerfully render every assistance in my power. And am, sir, with the greatest respect, your most obedient and very humble servant, Wm. Mac tay. To Richard Peters, Esq., Secretary of the War Office at Philadelphia. G. NOARTTS TO RICHARD PETERS. Sunbury, July 23, 1776. Dear Stir: In consequence of an advertisement put out of the War Office, a number of gentlemen of this County have taken pains to discover a quantity of flint-stone, and have sent Mr. Thermond Ball to you with some of it. If, from the specimen which will be delivered to you, it should be found necessary to establish any kind of manufacture of them, I am desired to acquaint you that the gentlemen here are ready to give any assistance in their power. I am, sir, with respect, your most humble servant, G. Noarrrs. To Richard Peters, Esq., Secretary at War, Philadelphia. WILLIAM ALLEN TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. July 23, 1776. Sir: Since I had the honour of receiving a commission of Lieutenant-Colonel in the Army of the honourable Con- tinental Congress, several circumstances have intervened, which render it extremely inconvenient, and indeed impos- sible, for me any longer to execute the duties of the said commission ; wherefore, with the greatest sense of gratitude for your past favours, | humbly beg leave to resign it into your hands. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Witz. ALLEN. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. LANCASTER COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee of Observation, Inspec- tion, and Correspondence, at the house of Adam Reigart, the 23d day of July, 1776: Present: William Atlee, William Bowsman, Lodwick Lowman, Jacob King, Henry Dehuff, Michael Mussen, Adam Reigart, Edward Ship- pen, John Miller, and Christopher Crawford. William Atlee in the chair. The Chairman handed the Committee two packets, received last night, between ten and eleven o’clock, by express; one containing Ordinances of Convention for disarming the Non- Associators; and the other containing Circular Letters from the Convention to the different Colonels and Commanding Officers of the Battalions in this County; which Circular Letters and Ordinances are sent off by expresses, as directed by the honourable the Convention. The Chairman read to the Committee copies of two Letters: one from the Committee to Richard Peters, Esq., Secretary of the Board of War, acknowledging the arrival of the Prisoners sent here under the conduct of Captain Sterling, from Burlington; and the other of them to the Honourable Beryamin Franklin, Esq., the President of the Convention of this Province; which being read, are approved of, and ordered to be transcribed and forwarded as expedi- tiously as possible. * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 534 It ts Ordered by the Committee, That John Leggit, of Captain Watson’s Flying-Camp, do deliver to Captain Pac- ton, of Colonel Porter’s Battalion, the Gun which Captain Paxton sometime ago intrusted him with; and if the said Gun should be in the hands ofany other of Captain Watson’s Company, he is desired to direct the same to be delivered to Captain Paxton, who hath engaged, in a Company now forming, to join the Camp in the Jerseys. A number of the reputable inhabitants of Earl Township represent to the Committee, that the Militia in that district are about to march in a few days, under Colonel Peter Grubb, for the Camp in the Jerseys; that several families of the Associators who are obliged to march, will in a short time be in a suffering condition; and request this Committee to appoint such persons as may be proper to take charge of such as may be found not of ability to maintain themselves; and they, at the same time, recommend Mr. Gabriel Davis as a person that may be confided in. The Committee, taking the same into consideration, do, by virtue of the authority to them given by the Resolve of the Committee of Safety of the 15th of Judy instant, nomi- nate and appoint the said Gabriel Davis to take care of, and distribute to such distressed families in that district the allow- ance he shall judge reasonable; and he is requested to under- take this duty, and keep an account of his disbursements, that this Committee may draw on the Committee of Safety for the necessary sums of money, and return the proper account to that Board of his expenditures. Joseph Park, of the Seventh Regiment, and John Lang- ford, of the Seventh Regiment, are permitted to work with Ernest Born, Weaver—Mr. Michael Musser and Mr. Lewis Peters, here in Committee, engaging to be answerable for them, agreeable to the Resolves of this Committee. Wilham Craig, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is per- mitted to work with William Tanner, Weaver—he, here in Committee, engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the Resolves of this Committee. Robert Borreas, of the Seventh Regiment, is permitted to work with John Jordon—James Bickman, Esq., engaging for his good behaviour, &c. Thomas Matchin, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, and John Jack, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, are permitted to work with Jacob Curry, Weaver—he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for them, agreeable to the Resolves of this Committee. John Dare, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is permitted to work with Joseph Simons, at the Silversmith’s business— he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the Resolves of this Committee. WILLIAM*ATLEE TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN. In Committee, Lancaster, July 23, 1776. Str: Your express arrived here last night between ten and eleven o’clock, with the Ordinance of Convention for disarming the Non-Associators, and the Circular Letters to the Commanding Officers of the Battalions of Associators in this County; and this morning, about eight o’clock, we de- spatched three expresses to different parts of this County, with a Circular Letter and Ordinance to each of the Commanding Officers of the Battalions, agreeably to the orders of Conven- tion; so that by twelve or one o’clock, to-day, we expect those officers will be possessed of them, and have no doubt will do everything in their power to forward the march of the Militia. We shall, with great cheerfulness, agreeably to the requi- sition of Convention, aid and assist them, as far as in our power, to carry the recommendation of Congress into the most immediate and effectual execution, by providing them with every necessary which we possibly can. We have as- sisted such Captains as have had companies ready, or nearly so, with cash, camp-kettles, and a few muskets and bayo- nets, and our gunsmiths have been busy for a few days past in repairing their arms. But we think it our duty to men- tion to the Convention that our stores are nearly exhausted. We have distributed our muskets and bayonets, so that we have hardly sufficient in good order to relieve our necessary guards. Our tin-workers are out of tin, so that no more camp- kettles can be expected from them; and we have taken up the chief part of the cash to be found amongst our moneyed men, which we have distributed amongst the officers, to 535 enable them to advance something to such of their people as stood in need of it; and beg leave to submit to the Con- vention, whether money should not be immediately lodged here in proper hands, to be paid by discretion of the Com- mittee to the officers that march with the Militia, for the use of their men, most of whom require some little necessaries, and many of them have families with whom they would choose to leave a few shillings. We should be happy to have it in our power to supply these or any other necessa- ries to our Militia as they march. ‘Their applications are to us; and they expect here to be equipped and assisted, and it gives us pain to see their disappointment. Our tin-workers say there is no tin to be had in Philadel- phia. Should there be any in the publick magazines to spare, we should keep our tinmen employed in making kettles and canteens for the troops. We shall use our best endeavours to keep our gunsmiths busy, and do everything in our power to execute the orders of the Convention, and promote the general interest; and are, sir, your most obedient humble servants. By order of the Committee : W. Atuer, Chairman. To the Honourable Benjamin Franklin, Esq., President of the Convention of Pennsylvania. WILLIAM ATLEE TO THE BOARD OF WAR. In Committee, Lancaster, July 23, 1776. Str: Captain Sterling arrived here on the 21st instant, and delivered us your letter of the 16th, mentioning his being appointed to conduct a number of prisoners to this town. The prisoners arrived here with him; and as our barracks were full, we have been under the necessity of taking a house for their accommodation til some additional buildings are made at the barracks; to do which we hourly expect orders from the Committee of Safety, Convention, or Congress. Captain William Goodwin, of the Artillery, before he left this place to proceed with Captain Sterling for Frederick- town, assured the Committee in writing, under his hand, that, upon his arrival at fredericktown, he would sign the parole directed by Congress. We therefore permitted John Brown, one of the prisoners sent to our care, to attend him, with directions to have him sent back under the care of Captain Sterling, if Captain Goodwin, upon his arrival at Frederick, should refuse to sign his parole, and engage for the good behaviour and appearance of his servant. As Captain Gamble experienced the like indulgence at Philadelphia, and had his servant from among the prisoners, upon his signing the parole and engaging for him, and as Captain Sterling assured us the Congress would have per- mitted all the prisoners to have had their servants had they not absolutely refused signing the parol, we ventured to favour the application of a gentleman who was represented tous by Captain Sterling as a worthy good man, with a family in a distressed situation. We are, sir, your very humble servants. By order of the Committee: Wituiam Attire, Chairman. To Richard Peters, Esq., Secretary of the Board of War, Philadelphia. PETITION OF JONATHAN ROLAND AND OTHERS. Earl Township, Lancaster County, July 23, 1776. Whereas the Committee of Safety, Philadelphia, July 15, 1776, making a recital in the Gazette, No. 2,482, that the Assembly of this Province did, in a former session, resolve, that if any Associator called into actual service should leave a family not of ability to maintain themselves in his absence, the Overseers of the Poor, with the concurrence of one Jus- tice of the Peace of the City or County where such Asso- ciator did reside, shall immediately make provision by way of out-pension for the maintenance of such family; and said Committee considering that the funds of said Overseers will prove greatly insufficient whenever a considerable number of Associators are drawn into actual service, the said Com- mittee have resolved, that out of the funds of which they have the disposition, they will make such provision as they shall think necessary to answer the said purposes, and that it Is recommended by said Committee to the Committees of Inspection and Observation for the City of Philadelphia, and CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 536 the several Counties in the Province, to nominate and appoint a proper number of judicious persons residing in said City and Counties, respectively, to distribute to such distressed families the allowance they shall think reasonable. Whereas we the petitioners, in behalf of ourselves, in this time of emergency, do make our address to you, gentlemen, who are the Committee of Inspection and Observation for the County of Lancaster, as we are to set out under Colonel Peter Grub in a few days for the Flying-Camp now in the Jerseys, and finding that several families belonging to such Associators as are obliged to march away will in a short time be in a suffering condition, in consideration whereof we the petitioners, request, gentlemen, you would nominate such persons as you may think proper to take the charge of such as may be found not of ability to maintain themselves in our district. Gentlemen, if it might not be thought impertinent in your petitioners to mention a person for the above purpose, we would be satisfied you would nominate Gabriel Davis, as he is a person we confide in to give us satisfaction in our ab- sence; and your petitioners are in duty bound to pray. , JonaTHAaNn Rouann, Gerorce Licutner, VaLENTINE Bauer, Amos SCHNEIDER, Peter Baker, Henry Perrers, PETER SCHEFFER, Henry Marke, Joun Licutner, Micuaet Brusaker, VaventTine Reintzer. CAPTAIN CREGIER TO THOMAS RANDALL. Cranberry Inlet, July 23, 1776. Sir: [received your favour about four weeks since, by the hands of Dr. Boyd, wherein I found you advised me to join Captain Rogers; but understanding Rogers was gone to the Sound in order to refit; and what more induced me to keep to the southward was my having expectation of meet- ing with some of the fleet, which I much expected this way, but have been deprived of that satisfaction. ‘There appeared six sail one day, and seven sail the other day; but they were all large ships under strong convoys, so there was no doing anything with them, and every day frigates cruising along this coast. Three days ago fell in with a ship and sloop tender about ten guns, the frigate being about a mile and a half from the sloop, and was determined to give the sloop battle, but could not bring her to battle. I have been assist- ing in bringing into this and Egg-Harbour Inlet, two prizes taken from the West-Indies by two different privateers. One of those prizes 1 had much trouble with, and in short was three days at work getting the other into port, who lay aground on the bar of Keg-Harbour, a ship of three hun- dred tons, laden with sugar, rum, and molasses, bound to Bristol. I am too well informed that your city is invaded by pirates and ruffians, whom I hope in God to hear a good account of, and that very shortly. My provisions grow short, and in a little time shall want a new supply, unless I fall in with some of the enemy’s store vessels; but as for that I cannot promise myself, but will discharge my duty in the search of them; and as for being supplied by the way of Long-Island, I believe there is no prospect, as I do imagine the troops intend landing on the said Island. My bread is but very indifferent, and does not keep good; although it is aired every fortnight, yet it moulds very fast, and believe it never was made of sound flour. You know I laid in only four months’ provisions, and you may judge how long what remains will serve me. My people begin to want many articles, and I would be glad if you will send me some cash, that I may furnish them with a little. I have advanced of my own cash to the offi- cers and men £39. The custom out of Philadelphia is to advance half of their wages monthly, and beg you will send me whatever you think proper,and charge the same to me. I beg your advice in every respect; and any instructions given me I shall gladly comply with. Myself, officers, and men, are willing at any time to march to your assistance, on the shortest notice; and I am wiiling to sacrifice both life 537 and everything to serve my country. Whatever instruc- tions you may have, let me have by the bearer, my chief Lieutenant. I remain, with due respect, your humble servant, Tomas Crecirr. To Thomas Randall, Esq., Member of the Provincial Con- gress in New-York, or any of the Marine Committee in New- York.* GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. {Read July 24, 1776. Referred to the Board of War.] New-York, July 23, 1776. Srr: I was honoured with your favour of the 20th, by yesterday’s post, since which, and my letter, nothing of moment has occurred. The ships mentioned in my letter of the 21st to have been in the offing, got in that day, and are supposed to be part of the Scotch fleet, having landed some Highlanders yes- terday. Enclosed I have the honour to transmit you copies of a letter and sundry resolutions, which I received last night from the Convention of this State. ‘They will inform you of the computed number of inhabitants and stock upon Nassau-Island, and their sentiments on the impracticability of removing the latter, and also of the measures they think necessary and likely to secure them. I have also enclosed a letter from Mr. Faesh to Lord Stirling, upon the subject of a cannon furnace for the use of the States. Congress will see his plan and proposals, and determine upon them as they shall judge proper. I am, sir, with every sentiment of respect, your most obe- i ervant dient s > Go. WasHINGTON. *To the Honourable the Congress of New-Yorx, assembled at the WuITE- : Piains, in the State of New-York: The humble petition of us the subscribers showeth: That we have been four months in the service of the American States, on board the schooner General Putnam, during which time we have not been to sea but eleven days, all the rest of the time we have spent inactively at the * head of inlets, five or six miles from the mouths thereof, from whence, at any emergency, we could not put out without great difficulty, and often not atall. That we have at sundry times lain a week, sometimes longer, in an inlet; and in one we have lain at anchor, four or five miles from the mouth, a full month, without ever attempting to go out, or scarcely offering to send any person to look out. That numbers of ves- sels have passed and repassed without our endeavouring to speak them, notwithstanding it was the opinion of the officers we had several oppor- tunities very favourable. That with our commander, Thomas Cregier on board, we have not been out of this inlet in seven weeks. That our said commander hath several times insulted the officers when they have candidly advised him, and gave them to understand that their business was only to answer a question when asked, and not attempt giving advice. That in correcting the people fer slight or no offences, he hath used un- lawful weapons; once presenting a pistol to the breast of one Byrns for only requesting to know what his stated allowance was, and swearing by God he would blow a ball through him. At another time, with a large hickory club, striking one Bell on the head and much wounding him, for what, in our opinion, scarcely appeared a crime. That in no one thing has he complied with the resolves of the Congress, his whole conduct being one series of folly, vice, and inconsistencies, setting the most scandalous examples to the people, swearing, lying, and frequent- ing the company of the most contemptible of women, presenting the private property of others to them. Also at sundry times giving the ship’s and cabin stores away. We are sorry to have occasion to lay these charges against our commander; but, black as they are, they can be proved by the journals of the officers and the evidence of the most respectable persons in these parts. That, by these means, he hath ren- dered himself despicable to every man on board; has greatly dissatisfied every friend of the cause, and become 'the derision of its foes. That we cannot with honour serve any longer under the command of the said Thomas Cregier. ‘That it is our sincere opinion (with him as our com- mander) we have not done the least service to our country, and the season of the year being so far advanced, we humbly conceive the vessel unfit to be continued in the service, she being weakened, and consequently would endanger our lives ina gale of wind; besides, she leaks so that not a man in the hold can lay dry in the cabins. And, at the same time, we solemnly declare our ardent desire to exert our utmost abilities in defence of ‘our distressed country in any station where there is a pro- bability of doing it, and profess ourselves fully satisfied with the conduct of our Lieutenant, Mr. Quigley, and the officers in general. And though we confess it would be most agreeable to have a discharge from this vessel, yet, if your honourable House should think proper to continue us therein, (as long as the season will admit,) under the command of Mr. Quigley, or any other person you shall appoint, except the said Thomas Cregier, we ‘shall cheerfully comply; for we beg leave to assure you that we glory in yielding obedience to your commands; but humbly request, for the honour and interest of our country and ourselves, that the said Thomas Gregier may be cashiered. And your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray. Jno. James Boyd, Sur- John Hardy, Thomas Shourds, Benj. Woodruff, William Willasce, William Bell, Thomas Sulls, Timothy Byrns, Henry Basset, Isaac Pritchet, Samuel Turner, Ezekiel Heagen, Morgan Lahy, John Thayer, Nathaniel Larance, Mack Donol, Josiah Davis, Steward. geon. George Shell, Gunner. John Thomas, Carpen- ler. John Trail, Boatswain. John Prichet, William Radley, Cook. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 538 In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, July 20, 1776. Sir: [have the honour to enclose your Excellency, by order of the Convention, a copy of sundry resolves which were yesterday agreed to, for the defence of the inhabitants and protection of the stock on Nassau-Island; and beg leave to submit to your consideration a short state of the situation and circumstances of that Island and its inhabitants, from which you will see the inutility of any attempts for a total removal of the stock from thence. It is supposed there are near one hundred thousand head of horned cattle, besides a much larger number of sheep and other stock, the removal of which would necessarily consume the greatest part of the campaign. But supposing the same could be effected in a short time, vast numbers of the stock must inevitably perish for want of subsistence, as it could not be procured within any reasonable distance. Besides, such a measure would reduce the inhabitants, computed from twenty-five to thirty thousand, to the most deplorable and insuperable difficulties and distresses. ‘T'hese considerations have induced the Convention to give over the thought of removing the stock from the Island, as not only impracti- cable, but not advancive of the publick service, especially as the waste and common lands in the easternmost part of Queen’s and Suffolk Counties are so covered with thickets of wood, as to render it too dangerous for foraging parties to attempt to penetrate. I trust that the Militia now to be raised, (which is ex- pected to form a corps of between seven hundred and nine hundred men,) with the troops already stationed at the east end of the Island, may be sufficient to remove the stock from those places which are most exposed, and prevent the depredations of small detachments. And should the enemy attempt, with their main Army, to fix themselves on any part of the Island, I doubt not but your Excellency will give a good account of them. The Convention have received information that there are a considerable number of fatted cattle and sheep on the Island. ‘They submit whether it would not be proper that the Commissary-General should be requested to give the preference in purchasing to these cattle. I cannot conclude without expressing my wishes that the detachment under Lieutenant-Colonel Livingston may be continued at their present post, for that part of the Island is so much exposed to be insulted by the enemy’s cruisers, that I fear the inhabitants would totally abandon the country should those troops be drawn off. I have the honour to be, most respectfully, your Excel- lency’s most obedient servant, NaruHan. Woopaut., President. To His Excellency General Washington. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, July 20, 1776. This Convention having taken into consideration the ex- pediency of removing the Stock from Nassau-Island : Resolved, 'That it will not be for the publick good, pro- vided it were practicable, to remove the Stock from the Island, except such Cattle, Sheep, and Hogs, as are fit for the use of the Army. 2d. That the common Stock in Suffolk, King’s,and Queen’s Counties, be put in such convenient and secure places in each County as may be most convenient, to be guarded by a sufficient number of Troops, and to be driven off into the interior parts of Nassau-Island, whenever the Commanding Officer or Officers of the said Troops shall order, to prevent such Stock from falling into the enemy’s hands; leaving, if he shall judge it safe and necessary, with each large family, three Milch-Cows, two Cows to a middling farm, and one to a small family. And if the said Commanding Officer finds that he cannot prevent the Stock from falling into the enemy’s hands, he may order them to be killed or destroyed. 3d. And to the intent that no person may be a loser by said Stock being killed or destroyed, Resolved, That the oath or affirmation of the owner of Cattle, describing their number, age, and qualities, shall be a direction for the valuation of such Cattle, driven from his possession : Provided, ‘That no person who has joined, or shall go over to and join the enemy, or who has been or 539 shall be in anywise aiding or assisting the enemy, shall, in consequence of this resolve, be entitled to a compensation for any loss he shall or may sustain. Ath. That the Commanding Officer of each Battalion of Minute-Men and Militia in Suffolk, Queen’s, and King’s Counties, be ordered immediately to draught out one-fourth part of the Minute-Men and Militia of said Counties, and carry these resolves into execution; and that the Field- Officers of the Minute and Militia Regiments in each County do appoint such Captains and Subalterns to command such draughts, out of the Militia or Minute Officers, as they shall judge most proper; and that the draughts be formed into Companies, to consist of one Captain, two Lieutenants, three Sergeants, three Corporals, one Drummer, one Fifer, and fifty Privates. And in case any draughts shall be left after the Companies are completed, and not sufficient to form another Company, Officers shall be appointed for them in the following proportion: one Captain and one Lieutenant, two Sergeants and two Corporals, for forty Privates; two Lieutenants, two Sergeants, two Corporals, for thirty Pri- vates; and one Lieutenanty one Sergeant, and one Corporal, for twenty Privates—each man to find bis own arms and accoutrements. That the Field-Officers of the said Militia, so to be draughted, be appointed by this Convention. The troops so raised to have Continental pay and rations, and to continue in service until the last day of December next, unless they shall be sooner discharged. 'That the Non- Commissioned Officers and Privates of the said ‘Troops, who shall furnish themselves with a good and sufficient Musket or Firelock, Cartouch-box and Belt, and Bayonet or Hatchet, shall be allowed ten dollars bounty to each man. 5th. Resolved, That the Brigadier-General of Suffolk and Queen’s Counties be directed to order the Militia of those Counties to hold themselves in readiness to march into either of the said Counties, or any other part of Nassau-Island, on the shortest notice, with five days’ Provisions. And that the President of this Convention be, and he is hereby, directed to write a Letter to the Colonel of the Militia of Kzng’s County, ordering that he hold his Regiment in the like readiness, to march to any part of Nassau-Island, with five days’ Provisions. 6th. Resolved, That Colonel Josiah Smith, of Suffolk County, be First Colonel of the Troops to be raised by draughts from the Militia on Nassau-Island; that Colonel John Sands be Second Colonel of those Troops, with the rank of Colonel, but with the pay of a Lieutenant-Colonel; and that Abraham Remsen be Major; that Colonel Benya- min Birdsall, at south side of Queen’s County, take the command of one Company of those draughts, with Chap- lain’s pay, saving his rank. 7th. Resolved, That the Rations of the said Troops be estimated at the rate of 104d. each, which they are to receive in Money, in lieu of Provisions. Extract from the Minutes: Joun McKesson, Secretary. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, White-Plains, July 22, 1776. Resolved, unanimously, 'That the Colonels of each Regi- ment of ‘Troops to be draughted from the Militia of the Counties of Dutchess, Westchester, Ulster, Orange, Suffolk, King’s, and Queen’s, be each of them, respectively, a Mus- termaster of the several Regiments draughted or inlisted in the said Counties; and that each of said Colonels do return, upon oath, to this Convention, a Muster-Roll of the Regi- ment by him so mustered as aforesaid; and that no person so draughted or inlisted, receive his Bounty until he shall have passed muster. Resolved, unanimously, That the one-half of the Bounty to be given to the draughts from the Militia in the said Counties, be sent to the Committee of each County, to be paid unto the said Troops immediately upon and after their passing muster as aforesaid; and that the remainder of the Bounty be paid when the said ‘Troops shall be mustered by the Continental Mustermaster, at their respective places of rendezvous; and that his Excellency General Washington be requested to cause the said musters to be completed with all possible despatch. ; Extract from the Minutes: Joun McKesson, Secretary. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 540 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 25, 1776.] New-York, July 23, 1776. Sir: Since I had the pleasure of writing you, by this morning’s post, I was favoured with a letter from Governour Trumbull, a copy of which is enclosed, and to which I beg leave to refer you. In regard to the stock he mentions, I wrote to him re- questing that they might be removed from the Island on which they were, as I conceived it of great importance to distress the enemy as much as possible in the article of fresh provisions. I wish the other Governments may follow his example, and have it removed from the Islands belonging to them respectively. When the ships of war and tenders went up the river, it was thought expedient that application should be made for the Connecticut row-galleys and those belonging to Rhode- Island, in order to attempt something for their destruction. As soon as they arrive we shall try to employ them in some useful way; but in what, or how successfully, I cannot at present determine. Congress will please to observe what Mr. Trumbull says respecting the Continental regiment raising under Colonel Ward. If they incline to give any orders about their destina- tion, you will pleasetocommunicate them by the earliest oppor- tunity, as their march will be suspended till they are known. The orders Mr. Trumbull has given to the officers of the cruisers to stop provision vessels, seem to be necessary. We have too much reason to believe that some have gone vol- untarily to the enemy; and that there are many persons who would contrive to furnish them with large supplies; and however upright the intentions of others may be, it will bea matter of the utmost difficulty, if not an impossibility, for any to escape falling into their hands now, as every part of the coast, it is probable, will swarm with their ships of war and tenders. I had proposed writing to the Convention of this State upon the subject before I received his letter, and am now more persuaded of the necessity of their taking some steps to prevent further exportations down the Sound. In my next I shall inform them of the intelligence received from Mr. Trumbull, and recommend the matter to their attention. I have the honour to be, with great esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. W asHINGTON. P.S. It appears absolutely necessary that the exportation of provisions should be stopped; our Army is large, and otherwise may want; nor can individuals be injured, as they have a ready-money market for everything they have to dis- pose of in that way. Lebanon, July 17, 1776. Sir: Your favours of the 7th and 9th instant are duly received. It gives me pleasure to meet your approbation of the measure of sending our regiments of Horse to join you. I make no doubt they will cheerfully acquiesce in whatever you shall direct respecting their horses, as the gen- eral good of the service ought to be, and I believe is, their governing principle. I find our battalions are filling up fast, and moving to your assistance. The stock of horned cattle and sheep are removed from Fisher’s Island and the Elizabeth-Islands. Block-Island lies in the Colony of Rhode-Island, and the Elizabeth-Islands and Martha’s Vineyard are in the Province of Massachusetts- Bay: 1 cannot, therefore, with propriety, give any orders for the removal of the fresh provisions from them. I am sorry it is not in my power to comply with your requisition for heavy cannon without jeaving our port or har- bour of New-London in too defenceless a state. By a return from the overseer of our cannon-foundry at Salisbury I find they have cast fourteen six, eighteen nine, and eight twelve- pounders, and are proceeding to bore them out and fit them for use. He has my orders, when the twelve-pounders are finished, to deliver them to your Excellency’s order, to be used where they may be most wanted, without waiting for further orders from me. Ball for twelve-pounders are also to be had there. Should you have occasion, you will please to give orders accordingly. I expect eighteen-pounders will be soon cast there, which is the largest size we can hope for from that furnace. I have ordered two of our row-galleys to proceed to New- York, and trust they will be with you at the receipt of this; they have no guns larger than nine-pounders. I wish it 541 may be in your power to make them more useful, by placing heavier metal upon them, whilst they continue in your service. The Continental regiment raising in this Colony is now in some measure filled up, mustered, equipped, and ready to march; but as there seems to be much danger from the prevalence of the small-pox in Boston, should they march there, and as the whole force of the enemy on this side seems to be directed against you at New-York, I have thought it best they should suspend their march towards Boston till your pleasure might be known whether they should join the Army at New- York or proceed for Boston. Since the arrival of the fleet and army at the Hook, seve- ral frigates and ships have been stationed between Montauk Point and Block-Island, to intercept the trade from the Sound, in which they have been so successful that they have derived great advantage from the provision vessels they have taken. And as, by frequent advices from the Captains of our armed vessels, and others, it appeared highly improbable that any vessel going out or coming in by that passage could avoid falling into their hands; and as several vessels were prepared and preparing in sundry places to proceed to sea with cargoes of provisions, the owners of which must be pre- sumed to be ignorant of the hazard they run in getting out ; and sensible of how great importance it is that all supplies of provisions should be kept back from the enemy; and having good grounds to believe that some evil-minded persons have designedly carried provisions to the enemy, or thrown themselves in their way, as your Excellency will see by the enclosed copies of depositions taken and sent to Congress,—I have given orders to the Captains of the armed vessels in the service of this Colony to stop and detain all provision vessels coming out of any port in this Colony, or through the Sound, and bound to sea, for the present, and until the Continental Congress and the Congresses or Conventions of the Colonies or States to which they respectively belong, may be apprized of the hazards attending their proceeding in their voyages, and, on consideration, shall give such orders as they may think fit respecting the same. The apparent necessity of the measure will, I flatter myself, justify me in taking it, where it is known and properly explained. ‘To prevent or obviate any misrepresentation, is my motive for troubling your Excellency with this account. I am, with great esteem and regard, sir, your obedient humble servant, Jontu. ‘TRUMBULL. 19th.—Received your favour of the 15th instant, which induced me to send orders immediately to Thomas Stanton, Captain of our other row-galley, the Shark, to proceed with her forthwith to New-York, and subject himself to your command. Wish him safe, and serviceable to your designs. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 542 20th.—Colonel Ward, of the Continental battalion lately ordered to be raised here, and mentioned above, informs me that his regiment is not much beyond half filled, occasioned by their being raised for a longer time and receiving less bounty than others. Since many are ordered from Boston, and this may be stationed on the works below or in the environs, at places out of danger of the infection from the small-pox, will it not be best this battalion should be ordered to march to that place, first mentioned for their destination ? They are principally men who have not seen service. Please to give the earliest notice of your pleasure therein. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO BARON DE CALBIAC. New-York, July 23, 1776. Sir: I received your favour of yesterday, and in answer thereto, [ am to inform you, at the same time that I com- mend the good intentions which you profess induced your countrymen to leave their families and homes, that [I have done the only thing in my power to favour their views. On their first arrival and introduction to me, I gave them a letter to the Continental Congress, to whom it was necessary to make known their wishes, and from whom any appointment they expect must come. ‘This, I am persuaded, you are sensible of, and would wish you to communicate to them. Their pretensions will be duly considered, and if supported by proper credentials, | make no doubt but suitable regard will be had to their merits. Your and their good sense will readily suggest the propriety and expediency of their furnish- ing some testimonial and recommendation previous to any appointment. ‘These would have been proper at any time, but the late instance of treachery and ingratitude in Monsieur , in deserting and taking the command of a party of the enemy in Canada, after he had been promoted to office in the service of the United Colonies, makes them indispen- sably necessary, though I do not entertain the least suspicion of the honour and integrity of the gentlemen of whom you write, or mean to insinuate that a conduct like Monsieur would frequently happen. I might further add, that the unacquaintance of our soldiers with any language but their own makes them unwilling and impatient under the com- mand of foreigners, unless they are men of high reputation. Nor will they consent thereto but on that account, and where they possess great military knowledge. It therefore follows, that any appointments these gentlemen may obtain will not be attended with any good purposes or satisfaction to them- selves, unless they are to corps of their own people, or those who understand their language. Iam, sir, your most obe- dient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To Baron De Calbiac. ¢ A Return of the Ammunition and other Utensils at the different Forts on Lone-Istanp, July 23, 1776. A a 3 3 - z - = seler ig | gees |e |e | oh B18 | Ble pel gle.) 8 ae | Sis ce oS n pe ica 2 S ° s > = = 2 ° ot See °o PI io] oS (=) 5 oo. Cs) oO = o. | CUP ERMCIRCH COTE] | raul ba ces evil gam’ be Potala toni. Batlle elmate ithe Meee & i 6-pounders 2...) 100 | 23 | 100 | 50 - - 12 48 2 2 2 2 2 8 2 - Bena Ea T SERA a) hy Ppanndera Ie 480, 20001 43 es 10 | te eed 24) || 230d, Sy he Sie Seok Sy ft BtLOS Lea. bee 12-pounders 2...) 60 | - GI: 34 > - - 3 2 2 2 2 8 2 - At Fort Puinam...... 6-pounders 1...| 50 8 | 48 | 30 - - 2 24 2 1 1 1 1 4 1 - 3-pounders 2... 32 | 120 | 32] - . - 3 60 4 2 2 1 2 6 2 1 32-pounders 3...| 122 | 124 | 124-| 20 - 50 - 4 4 4 3 4 4 16 3 - apres 18-pounders 2...} 50 50} S50} - - 20 - - 2 2 2 2 2 8 2 = At Fort Stirlings...:: Shute ae die ailing am PMR gy RD SO Nec i al ea) eT bs dS Ce a RB Genie Leelee ld 24 Lo) - - - 5 - 1 1 1 1 1 4 1 - : -pounders 2...| 175 60 | 190 | 50 38 38 3 96 3 2 2 3 3 8 2 - sioaneanie ones 226 eee ete eis ek | a aoe: bor Pa er) a Pn) PL At Redoubt at the Mill, 3-pounders 1...!_— 1 . - - - - - - 1 - 1 1 - 4 - % Musket Cartridges. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. FortGreene. Cobble Hill. Fort 2 om PEN Me ek A Camp on Long-Island, July 23, 1776. . ba 5072 .b 592 : * Sa aa e708 his Bele oie 2 bee aa Sir: Enclosed is a letter sent me by Colonel Varnum, 21 2,956 21 1,000 24 2,000 relative to Captain Read. Your Excellency can best deter- a j pas a oe 2 = mine the force of the reasons offered for a discharge. The 39 1,200 24 1,000 4 4 First Lieutenant of the company, perhaps, may make as SOS OPE ME SE CS : - good a Captain as the present acting one. eos 100 | - 8,808 | - 7,352 Colonel Hand reports that the enemy continues as they 8,808 were. 76,100 I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- Total..... 42,260 dient humble servant, ———-———————— eee Naru. Greene. 543 Red-Hook, July 22, 1776. Sir: As I mentioned to you before, Captain Read is soliciting for a discharge. ‘The reason, he is informed by letters which he cannot discredit, that his wife is verging to the close of life by means of a chronick disorder, which ap- pears too inveterate to yield to the efficacy of medicine. He cannot so far stifle the tender emotions of conjugal affection as to remain in absence. ‘The distance is so great that he cannot wish to injure the service by requesting a furlough, leaving a weakness in the command of his country. From these circumstances I am induced to request you to repre- sent his prayer to the Commander-in-Chief, whose exalted wisdom and humanity cannot fail of directing what is nght in so disagreeable a situation. I am, sir, your very humble servant, To General Greene. J. Varnum. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED HUNTINGTON, LONG-ISLAND, NEW-YORK, JULY 23, 1776. Yesterday, the freedom and independency of the Thir- teen United Colonies was; with beat of drum, proclaimed at the several places of parade, by reading the Declaration of the General Congress, together with the Resolutions of our Provincial Convention thereupon; which were approved and applauded by the animated shouts of the people, who were present from all the distant quarters of this district. After which, the flag which used to wave on Liberty Pole, having “Liberty” on one side, and “George III.” on the other, underwent a reform—+z. e., the Union was cut off, and the letters George LI. were discarded, being publickly ripped off; and then an efligy of the person represented by those letters, being hastily fabricated out of base mate- rials, with its face black, like Dunmore’s Virginia regiment, its head adorned with a wooden crown and stuck full of feathers, like Carleton’s and Johnson’s savages, and its body wrapped in the Union, instead of a blanket or robe of State, and lined with gunpowder, which the original seems to be fond of,—the whole, together with the letters above men- tioned, were hung on a gallows, exploded, and burnt to ashes. , In the evening, the Committee of this town, with a large number of the principal inhabitants, sat round the genial board, and drank thirteen patriotick toasts, among which were, The Free and Independent States of America ; The General Congress; The Conventions of the Thirteen States; Our principal military Commanders; and success and enlargement to the American Navy. Nor was the memory of our late brave heroes, who have gloriously lost their lives in the cause of liberty and their country, forgotten. Southampton, Suffolk County, New-York, July 23, 1776. Last Monday afternoon, was exhibited to view in this town a very agreeable prospect: the old gentlemen, grand- fathers, to the age of seventy years and upwards, met, agreeably to appointment, and formed themselves into an Independent company. Each man was well equipped with a good musket, powder, ball, cartridges, &c., and unani- mously made choice of Elias Pelletreau, Esq., for their leader, (with other suitable officers,) who made a very animating speech to them, on the necessity of holding them- selves in readiness to go into the field in time of invasion. They cheerfully agreed to it, and determined, at the risk of their lives, to defend the free and Independent States of America. May such a shining example stimulate every father on Long-Island in particular, and America in general . ? to follow their aged brethren here. CAPTAIN DENTON TO GENERAL WOODHULL. New-York, July 23, 1776. Sir: Some weeks ago, the Second Lieutenant of my company secretly deserted it; but, previous to his leaving me, he assigned his warrant over to Cadwalader Moore, one of my Sergeants, a young man every way well qualified to act in the capacity of an officer, and who bears an unex- ceptionable character, and is of good family. Upon relating the circumstance of my being destitute of a Second Lieu- tenant to my company to some of the members of the late Committee of Safety, they told me they would mention the matter in Committee ; and shortly afterwards I was informed by Mr. Cooper, (one of the members I had mentioned the affair to,) that the Committee had ordered that James Mil- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 044 ler, my Ensign, should be Second Lieutenant, and Cadwal- ader Moore Ensign; and upon that, Moore went to some expense in purchasing regimentals, and has ever since appeared in the character of an officer. Lately, the com- missions were issued for most of the officers of the regiment, but Mr. Miller’s commission was detained from him, and no commission issued to Mr. Moore, which occasions some uneasiness in my company. I must therefore request the favour of you to lay the affair before the Convention; and if any further light is required on it, Mr. Strong, the bearer, will be able to give it. I have the only full company in the regiment, which makes me take the greater liberty of men- tioning the affair to you. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Daniet Denton, ’ Captain in Third Regiment New-York Forces. To Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq. REPORT ON COMMISSIONS FOR CAPTAIN DENTON’S COMPANY. Your Committee, appointed to take into consideration the letter received from Captain Daniel Denton, dated 23d instant, and from such information as they could collect, do report: That a commission be made out for James Miller, as a Second Lieutenant, bearing date the 3d day of May last; and another for Cadwalader Moore, as Ensign, bearing date the same day, both in the company commanded by Captain Denton, and in Colonel Ritzema’s regiment. COLONEL CORTLANDT AND CAPTAIN PLATT TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Peekskill, July 23, 1776. GentLemen: There was yesterday a council of war held at Fort Montgomery, where it was agreed that three hun- dred men would be a sufficient guard on the east side of Hudsons River, from Anthony’s Nose to Croton; but as all the troops belonging to this State are withdrawn, the whole draught has fallen on the New-England forces, who have agreed to stay until Saturday next, but we think it will be impracticable to prevail on them to stay any longer there. Beg the Convention would order such parts of the new levies as may be raised to be on the ground at that time, to relieve them. Colonel Cortlandt’s regiment has been called out, and I think there may be depended on about fifty or sixty of the new levies from the said regiment by Saturday. About three hundred of the New-England troops returned home this day; and by some pay-rolls delivered in, it appears that their subsistence money, for men and horses, will amount to near six hundred pounds. ‘Therefore, in order to pay said subsistences, and discharge sundry other accounts, request the Convention to give an order on the Treasurer of this State for six hundred pounds, to be paid to the bearer, John Levinus. No particular occurrences have happened. The ships remain a little below Verplanck’s Point. Have made no attempts to land lately. One of their barges was seen night before last rowing down the river by Teller’s Point. We have since ordered twenty men stationed at Albert Aarsen’s, below Croton. ‘The detachment from General Ten Broeck’s brigade have also left Fort Constitution and the heights they were ordered to occupy above Anthony’s Nose, it is supposed in order to raise their men. Remain, gentlemen, your very humble servants, Prerre Van Cortianpt, ZEPHA. Part. To the Honourable the Representatives of the State of New-York. P.S. This instant an officer arrived here by order of General Washington, in search of three French gentlemen, whom he found here. ‘They are suspected of being spies from Canada. GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Fort Montgomery, July 23, 1776. Sir: I am favoured with your Excellency’s commands of the 17th instant, and am happy to find the measures taken here for the reception of the enemy’s shipping ap- proved. Yesterday some of the carpenters from Pough- keepsie arrived at this place with the fire-rafis, ‘They are 545 constructed on the plan lately transmitted to your Excellency by my brother. We are busy preparing, and hope to be able to-morrow or next day to draw them across the river, though I fear we will be put to great difficulty in procuring anchors, cables, &c., for securing them, The combustible matter with which they are filled will, I apprehend, hardly | be quick enough, for want of spirits of turpentine and salt- petre. We have neither, and | don’t know where to apply for or how to procure these necessary articles. Should the enemy ever attempt to gain possession of this fortress by land, with equal numbers only, we are in a bad situation to defend it. he hill on the south side of Pooplopen’s Kill, and not above one-seventh of a mile distant, overlooks every gun almost in our battery, which lies in open view of it. It is accessible to the enemy from a landing that we cannot command with our batteries, by a road along which field- pieces may easily be brought up. We must, for the safety of these works, keep a large body of men there, should the enemy attempt landing, if no works are erected. If fortified, a less number will hold the ground, annoy the enemy’s shipping, and render us safe from that quarter or any attempt by land. Indeed, it is the spot where our first works should, in my poor judgment, have been made. Mr. Jay, Messrs. Livingston, Mr. Tappen, and Mr. Yates, a Committee of Provincial Congress lately at this place, are of opinion with me, that this fortress is by no means safe, unless that height is secured. General Fellows and other officers from the eastward are all of the same opinion. ‘They advised me to begin some small works there. I have laid such out, as well as I know how; and the Militia are employed in making fascines ‘and other necessary preparations which are not attended with any publick expense; but I can’t think of doing anything more than making a small breastwork for musketry, until 1 receive your Excellency’s orders on this head, especially as there may be good reasons against erecting any such works, which, from my want of military knowledge, don’t occur to me. A few cannon would serve them; and these, I think, may be spared from other fortifications here, where they cannot be so serviceable. I find large arrears are due to the few artificers, carters, &c., employed in completing these works. Since the Commis- sioners of Congress were dismissed, I believe there has not been any money furnished the commanding officer for that purpose. ‘They are uneasy, discontented, and, in my opin- ion, do not half work. We dare not drive them till able to pay them, and are obliged to use our own private cash and credit to prevent their leaving us, which they threaten, and we can’t as yet do without them. Nothing of any great importance has happened since my last. On the 16th instant the enemy’s shipping came under way, and proceeded up the river opposite the stores at Haverstraw, about eight miles above where they first lay, opposite Tarrytown. ‘They discharged a few shot at the houses on the west shore, without doing any damage. I went down there next day, caused the goods to be removed out of the stores, and the cattle, sheep, &c., contiguous to the shore, to places of safety, and ordered one hundred and eighty Militia, under a prudent officer, to protect that neigh- bourhood and prevent the enemy getting any supplies. In the afternoon a tender sloop made sail, and ran up within full view and long-shot of our battery, sounding the river carefully as she beat up. We gave her a thirty-two-pounder, which hit her; she put about, and fell down to the shipping, plundering a small house on her return, near the shore, before our people could possibly get there. The 17th instant, the Rose, Captain Wallace, and the same tender, came under sail. The tender, soon after, en- deavouring to cover a barge in shore at which our people were firing, run aground, and did not get off before evening. The fose proceeded up within three miles of this, plundered a poor man’s house, and set it on fire. Captain Wallace headed the party who committed this little robbery; his share of the plunder was a handkerchief full of salad and a pig so very poor that a crow would scarcely deign to eat it. The house stood single under a mountain, and we thought the poverty of the owner would be a sufficient protection, though we had a party not far distant, but they were not able to arrive time enough to prevent the mischief. Their being able to move from place to place so much quicker by water than we can by land, is much against us. However, I think I have my party so disposed of now as to prevent Firtu Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 546 effectually any mischief in future. The Rose fell down in the evening near to where the tender run aground, and the next day the Phenix moved up to her; so that they now all lay about five or six miles below us. A deserter swam on shore from the Rose a few nights ago. I directed Colonels Nicoll and Hay to take and transmit to your Excellency his examination, which I hope you have received. He was a volunteer in our service last summer, was taken on board of one of ur privateers last winter by the Rose, is now here, and well known by our Artillery officer and people. I am very apprehensive that the enemy’s shipping (from their moving up so near us, and other little circumstances) mean, to take the advantage of a dark night, and slip by us. The shores are high and bold, and the navigation of course safe and easy. ‘To prevent this, I keep out an advanced guard every night on the extreme point in view, about two and a half miles below our works, properly prepared to kindle up a large light fire on the shipping’s heaving in sight; I have also on the shore, opposite the battery, for a con- siderable distance up and down the river, large piles of dry brushwood, mixed with leaves and the best combustible matter I can procure, with proper persons to set them on fire upon the signals being given from the first point; so that, by having them between us and those lights, we will be able to play upon them with great advantage, while our shore will be thereby darkened to them. The Militia from New-England, on the opposite shore, have lately applied to our Congress at White-Plains for leave toreturn home. ‘They referred the matter to a council of war to be held here, and yesterday General Fellows and other officers attended on that business. The result was, that ail should be dismissed but three hundred, who were to continue to defend the shore. I think that number sufficient. I am sorry to trouble your Excellency with so long a letter. Iam induced to give you so particular an account of the motions of the enemy here, that, by comparing them with their movements below, some judgment may, perhaps, be formed of their designs, while difidence of my own judgment in military operations leads me to inform your Excellency of every little step we have taken. ‘These con- siderations, I hope, will apologize for my being so prolix. I am, with the highest respect, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, fer UA giants To His Excellency General Washington. P. S. Since writing the above, Messrs. Livingston, Van Zandt, and Lawrence, arrived here to consult upon the most advisable way of fixing a chain across the river, and to view the shores. ‘The ship-carpenters at Poughkeepsie are making more rafts and other matters advised by the Committee of Congress. ‘The bearer may be trusted with your Excel- lency’s commands for this post. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED AT FORT MONTGOMERY, IN THE HIGHLANDS, JULY 23, 1776. The British piratical rovers up the river were then below Verplanck’s Point. ‘Their intentions were unknown; but it plainly appeared that their design in coming up was en- tirely frustrated. They were far from expecting we were so well prepared to receive them, especially at the Fort. They were well watched on both sides the river; and, on Friday \ast, one of their tenders having got aground, would have been destroyed by our people on shore, had it not been for want of boats. A continual fire of musketry was kept upon her till she was relieved by the assistance of the Rose man-of-war. Captain Wallace, the noted pirate, with about thirty men, landed at Haverstraw, where they set fire to the house of Captain Lilly, a noted Tory, who was the first and only one who received a specimen of the kind treatment they as well as others may expect from their newly-adopted friends. The British Act of Parliament makes no distinc- tion between such and the freemen of America. We have at this post one thousand men, well equipped; seven hundred at Fort Constetution; and several thousands at Peekskill, on both sides of the river. At General Clin- ton’s request, I came down here to assist in preparations for a proper reception of the enemy, should they deign to favour us with a visit. 35 d47 Last Thursday, a prisoner escaped by swimming from on board the Rose man-of-war. He is a native of Boston, well known to many officers and men from thence, in the Train. Was last summer in the service. He was taken by the Rose, on his passage from Ipswich to the West-Indies; so that his information respecting those worse than freebooters may be relied on, viz: That by the conversation of the Rose’s crew, he found that they expected, on coming up, to be joined by five hun- dred Tories, who were to have driven down with them plenty of stock of all sorts; that they had been informed great quantities of provision and goods of all kinds were deposited in the stores at Peekskill, which they were to have destroyed, and then, proceeding through the Highlands to Poughkeep- sie, were there to destroy our men-of-war on the stocks ; that they appeared highly mortified in finding everything in a situation so different from what they had been made to expect; that the Rose had on board one hundred and ten men, (boys included,) and twenty marines; that in pass- ing New-York, the greatest damage they received was from the batteries at Paulus-Hook Ferry, and the Blue-Bell; that the cook and another man had each a leg, and another his thigh, taken off by a cannon-ball; that two twelve- pound shot lodged in the head of the foremast just below the hounds, one went through and through the quarter, one into the quarter gallery and cabin, and three were cut out just above her black streak. Her shrouds and rigging were much hurt. The Phenix’s damage he was unacquainted with, and, being a prisoner, it could not be expected they should inform him. He only heard, accidentally, that she had a twelve- pound shot in her bowsprit. CAPTAIN WYNKOOP TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 23, 1776. Dear Genera: I send you down one gondola, and I expect to send you one more the latter end of this week. The vessel and one gondola which are now on the stocks, I expect to have done next week, and will send them down also. » I have sent this day to the saw-mill concerning boards, and there were none sawed. But I am going to-morrow to the saw-mill myself, and I will have them sawed as quick as possible, and sent down to you. There are this day twenty-nine carpenters more arrived at this place. ‘There are none of General Waterbury’s men arrived yet; so that I find Iam too weak at present to sup- ply the saw-mills and carpenters with what they want to forward the business. I would be glad if the General would order those two small companies of my regiment now in the Fort here to help me. Then I think I would be able to forward the work in a proper manner. I find thirty men here of Colonel Van Dyke’s regiment. I would be glad if the General would please to order them over to Ticonderoga, where part of their regiment now lies; for as they are Militia, I find them to be under no command, and I am tired of being plagued with people of so many different corps as I have been already this year. I would be glad if the General would order some rum over here for the carpenters, for we have none at all; and among rum, I would be glad of one barrel of West-India. I find we want one set of blacksmith’s tools more, which I have sent for by express to General Schuyler, at Albany. I have no more; but conclude, dear General, with my compliments to you, and so remain your affectionate friend and humble servant, nce Wane non To Major-General Gates, at Ticonderoga. GENERAL GATES TO COLONEL HARTLEY. Tyonderoga, July 23, 1776. Sir: Your letter to me of the 2Ist instant, with that to General Arnold of the same date, are now beforeme. Mr. Brown was brought here by your party. I am much obliged to you for your address in securing him. The In- dian goods are received, and sent forward to General Schuyler. The raft, with the party under Captain Peramus, of Colonel Burrell’s regiment, arrived last night. If the « CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 048 procuring the boards and timber is attended with all the labour and difficulty you mention, I think Colonel Wait had better desist, and return to his regiment; but he should first destroy the remainder of the raft, and such ship-timber as may be useful to the enemy. When the command down the Lake returns, you will be strengthened by their reinforcement. Mr. Hops is intended to be employed in the capacity you mention, where I wish his behaviour to be such as to merit further promotion. The service in the vessels will be the post of honour. Those who distinguish themselves therein may depend upon my protection. I will direct Lieutenant-Colonel Baldwin to send down the carpenters of your regiment as soon as pos- sible, to be employed at the saw-mill in the manner you recommend. I will consider whether it be proper and con- venient to send smiths to Crown-Point. If that is deter- mined, such as can be spared from hence shall be sent there. This will be delivered to you by Major Bigelow, of the Artillery, who goes by the positive command of General Washington, and the honourable the Convention of the United States of America, with a letter to General Bur- goyne. You may send your orders to Onton-River by him, and he should be directed to send back all the parties now upon the scout down the Lake. The commanding officers of those parties should have some private signals, that they may not attack or interrupt each other’s discoveries. They ought all to be called in, and desist from further progress, while the flag of truce is going up and down the Lake. As some more batteaus will go to Crown-Point to-morrow morning, I shall consider what I have further to say to you, and write by that opportunity. The oars for the gondolas should be forwarded with all expedition.. I am, sir, &c., Horatio Gares, Major-General. To Lieutenant-Colonel Hartley. GENERAL GATES TO THE COMMANDING OFFICER AT ALBANY. Tyonderoga, July 23, 1776. Sir: The prisoner (Brown) who is sent with this, has been a conductor of artillery stores, and is accused, among many acts of villany, of selling the publick stores of ammu- nitlon, &c. He is suspected, likewise, of attempting to escape to the enemy. He has, by some means, put the principal evidence in this case out of the way, so that, at present, it is not possible to proceed in his trial. For this reason, I send him to, you, with my orders to confine him in close jail, under care of a guard, in the city of Albany, till you receive orders from me to release him. [ am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gares, Major-General. To the Commanding Officer at Albany. REUBEN FOSTER TO GENERAL SULLIVAN. . Newbury, Cohos, July 23, 1776. Str: The bearer of this, Monsieur Traversé, having come over to this part of the country from the parish of St. Francois, by a tedious journey, claiming our protection, as being in danger of suffering there by his attachment to the general cause of American liberty, and having served as Captain of Militia in the said parish, under commission of Captain Goforth, while commanding a party at Trots Ri- viéres, as appears by his papers; by which, and the account he gives of himself, we think him an honest man, and have shown him all: the civility in our power, at the same time taking the most prudent and cautious method of conveying him through the country to the Head-Quarters of our Northern Army, where he expressed his desire of going, having been known to Major-General Sullivan, and several officers of our American Army, that he might give the best intelligence he could. We hope for your approbation in our conduct; and, with our warmest wishes for the success of our Army under your command, remain, very respect- fully, sir, your most humble servants, Revusen Foster, SamvueEv Baytny, Chairmen of Committees of Newbury and Haverhill. To the Hon. Major-Gen. Sullivan, or the Commander-in- Chief of the Continental Army at Crown-Point. 549 GOVERNOUR OF RHODE-ISLAND TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Providence, July 23, 1776. Sir: On Sunday last, in the afternoon, Lieutenant Cal- cott, of the Merlin, came into Newport with a flag, and delivered me a letter from Lord Howe, with his declaration, I do myself the honour to enclose copies of them and of my letters to him. Mr. Calcott also left with me three letters from Lord Howe, 1 suppose of the same tenour with that to me, directed to the Commander-in-Chief of Massachusetts- Bay, Connecticut, and New-Hampshire, to be forwarded. The General Assembly have passed an act for the punish- ment of traitors, and have also appointed a Committee to procure clothing for the Continental troops in this State, I enclose a copy of the act approving the resolution of Con- gress declaring the United States independent of the British Crown. The Declaration was published on Saturday last, at Newport, with great solemnity, in presence of the whole General Assembly, the brigade being under arms, thirteen cannon fired, &c. It will be published here on Thursday, and in the several towns in the Colony at their next stated meetings. I am, with great truth and esteem, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. P. S. The carpenters are all inlisted. proceeds to-day, and they follow to-morrow. Nicus. Cooke. Their baggage East-Greenwich, Rhode-Island, July 26, 1776. On Tuesday last, the Kentish Guards, commanded by Colonel Richard Fry, appeared in their uniforms. About twelve o’clock they drew up on the parade before the State- House, when the Declaration of the General Congress, declaring these Colonies free and Independent States, was read; likewise a Resolve of the Assembly, concurring with the same, which was announced by a discharge of thirteen can- non at Fort Daniel. Next, the Guards fired thirteen vollies. This was followed by three huzzas from a numerous body of inhabitants. They then repaired to Arnold’s Hall, where, after partaking of a very decent collation, the following patriotick toasts were drunk: . The Thirteen United States of America. . The General Congress of the American States. . General Washington. . The American Army. . Augmentation of the American Navy. . In memory of those immortal Heroes who have fallen in the American cause. 7. May a happy rule of Government be established in the State of Rhode-Island. 8. American Manufactures. 9, Free trade with all the world. 10. May true patriotism warm the breast of every Ame- rican. 11. May the Independency of the American States be firmly established, and a speedy peace take place. 12. May Liberty expand her sacred wings, and, in glorious effort, diffuse her influence o’er and o’er the globe. Ao Wwe CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, July 23, 1776: Present, His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyer, Jz. Huntington, Benj. Huntington, Jed. Elderkin, and Nathan- tel Wales, Esquires. Mr. Daniel Dee is appointed Second Lieutenant of the Company of Matrosses, under command of Captain Nathan- tel Saltonstall, at New-London, in the service of this Colony. Voted, That this Council do approve of an order drawn by his Honour the Governour, dated the 22d, on the Pay Table, for £200, in favour of Ephraim Bell. To render his account. Voted, That this Council do approve of an order drawn by his Honour the Governour on Colonel William Pitkin, to sell to Mr. James Phelps, of Spencer town, of the Colo- ny of Massachusetts, fifty pounds of the Gunpowder in said Colonel Pitkin’s hands, belonging to this Colony, at the price of 5s. 4d. per pound. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 550 Voted, 'To draw an order on the Pay Table for £200 in favour of Josiah Elderkin, to enable him to purchase Tents and Clothing for the Continental Army; to be paid out of the money lodged by Mr. Sherman in the ‘Treasury, if lodged there for that purpose; otherwise, to be paid out of the proper Treasury of this Colony; and to render his ac- count. Order given 23d July, 1776, and delivered Colonel Elderkin. RICHARD DERBY, JUN., TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS, [Read July 29, 1776.] Council Chamber, Watertown, July 23, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 16th instant is now before us, and in answer thereto we have little to say in addition to what this Board wrote you in their letter of the 19th instant. Marching orders were issued some time ago to the com- manding officers of the regiments ordered to be raised for Canada and New-York, and we have now the pleasure to inform you that many of the men have already marched for their several destinations, and we expect the whole will be gone in a few days. The fifteen hundred men last ordered for the Northern Department are now raising with all possible expedition, and the necessary preparations are already made for their marching, so that we hope that Army will soon receive such reinforcements as will enable them to prevent the enemy from making any further advances upon us in that quarter. And we again assure you, that we will still continue to exert our- selves zealously for the publick good, hoping shortly to hear matters have taken another turn, and that our publick affairs will soon wear a more favourable aspect. In the name, and by order of the Council, I have the honour to be your most obedient servant, Ricuarp Dersy, Jun., President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. REUBEN SWAIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Nantucket, 7 mo., 23d; 1776. Resprectep Frtenp: | have desired the bearer, Micajah Coffin, to wait on thee to request thy permission for liberty to make a request to Lord Howe for the liberation of a son of mine and two sons-in-law, that were taken about five weeks ago on their return from a long and tedious whale-voyage on the coast of Brazil. One of my sons-in-law and my son were in the brig Speedwell Pembroke, Obed Bunker master, and now supposed detained on board the Greyhound, ship-of-war, Captain Dexon. ‘The consideration and anxious concern that must attend parents and near relations, who have their children and near connexions placed in such dis- agreeable situations, [ hope will induce thee to suffer some mode of application for their relief; which shall be accepted with gratitude, as a favour done to thy respectful and assured friend, Revgen Swain. To George Washington, Esq., General and Commander-in- Chief of the Continental Army in America. BENJAMIN BARNARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Nantucket, 7 mo., 22, 1776. Respecrep F'rrenp: I have desired the bearer, Micajah Coffin, to wait on thee to request thy permission for liberty to make a request to Lord Howe for the liberation of a son and brother of mine, who were taken on board the brigantine Mercury, (on their return from a Jong and_ tedious whale- voyage on the coast of Brazil,) George Bunker master, about four weeks ago, and are detained on board the Cer- berus frigate, Captain Symons. 'The consideration of the anxious concern that must attend parents and near relations who have their children and near connexions placed in such disagreeable situations, I hope will induce thee to suffer some mode of application for their relief; which shall be accepted with gratitude, as a favour done to thy respectful and assured friend, Bensamin Barnarp. To George Washington, Esq., General and Commander-in- Chief of the Continental Army in America. * . ool MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. In Council, July 23, 1776. Whereas Edward Mitchell, Theophilus Cushing, and William Drew, Esqs., were appointed a Committee to pro- vide fifteen hundred Canteens, and two hundred and fifty Camp-Kettles, and Camp Equipage, for the last fifteen hun- dred men to be raised agreeable to a late Resolve of the Continental Congress, and were directed by a Resolve of the General Court, of the 12th of this instant, to send them forward to the several places and in like proportions with those by a Resolve of the said Court ordered for the other forces destined to the same place, which, if complied with, will be very inconvenient, and retard the business: ‘There- fore, Resolved, That the said Committee be, and they hereby are, directed to provide and send forward the aforesaid arti- cles forthwith to Charlestown, in the Government of New- Hampshire, to the care of Samuel Hunt and Church, Esqs., or either of them, by them to be delivered, one-half to Colonel Samuel Brewer, or his order, and the other half to Colonel Aaron Willard, or his order, for the use of their regiments; and this order to be printed in the several News- papers in this State without delay. A true copy. Attest: Joun Avery, Dep. Sec. PETITION OF THE COMMITTEE OF BROOKFIELD. To the Honourable the Council of the Massacuusetts-Bay, im New-EnGuanp: Most humbly shew, the subscribers, the major part of the Committee of Inspection for the Town of Brookfield, that the inhabitants of this town have always been ready, and have freely exerted themselves in the common cause of America; that they have near one-third their men in the service at New-York and in the Northern Department, in- cluding their proportion of what are now to march for Bos- ton; that it is a large and ancient town, and suffered, per- haps, as much as any town in this State by former wars; that there is but one Field-Officer now belonging to the same in the publick service; that Captain King, a gentleman of reputation among us, would be glad of an appointment as Field-Officer at Boston station, if it would be agreeable to the honourable Board. Wherefore, we earnestly recommend him to your Honours, and pray that he may be appointed accordingly, and your petitioners will pray, &c. Tos. Moor, Davin Hircucock, Joun Warre, Japez Crossy, Tuxtxiy Rice, Joun Hamitton. Brookfield, July 23, 1776. I, the subscriber, who have the honour to command the Fourth Regiment, in the County of Worcester, do also join in the prayer of the foregoing Petition. James ConveERSsE. Brookfield, July 23, 1776. JOSEPH CUSHING TO JOHN TAYLOR. Hanover, July 23, 1776. Honovurep Sir: I have lately received the orders of Council for mustering the Militia and raising men to supply the places of the Continental regiment ordered to New- York and Canada. We have, through difficulty, raised our men for New- York, and some for Canada. I hope by the mid- dle of next week to complete the number required. I have not given out orders, as yet, for mustering the Militia and raising the men to supply the places of the Continental regiment, lest it might totally defeat getting the men for the Canada department, thinking it best to see the orders for men to reinforce the Army for Canada first complied with and executed. I imagine we shall soon get the men to supply the places of the Continental troops. I am informed the Field-Officers are not appointed for the Militia regiments that are to supply the places of the Conti- nental regiment. Would, therefore, beg leave to recommend my friend, Jeremiah Hall, who now is a Lieutenant-Colonel of the Second Regiment of Militia, in the County of Plymouth, as a suitable man for a Colonel of one of these regiments, as he now is an officer in the Militia, and has been out several campaigns heretofore, and known to be firmly attached to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 552 the cause of his country, and known by the people of this quarter. I should take it as a favour if you would use your influence with the members of the honourable Board for his appointment; and I am, with respect, your friend and ser- vant, Jos. Cusine. To the Hon. John Taylor, Esq., at Watertown. P. S. I purpose to be inoculated, if the weather is cooler. I hope my non-attendance will be excused on account of small-pox. Great danger is apprehended in the natural way. MAJOR HAWLEY TO COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Northampton, July 23, 1776. May ir Prease your Honours: The Councils favour of the 15th instant, I received by Mr. Cranson, enclosing an order to Brigadier Fellows, directing him to march his brigade by the way of No. 4 to Lake Champlain; which order I make bold to enclose and remit, concluding, (as the lawyers say,) wmprovide emanavit. -1 judge so, because I know that Mr. fedlows’s brigade was oriyvinally destined to New-York ; and although his command might be since varied, yet I find it expressed in the same letter, which en- closed the said order, that Brigadier Briskett commands the reinforcement destined to Crown-Point; which Mr. Cran- son also confirms by word of mouth. Your Honours have been pleased to send me orders for inlisting Hampshire’s quota of fifteen hundred further re- cruits; but as your Honours have not been pleased to send any money to me, or to any other of the Committee for that purpose, we are at some loss how to proceed without further instructions. The levies for the Hampshire battalion, in the northern part of the County, have succeeded beyond expectation. ‘Two companies proposed to march this day, and another com- pany of ninety-eight men, effective and well equipped, are to march on the morrow. I believe several of the companies from this County, without any express license from the Com- mittee, will presume to march by Bennington, and not by No. 4, because they are informed by Mr. Farnsworth, that he is scarce able to provide rations at No. 4 for the troops of this Government, exclusive of Hampshire County men, and that he has great plenty of stores at Bennington. I saw the orders of the General Court to the Captains, but say nothing to divert them from their purpose; for I believe there is no provision to pay the men their mileage at No. 4, and very scanty provision for their rations. I fear there will be great complaints in that quarter. Besides, there is a great plenty of small-pox there at No. 4, and none the other way, and all the accounts now are that the Bennington route is much the most feasible. ‘The men will run the risk of going with but little ammunition, rather than run the risk of the small- pox and submit to the other inconveniences there is a pros- pect of in the No. 4 route. ‘The Field-Officers of this bat- talion being in the small-pox, the whole business is devolved on the Committee. I am your Honours’ respectful, and most obedient servant, JosepH Haw.ey. To the Honourable Council. Salem, July 23, 1776. Friday last arrived here Captain F%sk, in the privateer sloop called the T'yrannicide, in the service of this State, mounting fourteen carriage-guns and two swivels, having been out about twelve days on a cruise. He, on the 12th instant, in latitude 40° 23! fell in with the armed schooner Despatch, one Gutteridge commander, mounting eight car- riage-guns and ten swivels, having thirty-two men, in the service of the King of England; when a warm, obstinate, and well-disputed engagement ensued, and which lasted upwards of an hour, when the schooner struck to Captain Fisk, which he safely brought in with him, having in the engagement lost her Captain and one man killed, the Master and four of her sailors wounded, and a Midshipman, who was passenger on board, bound in this schooner to New- York. Captain Fisk had one man killed and three wound- ed, one of whom is since dead of his wounds, the other two likely to recover. ‘The six wounded men belonging to the schooner are likely to recover. ‘The schooner has on board, besides her guns and provisions, seventeen half-barrels of powder. 553 Sunday last was sent in here by Captain Lander, in a letter-of-marque schooner belonging to this place, a sloop from the West-Indies, bound to Halifax, laden with salt. She has on board some brass blunderbusses and a quantity of English goods ; was taken abouta fortnight ago. About the same time was taken, by the above letter-of-marque, a ship from Jamaica, bound to London, laden with three hundred and ninety-three hogsheads of sugar, one hundred and forty- four hogsheads of rum, twenty-four pipes of wine, twenty-six pieces of cannon, from nine to four-pounders, and fifteen tortoise. This ship is thought to be worth between twenty and thirty thousand pounds sterling. She is not yet arrived here. . Last Sunday a store-ship from Ireland, being one of those which were blown off our coast last fall, bound to Boston, not having heard that the Ministerial fleet and army had left it, ran close in with the Islands in the harbour, and imme- diately came to anchor, when the first salute she received to welcome her was from an American battery erected at Point Alderton; when, after receiving a few shot therefrom, she struck. FLAG FOR CAPT. ROACH TO CARRY MRs. LIVIUS TO QUEBECK. Colony of New-Hampshire, in Committee of Safety, July 23, 1776. Captain Henry Deaborn, who was of Colonel Arnold’s detachment, and made prisoner at the attack upon Quebeck on the 3lst of December last, having had liberty to come home on his parole, and represented to this Committee that the Honourable Peter Livius, Esq., at Quebeck, treated him and other prisoners with great humanity, and that said Mr. Livius was desirous that his lady and children, now at Ports- mouth, in this Colony, might be permitted to come to him at Quebeck, it is therefore determined by the Committee that the schooner Polly, Thomas Roach master, with James Stoodley, John March, and John Bowman, mariners, have liberty to depart from the port of Piscataqua for Quebeck, with provisions sufficient for the voyage, for the sole purpose of conveying Mrs. Livius and her children there, not doubt- ing but liberty will be granted for said schooner and men to return to this Colony as soon as may be. In witness whereof, we have affixed the seal of the Colony, the day and year above mentioned. By order of the Committee: M. Txornton, Chairman pro tem. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO L. BARRETT. {No. 71.] Annapolis, July 23, 1776. Str: We have, in consequence of yours of the 15th inst., sent to Fredericktown eight hundred and six pounds of Jead, and have desired the Committee of the Middle District to forward it to you. We are, &c. To Mr. Lemuel Barrett, Chairman of Skipton District, Frederick County. THOMAS SMYTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Chestertown, July 24, 1776. Sre: Your favour of the 22d instant to the Committee of Observation for this County, was this morning delivered to Mr. Ringgold and myself, and we immediately ordered all the powder and sailcloth in the care of the Committee on board Captain Barry, for which, enclosed, you will receive his receipt. The second escort of wagons is expected at town to-night, by which time I hope the schooner Resolution will appear, that the powder, &c., may be delivered to me out of the wagons. ‘The money sent to me by my son for the payment of the wagonage of the powder and other contin- gent charges, did not reach me until after the arrival of the wagons that brought the first load from Chingoteague; they have since been paid off. I am, with much respect, sir, your most humble servant, Tuos. Smyru. To the Honourable Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. JOSIAS BEALL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Piscataway, July 24, 1776. Dear Sir: I received your favour by last post. You have no doubt an account of our situation, from the proceed- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 554 ings of the enemy up Potomack. I took the liberty last week to mention the want of more powder at Piscataway, &c. As you said nothing on the subject in your letter, permit me to mention the matter again, as there is uneasi- ness, from the apprehensions of the people on account of the small quantity we have. I hope your honourable Board will consider the matter, and order for the best. I have the satisfaction to say our people have shown a manly disposi- tion. On Monday last, when (from the alarm-guns from the Virginia vessels, fired in their way up to Alewandria) the enemy were expected every hour up, they marched to the shore with great firmness. I was with them all the day, and, from their behaviour, make no doubt they would have behaved well had the enemy appeared and tried them. I much wish they were provided better, if it can be done. Lam this morning so unwell with the cholic, that sitting to write is uneasy, and prevents adding further than that I am, with esteem for your honourable Board, dear sir, your most obedient servant, Jostas Breau To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Esq. GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, July 24, 1776. GentLemen: On the evening of my return home from the camp at St. George’s, yours of the 22d instant.came to hand, wherein you say you don’t doubt of my doing every- thing necessary to repel the invaders, and likewise, that you have ordered Major Price, with three field-pieces and one nine-pounder, &c. ‘These, you say, will enable the Major and myself to speak more properly with the row-galley than I hitherto could do. You likewise request I will (as I hitherto have done) continue to watch their motions, and from time to time inform you thereof, with several other requests equally irreconcilable to me, after having, by a short order, given me nothing todo. I have the highest opinion of the Major’s abilities and attachment to the cause, and doubt not he is equal to the task; all that I request is to be informed whether you have any reason (from the disposition of the troops while under my command) to believe that I was wanting, either in military knowledge, assiduity, or per- sonal courage; for the first of which, | would beg leave to refer you to Major Price, and for the two latter, to the officers of the several corps while under the command of your most obedient servant, Jno. Dent To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. B. GRAVES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 24, 1776. GENTLEMEN: Some time ago I tendered you an account of some repairs done to gun-locks, in consequence of instruc- tions from Brigadier-General Chamberlaine. I did not exceed my orders in any one thing, to my, knowledge, par- ticularly with respect to the circumstances of the persons for whom the repairs were done. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, B. Graves. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. ROBERT L. NICOLS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Talbot County, July 24, 1776. GentLemen: Captain Veazey’s demand upon me, due from the commencement of his company, renders me under the necessity of begging a small order on our ‘Treasurer for payment of the lower troops. About four hundred pounds will be sufficient. As the time draws near for payment, you will please to forward it. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Ros. Luoyp Nicots. To the Council of Safety of Maryland. J. CONTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. July 24, 1776. Gentriemen: At the request of the Committee of Obser- vation for Prince George’s County, I am to acquaint you, as Chairman appointed for this day, that there is but little 555 probability at present of borrowing or purchasing any guns, well fixed, in this County, at the price of £4 10s., or of collecting any blankets; but if any such should hereafter be got, the Committee will send them to the Council as soon as they may be obtained. Also, I am to inform you, that the collectors appointed some time past to receive fire-arms from Non-Associates have not as yet made any return thereof. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, J. ConrTeEE. To the Honourable Council of Safety, Annapolis. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GOVERNOUR RUTLEDGE, Philadelphia, July 24, 1776. Sir: The Congress being of opinion that the service of the United States will be promoted by taking into pay a number of troops in the State of South-Carolina, who are to act either as Infantry or Lighthorse, as occasion may require, have come to the enclosed resolves, which I do my- self the honour of transmitting in obedience to their com- mands. In consideration that these troops will go through more than ordinary duty, and be put to greater expense than others, the Congress have augmented their pay in propor- tion. I bave delivered blank commissions to the Delegates of your State. With most hearty and sincere wishes for your health and happiness, and the prosperity of the State over which you preside, I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Governour Rutledge, of South- Carolina. {Same to the Convention of Georgia.] PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 24, 1776. Sir: I do myself the honour to enclose sundry resolves, to which I must entreat your attention. ‘The Congress, you will there find, reposing the most entire confidence in your judgment, have left the disposition of the troops at New- York, the Flying-Camp, and Ticonderoga, wholly with you, being fully assured you will make such an arrangement as in your opinion will conduce most to the publick good. ‘The Commissioners appointed to audit the accounts of the Army in the York department have been with me. They are preparing to set out as soon as possible, and I expect will be at New- York in a few days. You will observe that the Congress have empowered the Commander-in-Chief in each department to negotiate an exchange of prisoners, which you will please to conduct agreeably to the enclosed system. I have written to General Schuyler, and forwarded a copy of the enclosed resol ves. I have the honour to be, with the highest esteem and respect, sir, yourmost obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Philadelphia, July 24, 1776. Sir: The enclosed resolves, which I do myself the honour of transmitting, are so explicit that 1 need only refer your attention to them. ‘he Congress are extremely concerned to find there should be a necessity of recommending harmony to the officers and troops of different States under your com- mand. At a time like this, when the greatest confidence is so essentially required, nothing can show greater weakness or wickedness than to throw provincial reflections on one another, which must have a direct tendencyto impede the publick service, and to weaken the union of the American States. Iam, therefore, to request that you will discounte- nance and suppress, by every means in your power, such ungenerous and base practices, and promote discipline, order, and zeal, in the Army, as much as possible. The Commissioners appointed to audit the accounts of the Army in the Northern Department have been with me. They are preparing to set out immediately, and I expect will be in New-York in a few days. The Congress having empowered the Commander-in- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 556 Chief in each department to negotiate an exchange of pri- soners, you will please to conduct the business agreeably to the enclosed system. In consequence of a flag from Lord Howe, with a letter directed “'l'o George Washington, Esq.,” which he declined receiving,’as an improper direction, considering his rank and station, the Congress came to a resolution, not only express- ing their approbation of his conduct, but ordering for the future that no Commander-in-Chief, or other the command- ers of the American Army, should receive any letters from the enemy but such as are directed to them in the characters they sustain. You will please to inquire into the complaints of the sol- diers as soon as possible, and give strict orders that the goods furnished them shall not be charged at a higher price than the first cost of them, and an allowance of five per cent. for charges, I have the honour to be, with every sentiment of esteem and respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble ser- TaDly Joun Hancock, President. To General Schuyler, Albany, or elsewhere. THOMAS STONE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 24, 1776. Gentiemen: I send you herewith forty barrels of pow- der and fifty-four boxes of arms, the arrival of which I informed you by the post. I have agreed with the wagoners for 30s. per day, each, going and returning. ‘They are to travel twenty miles per day going and twenty-five returning. This seems to be the usual practice, though [ think it very exorbitant. I have paid them £12 each, and have informed them they will receive the balance from you upon delivery of their charges, or if it be more agreeable to you, they may be paid here on your certificate. 1 have paid £15 2s. for cartage from Egg-Harbour, and shall settle the freight to-morrow, which, according to agreement with Harrison & Vanbibber, is ten per cent. on the gross sales here; and powder which came with ours has sold by the quantity for £25 per hundred weight, which, [ suppose, will ascertain the rule for the freight. ‘The guns came loose, and are hurt by it; I had them put into boxes, to prevent their being further damaged. Two are left out to guard the powder. Others, &c., will be delivered you. I have thought it advisable to send two men to guard the powder and arms, at 5s. per day each. My brother Delegates think this mode of conveying these very necessary articles to you right, and I hope it will also meet with your approbation. Nothing since ours by the post. from this day. ? I am, with great respect, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, T. Srone. To the Hon. Council of Safety of Maryland, at Annapolis. The wagons to be paid JOHN COVENHOVEN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Convention of the State of New-Jersey, } Brunswick, July 24, 1776. § Sir: In answer to your letter of the 21st instant, we can inform you that a considerable number of the levies required from this State by Congress are now on their march to New- York. We have written to General Heard to make return as soon as possible of the deficiencies in each County, and you may rest assured we shall use our utmost efforts, at this critical period, to complete the brigade ordered for the rein- forcement of the Army at New-York, and also to afford you all such other assistance as the weal of the United States shall require and the condition of this State admit of. We are, sir, with great respect, your obedient humble servants, By order of Convention: Joun Covennoven, Vice-President. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 24, 1776. Sin: Enclosed is a return of the troops in this Colony. Two battalions joined yesterday. We are told of numbers being on the way from Philadelphia. In a few days the d57 harvest will be secured, when General Livingston will have it in his power to call in a considerable body of Militia to take post along the Jersey shore. And these troops may be employed on such other service as you judge proper. Proper persons are employed to examine and secure all the craft, of which I shall transmit a return as soon as pos- sible. The returns of the troops are not so accurate as I could wish; the number of rank and file may, however, be sup- posed tolerably exact, making some allowance for the sick, of which I have been able to procure distinct lists. Of the troops who joined yesterday (the fourth battalion,) twenty of the men had no muskets. ‘hey were furnished with pikes about twelve feet long. The enemy have reinforced their guards on this part of the Island. Three battalions appeared on the point opposite this place yesterday morning, with four pieces of field-artil- lery. Probably this arises from their perceiving our force daily increasing here. + I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Hucu Mercer. To His Excellency General Washington. A General Return of the Pennsytvanta Forces in New- Jersey, Perru-Ampoy, July 24, 1776, under the Com- mand of Brigadier-General Mercer. OFFICERS PRESENT. Commission. Slaff. 3 S| jf Elm] = REGIMENTS, = 5 : 2 S| 2 a fx ats| jal slelZiZlele@iZle! z sO \els| 8 |2a|s/8/5/S| Slal-s S/S/SE) stale ais|ele |S) 2 el2lZlel2 isle SiSiSi5| 51/2] & OAIZOlA FO better they are provided than we, and what advantages they would receive from the works they might throw up. Besides the last considerations, permit me to subjoin, that such is the nature of the ground at Crown-Point, (the Point faces to the north, fronts the Lake, and is indented with small bays, and about one mile broad on a straight line from the northeastern to the northwestern point,) that the fort which General Amherst erected there was so exposed, from the grounds about it, that it required three or four strong redoubts to cover it—redoubts that were in themselves very considerable fortifications, and built at much expense on account of the scarcity of earth, insomuch so, that all the fortifications ten thousand men could make in the course of the campaign, would be far from formidable. At Ticonderoga ug, Not exposed to these dangers or difficulties. ‘The Lake between the fort and the intended ‘encampment on the east side of it, does not exceed half a mile in breadth. Let us now suppose that the enemy are capable of forcing our armed vessels to seek shelter at Ticon- deroga: nothing then is to obstruct their coming to that place. Being come, let us suppose that they would land on the east side of the Lake: the intended camp is defended on the north by a large creek and sunken country, which effectually prevents any approaches from that quarter; they must therefore take a tour of several miles to head the sunken country, before they can get into our rear. If they do, are our supplies cut off? No; for we have the commu- nication by Lake George open. Can they drive us out of the strong camp on the east side? I think not. I think it impossible for twenty thousand men to do it, ever so well provided, if the camp consists of less than even a quarter of that number, indifferently furnished, such is the natural strength of the ground. But let us suppose that the enemy should land on the west side and attempt to drive us thence: here we fight on an equal footing, (except what advantages our lines and fortifications may give us,) and we can oppose nine-tenths of our Army to them; for they cannot prevent the junction of our troops either way, whenever they please to join. Let us suppose the worst: they drive us from the ground; we lose our cannon; but they cannot prevent such as do not fall in the engagement, from retiring to the strong camp. A bare inspection of a good map, if I had one to send your Excellency, would, I hope, convince you of the weight of these observations. But if we are obliged to retreat from Ticonderoga, will not their vessels pass our strong camp and get between that and Skenesborough? I think it impossible for them to pass. The passage is narrow; the channel more so; our vessels lying in line of battle on the south side of the camp; theirs obliged to come up by two at a time at most, exposed to our cannon in getting there, and when there, at once attacked by our vessels and our batteries within point-blank shot. But if the enemy have possession of Ticonderoga, will they not cut off our supplies? Yes, effectually, any sup- plies attempted to be sent by the way of Lake George, but not those sent by the way of Skenesborough, or through the towns lying in this Colony on the east side of Lake Cham- plain, between the camp and New-Hampshire, and the northern parts of the Massachusetts. But cannot the enemy, when in possession of Ticonde- roga, penetrate into this Colony by the way of Lake George, and leave our Army in the strong camp? Yes, provided they take their boats, provisions, &c., out of Lake Cham- plain, on the north side of Tvconderoga, and convey them by land into Lake George—the distance between three and four miles; but as they cannot do this without our know- ledge, we can move any part of our Army by the way of Skenesborough to Fert George, before they can reach it; but as we have no naval force on that Lake, nor any strong fortifications, and if they are superior, and our Army not reinforced by Militia, (which I should hope would not be the case,) we can retire from thence to some place in the vicinity of Fort Edward, and bring away all the carriages from the few inhabitants that live there; and I conceive that they would find it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to move only such of their boats and necessaries as they caynot dis- pense with, over a fifteen-mile land-carriage, even if they 561 should be able to bring a considerable number of carriages from Canada, for it will take one hundred carriages, each carrying four barrels of pork or flour, (and they can bring no carriages that will convey more,) to transport one day’s provision for ten thousand men, and the carriages can only complete a trip m two days. Upon the whole, I do not only think Ticonderoga infinitely preferable to Crown-Point for a stand to be made, but so happily situated for us, that I have very little apprehension of General Burgoyne’s being able to succeed in that quarter, unless there should be too great a disparity of numbers in his favour. I had almost forgotten to observe that your Excellency, from the information you have had, seems to entertain an idea that the situation of Crown-Point ‘is of the utmost impor- tance, especially if we mean to keep the superiority and mastery of the Lake ;” and that “if itis abandoned by us, it is natural to suppose the enemy will possess it; and if they do that, then our vessels will be in their rear, and it will not be in our power to bring them to T%conderoga, or the post opposite to it.” Your Excellency will pardon me for a few remarks on that passage of your letter. Crown-Point lies about forty-three miles from the extreme south part of Lake Champlain, which is at Skenesborough, and about one hundred from the northern extreme, which is at St. John’s. The part of the Lake south of Crown-Point is seldom, in any place, above two miles wide. From Crown- Point to about eighteen miles north of it, it may be ata medium about three and a half miles, three and four being the extremes; beyond that, for about fifty-six miles, it is seldom Jess than six, or more than fourteen or fifteen; but a chain of islands, running nearly parallel to the sides of the Lake, lie in the broadest part, on and nearly in the middle, so that the width on each side is about six miles. Let us now suppose our Navy to be in any part of the Lake to the northward of, and out of the reach of the cannon that may be at Crown-Point, and there attacked by the enemy: What assistance can it receive from any fortification at the Point? None, surely; and, if worsted, it. must fly to the south side of Crown-Point for shelter, and the enemy have the entire mastery of the Lake. If Crown-Point was totally abandoned, and if the Navy was attacked and worsted in any part to the northward of Ticonderoga, whether in sight of that place, or towards the north end of the Lake, the consequences are exactly the same. It must retire to the south of where the Army is. If we abandon Crown-Point, that the enemy will possess themselves of it is certain, if they can do it; but if we suppose they can, we must not only suppose that they can and will pass our fleet, although theirs should be inferior, or that they must have a naval superiority. If they can pass our fleet anywhere beyond Crown-Point, their Army can attack ours at Crown-Point, if it is there, or at T%conderoga, if there: in either case our ships will be in their rear. But supposing they could and would, by some means or other frustrate our intentions in having a Navy in the Lake, (which intention appears to be to prevent any boats coming up,) and pass by it, although superior to theirs; is it probable they will do it? Will they risk the danger they may run if a fair wind should enable our ships to get up with them? Will they risk an interception of their supplies, and a pre- vention of retreat in case of a repulse? I think not; but if their Navy is superior, the keeping possession of the Lake is impossible; and then the question recurs, where is the best place to make a stand with the greatest prospect of advan- tage tous? I think that place to be Ticonderoga and the grounds opposite to it. Imay be mistaken. The only view J had in givmg my opinion for removing the Army to these places was, that | thought it would there most advance the interest of the cause we are engaged in. Although I do not recollect that in the resolution of the General Officers to move the Army from Crown-Point, that it is observed that a small post was to be kept there, from whence our vessels might be supplied more readily than from Ticonderoga, yet that was determined on. I have always deprecated jealousies and contentions in the Army. I believe the officers that have served under me will do me the justice to acknowledge it. I shall invariably continue in that line of conduct, and, if seconded by the inferior officers, I hope the evil will soon vanish, Fietu Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 562 Your Excellency’s conclusion is too just, “that the most lavish and extravagant waste has been made of provisions.” The difficulties I experienced last campaign on this account are incredible; and I was in hopes that the orders I had issued to the officers, and the directions I had given to the Commissaries in the course of the winter, would have been effectual, and have put a stop to many infamous practices. On this side of Canada IJ experienced the good effects ; such of the Commissaries appointed by the Colonies at the be- ginning of the struggle as were then employed, and were found incompetent, were removed as soon as it could be done without giving umbrage to particular Colonies. This removal took place Jast fall, and things have been carried on regularly since that time. But otherwise in Canada; a return was asked of such as were employed; and the orders by which they, as well as the officers, were to govern themselves, were transmitted to the commanding officer in February last, with a request to publish them. Iam informed they were never made publick, nor was any return sent of who were employed, and the Deputy-Commissary could not tell, as they were appointed in Canada, and acted independent of him. When Mr. Price was appointed Deputy Commissary- General for Canada, I gave him a copy of these orders; copy of which, and a copy of my instructions to him, I think I transmitted to your Excellency. I never received a single line from him during the time he was in Canada; and I am informed by Mr. Swart, whom Mr. Livingston sent into Canada as his deputy, that the soldiers have been permitted to go to the barrels and take what they liked, and that this was by general orders. On my last arrival at Crown- Point, I found the provisions lying in parcels on different parts of the beach, exposed to the weather and to be stolen. I ordered it, and did see it, put into the stores, and then found much less than I had expected, although I had sup- posed that great waste and loss had taken place in the retreat from Canada. When I observed that fresh beef was not to be had, I conceived that it could not be immediately procured in sufficient quantities, as all stall-fed beef was expended, and the grass-fed then hardly fit for killmg; nor was I much mistaken, although a few days after I found that Mr. Livingston, by his exertions, and with borrowed money, had made shift to engage such a number that my apprehensions on that score are atan end. But Mr. Trum- bull was certainly ill-informed in supposing that fresh meat could be easily procured at the time alluded to. If Mr. Livingston had been less industrious than he was, we should have experienced a scarcity of provisions, both from the then scarcity of beef, and money to purchase it with. I am, however, still uneasy on account of pork, lest any accident should hereafter be occasioned by not having a sufficient quantity in store. Before General Sullivan’s brigade arrived at Albany, the troops were contented with the Continental allowance; and when only bread, pork, and peas, could be got, they had a pound of each of the two former, in lieu of all the other articles; but a regiment of his brigade refusing to draw less than eighteen ounces of pork, and General Sullivan assuring me that the additional ounces had been allowed them since December last, in lieu of milk, I ordered the Commissary to issue it, taking receipts for the quantities delivered. This extra-allowance has not only made the calculation I sent you some time ago extremely erroneous, but will greatly distress us. I am so well convinced of the difficulties you labour under to procure the necessary supplies of every kind for the Army, that I have only asked for such things as could not be pro- cured at Albany or in the neighbouring country, and have written to Committees and employed persons in every quarter of the County. I tried, but in vain, to procure the articles for the gondolas; but as the navigation is since interrupted, I hope to be able to get them, and shall write immediately to Albany of that head. I shall, immediately on my return, give out in orders that no double commissions are to be held, except by the officers you mention. I hope your Excellency will approve of my leaving it to the choice of the officers what commission to keep. I believe I forgot to mention that General Thomas and I concluded that it was highly necessary to have an active Deputy Quartermaster at St. John’s and Chambly. I men- tioned Lieutenant-Colonel Buell, of Burrell’s regiment as 36 563 an officer whose activity and prudence I could rely on. He accepted the office, but with much persuasion, as he wished to remain with the regiment. He is now at Fort George, and I am really at a loss to find one to replace him, who will be equal to the duty he is obliged to do. My Secretary, who had orders to open any despatches that might come from you, and to transmit such parts to General Gates as contained orders that required more immediate de- spatch than the roundabout way of first sending them here would admit of, informs me that the omitted part of my letter of the 12th was, “enclose returns of the Army at Crown-Point, the garrison of Fort George,’ &c. “ When I was at Crown-Point, 1 proposed to a council of officers an expedient to procure the return of the deserters of the Northern Army, and it was” unanimously, &c. I am just now informed that the Pennsylvania carpenters arrived at Albany on the 20th instant. I left directions for forwarding them, and I hope they are now at work. I have no hope that the conference with the Indzans will open before the 29th, and I fear it will then last a week. Their delays distress nae beyond imagination. I have represented to them that important business required my attendance at Albany; they will not, however, suffer me to leave them; and my colleagues apprehend if I do that it will essentially injure us. I must, therefore, comply with their wishes, although my presence on the communication was never more wanted than at this juncture. Mr. Trumbull, the Deputy Paymaster-General, informs me that his chest is quite empty. So early as the 22d of May Congress voted half a million of dollars for the Northern Army; $200,000 have only been received. Will your Excellency please to represent to Congress that the service suffers very materially for want of money, and that the offi- cers in the different departments are put to inconceivable difficulties on that account. That Heaven may protect and pour its best blessings on you, is the unfeigned wish of your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant, pate: ae To His Excellency General Washington. » GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. | Skenesborough, July 24, 1776. Dear Sir: After my regards to your Honour, I would inform you that the letter received with the provision and ammunition mentioned five barrels of powder. ‘There were but two barrels powder come to hand, which was in provision barrels ; and whether your Honour included the five in the two, or whether there was a mistake, I cannot tell, and should be glad your Honour would inform me by the first opportunity. I should be glad your Honour would see fit to appoint and send some proper person here, to act as Commissary, which I think is very much wanted. I am, dear sir, respectfully, your Honour’s humble ser- vant : Davip Wartersoury, Jun. To the Hon. Major-General Gates, at Ticonderoga. GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 24, 1776. Dear Genera: | arrived here last evening, and found three gondolas on the stocks ; two will be completed in five or six days, the row-galley in eight or ten days. Three other gondolas will be set up immediately, and may be com- pleted in ten days. A company of twenty-seven carpenters from Middletown are cutting timber for a row-galley, on the Spanish construction, to mount six heavy pieces of cannon. One hundred carpenters from Pennsylvania and Massachu- setts-Bay will be here this evening. I shall employ them on another row-galley. In two or three weeks, I*think we shall have a very formidable fleet. No canvass or cordage is yet arrived, though much wanted. Not one syllable of news from below. ‘There are only one hundred barrels of pork and two hundred of flour here. I have desired Mr. Schuyler to purchase beef for the troops and workmen here. A Commissary of Provisions is much wanted here, and will be more so when the Militia arrive, who are daily expected. If Mr. Taylor can be spared, he will be a proper person to send, and may purchase a considerable quantity of beef CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. humble servant, 564 in this neighbourhood. I hope the vessels and gondolas will not be retarded for want of seamen or marines, Those seamen who were sent from Crown-Point with Captain Mayhew, and afterwards joined their regiments, I would wish were ordered on board the vessels and gondolas. We shall not be able to procure a sufficient number without them. The mills at Cheshire’s are sawing, and will produce about four thousand feet of boards each day. All that can be sawed in a fortnight will be wanted here. I have ordered the next gondolas that go down to be loaded with boards, I think it will be best to send to Onion River for the boards there, and fora parcel lying between Ticonderoga and Crown- Point. Mr. Hay can inform where they lie. As soon as I can give the carpenters proper instructions, and set them at work, I will return to Ticonderoga. I am, very respectfully, dear General, your obedient and B. Arnoup. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 24, 1776. Honourep Sir: Captain Wilson, it seems, has taken prisoners, one a Canadian, who left St. John’s within a few days. You will be able to make some material discoveries from him. I have examined him, and was much at a loss to know if the flag should not be stopped till we could hear from you; but as Major Bigelow’s orders were positive, he is just now gone down. It would be of consequence to take eight Indians and one Canadian, who have come up from St. John’s to spy what we are about. They have landed somewhere between this and Cumberland-Head. Hays and another on the western shore, Midkiff and some others in Massiskie-Bay, ought to be secured. ‘There is too much reason, I fear, to suspect some other persons, of whom Lieutenant Clark can inform you. I shall wait your orders. I am, sir, with the greatest respect, your most humble servant 4 Tuos. Harruey. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 24, 1776. Sir: I have understood from several quarters that which inclines me to apprehend, that the supposition that Gilliland and some others had sent down one Edward Watson and another to St. John’s, had some foundation. ‘They doubtless carry any intelligence they have to the enemy. It has just been intimated to me that Gilliland and Jack Watson, with one Macauley, all relations, have had a hint that they are suspected. ‘This may induce them to send a canoe or boat, to warn the two men of their danger in returning, or to make their own escape. I have ordered. a party of about twenty- five men to set off in a boat towards Cumberland-Head, to intercept the eight Indzans and the Canadian on their way back to iSt. John’s, or the two rascals in the canoe, who are gone to St. John’s, in their return to Willsborough, and also to favour Captain Wilson’s retreat. Hays, and the men mentioned in my letter of this day, ought, in my opinion, to be secured. You will judge of the proper time. I hope my conduct will meet with your approbation. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Tuos, Hartiey. P.S. The party will set off to-night or to-morrow morn- ing early, unless countermanded. PETITION FROM CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NEW-YORK. To the Hon. Horatio Gares, Commander-in- Chief of the Forces in the Northern Department to defend the Amx- RICAN States, &c.: The Petition of the Committee of Safety for the County of Cumpertanp, in the Colony of New-Yorx, humbly showeth: That whereas, by resolves of our Provincial Congress, this County is to raise one hundred and twenty-five effective men to join the troops under your command, and whereas this County of Cumberland is a frontier, eminently exposed to the ravages both of British and Savage cruelty: We, therefore, your petitioners, humbly pray that your 565 Honour would be pleased to order that the said one hundred and twenty-five men may be employed, in actual service, as scouting parties, &c., to defend our frontier towns, which are this moment exposed to be destroyed, ravaged, and burnt, by a merciless and inveterate enemy, and to make and repair the roads from hence to Head-Quarters. Your petitioners humbly conceive that your Honour will be forward to grant us this our request, when we acquaint you that we have never, as yet, understood that either the Continental or Provincial Congress have made any provision for these purposes. Confiding in your Honour’s humanity, and not doubting in the least but that you will readily grant us this our peti- tion, we are, with respect, your most obedient, humble servants, &c. Signed by order of the County Committee: James Cray, Chairman. Westminster, Cumberland County, July 24, 1776. NEW-HAMPSHIRE GRANTS. Extract of the Votes and Proceedings of a General Conven- tion of fifty-nine Delegates on the west side of the range of Green-Mountains, on the New-Hampshire Grants, held at Dorset, the 24th day of July, A. D. 1776: said num- bers represented the Inhabitants of thirty-five ‘Townships on said Grants. Captain Joseph Woodward Chairman, Doctor Jonas Fay Clerk, of said Convention. This Convention being of opinion that the business which occasions their meeting at this time requires the most serious deliberation, are disposed to pass the following Votes, viz: 1st. That not more than one person be permitted to speak at a time in this Convention, and only by leave of the Chairman. Qdly. That the business of the meeting be closely adhered to, and that the several articles in the warrant for this meet- ing be considered in due order, except otherwise overruled. After receiving the Report from the honourable the Con- tinental Congress, by Captain Heman Allen, voted to pass over the 4th, 5th, and 6th articles of the warrant, till nine o'clock to-morrow, for consideration. Adjourned to six o’clock to-morrow morning. Meeting opened at time and place. Proceeded to the consideration of the fourth article of the warrant, and the same is objected to. Proceeded to the consideration of the fifth article of the warrant, and voted, that suitable application be made to form the district of land commonly called and known by the name of the New- Hampshire Grants into a separate district. Dissentient, only one. Proceeded to the consideration of the sixth article of the warrant, and voted to recommend it accordingly. Voted, 'To choose a Committee to treat with the inhabi- tants on the east side of the range of Green Mountains rela- tive to their associating with this body. Voted, That Captain Heman Allen, Colonel William Marsh, and Doctor Jonas Fay, in conjunction with Captain Samuel Fletcher and Mr. Joshua Fish, together with such other gentlemen on the east side of the range of Green Moun- tains on said Grants as they may hereafter appoint to join them, be, and are hereby, appointed a Committee for the above purpose. Adjourned one hour. Meeting opened at time and place. _ Proceeded to the consideration of the following Associa- tion, VIZ: : This Convention being fully sensible that it is the will and pleasure of the honourable Continental Congress that every honest friend to the liberties of America, in the several United States thereof, should subscribe an Association, bind- ing themselves, as members of some body or community, to stand in the defence of those liberties; and whereas it has been the usual custom of individuals to associate with the Colony or State which they are reputed to be members of: Yet, nevertheless, the long and spirited conflict which has for many years subsisted between the Colony or State of New-York and the inhabitants of that district of land commonly called and known by the name of New-Hamp- shire Grants, relative to the title of the land on said district, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 566 renders it inconvenient in many respects to associate with that Colony, which has hitherto been the sole reason of our not subscribing an Association before this. The better, therefore, to convince the publick of our readi- ness to join in the common defence of the aforesaid liberties, we do publish and subscribe the following Association, viz: “We, the subscribers, inhabitants of that district of lands commonly called and known by the name of the New-Hamp- shire Grants, do voluntarily and solemnly engage, under all the ties held sacred among mankind, at the risk of our lives and fortunes, to defend by arms the United American Colo- nies against the hostile attempts of the British fleets and armies until the present unhappy controversy between the two countries shall be settled.” The foregoing Association being approved, is accordingly signed by fifty of the members of this Convention; and voted, that each inhabited Town on the New-Hampshire Grants be served with a copy thereof, and that it be, and is hereby, recommended to each of said inhabitants who are friends to their country, that they severally subscribe the same as soon as may be, and make return by the Delegate or Dele- gates which they are hereby directed to appoint to join this Convention at their next sitting at Dorset, the 25th day of September next, at eight o’clock forenoon, to which time and place this Convention stands adjourned. Per order: Jonas Fay, Clerk of said Convention. Extract from Minutes of General Convention of New-Hampsuire Grants, 24th Jury, 1776. New-Hampshire Grants, in General Convention, Dorset, July 24, 1776. ; Resolved, That it be, and it is hereby, recommended to the several inhabitants on the New-Hampshire Grants who are friends to the liberties of the United States of America, that they subscribe the Association agreed on and signed by the several members of this Convention, and return the same to the Clerk thereof as soon as may be. Resolved, unanimously, That any person or persons, inha- bitants on the New-Hampshire Grants, who shall in future subscribe and return an Association to any of the Committee or Committees of Safety for either of the Counties in the Province of New- York or to the Provincial Congress thereof, otherwise than the Association contained in these records, and subscribed by the several Delegates of this Convention, shall be deemed enemies to the common cause of the New-Hamp- shire Grants. Resolved, That nine persons be chosen as a Committee of Appeals, who are to hear and determine such matters as may be properly exhibited to them in writing by any of the inhabitants of the New-Hampshire Grants, relative to the cause of American liberty, by way of proper appeal from either of the Committees of Safety on said Grants; any five of which Committee to make a quorum. Extract from the Minutes: Jonas Fay, Clerk. KILLINGWORTH COMMITTEE. Killingworth, July 24, 1776. Whereas Benjamin Griffith, of Killingworth, hath for some time been suspected of being unfriendly to the common cause, and an enemy to his country; said Griffith was cited to appear before the Civil Authority, Selectmen, and Com- mittee of Inspection of said Killingworth, for examination, on the 11th day of July instant, ‘and adjourned to the 15th, who, upon examination, pleaded not guilty. After taking a number of evidences in the case, this meeting, considering the evidences, and the late Act of this Colony in the premises, and question being put by the chairman of said meeting, whether the said Griffith was inimical to his country, or to these United Colonies? Voted in the affirmative by a very clear vote. And it was ordered by said meeting or court of inquiry, that said Griffith be disarmed of all fire-arms of what kind soever, and not allowed to keep arms any more in his house, until he make it appear to said meeting, or the major part of them, according to the late act of this Colony, that he is friendly to the United Colonies, and to the common cause. The doings of this meeting desired to be made publick, Signed by order: ELnatHan STEVENS, Chairman of said meeting. 567 TO THE INHABITANTS OF MASSACHUSETTS-BAY. My Countrymen: When I consider the danger attending this important day— Burgoyne with his Regulars, Canadians, and Indians, on our Northern and Western frontiers, General Howe with his Regulars and Naval force on our sea-coats, and our Northern Army in such a situation as that the enemy may evade their force and possibly spread devastation in our defenceless towns—how necessary and important is it, then, that every well-wisher to American liberty should be equipped in the best manner to oppose our enemies. In what a miserable situation would we be in should our fron- tiers be invaded with two or three thousand Canadians and Indians, and so many of our people without fire-arms and ammunition, to oppose their career. How far would they spread devastation before we should be able to stop them? Should Howe, with the help of his fleet, suddenly transport his Army to any of our Colonies where our Army is not stationed, and our home farmers be unprepared to meet them, in such case we must leave our houses to the devouring flames, and possibly our stock, our wives, our children, at their mercy. Pray let us realize these things, and if any are destitute of implements of war, let them, rather than remain in such a situation, “ sell their coats and buy them.” Pray consider that our liberties are vastly more worth than all our property, and that he who at such a day as this will not rather venture his life in battle than be a slave, shows a dastardly spirit, and cannot be said to stand fast in that liberty in which the God of nature has made us free. A WiatcHMan. Worcester, Massachusetts, July 24, 1776. . ——— COURT-MARTIAL ON LIEUTENANT MOSES BANKS. Ata General Court-Martial held at Boston, July 24, 1776, by order of the Hon. Artemas Ward, Major-General and Commander-in-Chief of the American Forces stationed at Boston, on Moses Banks, Second Lieutenant and Quarter- master-General in the Eighteenth Regiment of the United Independent States of North America, for defrauding the said Regiment of their pay, provisions, &c., he was found guilty, sentenced to be cashiered, forfeit all his pay, and refund £10 to the Regiment. JOHN BACHELLOR TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Boston, July 24, 1776. May iT PLease your Honours: The information which the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston lately gave to your Honours, relative to Captain Obrian, they had from me. I then supposed the suggestion could be easily supported ; but from various circumstances since turned up, I am inclined to think that the malice of his enemies hath induced them to take such steps to injure his character as cannot be justified. I am, your most obedient and most humble servant, Jno. BacHEeLtor. WILLIAM SEVER TO JAMES BOWDOIN. Kingston, July 24, 1776. Dearsir: The brigantine Independence being now nearly ready for sea, Captain Samson waits on your Honour for his commission, and such instruction for his conduct as may be thought proper. As from the time which has elapsed since the evacuation of Boston, I apprehend we cannot expect to find British merchant-ships on the coast of this Colony, and British ships-of-war having withdrawn themselves, allow me, sir, to suggest the expediency, in my opinion, of giving him such latitude in his orders as will authorize his cruising in the path of the homeward-bound West-India trade, at least a part of the time he may be abroad. Captain Samson ‘does not think the half ton of powder which he has received is by any means sufficient. Iam in- formed the person who received it was told that it was as much as had been ordered by the brigantine at Dartmouth; but it is said that about half a ton of powder, which was stored at Dartmouth, has been received on board said brigantine, in addition to what was received at Watertown. If you, sir, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 568 should be of opinion that the quantity is insufficient, I presume you will endeavour to have it augmented. I am, respectfully, sir, your very bumble servant, W. Sever. To the Hon. James Bowdoin, Esq., President of the Council, at Watertown. CUMBERLAND COUNTY COMMITTEE TO THE MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Falmouth, July 24, 1776. May ir PLease your Honours: We desire you will give the bearer hereof, Mr. Jesse Partridge, an order upon the Treasurer for the sum of £820, to pay off the men, the bounty, advance pay, &c., as ordered by the honourable Court. We likewise desire blank commissions for one set of commission Officers for one company, and orders for the men’s marching when inlisted. Jostan Noyes, Josnua Fasyan, Jno. Lewis, Committee of the County of Cumberland. To the Honourable Council of the Colony of Massachusetts- Bay. oy In Council Chamber, July 27, 1776. Read and Ordered, That a warrant be drawn on the Treasurer for £251 16s., for the use of Jos. Noyes and others, Committee for the County of Cumberland. Jno. Avery, Deputy Secretary. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO BENJAMIN GILES. In Committee of Safety, July 24, 1776. Sir: We received yours by Mr. Trott. Have sent you by him £20, and expect you will settle with him for his time and expenses in the service. We hope Mr. Farns- worth or his deputy will supply the troops in such a way as will help them to proceed; and though we would by no means pretend to supply, or in anywise be concerned in the affair, unless to prevent their returning home dissatisfied, in which case we would desire you to do what you can in reason to furnish them to march forward. If the provision you have furnished is not wanted, you may stow it, and it will come to bear at some time or other, without doubt. By order of the Committee. I am, sir, your very humble servant, M. Tuornton, Chairman pro tem. To Beramin Giles, Esq. Williamsburgh, July 26, 1776. Yesterday afternoon, agreeable to an order of the honour- able Privy Council, the Declaration of Independence was solemnly proclaimed at the Capitol, the Court-House, and the Palace, amidst the acclamations of the people, accom- panied by firing of cannon and musketry, the several regi- ments of Continental troops having been paraded on that solemnity. Advices from Charlestown, which arrived here by express, say that the Cherokee Indians have committed several out- rages, which seem to be only a part of the capital and. favourite plan laid down by his most excellent and clement Majesty George the Third, to lay waste the Provinces, burn the habitations, and mix men, women, and children, in one common carnage, by the hands of those merciless savages. It is to be hoped, however, that our frontier riflemen, joined to those of the Carolinas, will be able before long to strike some blow that may intimidate numerous tribes of Indians from falling into the measures of the tyrant, and make a severe, lasting, and salutary example of the treacherous Cherokees. By the same express, we learn that the Army and squadron under Clinton and Parker have remained tolerably quiet since their late drubbing; but daily make some alteration in the disposition of the land forces from one Island to another, probably for the sake of water, of which, deserters say, they are in great want; as also, that consider- able sickness prevails among them, and great discontents, from hard duty and bad diet. ‘The deserters likewise say, that was not the Army on an island from which it is difficult to escape, two-thirds of them, they are confident, would soon 569 be with General Lee. An officer of distinction writes: « That when he considers the difficulties which the enemy’s Generals have to encounter, the temper and disposition of their troops, and the improving spirit of our people, he assures himself that the game in that quarter is in our hands, and hopes that G'od will give them more grace than to shuflle it away.” BALTIMORE COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 25, 1776. Gentriemen: Messrs. Gordon and Patten, saddlers in this town, have informed me that they had made proposals to you for making a quantity of knapsacks and baversacks for the service of the Flying-Camp; and that a recommenda- tion from the Committee, or some persons here well known to you, was necessary before a contract was made. As there may not be a meeting of the Committee before Monday, we conceive it might further the publick service to give you our opinion, that they are both men of character, and equal to the undertaking, and that we doubt not they will punctually fulfil any engagement of the nature in question which they may make. We are, gentlemen, your most humble servants, Samu. Purviance, Jun., Jas. CaLHoun, Joun Boyp. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland, Annapolis. JOHN HANSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Frederick County, Middle District, July 25, 1776. - GrentLemen: I am directed by the Committee of this District to acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 16th, enclosing several resolves and the Declaration of Independ- ency, to the contents of which papers due attention will be paid. Persons were some time ago appointed in the dif- ferent Hundreds within this District, to receive the arms from those who had not signed the Association and enrolled in the Militia; but no returns have been made, by them. Three guns only have beén brought in, which have been delivered to Mantz’s company; and the Committee offer it as their opinion, that very few guns will be got by way of loan, and that there is not the least probability of arming the Flying-Camp from this quarter but by purchase. The Committee have often been applied to by the prisoners in the Tory Jail for an enlargement, on giving sufficient security not to depart the bounds which may be allotted them, and for their good behaviour; but they are doubtful whether they would be justified in complying with their request, and would be glad to be favoured with the opinion of your hon- ourable Board; and as some of these prisoners are officers, whether they are not entitled to their parole, agreeable to the resolution of Congress respecting prisoners. Yesterday, were brought to this place, under a guard from Burlington, fifteen officers, taken at St. John’s, who are ordered by the Board of War to be kept here. Those who refuse to sign the parole are ordered to be confined in Jail. Three of them have signed, and the other twelve who refused to sign were last night sent to the Tory Jail, which we hope will occasion them in a short time to take the advan- tage allowed them. It is a dreadful place (but the best we have) to be confined in, and so crowded at present (being twenty-seven) that it may be dangerous to their health. The officers last mentioned find themselves; but it will be necessary to augment the guard, which will increase the expense; and the money sent to defray the charges of the prisoners being nearly expended, the Committee request that a further sum be sent by the first opportunity. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Joun Hanson, Jun., Chairman. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. COLONEL STRICKER TO SAMUEL CHASE. Fredericktown, July 25, 1776. Sir: I arrived here on Monday last, and have since seen divers of my recruiting parties, which have not been so suc- cessful as I could wish. The Flying-Camp and Militia’s turning out hurts our recruiting much, although the four CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 570 Captains appointed in this Province have already completed thirty men each, I could wish we had it in our power to inlist the men who have engaged in the Flying-Camp, as there are many of them who would willingly go with us. The fifteen hundred and twenty dollars I received for the two Captains’ bounty money for this County, shall make use of for purchasing blankets and arms, if you see proper, as the Captains had already received the full bounty money for the recruiting of their companies. 1 have already ad- vanced fifty pounds to one of the Captains for the sub- sistence and expense money for raising the company, and I expect the others to call upon me for the same purpose. Should be glad there might one of the companies of our battalion be a Rifle company, as I think I could arm them in this Province; for muskets, I am afraid we can get but few that are good here. I shall esteem the favour of a reply, and to receive any further instructions you may please to favour me with, being the needful. I remain, with compliments to the gentlemen the Dele- gates from this Province, sir, your most obedient servant, GeorceE Stricker, Lt. Colonel. To Samuel Chase, Esq. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL JOHNSON. [No. 72.] Annapolis, July 25, 1776. Sir: We have received your favour of the 22d, and are very glad that the Militia of Frederick are so ready to turn out on the present occasion. We think their service will not be wanting, for although there are many of the enemy’s ships in Potomack, yet there are but few men in them, and those sickly and die fast. The Fowey and Otter, with about fifty sail of vessels, are still at St. George’s. The Roebuck, with three ships, and a few small vessels, are as high up Poto- mack as Mattawoman, where, it is said, they are watering. We have already contracted for a large number of camp- kettles of iron and copper, and expect to procure some of tin. If your brother’s iron is suitable for casting guns, we would contract with you for fifty three-pounders, fifty four- pounders, and seventy-five swivels to carry one-pound balls. Captain Nicholson informs us, that the, length of the swivels is not material; the three and four-pounders ought to be somewhat shorter than the common standard. Should we find it necessary, we will hereafter give orders for the march of a battalion from Frederick County. We are, with respect and esteem, yours, Xc. To Brigadier-General Thomas Johnson. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MAJOR PRICE. [No. 73.] Annapolis, July 25, 1776. Sir: You will make use of all or part of the cannon, as you see cause, taking care not to waste powder in vain. Enclosed you have an order, which you will do every- thing in your power to enforce. You should be particularly cautious in taking care to secure deserters; some.of them, you may depend upon it, are spies. The negro you mention, that escaped from the guard, may have been sent on purpose to seduce the slaves in the neigh- bourhood. Be pleased to inform us, from time to time, of material occurrences, as they happen. We have paid the express; and are, &c. To Major Thomas Price. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEES OF DOR- CHESTER AND SOMERSET. [No. 74.] Annapolis, July 25, 1776. Genttemen: We have ordered Captain John Gunby’s company to march to Cambridge, in your County, and to be stationed where you may direct. We hope that company will be sufficient to protect you against tenders who may attempt to plunder. We are, Nc. To the Committees of Observation of Dorchester and Som- erset Counties. 571 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MATTHEW TILGHMAN. [No. 75.] Annapolis, July 25, 1776. Sir: We are very apprehensive that we should incur the censure of the honourable Continental Congress and of the Islanders who have stock, should we make the order you request. The resolve of Congress is full and explicit, with- outany exception. Should we extend our powers to answer your request, others would expect indulgence, and we know not where the exceptions would stop. Our powers are extensive, but not large enough to control the orders of Congress. Your application may well lie over tll the meet- ing of the Convention, which will be in a short time. We shall take particular notice of your application for an armed boat, and give directions to our armed vessels as soon as they can be got ready. The Defence is going down the bay, and will be a good security against tenders, for the present. Perhaps it would be prudent to sell some of your cattle. If you want a market, our contractor will probably take off some of your superfluous numbers. We are, &c. To the Honourable Matthew Tilghman, Esq. ? MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL BARNES. [No. 76.] Annapolis, July 25, 1776. Sir: Before your letter and papers therein enclosed came to hand, we had received a letter from Major Price, in which Mr. Wolstenholme’s affair was mentioned. ‘The Council of Safety thereupon passed a general order to all the Commit- tees of Observation and military commanders, not to suffer any person whatever to go out of the Province for the pre- sent. A copy of this order was.enclosed to Major Price and your Committee. All intercourse with the Fowey has been heretofore expressly forbidden by the Convention. Besides, times are so much altered since Mr. Wolstenholme’s passport, and the men-of-war have so openly invaded this Province, that we could not discharge our duty without passing such order; at least, we thought so. Mr. Wolstenholme’s case may be attended with particular circumstances; he must, however, submit to the times. We hope both General Dent and yourself, on reflection, will be of opinion that we have done right. ‘The suffering gentlemen to go off on board the men-of-war or tenders, or any other vessel that may have communication with them, is attended with great danger to the Colony. Every means of intelligence must be cut off, if possible. We are, &c. To Colonel Richard Barnes. JOHN ADAMS TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Philadelphia, July 25, 1776. Sir: I find myself under a necessity of applying to the honourable the General Court for leave to return home. I have attended here so long and so constantly, that I feel myself necessitated to ask the favour on account of my health, as well as on many other accounts. I beg leave to propose to the honourable Court an alteration in their plan of delegation in Congress, which, it appears to me, would be more agreeable to the health and convenience of the members, and much more conducive to the publick good, than the present. No gentleman can possibly attend to an inces- sant round of thinking, speaking, and writing, upon the most intricate, as well as important concerns of human society, from one end of the year to another, without trying both his mental and bodily strength. I would therefore humbly propose, that the honourable Court would be pleased to appoint nine members to attend in Congress—three or five at atime. In this case, four or six might be at home at a time, and every member might be relieved once in three or four months. In this way you would always have members in Congress who would have in their minds a complete chain of the proceedings here, as well as in the General Court; both kinds of which knowledge are necessary for a proper conduct here. In this way, the lives and health, and, indeed, the sound minds, of the delegates here, would be in less danger than they are at present, and, in my humble opinion, the publick business would be much better done. This proposal, however, is only submitted to the honourable body, whose sole right it is to judge of it. For myself, 1 must entreat the General Court to give me leave to resign, and immediately to appoint some other gentleman in my room. The consideration of my own health, and circumstances of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 572 my family and private affairs, would have little weight with me, if the sacrifice of these was necessary for the publick ; but it is nots because those parts of the business of Congress for which (if for any) I have my qualifications being now nearly completed, and the business that remains being chiefly military and commercial, of which I know but very little, there are multitudes of gentlemen in the Province much fitter for the publick service here than I am. With great respect to the General Court, I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Apams. To the Deputy Secretary. ROBERT MORRIS TO GENERAL GATES. Philadelphia, July 25, 1776. Dear Sir: I ought to have written you a fortnight ago that Mrs, Gates, with your son Bod, had gone for Virginia, after about two weeks stay with us, during which you had the misfortune to lose a horse. I believe he had been too hard driven, at least Bob thought that was the cause of his death, although the servant would not allow it. Mrs. Gates bought another from Mr. Hancock, for which I am to pay him forty pounds, and shall charge it to your account. Mrs. Gates did not take the money she wanted at home, but is to draw on me for it. I hope you will be able to put our affairs at the Lakes on a more respectable footing than they have ever been since the days of poor Montgomery. Certainly there has been great mismanagement in that department, and I find some people attributing this to a source I never should have sus- pected. Is it possible for a man who writes so well, and expresses such an anxiety for the cause of his country, as General Schuyler does—I say is it possible that he can be sacrificing the interest of that country to his ambition or avarice? I sincerely hope it is not so; but such insinuations are dropped. I beg leave to recommend Major Wood to your patronage ; you'll find him a bold, intrepid officer; and as Lieutenant- Colonel Allen has resigned, I shall push for the Major to have that vacancy. You'll be pleased with Lee’s success at Carolina; the ene- my were mauled greatly, and I.think the repulse disgraces them; consequently reflects great honour on our people. You are no doubt well informed of what passes at New- York ; and as I have full employment for my whole time, I shall only assure you of the esteem and regard with which I am, dear sir, your affectionate, humble servant, Rosert Morris. LANCASTER COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee of Inspection and Obser- vation, held at the house of Adam Rezgart, on the 25th July, 1776: Present: Edward Shippen, William Atlee, William Bowsman, Lodwick Lowman, Jacob Krug, Henry Dehuff, Christopher Crawford, Michael Musser, Eberhart Gruber, Adam Reigart. William Atlee in the chair. John Purick, of the Seventh Regiment, is permitted to work with Basoran Wolf, at the Saltpetre business, he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the resolves of this Committee. A Letter from Colonel Philip Greenwalt, dated the 24th of July instant, mentions that the Ninth Battalion of this County is to march for Trenton, in the Jerseys, next Mon- day; that the men stand in need of Muskets, Cartridge- Boxes, Field-Kettles, Canteens, and other necessary accou- trements, and requests this Committee to Jet him know when to send for them, and how many of each; which Letter being read, the Chairman is desired to inform Colonel Green- walt that the Committee have already distributed the whole of the Muskets and Cartridge-Boxes which can possibly be spared from the guard here, and that there are neither Ket- tles nor Canteens to be had here, nor tin to make them of; and that, were it in our power, we should cheerfully comply with the request. Edward Shippen took the chair, and William Atlee, in behalf of Colonel Atlee, motioned that Colonel Aélee, upon entering into the service, had employed and hired a certain John Hamilton to take care of his farm; that there is no other man about the house or farm than the said John Hamilton; that Mrs. Atlee hath a number of young chil- 573 dren, and, without the assistance of the said hired man, cannot take care of her farm, but the same, with her family, must suffer. Upon consideration, it is the opinion of the Committee, that the said John Hamilton should be permit- ted to stay at home with Colonel Aflee’s family, and take care of his affairs in his absence in the service of his coun- try; and Captain Hare, in whose Company the said John Hamilton is an Associator, and the Colonel and other Field Officers of the Battalion, are requested not to march the said John Hamilton with the troops intended for the Camp, but to permit him, on furlough or otherwise, as he or they shall think most proper, to stay with Colonel Aflee’s family, to take care of his affairs. Mr. Atlee resumed the chair. Col. Thomas Porter, Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Thomp- son, and Major Thomas Smith, of the Fifth Battalion of Associators, in Lancaster County, of Pennsylvania, do now report, that they have formed a Company for the Flying- Camp, to be assembled in the Jerseys, and, with the assent of the Company, have chosen Mr. James Watson as their Captain, Mr. William Steel as their First Lieutenant, Mr. Dorrington Willson as their Second Lieutenant, and Mr. William Nelson as their Ensign, (or, if a Rifle Company, their Third Lieutenant,) and do recommend the said gen- tlemen (who have filled superior stations in the Militia with reputation) to this Committee for their appointment; which report and recommendation being considered, are approved of, and the said Mr. James Watson is appointed Captain, Mr. William Steel is appointed First Lieutenant, Mr. Dor- rington Willson is appoited Second Lieutenant, and Mr. William Nelson is appointed Ensign, (or, if a Rifle Com- pany, Third Lieutenant,) of the said Flying-Camp Com- pany furnished by Colonel Porter’s Battalion of Associators aforesaid, agreeable to the resolves of the Committee of Conference of Pennsylvania, and are to take the charge of the Company accordingly. Colonel James Burd, of the Fourth Battalion of Asso- ciators in Lancaster County, in Pennsylvania, and Cornelius Cox, First Major of the Battalion, do now report, that the First Company of Volunteers of the said Battalion intended to serve in the Flying-Camp to be formed in the Jerseys, agreeable to the resolves of the honourable Conti- nental Congress and resolutions of the Conference of Com- mittees of the said Province, have unanimously chosen Mr. John Reed their Captain, Mr. James Collier their First Lieutenant, Mr. John Gillcreart their Second Lieutenant, and Mr. John Cochran their Ensign; which report being considered, is approved of, and the said Mr. John Reed is appointed Captain, Mr. James Collier is appointed First Lieutenant, Mr. John Gillereat is appointed Second Lieu- tenant, and Mr. John Cochran is appointed Ensign, of the said Flying-Camp Company furnished by Colonel Burd’s Battalion of Associators aforesaid, agreeable to the resolves of the Conference of Committees of Pennsylvania, and are to take charge of the said Company accordingly. Thomas Dickinson, of the Seventh Regiment, is permit- ted to work with Leonard Oaler, Wheelwright, Stephen Lutz here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the resolves of this Committee. Samuel Eaton, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is per- mitted to work with Christopher Petre, Stocking Weaver, he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the resolves of this Committee. Daniel Allen, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is permit- ted to work with Michael Shirdle, Tailor, Mr. Lowman here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the resolves of this Committee. James Vidian, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is per- mitted to work with Casper Eglee, Brewer, he here in Com- mittee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the resolves of this Committee. WILLIAM ATLEE TO THE ASSOCIATORS FROM COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA. In Committee, Lancaster, July 25, 1776. GentLemen: The Committee of Safety of this Province, by their resolve of the 14th July instant, have recommended it to the Committees of Inspection and Observation of the several Counties in the Province to nominate and appoint a proper number of judicious persons residing in the said Coun- LANCASTER CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 574 ties respectively, to distribute to the distressed families of such Associators as are called into actual service and are not of ability to maintain themselves, the allowance which the persons so to be nominated shall judge reasonable, and have empowered the Committees to draw on that Board for the necessary sums of money, to be by them lodged in the hands of the persons so nominated and appointed, to be applied as above directed. It must give great satisfaction to such of the Associators who are called into actual service and leave poor families unable to maintain themselves, to reflect that those families are under the care of good men, who will be attentive to their situation, and make the neces- sary provision for them in their absence ; and we are anxious to have the resolve carried into immediate execution; but as we are at a loss who to appoint, not knowing but the man of our appointment may be the companion of the poor Associator in the camp, and also being desirous that the persons appointed to this duty may be men who are agree- able to the Associators, in whom they can confide, who are known to have leisure to attend to this duty, and goodness of heart to search out and relieve the distressed, we request the favour of you, gentlemen, to send to us the names and places of abode of some good men in the Townships or District from whence your Battalion is drawn, who continue at home, are willing to accept, and will be the most suitable for this service, that we may nominate and appoint them thereto without delay. We are, &c., Wiuuram AtLee, Chairman. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 25, 1776. Str: Enclosed is a Return of the Troops in New-Jersey. There was a very capital error in the Return of yesterday, through the carelessness of my clerk. The position of the enemy continues the same as when I wrote last. I have sent to such of the Counties here as had not completed the levies for the Army at New- York, to give all possible assistance, and forward such men as were inlisted. Such of those troops as have come in my way I have pushed on with all expedition. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, HoMaicce: To General Washington. A General Return of the Troops in New-Jersey, under the command of Brig. Gen. Mercer, July 25th, 1776. - n S N 3 | & A Wes - | § a | § ro REGIMENTS. A 5 piepicech Srleaeter| ae tp RES cen Pe ge Ee ee 2{2)2|/ 2/8) 2| Pl e| § OIAJSl/OlA;Alalal «we Col. Miles’s First Rifle Battalioniecsreseetsess Py) dpi] 6 | 18) - | 24) 6) 409 Col. Miles’s Second Ri- fle Battalion..........+. - fd jd] 6 p17) - | 20) 4)..347 Pennsylvania Musketry..| 1 | 1 | - | 8 | 16) 15} 16) 8] 341 First Battalion Phila- delphia Associators.. 1} 1) 1) 6 | 12) I) 24) 12) 360 Second Battalion Phila- delphia Associators.. Ly iyi] 7 | 16) 14) 31) 15) 400 Third Battalion Phila- delphia Associators.. Lp Bp oF 12) AL) 26) 16)),°310 Fourth Battalion Phila- delphia Associators., 1} 1|.6 | 16) 8) 28) 11) 285 Fifth Battalion Phila- delphia Associators.. sa Lites ©. 180 Colonel Montgomery Chester....... = Ae y} Wea eo pce phonies eas beens Artilleryfrom New-Jer- Ey oe J ch Ble SS baa sey, Six pieces........ Artillery from Philadel- ay re ee sae 50 phia, two pieces....... SUOLA laeataaseeteeds os Brigadier-General Roberdeau. STATIONED. At Newark Perry, rank and file.......+seeseeeeeeeees 122 Artillery at Newark Ferry, 2 pieces, Matrosses........ 20 At Elizabeth-Town and its posts, rank and file......... 500 Artillery at Elizabeth-Town, two pieces, Matrossesis. tiene. cee 90 At Woodbridge and its posts, rank and file... +e+seseeeereeeeeee 577 Artillery at Woodbridge, two pieces, MAtrOBSOS ics co salts sides oc 90 At Amboy and its posts, rank and file.....++. seers eeeee secre ee 1,723 Artillery at Amboy, four pieces, Matrosses.....+s.++eeereeeee 110 Hueu Mercer, Brigadier-General. 575 A General Return of the Forces in the Jerseys, under the command of Brig. Gen. Mercer, July 22, 1776. * Wt 3 2 g = 2 hue Sits tal Medel BS oO BNO eal eeah Salat sity. S BATTALIONS. eta tS le |S | bel & ben) obey SIsielals|a| ml aie] SIASSlAlalaAlaia| 2 1 Battalion Pennsylvania BUREMONs 24/5 e500 J ee oad Se an 2 Battalions of Pennsyl- eos vania eicten et A hea dhe A ee a4 Battalion of Pennsylva-?| 1] 4/4/98 /15/15/15|817 283 nia Musketry........ EBattalion of Pent. Malin) eee ile 1 |e | ee eel rae 380 tia, officers included.... 2 Battalions of Penn. Mili- Cae > [Se aleae i pet erect Be 480 tia, officers included.... 3 Battalions of Penn. Mili- F 9 tia, are itehs ty aa By Res Tae i) 26 ke : ne PL OUAN a eteianiata’ ates 3 | 4 | 4 | 27| 62/26] 75 | 23121} 2,204 Brigadier-General Roberdeau. ARTILLERY. From New-Jersey, 2 companies, 6 pieces of cannon, 120 Matrosses. From Philadelphia, 1 company, 2 pieces of cannon, 50 Matrosses. STATIONS. 2 pieces at Passaick, 2 at Elizabeth Town Point, 2 at the Blazing-Star at Amboy. STATIONS OF THE TROOPS. Ferries of Hackensack and Passaick, 2 Captains and 122 rank and file> Elizabeth-Town Point, officers included..........+. 500 2 Woodbridge, with several advanced posts.......... .600 yy Amboy, with advanced posts......ccsseereescrsecs 882 ee BGRar LANG s.c's cw w'ccs e's cvs scccesscessvevoss 100 i 2,204 Four tons of Powder. Hueu Mercer, Brigadier-General. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE CAMP AT ELIZABETHTOWN, DATED JULY 25, 1776. Yesterday nine of our Riflemen crossed the river in order to harass some Regulars who were throwing up a kind of breastwork on a bridge for their enemies, who kept firing on our men for some time, without doing any execution, till one of the brave fellows went within a few yards of the enemy and desired them to surrender. At that instant he received a ball through his head, which killed him on the spot. ‘The Colonel sent over a flag of truce to the com- manding officer on the Island, desiring leave to bring off his man, which the officer very politely agreed to, and let him take man, rifle, and all his accoutrements. After talk- ing a little, he inquired what news was stirring. On being told: that General Clinton had. been defeated at Carolina, he bore it very well; but on being acquainted that Lord Dun- more had been driven from Gwin’s Island, he looked very much confused. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, 1776.] New-York, July 25, 1776. Sir: Disagreeable as it is to me, and unpleasing as it may be to Congress, to multiply officers, I find myself under the unavoidable necessity of asking an increase of my Aids-de- Camp. ‘The augmentation of my command, the increase of my correspondence, the orders to give, the instructions to draw, cut out more business than I am able to execute in time with propriety. The business of so many different departments centring with me, and by me to be handed on to Congress for their information, added to the intercourse I am obliged to keep up with the adjacent States, and inci- dental occurrences, (all of which require confidential and not hack writers to execute,) renders it impossible, in the present state of things, for my family to discharge the several duties expected of me with that precision and despatch that I could wish. What will it be, then, when we come into a more active scene, and I am called upon from twenty differ- ent places perhaps at the same instant? Congress will do me the justice to believe, I hope, that it is not my inclination or wish to ran the Continent to any unnecessary expense; and those who better know me will not suspect that show and parade can have any influence on my mind in this instance. A conviction of the necessity of it for the regular discharge of the trust reposed in me is the governing motive for the application, and, as such, is submit- ted to Congress by, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, Go. Wasuineron. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 576 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. New-York, July 25, 1776. GenTLEeMEN: Congress having empowered me to appoint suitable places of rendezvous for the battalions raising in your Government for the Northern Army, and to communicate the same to you, also to advance them one month’s pay, &e., as you will perceive by the enclosed copy of their reso- lution which I have the honour to transmit, [ must request the favour of you to direct them to march by companies, as they are raised, to Skenesborough, and there receive orders and instructions for their conduct from the officer command- ing the Northern Army; and also to advance the month’s pay, and take every necessary measure for forwarding their march, and complying with the purport of the said resolve ; assuring you that whatever money may be advanced neces- sarily in carrying the same into execution shall be repaid to your order. Before I conclude I cannot but confess that I do not clearly understand what battalions Congress allude to, and therefore beg leave to refer you to the requisition I presume they made upon the subject. . Iam, with great respect, yours, Go. WasHineTon. To the General Court of Massachusetts-Bay. [Similar Letter sent to Governour Trumbull and the New-Hampshire Convention.] COLONEL REED TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, and referred to the Committee appointed to revise Articles of War.] New-York, July 25, 1776. Sir: The discipline of the Army falling more immediately within the notice of my department will, I hope, sufficiently apologize for recommending Mr. Tudor, the Judge-Advo- cate, to the attention of Congress. The military system of government, though much more complete than at first, is yet extremely defective. ‘The mild- ness of the punishment, even of crimes the most destructive to the Army, such as desertion, burglary, drink, of sleeping on guard, which are capital in all other parts of the world, not to mention mutiny and sedition, which is a growing evil, have rather made such crimes known to others than serve as examples. This Army is composed of a greater mixture than any which has yet. been collected, and I am sorry to say we have too many who would equal, if not exceed, the King’s troops in all kinds of disorder and irregularity. ‘To men of this stamp thirty-nine lashes is so contemptible a punishment that it is very frequent for them, in the hearing of their comrades, to offer to take much more for a pint of rum. Neither ny nature nor education would lead me to unnecessary severity, but I cannot, consistently with the duty and regard I owe the service, avoid giving my clear opinion, that unless some very material alterations in some articles take place, the publick will be greatly defrauded, military duty neglected, and the most dangerous consequences ensue to. the American cause. Since bounties have been introduced, a new species of desertion has appeared, that of leaving one corps to inlist into another, and we have some instances of its being done a second and a third time. I would humbly propose that some additional punishment to that for simple desertion be made. We have a general court-martial sitting every day, by which a Field-Officer and twelve Captains are kept from all other duty, a circumstance, perhaps, which never hap- pened in any army before; and yet crimes, especially deser- tions, increase every day. ‘The punishing desertion capitally I am sensible would only prevent discovery and. detection, and would not meet the genius of the people; but if. the number of lashes was increased, so as not to be less than one hundred, and the offender hable to double fatigue, I hope it would be more effectual. Mr. Tudor will propose several other regulations which appear very proper, and to which I humbly beg leave to solicit the attention of Congress, as a matter of no small im- portance. It would be extremely useful, and I may say necessary, that, should any alterations be made, a new edition of the articles should be published, as we have now many new regiments who cannot procure any, and offenders plead ignorance with great reason. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Jos. Rep. 577 GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 25, 1776. Sir: The challenge I mentioned to your Excellency the other evening I find is given and accepted, and the parties have appointed to-morrow morning to fight. As I am made acquainted with the matter, I beg your Excellency’s direc- tion in what manner I am to conduct myself. This moment Colonel Hand was with me, and acquaints me that I have mistaken his intentions respecting promotions. As he is coming to Head-Quarters, I wish he may explain the matter to your Excellency, and the alteration be made on the return there, or sent back to me, and I will make the necessary alterations here. I apprehend it is necessary to have an order of Congress for the removal of the wheat along New-Utrecht, Graves- end, &c., shore, that if the enemy should land there, they may not have it in their power to do us any injury; for every- thing they destroy or carry off will be a matter of triumph. The wheat is almost fit to thrash, and can be speedily removed out of harm’s way. I should be exceeding glad if your Excellency would visit this post, when at liberty, to see if there are any altera- tions or further regulations necessary. I am, with due respect, your Excellency’s obedient nt pecyan'; Natu. GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. N. B. The challenge mentioned in the forepart of my letter was given by Lieutenant Dunworth (discharged the other day) to Captain Talbut. I did not wish to know anything about it; but it was made known to me, and many of the officers know that I do know it. This perplexes me a little, knowing duelling to be against all law, both civil and military. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 25, 1776. Str: I have just completed a brigade return for the vacancies in the different regiments. My brigade is so dispersed that it is difficult getting returns seasonably. I should have made this return yesterday, but could not get Colonel Hand’s until last evening. The outguards report nothing worthy your Excellency’s notice this morning. I am so confined writing passes, &c., that it is impossible for me to attend to the duties of the day, which, in many instances, prejudices the service. Such a confined situation leaves one no opportunity of viewing things for themselves. It is recommended by one of the greatest Generals of the age, not only to issue orders, but to see to the execution, for the Army being composed of men of indolence, if the com- mander is not attentive to every individual in the different departments the machine becomes dislocated, and the pro- gress of business retarded. The science or art of war requires a freedom of thought and leisure to reflect upon the various incidents that daily occur, which cannot be had where the whole of one’s time is engrossed in clerical employments. The time devoted to this employment is not the only injury I feel, but it confines my thoughts as well as engrosses my time. It is like a merchandise of small wares. I must beg leave to recommend to your Excellency’s consideration the appointing an officer to write and sign the necessary passes. ‘I'he person I should wish to be appointed is Lieutenant Blodget. If it was put in general orders that passes signed by him should be deemed authentick as if signed by me, it would leave me at liberty to pursue the more important employments of my station. I hope your Excellency will not think this application results from a lazy habit, or a desire to free myself from business—far from it; I am never more happy than when I am honourably or usefully employed. If your Excellency thinks I can promote the service as much in this employment as any other, I shall cheerfully execute the business, without the least murmur. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant, Natu, Greene. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. Firtu Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. oT 578 New-York, July 25, 1776. Our troops stationed on Bergen-Point, give the Ministe- rial fleet and army some uneasiness, by firing at the tenders, boats, &c. It so galls and provokes them, that they return the fire with great fury, but have not done the least damage to our people. Last Lord’s day a great many shot were heard in this city and at Bergen-Point. ‘The occasion was this: A barge from the fleet, full of men, landed on the Point, but were opposed and driven off with precipitation by our troops; a smart fire ensued from a tender for a considerable time, without doing any injury. By two deserters, we are in- formed that a Captain and two privates were killed on board their barge. We hear from New-Jersey and Connecticut that a great part of the men being absent on military service, and the time of harvest coming on, the women, assisted by the elderly men, whose age rendered them unfit for the Army, have so effectually exerted themselves, that they have generally got in the harvest completely, the laudable example being set by the ladies of the first character in each place. And we are credibly informed that many of them have declared that they will take the farming business upon themselves, so long as the rights and liberties of their country require the presence of their sons, husbands, and lovers, in the field. GENERAL HEATH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Greenwich, July 25, 1776. May ir PLEASE your Excextiency: The bearer, Lieu- tenant-Colonel Jacobs, of Colonel Bailey’s regiment, com- plains that one Ensign Seth Bryant, belonging to said regiment, and now employed in the works, was yesterday afternoon, by order of my Lord Stirling, put under guard in a common guard-house, where he still remains, on sus- picion of embezzlement. A procedure so extraordinary, constrains me to represent the matter to your Excellency, as your Excellency is sensible that in all service, and in special, by the rules and regulations by which this Army is to be governed, “ whenever any officer or soldier shall commit a crime deserving punishment, he shall, if an officer, be put in arrest; if a non-commissioned officer or soldier, be im- prisoned.” Whether he be guilty or not, I cannot tell; the judgment of a general court-martial is to determine. But as he wears a Continental commission, his being confined under guard must give umbrage to every gentleman who sustains a commission in the Army. I am, with great respect, your Excellency’s most humble servant, W. Hearn. To His Excellency General Washington, present. REPORTS OF GENERAL AND FIELD-OFFICERS. Greenwich, July 25, 1776. In pursuance of the general order of yesterday, directing the Brigadier and the Colonel or Commanding Officer of each Regiment in his Brigade to meet and estimate the quantity of Paper absolutely necessary to serve a Regiment a month, &c., the officers of the First Brigade met this day for that purpose. Present: Brigadier-General Heath, Colonel Prescott, Colonel Read, Lieutenant-Colonel Sheppard, Lieutenant- Colonel Jacobs, Lieutenant-Colonel Wesson. The subject-matter being maturely considered, the officers are of opinion that twelve quires of Paper are absolutely necessary for each Regiment per month, if they are to provide their own books. W. Hearn, Brigadier-General. Quantity of Paper necessary for each Regiment of General Greene's Brigade. For five Morning Reports, to be made by the Corporals, of the state of each Company, one to each officer in the Com- pany, and one to the Adjutant, eight sheets per day. Also a Daily Report of the sick to the Surgeon of the Regiment by the Corporal, and of the absent men, one sheet per day. The Adjutant must every day make a report of the state of the Regiment to the Commanding Officer. The Sergeant of each Company to make a Provision Return every other day to the Quartermaster. The Adjutant to make three Weekly Returns—one to 579 Head-Quarters, one to Brigadier-General, and one to Colonel of Regiment. The Surgeons to make three Weekly Returns—one for Head-Quarters, one to Brigade-General, and one to Colonel of Regiment. He must, moreover, have Paper to dispense medicines and send orders for the reception of the men into the General Hospital. Daily Reports of Guards. Regimental Court-Martials and Orders on the Quarter- master-General’s Store for necessaries for the men. Sheet of Paper per month to each Company to make abstracts, and the like quantity to register them. Paper for Passes on necessary occasions. Reports of Arms and Ammunition necessary to be made by each Company at least twice a week. Paper for necessary correspondence. A ream per month to each Regiment thought sufficient. Narnanaet Greene, Brig. General. J. Varnum, Col. Ninth Regt. Danu. Hircucock, Colonel. Mosgs Lirrie, Colonel. Epwp. Hanp, Col. First Regiment. July 25, 1776. At a meeting of the Brigadier-General and the Officers commanding Regiments in the Second Brigade, according to General Orders of the 24th instant, to estimate the quan- tity of Paper. absolutely necessary for the use of a Regi- ment’s Returns and their publick use one month: Having considered the several uses of Paper in a Regi- ment, and estimated the quantity necessary for the same, are of opinion that ten Quires to a Regiment will be neces- sary, exclusive of sufficient books for orders and printed forms for Weekly Returns. Jos. Spencer, Brigadier-General. Saw H. Parsons, Col. 10th Regt. Jep. Huntineton, Col. 17th Regt. Jona. Warp, Col. 21st Regt. Sawi Wytiys, Col. 22d Regt. Camp, New-York, July 26, 1776. An Estimate of the quantity of Paper necessary to serve the Brigade commanded by General Hearn, for one month: General - - - - - - - - - 1 quire. UF EV el egret iat ieee Me ee? eek: USP GLE yo» Four Colonels, each one quire- - - 4 * Four Adjutants, each one quire - - 4 “ Thirty-two Captains “-"- - - -32 “ 42 quires. Perer Gorvon, B. M. July 26, 1776. On consulting the Field-Officers of my Brigade, they are unanimously of opinion, that if one quire of Paper be allowed per month to each Company, one quire to the Adjutant, one quire to the Commanding Officer of each Regiment per month, it will be a sufficient and proper allowance. Stirtine, Brigadier-General. To His Excellency General Washington. July 25, 1776. An estimate of Paper necessary for the regiment of Artil- lery per month: Twenty quires, or one ream. Henry Knox, Colonel. New-York, July 26, 1776. The Colonels of the several Regiments in my brigade being convened according to orders of the 24th instant, have esti- mated the quantity of Paper necessary to serve a Regiment for Returns, and other publick uses, fora month, at ten quires. James Wapswortu, Brigadier-General. New-York, July 26, 1776. GENERAL MIFFLIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp at Mount Washington, July 25, 1776, eight o’clock, P. M. ; My pear Genera: I have this minute received a letter from Mr. Gerry, at Norwalk, on his way to Boston, with the following paragraph: CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 580 “Twas informed at the White-Plains, by some gentle- men of the Convention, that a person very unfriendly to the American States had authentick information of the intention of the General in providing the chevaux-de-frise ; and that it was appropriated, with the ships, to stop the channel in the North River, and hem in the enemy’s ships.” The movement of the ships this morning down the river confirms Mr. Gerry’s information. Lieutenant Connoly says they came nine miles down this morning. We'keep a good look-out for them, as the wind and tide are favourable to their wishes. When they first appear I will order six alarm guns to be fired at a minute’s interval; and when they come within reach, will keep up as heavy a fire as possible. I am, with attachment, your Excellency’s obedient ser- vant, Tuo. Mirrii. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. COLONEL HAY TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Haverstraw, July 25, 1776. Sir: [have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency’s letter of the 20th instant, with twenty pounds of powder. The approbation you are pleased to express of my conduct, and the regiment under my command, while it affords the most sensible satisfaction, cannot fail to produce a continuance of our exertions, until it is in your Excellen- cy’s power to relieve the inhabitants. My regiment consists of but four hundred men, one-fourth of whom, with eighty men sent me by General Clinton, I find necessary to keep on constant duty. ‘This Precinct has already raised two companies for the Continental service. In the vicinity of the mountains being poor, is thinly inhabited by people of small estates; this, together with the great ex- tent of shore we have to guard, is extremely burdensome to the people, and I suppose is the true reason that has induced Captain Parker to fix his station in Haverstraw Bay. Since the destruction of Halstead’s house, and the robbing the poor man of his hogs by Captain Wallace, nothing of a hostile nature has been attempted. The enemy have collected their force nearly opposite my house, and employ their time in sounding the river. ‘Their having taken down the sand bags from the sides of their ships, spread awnings in all their ves- sels, and neglecting to embrace the many fair winds and tides that have offered, induce me to think that Captain Parker has resolved to confine his operations to the south side of the Highlands, and to make no further progress up the river till the arrival of a reinforcement. As yet they have had no supplies from this shore, nor any addition to their strength except two poor wretches of infamous charac- ter; nor have [ any reason to think that many have resorted to them from the eastern shore, although a bullock was brought from thence, and hoisted, with great shoutings, from a barge into the Rose at the dawn of day on Monday last. My guards have since seen cabbages delivered from a canoe. © If there has been any other communication between the enemy and the County of Westchester, it must have been in the night, for I have observed no increase of the number of boats about the ships or tenders in the daytime. Permit me, sir, to suggest that it would tend greatly to obstruct the designs of the enemy if the shores above and below them were furnished with light whaleboats, to pursue their barges. ‘This would enable us not only to dismiss part of the guards now employed, but also to cut off any supplies, follow them wherever they may attempt to land, and prevent the disaffected from joining them, give greater safety and relief to the peasants, and, upon the whole, be a saving to the publick. I shall, in compliance with your Excellency’s request, give you the earliest information of every material event in this quarter; and am, sir, your most obedient ser- vant, A. Hawkes Hay. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters. P. S. Half after ten o’clock A.M. This moment the ships and tenders came under sail, fair wind and tide, and they are proceeding down the river. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. German-Flats, July 25, 1776. Sir: Iam this day honoured with your obliging favour of the 17th instant, and am happy to learn that we shall 581 soon be supplied with felling-axes. If the helving will not cause much delay, I could wish to have it done, and the axes ground, otherwise to send them on as they are, we being in great need of them. , I am happy that your Honour has so early issued the pro-, clamation concerning the deserters from the Army. I hope it will have a good effect. Before I went last to Crown- Point, 1 gave directions to Lieutenant-Colonel Buell to col- lect all the boards he possibly could for erecting hospitals for the sick at Fort George, and temporary barracks for the troops wherever they might be. He has carried into execu- tion my wishes with that diligence which distinguishes him, and a very considerable quantity of boards are collected. As soon as I found our Army was to retreat from Canada, I caused a saw-mill to be erected at the head of Wood- Creek, that will cut nearly three hundred boards of fourteen feet long in every twenty-four hours. ‘The mill began to work about twelve or fourteen days ago, so that I trust we shall have sufficient shelter for our troops. _ I believe there are not any old gun-barrels or locks left; if there should be, I will order them to be sent to you. The head carpenters will be charged with the money you have advanced, and I will order it to be replaced as soon as the Deputy Paymaster-General has it in his power to do it. I dare say Doctor Ely’s design will not be mistaken. I wrote to General Gates on the sub- ject, and pointed out his errand. I consider his being sent up on such an occasion, as an evidence of his foresight and attention to the good of the common cause. ‘The confer- ence with the Indians is not yet opened, and [I fear it will not be until Monday next. My long absence from the Army distresses me much, as the variety of business carrying forward on the communication, I fear, will get somewhat deranged. But neither my colleagues nor the Indians will permit me to return until the business is completed. I am, with perfect esteem, and every wish for your health and happiness, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHUYLER. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES, German-Flats, July 25, 1776. Dear Stir: Your favour of the 13th instant, I received yesterday, and that of the 17th, this morning. I am per- fectly in sentiment with you on the subject of private sutlers. They are in an Army what tippling-houses are in cities: the receptacle of the abandoned, where mutiny, disorder and every vice takes rise. I shall immediately give orders for purchasing Arnet’s rum; but your order to the Deputy Com- missary-General would have been sufficient. Governour Trumbull, from whom I had a letter this morn- ing, of the 17th instant, advises me that I may soon expect one thousand axes. I hope they are now on the way, with such others as may have been collected by the other people employed in that business before I left Albany. This moment I received the enclosed. If the chain can be spared, I wish you would send it without delay, under the care of a careful officer to attend it to Poughkeepsie. The Indians are not yet convened; and I fear we shall not open the conference until Monday next. I intended to leave the business to my colleagues, but they were both of opinion that if I quitted this place before the treaty was held, that it would essentially prejudice our cause; and the Indians, too, formally addressed me on the occasion. Their delays greatly distress me, as I know I could be of some service In expediting matters. Can you procure no intelli- gence from Canada? Adieu, my dear sir; I am, with best wishes and esteem, your most obedient, humble servant, Px. Scuuyer. To the Hon. General Gates. P.S. If you do not send the chain, please to advise my Secretary, who is at Albany, of it, and direct him to de- spatch a messenger to Messrs. Van Zandt, Lawrence, and Tudor, at Poughkeepsie, to inform them of it. Yours, Xc., P. Scuuyier. GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 25, 1776. Dear Generat: I wrote you early yesterday morning, and delivered the letter to Colonel Wynkoop, who was to ¥* CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 582 have set off for Ticonderoga in the morning, but was obliged to wait for his people, who were gone to Cheshire’s, and did not return till evening, when he received your order to remain here. I have sent carpenters to assist in fixing the gondolas and vessels. I should have returned this morning, but the boats which were sent to Cheshire’s the day before yesterday for the carpenters are not yet returned. It will be necessary for me to stay until they arrive, to give them orders respecting the craft they are to build. I have sent off an express this morning to General Schuyler for sundry articles wanted for the gondolas, and have requested him to send either to Connecticut or to General Washington for two or three hundred seamen, who will be absolutely necessary to man what craft we shall soon have completed. With- out a larger number of seamen than can be found in the Northern Army our navigation will be useless. We have received no advice from below lately. The first company of Militia arrived last evening—others are expected every minute. I am, with esteem and affection, dear General, your obe- dient and humble servant, To the Hon. General Gates. B. Arnoxp. CAPTAIN WYNKOOP TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 25, 1776. Dear Genera.: I have received yours of yesterday, and shall, with a great deal of pleasure, comply with all com- mands in said letter. J shall send you one gondola to- morrow, and the rest I shall forward as fast as possible, and send them down. When I came here on this ground, I found things went very irregular and slow. The carpenters complained to me that if the soldiers went into the woods to help them, they would sit down by the trees instead of working, and when they complained to their officers thereof, found no redress. I have been one day from here, to Cheshire’s saw-mill, where I saw that neither the store nor barracks was set up at that place, and the commanding officer at that post was gone to Albany; and found also that the saw-mill did not go at night, only by day; and no boards sawed. I have now given them the strictest charge to saw continually, for I found they had water plenty. I have employed my officers and men to clear the creek and fetch the boards, and expect this day one hundred and forty boards here from that place, which I will send you down to-morrow. The same day that General Arnold arrived here on this ground, he told me it was General Gates’s positive orders that [ should go down to Ticonderoga and join my regi- ment, which I thought a little strange of. As I had no men at home, (they being all employed in clearing the creek and fetching boards down,) I could not comply with his orders. The greater part of them arriving, I was determined to com- ply with his orders; but receiving your letter this morning, and finding nothing of that nature mentioned, induces me to stay till further orders from your Excellency. What is the reason of General Arnold’s giving such orders to me I know not, except that some of our commanders at this place see that I drive business on faster, as several have complained to General Arnold concerning me. I am, dear General, your Excellency’s humble servant, Cornetius Wynkoop. To Major-General Gates, at Ticonderoga. P. S. Concerning the stores, I found it went very irregu- lar, and have demanded the keys, and have appointed one of my officers to act in that station, as long as the General pleases to continue him therein. Providence, Saturday, July 27, 1776. Thursday last, (25th July, ) at eleven o’clock in the fore- noon, his Honour the Governour, attended by such Members of the Upper and Lower Houses of Assembly as were in town, and a number of the inhabitants, went in procession to the State-House, escorted by the Cadet and Light-Infantry Com- panies, where, at twelve o’clock, was read the Act of Assem- bly concurring with the most honourable General Congress in their Declaration of Independence. 'The Declaration was also read; at the conclusion of which, thirteen volleys were fired by the Cadets and Light-Infantry; the Artillery Com- pany next fired thirteen cannon, and a like number of new 583 cannon (cast at the Hope Furnace) were discharged, at the Great-Bridge; the ships Alfred and Columbus likewise fired thirteen guns each, in honour of the day. At two o’clock his Honour the Governour, attended and escorted as above, proceeded to Hacker’ s-Hall, where an elegant entertainment was provided on the occasion. After dinner the following toasts were drunk, viz: 1. The'Thirteen Free and Independent States of America. 2. The most Honourable the General Congress. 3. The Army and Navy of the United States. 4. The State of Rhode-Island and Providence Planta- tions. 5. The Commerce of the United States. 6. Liberty to those who have spirit to assert it. 7. The friends of the United States in every part of the earth. 8. General Washington. 9. The Officers of the American Army and Navy. 10. May the Crowns of Tyrants be crowns of thorns. 11. The memory of the brave Officers and Men who have fallen in defence of American Liberty. 12. May the Constitution of each separate State have for its object the preservation of the civil and religious rights of mankind. 13. May the Union of the States be established in justice and mutual confidence, and be as permanent as the pillars of nature. The Artillery Company, and a number of other gentlemen> dined the same day at Lindsey’s Tavern, when the following toasts were drunk: . The Free and Independent States of America. . The General Congress of the American States. . The Honourable John Hancock, Esq. . His Excellency General Washington. . His Excellency General Lee. . The brave Carolineans. . Success to General Gates and the Northern Army. . May the subtilty of the American Standard destroy the ferocity of the Britesh Lion. 9. The State of Rhode-Island and Providence Planta- tions. 10. The Honourable Governour Cooke. 11. May the Independent States of America for ever be an asylum for Liberty. 12. The American Army and Navy. 13. The Providence Independent Companies. DBDHAAUNEBWWR The whole was conducted with great order and decency, and the Declaration received with every mark of applause. Towards evening the King of Great Britain’s Coat of Arms was taken from a late publick office, as was also the sign from the Crown Coffee-House, and burnt. MAJOR MEIGS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Middletown, July 25, 1776. Sir: [arrived here the 22d instant, after a tedious passage of sixty-six days from Quebeck, on my parole of honour to return when called for, a copy of which, together with my pass from General Carleton, are enclosed, (the original is in the hands of General Howe.) I am to represent to your Excellency the situation of the unfortunate detachment that were made prisoners on the 31st December last. ‘The number now in Quebeck is about three hundred, including officers. ‘The officers were confined in the Seminary. ‘The soldiers were confined in the Jesuits’ College, and were served with the same rations that were served to the garrison after the siege was raised. The officers had liberty to walk in a large garden that is adjoining the Seminary. The officers and privates are in great want of money, as they cannot procure clothing without it, of which they are in great want; the officers are now considerably in debt for necessaries, exclusive of the garrison allowance. Generals Carleton and Howe have given their word for the protection of any private gentleman that may be sent with money, but will not admit that an officer of the Army be sent. The prisoners bear their confinement with becoming fortitude, but are anxious for an exchange of prisoners, if it can be obtained consistently with the interest of their country. I am informed that Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, of the Highlanders, applied to General Howe for a cartel, and that Major French and others are anxious for an exchange. In CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 584 February last, the officers prisoners at Quebeck petitioned General Carleton for an exchange of prisoners, provided our country should approve of it. The General received the petition, read it, and told the officer that presented it, that he would consider of it; but returned no other answer. I intended to have waited on your Excellency myself, but was advised by the gentlemen in Hartford and this town not to do it without your Excellency’s advice, as it would be undoubtedly known to General Howe, and perhaps even represented that I had joined the Army, or was giving intelligence, for which he might immediately demand me. When I gave my parole to General Carleton, he told me Major Skene,son to Governour Skene, had arrived at Quebeck two days before, and that he should not employ him till he had the advice of the King of England. I have sent by the bearer a number of unsealed letters, which I brought from the prisoners at Quebeck. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Return Jona. Metas. To His Excellency General Washington, Commander-in- Chief of the Forces of the American States. JAMES BOWDOIN TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Boston, July 25, 1776. May ir PLease your Honours: Last Monday the Militia of this town were called into the field to draught the town’s proportion of the last’ ordered levies. After much uneasi- ness, between thirty and forty men, I understand, were inlist- ed, ona promise of extravagant bounties. Some demanded, and I am told were promised, one hundred dollars over and above the Government bounty. When the resolve for raising these last levies was under consideration of the honourable Board, it was said by several gentlemen, and it appeared to be the sense of the Board, that the men which Boston would have to furnish would not be called for to go either to New-York or Canada, as the draught of every twenty-fifth man from the whole Militia of the Colony would produce a much greater number than fifteen hundred, the number wanted, and that the overplus would be ordered to Boston and its neighbourhood. And after the receipt of General Washington’s order for all the Continental regiments stationed there to proceed to New- York, it was said at Council that it would be proper that the said overplus should be ordered to Nantasket, the Castle, and Dorchester, together with a further number, to replace those regiments. If this were the case, and your Honours con- tinue of the same mind, I beg leave to submit to your consideration whether it would not be proper that the men inlisted in Boston should be ordered here, for the defence of the town, or that your Honours should signify that the said men will not be ordered to New-York or Canada; in which case the payment of the said most extravagant bounties may be stopped, and the town, already almost ruined, in some measure relieved. If your Honours think proper to do anything in this mat- ter, the relief will depend on its being done immediately; and in that case, I beg leave to suggest whether it would not be proper that one or two of your honourable members should be desired to come to Boston, without delay, to com- municate your pleasure. Enclosed is a letter from the Honourable Mr. Sever, just received. It will be brought by Captain Samson, the com- mander of the Colony’s ship of war, who says the quantity of powder allowed him is too short; I believe it would be proper to enlarge it at least five hundred pounds. There is an account to the eastward that some of the ene- my’s small vessels are cruising on that shore, and have taken a number of our coasters. I submit it to your consideration whether Captain Samson should not be ordered to cruise on that shore for some time, and then proceed where it is most likely he may pick up some of their West-Indiamen; and that he be directed to Boston by the middle of Septem- ber, in order to proceed, with other of our vessels of war, to Newfoundland, to sweep the whole British fishery; and, in the meanwhile, our other armed vessels be ordered to be at Boston at that time. All which is submitted with great respect, by your Hon- ours’ most obedient, humble servant, James Bownou. To the Hon. Council of the State of Massachusetts-Bay. 585 JAMES BOWDOIN TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Boston, July 25, 1776. Honovraste Gentirmen: The enclosed petition, from Winslow, came to hand the last evening. The most effectual means of securing the eastern part of the Colony from an inland attack, and quieting the minds of the people settled there, I humbly apprehend, is, to engage the St. John’s, Mick- mack, Penobscot, and other eastern Indians, to engage heartily in the war, agreeably to General Washington’s request. For this purpose I beg leave to suggest to your Honours, whether it would not be proper that three or four, or more, suitable persons be engaged to go immediately into the Indian coun- try, along with the Indians that are now there, and inlist them, into the service without delay. I cannot but apprehend such a measure would be attended with success, and that General Washington, in that case, would in a short time have a con- siderable body of them; which would answer the double purpose of assisting him and securing our eastern frontiers, which otherwise may be in great danger of being broken up by these same Indians. I am, most respectfully, your Honours’ most obedient, humble servant, James Bowpo1n. To the Honourable Council of Massachusetts- Bay. J. PALMER TO RICHARD DEVENS. Germantown, July 25, 1776. Dear Sir: Mr. Bates has finished six pieces, and would have finished the other four, had he had iron. He mentions to me your sending one ton of the largest iron for the four mentioned, and for the six large ones which are to be done, and says he should be glad to have the wheels for the first ten pieces. He also says he shall want cash as soon as the other ten are finished, in order to keep up the spirit for doing the others. Perhaps when you send him the iron and the wheels, the same vessel may take the six pieces from thence for Hill. Pray my compliments to the Committee. I hope this will find them well. I very much want to see them at Hull, to which place I was just setting out. And remain ever, your very humble servant, J. Paumer. To Richard Devens, Esq., Commissary-General, Boston. P. S. Please send me news, or the papers; for news is so refined when it reaches Hull that we don’t understand it. The Committee want paper at Hull; J. P.has expended all his own, or nearly all. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO DEACON NEWELL. July 25, 1776. Sir: The Council have this minute received information that Colonel Reed’s regiment, in the County of Middlesea, are now delayed from marching towards Canada solely for want of camp-kettles, which were to have been delivered at Concord some time since. You will be pleased to inform the bearer whether those kettles are gone forward to Concord or not; if not, whether it is in your power to send them for- ward immediately; if that should not be the case, you will direct the bearer to Dr. Carling, or any other person whose province it is to order those matters, that the kettles may be sent forward with all possible despatch. I need not urge the necessity of sending this article immediately, as the soldiers are now lying on the road. By order of Council : Jno. Avery, D. Secretary. To Deacon Timothy Newell. GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Boston, July 25, 1776. Sir: Herewith is enclosed Returns of the Stores in this division of the Continental Army. I shall immediately send to the Agents to furnish those articles mentioned in Mr. Webb’s letter of the 18th instant, and shall comply as far as is in my power with all your directions therein. As soon as the regiments are able to march, I shall give orders therefor, and immediately retire. Jam, your Excellency’s obedient and very humble servant, Artemas Warp. To General Washington. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 586 A Return of Ordnance Stores. Round Shot: 1-pounders 11,400, 2-pounders 340, 3-pounders 800, 6-pounders 4,100, 9-pounders 460, 12-pounders 2,800, 18-pounders 480, 24-pounders 2,030, 32-pounders 62. oxes of Round Shot, with wood bottoms: 3-pounders 1, 6-pounders 24, 12-pounders 17, 24-pounders 3. Boxes of Case-Shot, with wood bottoms: 2!-pounders 1, 6-pounders 9, 12-pounders 30, 18-pounders 3, 24-pounders 15; 54-inch howitzer 4, 8-inch howitzer 1. Caps and Cylinders: 6-pounders 800, 12-pounders 2,200. Empty Cartridges: flannel, 6-pounders 1,600, paper,12-pounders 3,000, hand-grenadoes 720. Shells: 54-inch 510, 8-inch 200, 10-inch 795, 13-inch 167. Mortar Beds: 8-inch 2, 10-inch 2. Barrels of powder 856, barrels of brimstone 2, barrels of turpentine 2. Weight of musket balls 9 tons 6 ct., buck-shot 10 ct., junk 13 ct., chalk 140 lbs., thread 70 lbs., twine 12lbs., sheet lead 5ct., slowmatch 150 lbs. Carcasses: 8-inch oblong 35, 10-inch round 11, 13-inch round 37. Drums: serviceable 29, unserviceable 15; Fifes 18. Musket cartridges of all sorts 37,700, cartouch boxes 351, hand-bel- lows, double blast, 1 pair, budge barrels 5, pincers 2 pair, funnels 6, hammers 2, park pickets 2. Flints: Musket 11,000, carbine 2,500, wallpiece 250. Reams of Cartridge Paper: Cannon 36, musket 28. Barrows: Hand 8, wheel 31. Lanterns: Muscovy 5, dark 2, common 6. Harness: sets of men’s 60. Horse: saddles 68, bridles 40, collars 82, harness 22. Tanned hides 4, copper ladles, without staves, 6-pounders, 4. Spare Spunge and Ram Heads: 6-pounders 16, 24-pounders 1. Jars of Oil: Sweet 3, train 13. Coils of White Rope: 14-inch 2, 2-inch 1, 34-inch 1, 44-inch 1. Casks of Spikes: 7-inch 9, 8-inch 2. Melting ladles 5, casks of streak nails 3, sheep skins 40, brass scales and weights 1 pair, handspikes 30, camp-kettles, with fryingpan covers, 66, 6 dozen of fuses fixed, 50 dozen of tubes fixed, bottoms of wood for 13-inch mortars 90, watch-coats 12, hand-screws 2 pair, powder- horns 2,890, boxes of grape-shot 16, shot-bags 1,430, unserviceable fire- arms 614, gun-locks 54, yards of bunting 35, sand-bags 500, priming- wires and brushes 3,500, fuse compound 2 boxes, 5 small coils of com- mon cordage, scaling-ladders 19, spare travelling carriages for 12-pound- ers 4, sets of iron carriage-wheels 30, cod lines 32. Ordnance Store, Boston, July 22, 1776. Per Natuanten Barser, Jun., Deputy Commissary of Artillery. N. B. Included in the above Return: At Roxbury: Powder 500 bbls.; shells, 13-inch 92, 10-inch 43, 8-inch 19. At Cambridge: Powder 232 bbls.; shells, 13-inch 75, 10-inch 371, 8-inch 181, 53-inch 610. Errors excepted. A Return of Ordnance Stores, made to His Excellency the Commander-in- Chief, July 22, 1776. Round Shot, with wooden bottoms: 6-pounders 1,792, 12-pounders 720, 24-pounders 136. Round Shot, without bottoms: 3-pounders 416, 6-pounders 720, 9-pounders 680, 12-pounders 2,275, 18-pounders 600, 24-pounders 1,130, 32-pounders 1,884. With Flannel Cartridges filled: 6-pounders 64. Case Shot, with wooden bottoms: 12-pounders 348, 24-pounders 71. Case Shot, with Flannel Cartridges filled: 3-pounders 721, 6-pounders 890, 9-pounders 150, 12-pounders 82, 24-pounders 40, for 8-inch howit- zers 21, 53-inch howitzers 58. Carcasses: 13-inch 31, 10-inch 14, 8-inch 63. Grape Shot: 32-pounders 82. Double-headed Shot, (bar and sliding:) 18-pounders 49, 24-pounders 21, 32-pounders 261. Paper Cartridges, filled: 3-pounders 416, 6-pounders 104, 9-pounders 132, 12-pounders 115, 18-pounders 328, 24-pounders 23, 32-pounders 555. Paper Cartridges, empty: 3-pounders 2,000, 6-pounders 5,000, 9-pound- ers 800, 12-pounders 12,000, 18-pounders 300, 24-pounders 6,010, 32-pounders 450. Flannel Cartridges, empty, (light and heavy:) '6-pounders 2,400, 12-pounders 2,100, 24-pounders 1,450. Caps and Cylinders: 6-pounders 1,220, 12-pounders 3,660, 24-pounders 1,900. Reams of Cartridge Paper: musket 52, cannon 10. Fixed Fuses: 4 2-5-inch 3,000, 8-inch 188, 13-inch 59. Empty Fuses: 13-inch 75, 8-inch 2,000, 53-inch 2,000. Spunges, with Rammer Heads: 3-pounders 19, 6-pounders 36, 12-pounders 5, 18-pounders 2, 24-pounders 3, 32-pounders 3. Wad Hooks: 3-pounders 13, 4-pounders 4, 6-pounders 7, 32-pound- ers 3. Copper Ladles: 3-pounders 9, 4-pounders 25, 6-pounders 43, 9-pound- ers 10, 12-pounders 16, 18-pounders 12, 24-pounders 1, 32-pounders 12. Shells: Hand-grenades 260, 43-inch 23,000, 53-inch 2,200, 8-inch 1,900, 10-inch 300, 13-inch 27. t Spikes for laying Platforms: 7-inch 1,800, 8-inch 5,500. Sets of Harness: Men’s 100, horse 60. k 2,800 powder-horns, 16 haversacks for Artillery, 14 sets of drag- ropes, 213 handspikes, 3 sets of gin-blocks, 28 portfire-stocks, 85 lin- stocks, 3 matchlocks, 50 dozen of port-fires, 76 cannon priming-irons, 45 sheep-skins for spunges, 3 budge-barrels. Tin Tubes: Fixed 3,000. Pincers: For drawing tubes 48; 14 hammers. Weicht of slow match 23 ct., sulphur 50 lbs., saltpetre 90 lbs., musket- ball 3,700 lbs., buck-shot 300 lbs., thread 12 lbs., twine 63 lbs., lead 23ct., rosin 2 ct. 30,000 flints, 114,000° musket-cartridges, 15,000 musket primingwires and brushes, 5 tanned hides, 3 handscrews, 55 wooden cases for cannon cartridges. Sand Bags: bushel, 5,000, half bushel, 5,000. Oil: sweet 15 gallons, Spermaceti 15 gallons. Lanterns: Muscovy 2, horn 2. 20,000 spunge tacks, 500 copper nails. i Fire-Arms: Carbines 74, rifles 150, unserviceable 720. 387 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. Spunges, with Rammer Heads: For swivels 18, cohorns 24, howit- zers Q7. Barrels of Powder: mealed 2:, grained 53. Spirits of Wine 9 gallons. Errors excepted. New-York, July 22, 1776, Ezex. Currver, Com. Artillery. A Return of Stock and Tools, belonging to the Continent, in the possession of Tuomas Cuasn, Assistant Quarter- master at Boston, July 25, 1776. Snow Shoes, 450 pairs. Snow Shovels, 1,778. Handbarrows, 228. Wheelbarrows, 205. Pickaxes, 678. Tron-shod Shovels, 312. Iron Spades, 125. Broadaxes, 42. Felling-axes, 6 casks and 24. Common Axes, 64. 5-inch Spikes, 2 casks and 800. 6-inch Spikes, 2 casks. 7-inch Spikes, 1 cask and 300. 8 and 83-inch Spikes, 1 cask. Hambre Lines, 19 double. Iron Pots and Kettles, 60. 4 Wooden Plates, 300. Wooden Bowls, 50. Wooden Pails, 200. Grindstones and Troughs, 17. Smiths’ Hammers, 1 cask and 33. Anvils, 10. ' Smiths’ Bellows, 19 pair. Tron Mandril, 1. Nail Stakes, 11. Drill Stock, 1. Beams and Weights, 2. Forge Tongs, 51 pair. Screw-plates, 3. Nail Tools, 18. Bolt Sweges, 3 sets. Firmers, 1 dozen. Gouges, 1 dozen. A quantity of old tools of different sorts. 4-penny Nails, 18,000. 10-penny Nails, 92,000. 20-penny Nails, 11,000. 24-penny Nails, 5 casks. Carpenter’s Tools, 3 chests. Hand-saws, 78. Tenon-saws, 5. Compass-saws, 6. Files, different sorts, 7 dozen. Turning Lathe and Tools, 1. Bar Iron, 8 tons 1 ewt. 10 lbs. Old Iron, 1 ton 12 ewt. Nail Rods, 1 ewt. 2 qrs. 14 lbs. Sea Coal, 38 chaldrons. Fire-wood, 700 cords. Writing-paper, 120 reams. Shot-bags, 1,500. Steel, 270 lbs. Vices, 4. Beek Irons, 4. Boards, 21,000 feet. Oak Plank, 5,500 feet. Ranging Timber, 2,540 feet. Wheel Timber for 10 pair Wheels. Garrison Carriage Wheels, 2 pairs. Axletrees, 39. White-oak Logs for hubs, 16. Spokes, 130 dozen. Travelling Carriages, stuff for four 18-pounders. Ash Timber, 34 feet. Clapboards, 700. Refuse Shingles, 20,000. Horses, 7. Oxen, 3 yoke. Whale-boats fit for use, 40. FJat-bottomed Boats, 30.) Long and Mosses Boats, 6. Tents, 125. Hammocks, 22. Ticklenburgh, 150 yards. Twine, 50 Ibs. 25-inch Rope, 60 lbs. Old Canvass, 50 yards. Dog-fish Skins, 5. Large Iron Grates, 16. Jars of Olive Oil, containing 40 or 50 gallons the two, 2. Old Chain, 1. Camp at Boston, July 25, 1776. Errors excepted. Tuos. Cuase, Assistant Quartermaster. JOSEPH NYE, JUN., TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Sandwich, July 25, 1776. May rr piease your Honours: Being appointed one of the Committee for this Colony for raising every twenty- fifth man for the Canada department, I have applied myself to the service with success, but cannot find by the resolve that they are to be marched from home without further orders from your Honours. I beg to have your direction by the bearer, Colonel Norton; and remain your most obedient humble servant, Jos. Nye, Jun. Boston, Thursday, July 25, 1776. Last Sunday, a ship of two hundred tons, commanded by James Arnout, was sent into this harbour by Commodore Hopkins, in the George ship-of-war, taken in Nantasket- Road. She has on board sixteen hundred barrels of pork, four hundred firkins of butter, some oat-meal, &c., &c. Last Tuesday evening, came to town from Halifax Lieu- tenant Scott, of Peterborough, in New-Hampshire Govern- ment, who was wounded and taken prisoner at the memorable battle of Bunker-ill, the 17th of June, 1775, and has been a prisoner ever since. He informs, that he, with thirteen others, broke jail about five weeks ago, and betook them- selves to the woods, where they separated; that Captain Martindale and his First and Second Lieutenants, John Brown, rifleman, Leonard Briggs, of Ware, and himself, arrived at Truro, at the head of Cobbecut-River, after a travel of three days, where they procured a boat, and got to the eastward; that Richard Carpenter, formerly a barber in this town, Philip Johnson Peack, David Kemp, of Groton, and Corporal Cruse, of Virginia, and two others, took the road to Windsor, where they were apprehended, and con- fined in irons; that Benjamin Wilson, of Billerica, one of the Bunker-Hill prisoners, died lately in jail; and that he left Master James Lovell, still confined, in health and high spirits. 588 CONVENTION OF COMMITTEES OF HAMPSHIRE COUNTY, MASSA- CHUSETTS. Extracts of the doings of a Convention of the Committees of the Towns in the County of Hampshire, and State of the Massachusetts-Bay, held at the Court-House, in North- ampton, on Thursday and Friday, July 25 and 26, 1776. Present: Eighty-eight Delegates from forty 'Towns. Colonel John Bliss President, and Mr. Robert Breck Clerk. Resolved, That all persons that shall be convicted of being notoriously inimical to the cause of American Liberty, be disarmed as soon as may be, and that such as are more dangerous among them, be confined to the Town to which they belong, or to their farms, or kept in safe custody, or bound with sufficient sureties, as shall appear necessary; and as confederacies are judged to be formed and forming in many parts of the country, and may be strengthened, and other great inconveniences may ensue from such persons (who are inimical as aforesaid) collecting together in com- panies, that they be restrained from all such Meetings and Conventions, as also from holding any intercourse or corre- spondence with those sent into the County as prisoners. It is recommended to the Committee of Safety of the several ‘Towns in the County aforesaid, that such persons as are prisoners and privates in their respective ‘Towns, who have hired themselves out for their support, be not permitted to go out of the limits of such Town, till the time of their contract be fulfilled, nor be out of their respective places of abode after daylight, unless by special order of their master, nor after nine o’clock with his consent; that they be not suffered to dwell with any person who shall be judged inimi- cal to the American States; and that all such persons as shall hire such privates be strictly enjoined to return such privates to the Committee of such Town from whence they were taken at the time of their discharge; and that special care be taken that such prisoners as are on their parole strictly conform to, and abide within the limits of, such parole, otherwise they ought to be closely confined. Also, that such prisoners as are on parole be so situated as that their limits shall not extend to any Town where officers or privates are confined, and that no privates be suffered to dwell in any ‘Town where officers or others on parole are stationed. It is recommended to the Selectmen of the several ‘Towns in the County aforesaid, that may be defective, that they do, as soon as may be, procure the several proportions of a ‘Town stock of powder; also, a sufficient quantity of fire-arms for such poor persons as are not able to equip themselves, agree- able to the resolve of the great and General Court of this State. It is further recommended to the Committees of the several Towns in the County aforesaid, to use their utmost care in apprehending and securing all deserters from our Army, and cause that they be returned to their respective corps; also, that they request their several Towns that they instruct their Representatives to procure an order from the General Court of this State, that all persons travelling through the same should have passes, denoting their friendliness to the Ame- rican States, and make provision for suspected persons being taken up, examined, &c. Resolved, also, That it be earnestly recommended to all the good people of this County in general, and the Commit- tees of the several ‘Towns in particular, that they use their utmost influence and endeavours to discountenance and sup- press all mobs, riots, and tumultuous proceedings, and the seizing and detaining the person and property of any indi- vidual contrary to a late resolve of the Continental Con- gress; and that any person who has been, or may be, so seized, be immediately dismissed, and the property of any one so seized and detained, be immediately replaced. Voted, That Major Hawley, Mr. Robert Breck, and Dr. Levi Shephard, be a Committee to make the foregoing ex- tracts from the proceedings of the Convention aforesaid, and transmit the same to Mr. Ebenezer Watson, Printer, in Hart- ford, for publication, as soon as may be. ss London, July 26, 1776. Captain Williamson, of the Francis, arrived in London, from Antigua, and brings an account, viz: that a few days after he was on this side the Bermuda Islands, the following ships were taken by the Revenge and Montgomery, two small American privateers, viz: the brig Henry, Blyth, from 589 Barbadoes to Halifax, taken the 28th of May, laden with rum; the Rover, Hunter, from Antigua to Dublin, taken the 13th of June, laden with rum; the Isabella, Kirk, from Antigua to Dublin, taken the 13th of June, loaded with rum; the Harlequin, Goodwin, from Nevis to Dublin, taken the 2d of July, loaded with sugar and rum; the Devonshire, Fisher, from Antigua to Dublin, taken the Ist of July, loaded with sugar and rum, in latitude 34° 55/, longitude 53° 36/. Fifty per cent. insurance was offered on some of the above ships; and insurance, with convoy, rose near thirty per cent. as Captain Stephenson, of the Lady Juliana, arrived in town this day, and gives the following account of the capture of his ship, the Lady Juliana, from Jamaica to London, in com- pany with the Reynolds, Captain Rusden, from Jamaica for London, and the Juno, Captain Marsden, from Jamaica for Bristol: On the 9th and 12th of May last, they were attacked by two American privateers off the Matanzas, bearing $.S.E., and that the Reynolds, Rusden, was taken by the American privateer , Captain Henry, mounting six three-pounders, and ten swivels, on the 9th of May; and Lady Juhana, Stephenson, and Juno, Marsden, were taken by the Chance, Captain Adams, who mounted four six- pounders and ten swivels, the 12th; that the Provincials put the Captains and passengers on board a Spanish vessel that was leaky, who carried them into Providence, where the Captains purchased a vessel, called the Baltimore, which is since arrived at Plymouth. The nine ships above mentioned were all taken with the greatest ease, after they had been convoyed one hundred and fifty leagues from the ports they respectively sailed from, and left by the men-of-war, under a supposition that they were totally out of danger. ‘The privateers which took them were but thinly manned, and weakly armed. Qne carried ten, and the other twelve guns. Several of the ships carried a great number, but (which is very extraordis nary) no powder on board, the Governours of the places they sailed from not allowing any to be shipped, for fear enough should not remain with them to defend their situa- tions in case of an attack, which was something more than probable. The Lady Juliana, Captain Stephenson, had six hundred hogsheads of sugar and thirty thousand hard dollars on*board, besides other negotiable and marketable articles. Her cargo, therefore, exclusive of the dollars, at a moderate computation, was worth twenty-five thousand pounds. She was boarded by Captain White, an old acquaintance of Captain Stephenson, who cordially shook hands with his captor when he set foot on deck, little thinking he was an enemy. Whate, out of civility and respect for old acquaint- anceship, promised to send Stephenson safe to England, at the same time told him, that he was ordered by the Congress to carry every prize he took to Rhode-Island, and that the other privateer was to carry hers to Salem, in New-Eng- land. 'The ship Francis, on board which Stephenson came to England, was suffered to sail home, as the Captains of the Provincial privateers did not think her valuable enough to be seized. ‘The amount of the cargoes of the above prizes, we are informed, upon the best authority, is upwards of £140,000 sterling. SILAS DEANE TO C. W. F. DUMAS. Paris, July 26, 1776. Sir: The enclosed letter from Dr. Franklin will hint at my business in this city, where I arrived the 7th instant, and should have sent forward this earlier, had I not hopes of the honour of presenting it to you in person. This I now find I cannot expect without delaying it beyond all bounds. I therefore forward it by the common conveyance, and inform you that my address in this city is to Messrs. Germany, Guardot & Co., bankers; that I shall tarry here till the last of August, when I propose going to Dunkirk, thence to Amsterdam and Hamburgh, in which journey I hope for the pleasure of seeing you. In the mean time, I shall be happy in a correspondence with you on the subject of the dispute between the Uneted Colonies and Great Britain, or any other that shall be agreeable to you; and I wish to be in- formed if I shall be in danger of any disagreeable treatment in my journey through Holland, ina private capacity, though it should be known that I was in the service of the United Colonies. It has been suggested to me that I might meet CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 590 with some interruption or difficulties from the friends of the British Ministry, which occasions my making this inquiry. I have the honour to be, &e., Sizas Deane. P.S. I read and understand the French language tolerably well, though I am unable to write it. CAPTAIN MERONEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fredericktown, July 26, 1776. Gentiemen: I have exerted myself endeavouring to fur- nish my company with guns and blankets, but find it imprac- ticable without money. I applied to Mr. Harrison, and could receive but seventy pounds, insufficient to furnish one- tenth. Mr. Harding, the bearer, is a gentleman, and may be trusted with any sum. ‘Three hundred and fifty pounds is the sum I want to receive by the bearer. I am, gentlemen, with respect, your obedient servant, Puitie Meroney. To the Council of Safety of Maryland. GentLEeMEN: I am of opinion that a less sum than is mentioned in the above letter will not furnish the above company with arms and blankets. C. Bearry. To the Council of Safety. MAJOR PRICE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Upper Camp, Prince George’s, July 26, 1776. GentLemeN: If you expect frequent intelligence from this place, you must send down for it, it being impossible to get horses here. I have been under the necessity of sending home all the Militia except fifty, and it was with much difficulty I could keep them. Indeed, their distress seems to be very great, for most of them are poor people whose crops are suffering, and many have not any dependance but their labour. I received an express from General Lewis last night. ‘The following is a copy of my answer to him, which will give you as true a state of matters here as possible. I found it absolutely necessary to keep the wagon and horses brought from Annapolis, not knowing what hour it might be necessary to remove the cannon, and also to draw them back, for it will not be possible to get any here. How- ever, if you think it best, and will send me directions, I shall act accordingly. Iam, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Tuos. Price. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. MAJOR PRICE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. George’s Camp, July 26, 1776. Sir: The enemy come on St. George’s Island in the day time to get water and wood, and in the evening retire on board their ships. ‘They have no manner of fortifications on the Island. The fleet lies from the northeast side of St. George’s River about a mile, the depth of water, as I imagine, about three fathom. The Island lies from the main land about a hundred yards. ‘The water, at low tide, about knee-deep, where we threw up a small intrenchment. ‘There are three pieces of cannon on Cherryfield Point, (about a mile from the Fowey,) one a nine-pounder, one a four, the other three. I have another on the northwest side of the river, (the nar- rowest water between the land and main,) a four-pounder. I have about four hundred men (half of whom are well armed, the other half poorly) placed on each side of St. George’s River. I have good reason to think, with the force I have, I can prevent the enemy’s landing or plundering the inhabitants. I yesterday morning sent one hundred on the Island about half after two o’clock. ‘They marched silently through the Island till day appeared, and then lay hid ull they came from the ships to water. The advance party being rather eager, was too soon discovered, and the whole enemy ran to their boats, my people then pursuing them with all speed, and firing on them as they were getting into their boats, when our people say they killed three or four, that they saw fall, and several wounded, and one taken prisoner. The Fowey then fired on them, and compelled them to retire. After destroying their water-casks and filling up a well, (the best on the Island, for they have no springs,) 591 they returned to the main without loss. By the best advice I can get from the prisoners and many deserters, the whole fleet does not intend to stay here longer than those up the Potomack come down, which they expect every day. Cap- tain Beall, who was wounded in the first engagement, is recovering fast. Iam, &c., Tuos. Price. N. B. I yesterday sent under a small guard a prisoner to Annapolis, taken yesterday, and three deserters, one of them an officer of Dunmore’s, who made his escape with an old man who is very sick and not able to travel. I believe they are well pleased they have made their escape. One of them went from Annapolis, who says Caton was privy to his and others going on board the Fowey while she lay there. Please to pay this express. B. HOOE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Chingoteague, July 26, 1776. Gentriemen: I did myself the honour of writing you on the 19th instant by Mr. Crockett. Some days after that time, I purchased about one hundred hogsheads of tobacco, sixty of which I have actually received, and since making the purchase the whole of the flour has arrived. I have examined a good deal of it, and find it is in such a state as will not admit of its being stored any length of time in ex- pectation of a sale. 1 shall, therefore, endeavour to sell or ship it without delay. If I cannot do better, 1 must have the schooner John examined and valued and send her off with it, for it will soon perish here, and there is a good chance of selling it very high if it can be expeditiously pushed to mar- ket. The brig will sail in twelve days, by which time Cap- tain Martin has engaged to return. If he does not, I must send her without him, as it is not in my power to attend here longer. The two chests of arms and nine bales of sailcloth the Captain has delivered since the Committee of Worcester wrote you of the deficiency. ‘The powder yet remains, twelve whole barrels of shot, four and a half barrels of which he says was put on board for the vessel’s use. Captain Martin appears very anxious to be commissioned. Of this I can say nothing, as he is a stranger to me, except that ‘the men enter and act more cheerfully where they have a chance of sharing a prize ; but how proper it may be to grant commissions to vessels carrying cargoes must be submitted to you. I have the honour to be, your Honours’ most obedient servant, B. Hook. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. CAPTAIN DARNES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Queen Anne’s County, July 26, 1776. GentLemen: Mr. Jackson waits on you with two copies of my muster-roll, agreeable to the resolve of the Conven- tion. Ican’t say but I am a good deal distressed at the uneasiness of our people. ‘They throw themselves out of business by entering into the service, and many of them have not holes to put their heads in, and are perpetually teasing me about it. They are prodigiously anxious to be provided for with arms. ‘They really labour under great disadvantages at present. If possible, I make no doubt but you will soon supply us. It certainly would be vastly agree- able to, gentlemen, your very humble servant, Joun Darnes. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. COLONEL BARNES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Camp at Cherry Fields, July 26, 1776. GenTLemeN: I am informed that Colonel Kent, who was appointed by the Convention to command the Defence, declines the acceptance of the command. I shall therefore take the liberty to recommend Captain George Cooke as a proper person to command the Defence, knowing that Cap- tain Richardson’s opinion was, that neither of the gentlemen on board the Defence was sufficiently qualified to take the command. Captain George Cooke has served on board the English Navy for seven years, and has been in several engagements, and I think well qualified for the business. I have had an opportunity of finding him to be a man of un- daunted courage since I have been in these parts. As Colonel Plater is well acquainted with Captain George Cooke, and I suppose some others of the Council, I shall say no more CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 592 about him further than that I thought it my duty to prevent his passing unnoticed, if in my power. I remain, gentlemen, your humble servant, Ricup. Barnes. To the Honourable Council of Safety. B. BRACCO TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. ' Port-Tobacco, July 26, 1776. Dear Sir: I have sent the bearer, Sergeant Smith, ex- press to inform you that the small-pox has broken out among the men under my command here, and hope you will be kind enough, by his return, to Jet me have instructions in what manner I am to act—whether immediately to inoculate the remainder of the men, or remove them out of the way. I think the latter would be of no effect, as the man who com- municated the infection was a day and a night in company with all the soldiers here. Some combed his hair, and others slept with him. He was a man that called himself a deserter’ from Lord Dunmore, and produced a pass from the Com- mittee of Essex County, in Virginia. I have spoken to Dr. Browne, who had the care of the fellow, and he says he thinks he was inoculated. I am, sir, with the greatest gratitude, your most obedient humble servant, B. Bracco. To James Tilghman, Esq., at Annapolis. COLONEL HAWKINS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, July 26, 1776. Dear Sir: On the 18th instant, I received orders from Brigadier-General Dent to select from the interior parts of my battalion three companies of Militia, to be composed of men out of different companies, and despatch them to\St. George’s River, to relieve the Militia collected there at that time. Agreeable to order, I set out immediately, and had two of the companies raised the next day, commanded by Captain Parnham and Captain John Harrison; the other was not raised till the 20th, and was commanded by Cap- tain McPherson. Parnham’s company, which was foremost, got down to St. George’s, or within a small distance of it, ' before great part of the fleet sailed up Potomack, and have been detained there ever since. ‘The other two companies were ordered to return and watch the motions of the enemy, and to prevent their landing or plundering the inhabitants. And I have the satisfaction of informing you that our Militia have prevented the enemy from landing or plundering, if they intended it, and that we have sustained no damage, except the loss of a couple of boats, and the fleet have gone down the river again this day. I received a line yesterday evening from Captain Parnham, informing that several of his men are sickly, and desires that others may be sent to their relief; but that he is willing to stay as long as it may be necessary. And he pressed me much to send him a small supply of cash, as it is a shocking place to be at, especially without money, and many of his company are very poor. I must therefore request that you will appoint some person to adjust the accounts of my battalion, and be pleased to send the cash for the payment of the companies, and the necessary expenses, by Mr. Henry Massey Hanson, that I may be able to comply with the request of Captain Parn- ham; and, for further particulars, must beg leave to refer you to Mr. Hanson. I am, very respectfully, dear sir, your obedient humble servant, J. Hawkins. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety, Annapolis. FREDERICK COUNTY COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee of Lower District of Frederick County, July 26, 1776. GentLemeNn: Understanding that there is a vacancy for a Major in the battalion for this County, we take the liberty to recommend Major Richard Crabb to you for that office. We are convinced as well of Major Crabd’s attachment to the cause of America, as of his economy, fortitude, and manly resolution, and doubt not but his own merit will fully justify the appointment. We are, gentlemen, your humble servants. By order: Sami. W. Macrupver, Chairman. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. 593 OF SAFETY TO WORCESTER COUNTY COMMITTEE. [No. 77.] Annapolis, July 26, 1776. Gentiemen: We are informed that there are a number of pieces of cannon in your County that have lain there some years, ever since the Spanish wreck on the seaboard side of your County. We request you would immediately cause those cannon to be examined, and let us hear from you by express what state and condition they are In, and how many there are, and what weight of metal they would carry, as also who claims any property 1n them; and if any- body claims, under what contract or agreement they were purchased, and of whom. We expect your answer as soon as you conveniently can. We are, &c. To the Committees of Observation of Worcester County. MARYLAND COUNCIL MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS. [No. 78.] Annapolis, July 26, 1776. Genriemen: The letters from Colonels Barnes and Jor- dan were not enclosed in our last, from inattention. We now send them, with copies of some other letters from below, from whence you will see how affairs are going on there. Dunmore’s fleet have separated. The Fowey and the Otter, with a number of vessels having the Tory families on board, remain in the mouth of St. Mary’s River. The Roebuck and six or seven other vessels have moved up the river Potomack, as high as Quantico in Virginia, where they stopped to take in water. ‘There are some flying reports of their having landed at Mr. William Brent’s, and burnt his house, which are confirmed this day by Charles Lansdale. He says it is feared they are landing on Colonel Small- wood’s estate. The last he heard of them was yesterday, and the report was, they were landing on the Maryland side, near Colonel Smallwood’s. We observe what you say about the Flying-Camp, and shall do the best we can. We shall give the necessary orders for finding the troops rations, in expectation that the subsistence-money will be reimbursed. As soon as the Regulars are replaced that have and are about to march to the northward, we shall use our endeavours to complete the remaining battalions with all diligence, and send them for- ward, either in battalions or companies, as they get ready. Most of those we have seen of the new-inlisted men, appear to be quite raw, and in great want of necessaries. Some pay must be advanced to put them in tolerable condition to appear in. On Tuesday last, we gave orders to Captain Thomas to march with his men to Philadelphia, as soon as the com- manding officer below thinks he can be spared. And this day, on receipt of your letter, we have ordered Captain Hindman to move forward, although we apprehend the Eastern- Shore will be weakened thereby, and we are doubt- ful that will be the next place invaded. We feel for the State of New-York, but cannot help feeling also for Maryland, and shall endeavour to conduct ourselves in such manner as to give every assistance in our power to them and to the common cause, without exposing ourselves to destruction. Since the march of our Regulars, we are truly ina defenceless state, and if powerfully invaded, know not what may be the consequence. However, we hope for the best, and are exerting ourselves to the utmost. We wish our powder that arrived at Egg-Harbour, to be sent to Baltimore. ‘The arms we desire may be left at Philadelphia, for the use of one of the companies of the Flying-Camp, who will have our order to call for them. We approve of what you have done as to the five thou- sand dollars, and would have you keep the balance to answer contingent expenses, and render account from time to time as you may see fit. Doctor Tootle, our Surgeon-Major, has put into our hands a list of chirurgical instruments, which we send you’ here- with, and request the favour of you to procure and send them down by the first opportunity. Wesend you also the proceedings of the last Convention. Thomas Jennings, Esq., is just arrived, in good health, after a very long passage. He left London the 29th of March, and brings no very particular news that we hear. We are, &c. To the Deputies for Maryland in Congress. Fiera Serses.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 38 594 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JOSIAS BEALL. [No. 79.] Annapolis, July 26, 1776. Srr: Yours of the 24th instant was laid before us, and we observe the contents. In answer thereto we can only say that five quarter-barrels of powder have been sent to Piscataway, and that six or seven barrels are now lodged with the Committee of Prince George’s County. If more be necessary, we will order some down. It gives us sincere pleasure to find the people in different parts of the Colony so spirited, and can assure you nothing shall be wanted on our parts. We are, &c. To Josias Beall, Esq., Prince George's County. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JOHN HANSON. [No. 80.] Annapolis, July 26, 1776. Sir: The instructions from the Council of Safety (as you will observe) only respected muskets; but we desire you will purchase rifles upon the best terms you can. Be pleased likewise to pay for those purchased by Captain Mantz; and by the first opportunity we shall order and send you any money you may find necessary. We are, &c. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JAMES TILGHMAN. [No. 81.] Annapolis, July 26, 1776. Sir: The business before this Board daily becomes more important, and consequently requires as full a Council as may be. We hope, therefore, before this reaches you, that your line with your cousin is settled, and that it will not be inconvenient for you to aitend your brethren immediately. We are the more earnest in making this requisition, as Colo- nel Plater intends to St. Mary’s in a few days, and then we shall be left with only four members. Mr. Smith pleads the necessity of staying at his ship-yard about the building of the gondola, in excuse for his non-attendance; and Mr. Hamds has resigned his seat. We are, &c. To James Tilghman, Esq. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. [No 82.] Annapolis, July 26, 1776. GentLemen: The alacrity shown by your Committee in exerting itself in the common cause in which we are all engaged, it is hoped, will be attended with the success it merits, and which is so exceedingly necessary at this alarm- ing and important juncture of time, as without arms and blankets little prospect of a favourable campaign can arise, if the troops were ever so numerous. Agreeable to your request, therefore, and to expedite the business, we have transmitted to you, by Captain Yates, the £1000, the disposal of which you will be pleased to render us an account. No account has yet been sent to this Board of the expen- diture of the £1000 advanced at the time of the alarm occasioned by the Otter; omitted, we suppose, through the hurry of business, and therefore desire you will furnish it by the first opportunity. Weare, &c. To the Committee of Observation of Baltimore County. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Friday, July 26, four o’clock, P. M. Sir: Congress being adjourned, I have to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 25th instant, this moment come to hand. The subject of it is so just, that I will venture to say that it will be complied with in its fullest latitude. The preamble to the resolutions for confiscating the pro- perty of the subjects of the King of Great Britain having been this day expunged, and the resolution altered, agree- able to the one now enclosed you, I am to request you will please to erase that from the resolves I enclosed you a few days past, and substitute the one I now transmit in its place. With every wish in your favour, and every sentiment of esteem, I am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. P. S. Brigadier-General Sullivan this day sent me a let- ter of resignation, which is ordered to lie on the table until Monday. I have not yet seen him. INSTRUCTIONS TO PENNSYLVANIA DELEGATES, In Convention, Friday, July 26, 1776, P. M. The draught of Instructions for the Delegates in Congress was read and unanimously approved, and is as follows, viz: “GentLemen: This Convention, confiding in your wis- dom and virtue, has, by the authority of the people, chosen and appointed you to represent the free State of Pennsyl- vania in the Congress of the United States of America, and authorized you, or a majority of such of you as shall at any time be present, to vote for and in the name of this State, in all and every question there to be decided. And this Convention apprehend it to be a duty which they owe the publick to give you the following general directions for your conduct, confident that you will at all times pay the utmost attention to the instructions of your constituents. “ The immense and irreparable injury which a free country may sustain by, and the very great inconveniences which always arise from a delay of its Councils, induce us, in the first place, strictly to enjoin and require you to give not only a constant, but a punctual attendance in Congress. « The present necessity of a vigorous exertion of the united force of the free States of America against our British ene- mies, is the most important object of your immediate regard, and points out the necessity of cultivating and strengthening, by every means in your power, the present happy union of these States, until such a just, equal, and perpetual conside- ration can be agreed upon, and finally effected, as will be ‘the most likely to secure to each the perfect direction of its own internal police; in the forming of which Confederation, you are to give your utmost assistance. “‘We recommend to you to use your utmost power and influence in Congress to have a due attention paid to the establishing and maintaining a respectable naval force, as such a force is absolutely necessary to every trading nation, and is the least expensive or dangerous to the liberties of mankind. «With respect to the forming of treaties with foreign powers, it is necessary only: to say, that we strictly charge and enjoin you not to agree to, or enter into any treaty of commerce or alliance with Great Britain, or any other for- eign power, but (on the part of America) as free and inde- pendent States; and that whenever Great Britain shall acknowledge these States free and independent, you are hereby authorized, in conjunction with the Delegates of the United States, to treat with her concerning peace, amity, and commerce, on just and equal terms.” LANCASTER COMMITTEE. Ata meeting of the Committee of Inspection, Observation, and Correspondence, at the house of Adam Reigart, the 26th of July, 1776: Present: Edward Shippen, Wm. Atlee, Lodwick Lowman, Henry Dehuff, Christopher Crawford, Jacob Krug, John Miller. William Atlee in the Chair. There being a number of young lads in town, to wit: Henry Wilson, Wilkam Furguson, William Porter, Robert Jockley, Michael McG'achakin, George McGighagin, James Ellet, Robert Jones, and Christian Newcomer, who have been, at the request of Colonel Hand, under the tuition of the Drum-Major of Colonel Slough’s Battalion, and the Fife-Major of Colonel Ross’s Battalion, and those teachers being now employed in the service in such manner that they cannot instruct the said lads, and Captain Ross now being about to march to the Camp, and agreeing that the said lads shall march under the care of his Sergeant: It is Resolved, 'That the said lads be sent, under the care of Captain Ross’s Sergeant, with his direction, to the Camp at New-York; and that the Chairman write to Colonel Hand by the Sergeant, informing him of this proceeding, and that the Committee have advanced £4 10s. to the Ser- geant for their subsistence by the way. Colonel Greene representing that near fifty of his Flying- Camp Company are now in this town, armed, accoutred, and ready to march, and that a number of the draughts of some of the Companies of his Battalion have not yet joined them, requests the sentiments of this Committee whether those who are shall march for the Camp under his command, and what method shall be taken to oblige the other draughts to follow: , CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 596 Upon consideration, it is the sentiments of this Committee, that those who are in this place, armed and accoutred, be immediately marched for the Camp, where there may be immediate occasion for them; and that this Committee imme- diately write to Captain Ambrose Crean, Thomas Roppe- heffer, and John Rough, requiring them immediately to send down to this place the draughts from their respective Com- panies appointed or allotted to form the said Flying-Camp Company, that they may fallow their commanders to the Camp as expeditiously as possible; and if they refuse to pro- ceed upon being required, to march them under Guard. Ordered, That 7s. 6d. be paid to Edward Smith, one of Colonel Greene’s Company, for riding express the other day with Circular Letters to the Colonels. William Sergeant, of the Seventh Regiment, is permitted to work with Jacob Heffer, at the Blacksmith’s business, he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him agree- able to the Resolves of this Committee. The Examination of Wiiu1am Poor, in respect to the Britis Officers (prisoners of war) who broke their Parole, and escaped from LeBANoN, PENNSYLVANIA, in June, 1776. In Committee, Lancaster, July 26, 1776. Says, some time last spring or summer, (he thinks: about three weeks before the officers went away,) he was at his own house by Swatara Creek, at the place belonging to Mr. Maddox, of Philadelphia, about sixteen or seventeen miles from Lebanon; was getting ready to set off to buy a cow; one White called at his house, and told him he was looking for a brother of his who had come into the country, and he heard worked with one Poor. He told White he knew of no such person. He left the house to go after the cow, and White accompanied him till they came to Jones’s Town, and there they parted after drinking some cider to- gether at Parker’s, in Jones’s Town, for which White paid. That he did not see White afterwards till White came to him in company with the officers. Says, that on the way between his house and Jones’s Town, he and White were met by one Thomas Edmonds, who lives over Swatara near John Smiley's; that Edmonds’s shirt was bloody, and he asked him if he had been fighting; that Edmonds answered no, he had been in Slter’s Town, where the soldiers wanted to inlist him, and struck him. ‘That Edmonds then said to Poor that he wanted to speak with him. Poor told him to speak out; that he hesitated. Poor asked him if it was a secret. Edmonds said it was. ‘That upon this, he went a little aside with him, and then told him he had been at Mc- Hugh's with the officers, and that the officers wanted him (Poor) to go away with them, ‘That he told Edmonds it was a dangerous thing, and he would have nothing to do with it. ‘Vhat White could not hear the conversation be- tween him and Edmonds. That Edmonds then told him to say nothing about it, or else the officers would be confined. That Edmonds left them then, and Whate and he (Poor) proceeded to Jones’s Town, where they drank together as above. ‘That White and he left Jones’s Town together, kept together about halfa mile, when White said he would go to Lebanon, and parted with Poor, who went to look for his cow. ‘That White and Edmonds had no conversation to- gether. That White and he (Poor) had no conversation about the officers or taking them off. ‘That he never had any conversation with the officers, or any of them, before they came to him at his house after they left Lebanon, except that once when at McHugh’s one of them named Cuppaidge asked him if he was from a particular part of Ireland, to which he answered in the negative. That about a week after this conversation between him and Edmonds, as he was riding out of town, one Bullman, a blue-dyer in Lebanon, called to him and stopped him, told him that the officer at Mc- Hugh's wanted to speak with him; that he then told Budl- man he had nothing to say to the officers. ‘That some time after this, (he thinks some weeks,) as he was fishing in Swatara, about half a mile from his house, in the after- noon a little before sunset, on a Saturday, several men came up to him, four of whom were officers, one named Rich- ardson, one named Cubbage, one named Hume, the other name he don’t know, with three servants, and the said White, and a man who sometimes called himself Billy Caldwell, and sometimes Paddy McGown’s man. ‘That some of them, 597 he don’t know which, told him they had escaped from Leba- non, and wanted to get to Wyoming, and wanted him to show the way. ‘That he told them he did not know the way, and had never been there. That Hume presented a pistol to his breast, and told him if he did not go with them he was a dead man. He then consented to go, and asked leave to go home and get some clothes; but they would not suffer it, and obliged him to go with them, That they immediately pro- ceeded over the hill, and travelled about six miles, where they stopped to rest and refresh themselves. _ That they rose before day, and the next morning crossed Weiser’s road, about a mile or two from Kuntzelman’s, and proceeded to a hollow place not far from Kuntzelman’s, where they stopped, and sent Caldwell to Kuntzelman’s to inquire the road to Wyoming. That Caldwell soon returned, and they pro- ceeded travelling the whole day over the mountains till after sunset. That they then encamped in a place full of old logs, &c. Here they made a fire, a tent was raised for the officers, and the servants and others made coverings of bark, &c. Here they eat bread and cheese, of which he (Poor) partook, and Jaid down to sleep, saying they thought them- selves safe. That towards morning he observed them all asleep, and made his escape, taking with him a sword which happened to lay near him. He left the said officers, their servants, Caldwell, and White, there asleep. That the offi- cers had guns and ammunition, and the servants pistols and swords. Caldwell and White had no guns, but Caldwell used to have one of the officer’s guns, and marched before. That they had a horse with them, which carried their pro- visions and linen for their tent—the horse a dark-coloured horse, don’t know any marks. That about noon of the day he left the officers he came to Kuntzelman’s, where he had a gill of ram. That Kuntzelman asked him where he had been; to which he answered that he had been hunting for beaver and their signs. He then proceeded homewards ; but, as he could not reach home that night, he lay in the woods, and arrived at home the next morning. Being asked why he did not then give notice of the route of the officers, &c., he says he was afraid, as they had sworn him to secrecy on some book which Hume took out of his pocket, on the other side of Kuntzelman’s. Says Caldwell was a tall young man, fair complexion, wore a blue coat. Says that Caldwell was at his house about nine or ten days before the officers went away, and told him he came from the West-Branch, and was going towards Tulpehocken; that he heard him say he had been a soldier with Lord Dunmore, and was a Lieutenant in the expedition against Wyoming. William Poor being again examined on the 8th Novem- ber, 1776, acknowledges that the officers had his mare, and that he left it with them. That they bargained with him for it for £7. ‘That the conversation about the price of the mare was the same morning that he left them before day. That they counted him down the money, and laid it down, but he left the money and went off presently afterwards, one of them (who he thinks was one of the officers) being sitting at the fire at the time. ‘That it was one of the ser- vants’ swords which he brought off with him, who was asleep when he took it. That his daughter told him when he came to his house, before they went off, that she had bought some whiskey for the officers; but says he did not send her. Says that Hume presented a pistol to his breast twice: the first time was the first night they set off, after travelling a small distance; and the second time was after Caldwell returned from Kuntzelman’s. ‘That his mare was loaded with the officers’ baggage and necessaries from the time they set off, and travelled with them so loaded. THE EXAMINATION OF JOHN WHITE. Says that some time in May last went up the country to look for a brother of his, who, he had been told by one Wil- liam Johnston, was come into the country, and lived up near Lebanon, at one Poor’s. He proceeded from Lancaster to Manheim, where he dined ; from there he went to Lebanon; got there that evening, and stopped at McHugh’s, the sign of the Bear; lodged there that night; next morning left Lebanon alone, and went to Jones’s Town; stopped there and took a draught of cider, and from thence went to William Poor’s, at Swatara Gap; got there late in the evening ; supped there and lodged there in the same bed with Poor; CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 598 could hear nothing of his brother, therefore, next morning, determined to return. Poor told him he wanted to go to buy a cow, and set off with him; they travelled together to Jones’s Town, (Poor riding on his horse or mare;) at Jones’s Town they dined together, and drank some cider and beer; after dinner they left Jones’s Town together, and kept com- pany about a mile, when they separated; Poor said he was going to look for the cow, and he proceeded to Lebanon; got there that afternoon, and stopped again at McHugh’; stayed in the bar-room till supper time, and went to bed there and stayed all night, and next morning left Lebanon about daylight, and proceeded to Manheim, where he took a drink of cider, and then walked on to Lancaster, which he reached in the evening, and put up at George Widelay’s, where he worked at the shoemaker’s trade. _ Says he did not see or speak with any of the officers either of the times he was at McHugh’s, nor at any other place, at or before this time, nor with any of their servants. Says that on the way between Poor’s and Jones’s Town they met a man who appeared as if he had been fighting; that Poor asked the man if he had been killing anybody, and was answered by him, no, that he had been at Lebanon, that they wanted to list him there, and had struck him; that the man told Poor he had something to say to him; Poor answered, Say it then. Upon which the man told him it must not be heard; that Poor then went aside with the man, and they spoke together two or three minutes, while he (this examinant) held Poor’s horse; that the man and Poor then separated, and Poor, when he returned, said the man had told him some of the English officers wanted to speak to him, and said that he told the man he did not know them; says that Poor and he had no further conversation about the officers. That about two weeks after his said return, the said William Johnston having told him it was a good place. for the shoemaker’s trade at Wialusing, he agreed to accompany him there, and accordingly, on a Friday morning, they set off together, stop- ped together at Manheim, eat something there, and from there proceeded to Lebanon; got there that evening, and put up at the sign of the Swan; stayed there that night; Johnston stayed there with him. Next day Johnston and he stayed in the house all the morning. They agreed to go to Poor’s, but Johnston set off first, as he said he had some business by the way; says he set off about an hour after Johnston, and travel- led on to Poor’s without stopping, and there found Johnston; got there in the evening late; Poor was not at home; John- ston told him he wanted to go to some of the neighbouring places; upon which examinant, being fatigued, went to bed in Poor’s bed, and Johnston went off. In the morning when examinant wakened, he found Poor was come home, and got up and breakfasted with Poor. Sometime after they had breakfasted, Poor went out (as he said) to look after a steer he had sick, and continued out; that at about eleven o’clock that morning Johnston returned and came into the house, and told the examinant that he had met with four Virginia gentlemen, with their three servants, who were going to Wialusing to look for lands, and that it was as good for him (the examinant) to go along, as it was a good place for his business; upon this he went out with JoAnston, who led him to the gentlemen, who were about a quarter of a mile from the house, in a thicket of woods by a spring. ‘The gentlemen sat by the spring about two hours, and then left the spring, and went about half a mile or three quarters farther into the woods, and then stopped again and sat down till towards evening, having continued all together from the time that he came to them at the spring; as evening approached he asked Johnston if they did not intend to stay at Poor’s that night, and was answered no, the cool of the evening was the best time to travel. While sitting here in the evening William Poor came to them, leading a little mare, (he thinks of a lightish brown colour.) Directly after Poor came up he got ihto conversation with Johnston, and some other of the party, and was very busy with Johnston in loading the horse which the officers had with them, and his own mare, with the provisions and things which they had brought to the place. As soon as the loads were fixed on the horse and mare, the whole party set off, Poor leading his own mare, and one of the servants leading the horse; that Poor sometimes led the way, and sometimes Johnston; that after they had travelled about a mile and a quarter, they passed by a house within about twenty yards, where a dog barked at them very much; it was now night and dark, and the 599 family supposed to be in bed. After travelling about five miles, either Poor or Johnston (he don’t recollect which) mentioned that there was a swamp before them, and it would be better to lay by for the night, and pass it in the morning. The party lay by that night without making any fire, and proceeded early next morning. . Johnston led the way in the morning across the swamp, the horses next, and then the gentlemen and servants with this examinant. They travel- Jed all that day, stopping but once at a spring while they eat some cold ham and bread. Saw no house that day nor for twelve days after. Either Johnston or Poor were fore- most always, and constantly walked next each other. Lay by at dark, and next morning set off again, proceeding through the woods as before, and lay by at night again, Poor being still with them. The next morning when the examinant and the party got up, he (the examinant) found that Poor was missing, but had left his mare, having travelled and been with them three nights and two days. He says the officers showed no uneasiness at Poor’s having left them, and knows not whether it was with their knowledge or not. That he (this examinant) travelled with those gentlemen and Johnston, as the leader, after this, about ten or eleven days, through the woods, the horse and mare carrying the provision and some cloth, which was used as a tent, till they arrived at Hickman’s, about twenty-five miles (as he was told) above Wyoming. Says that he wanted frequently in the way to leave the party, but JoAnston told him he would lose himself; that now he determined to do it, and, getting a conveyance in a canoe, came down to Wyoming. Upon the way down, the man in the canoe with him, one Trip, told him that it was noised abroad that the English officers had escaped from Lebanon, and he supposed it was them he (this examinant) had been in company with at Hickman’s; that examinant then told him he was informed they were Virginians, and did not know whether they were officers or not. Trip then told him they were strict people at Wyoming, and if they should ask him about the officers, he should or had better say he had not seen them; that he concluded so to do; that when he came to Wyoming he was about engaging to work at the shoemaking business, and some noise being abroad of his arrival there, he was asked by one Carrigan if he had seen or been with the officers who had escaped from Led- anon; to which he answered, no. ‘The next morning the same Carrigan and another man asked him again about it, he told them that he had been with some gentlemen, where he met with them, how he had travelled with them, and where he left them, but did not know if they were officers ornot. Upon this they told him he must be examined before the Shamokin Committee, and ordered him down there. He arrived there in a few days, and was again examined by the Committee of Sunbury; from there he was sent to John Harris’s; and from thence to Lancaster. Says he did not know these gentlemen were officers at the time he first saw them in the woods at Poor’s, nor at any time after, either by conversation with their servants or other- wise. GENERAL MERCER TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, 1776.] - Perth-Amboy, July 26, 1776. Sir: There are now on duty, of the Pennsylvania Pro- vincial Battalions, and the Associators of the same Province, three thousand rank and file in all, cantoned from Bergen- Neck, near to Middletown, in South-Amboy; these are the only troops who have joined. A battalion from Maryland go on to New-York. Some shallops passing from Fishkill into Rariton Bay yesterday afternoon brought on a cannon- ade. Our field-pieces did little or no execution, and the small-arms were not used, the distance being too great. The enemy fired four, six, and twelve-pound shot very briskly for the space of an hour; we lost one man of the Militia, and had two wounded, not dangerously. Some-iron four or six- pounders might be mounted on flats or scows we have here to answer very well against such vessels as passed us yes- terday. Some have gone down to-day. I did not think it proper to waste ammunition with so little probability of effect. Some such pieces as are mentioned above are to be had at Philadelphia. We have shipwrights and smiths here could mount them. Captain Dawson is appointed assistant to the Engineer, who is planning some works of defence for securing CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 600 the passage along the Sound, and at the mouth of Rariton River. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Hvuen Mercer. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. P.S. We were of opinion that the shallops were sent with flour round to the fleet; but I am this moment informed by the officer of the guard on South-Amboy shore that soldiers appeared thick on their decks after getting round Billup’s Point into Prince’s Bay. This morning they fell down to Sandy-Hook. A flag was seen hoisted this morn- ing on the Light-House, which is an unusual thing. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 26, 1776. Sir: I find by intelligence from our guards at South-Am- boy, that some shallops (five in number) that passed us yesterday from FYshkill, were full of soldiers, who appeared on deck after getting round Billup’s Point into Prince’s Bay. As the shallops passed, our field-pieces played on them, but with little effect. ‘The enemy returned the can- nonade briskly during the space of an hour, with four, six, and twelve-pounders. One of our Militia was killed, and two wounded, but not dangerously. Two more shallops passed this morning, and one remains up the Sound in view. The Fly sloop-of-war, Captain Edgar, lies at Brunswick. I ordered her down yesterday upon the appearance of the shallops, but she is not yet fallen down the river. I am collecting all the craft, of which a return will be transmitted. General Heard is out examining the creeks, I would send Morgan to Head-Quarters, were his principles steady enough to resist the arts of Tryon and Skinner, &c., which I much doubt. ‘This morning a flag was seen hoisted on the Light-House. The Maryland battalion passed Woodbridge yesterday. Orders from hence would reach Colonel Smallwood this morning, to detain him at Elizabeth-Town. I have the honour to be, sir, your obedient servant, H. Mercer. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 26, 1776. Srr: When I mentioned this morning the unusual ap- pearance of a flag being hoisted on the Light-House, I had not then understood that any ships were seen in the offing ; but find by a person just now from South-Amboy that some have been seen, and now six have come into the Hook. I am, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, H. Mercer. Perth-Amboy, July 26, 1776, two P. M. A deserter from the Asia, examined at Elzabeth-Town, says that ten ships arrived some days ago with two thousand Highlanders. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE CAMP AT PERTH-AMBOY, DATED JULY 26, 1776. Yesterday afternoon we had a smart cannonading with the enemy, occasioned by four or five shallops coming down the Sound. The General directed a smart battery, mount- ing two iron four-pounders, to fire on them; this brought on a heavy firing from the enemy’s battery, from an eminence that overlooked ours. Captain Moulder, with his two field-pieces, was ordered to the shore, but being encamped at some distance, before he could come up the shallops had all nearly passed. How- ever, he began a well-directed fire, and though they had got to a considerable distance, hulled one of them. When the vessels were passed, the firing ceased on both sides. We had the misfortune of losing one of the Second Battalion, and having another wounded. ‘The young man’s name who was killed is Owens, belonging to Captain Weed’s company; he was shot right through the heart; the ball, a four-pounder, entering his left side, and coming out of his breast. This morning he was buried with the honours of war. The other, who is wounded, is one Freeman, a Ser- geant in Captain Boyd’s company; his wound is not danger- ous, the ball having first taken the street, and rebounding 601 struck the upper part of his right thigh, but has not broken tlie bone. There was a horse killed which was standing in a wagon near the General’s door. The enemy appear to have some heavy field-pieces: they sent some twelve-pound shot among us. It is surprising they did not do more exe- cution, as there Were so many of our people on the bank opposite to them without the least covering. The enemy appear to be very strong, and are constantly reinforcing, as our troops come in. ‘They are throwing up breastworks along the shore to prevent our landing. LORD STIRLING TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-York, July 26, 1776. Sir: Captain Butler, of Colonel Nixon’s regiment, has again called on me to know your determination with regard to his asking leave to resign. From his appearance at present, I do not think he will ever be fit for active duty again. Colonel Parke has frequently mentioned to me the neces- sity of his having leave of absence for about a fortnight. He has again applied to me this morning by the enclosed letter. I should be glad to know your Excellency’s plea- sure. I have been obliged to take a little medicine, which obliges me to stay at home, or I should have been at Head-Quarters this morning. I am, most respectfully, your Excellency’s most humble servant, STIRLING. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 26, 1776. Dear Sir: Yours of the 23d instant is duly received, and [ am pleased with the timely notice of your situation, strength, movements, &c., &c., &c., and think time is not to be lost, or expense regarded, in getting yourselves in the best posture of defence, not knowing how soon the enemy may attempt to pass you. The fire-rafts you mention are not of the best construc- tion, but probably are the best that can be procured with the necessary despatch. Cables and anchors, I should sup- pose, might easily be procured from the vessels which used to be plying up and down the river, and are now lying idle; saltpetre from the manufactures in the country, as neither are to be had in this place. The necessity of the case will fully justify your taking the former wherever found, and the safety of the people, I should imagine, would induce them to assist you to the latter all in their power. I have sent up Lieutenant Machin to lay out and over- see such works as shall be thought necessary by the officers there, and from your representation of the hill which over- looks the fort, I think it ought to be taken possession of immediately. You, who are on the spot, must be a better judge than I possibly can be. J inust leave it with you to erect such works as you, with Colonel Clinton and the En- gineer, may think necessary. A proper abstract or pay-roll should be made out, of the wages due the artificers, examined and certified by you or your brother, when it may be sent here, and the money drawn. Your method of fixing fires, with advanced guards, if they are vigilant, must answer the purposes you intend. Your dismissing all the New-England men to three hun- dred, is a step Il approve of. I hope you may continue to prevent the enemy from obtaining any supplies or intelli- gence, and committing any ravages on the distressed peasan- try on and about the shores. While you are able to keep them in this situation below the forts, they can do little damage. By every conveyance I shall like to hear of your situation and the enemy’s manceuvres. I am, sir, &c., Go. WasuinerTon. To Brig. Gen. George Clinton, at Fort Montgomery. P.S. Since the above, the Quartermaster-General in- forms me you may be supplied with turpentine here, and thinks he can get saltpetre enough for the present emer- gency. G. W. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 602 COLONEL M¢DOUGALL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-York, July 26, 1776. Srr: All the non-commissioned officers, rank and file, of my regiment, are inlisted without time, except one com- pany, recruited before the instructions for raising the four regiments issued from Congress; and I doubt not to be able to engage this on the same establishment. By the instructions to Colonel Dubois, I observe he is authorized to give ten dollars bounty to such soldiers as shall inlist for three years, or during the present troubles. I shall be glad to be informed from your Excellency whether I can be authorized to offer the same bounty; for as the harvest is now near in, I think it probable some recruits may be raised on this bounty. Regiments engaged without time, are more to be depended on for the defence of the country than those imbodied for a short period. I therefore submit it to the General’s con- sideration, whether it would not advance the service to enable the reginents raised for three years, or a longer time, to recruit out of the new levies, and those corps raised for a shorter duration. When your attention to subjects of more importance will permit, I shall be glad to be favoured with your orders on these points. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s humble ser- vant ? Avex. McDoueatu. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp, Long-Island, Friday, five o’clock, P. M., July 26, 1776. Dear Sir: Lieutenant-Colonel Chambers, at Gravesend, reports eight sail of shipping standing in for the Hook ; but they are at too great a distance to discover what they are to a degree of certainty, but they have the appearance of transports. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, N. GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New- York. NATHANIEL WOODHULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York, July 26, 1776. Sir: [am directed by the Convention to transmit your Excellency a copy of the examination of Balthazar De Hart, relative to the conduct of the Tories in Monmouth County, in New-Jersey, and to acquaint you that we have likewise sent duplicates to the President of the Convention of the State of New-Jersey, and to the Chairman of the Com- mittee of Monmouth, in order that measures may be taken for preventing the pernicious practices of such parricides to their country. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servant, By order: Natrut. Woopnutt, President. To His Excellency General Washington, at Head-Quarters, New-York. The Examination of Bauruazar Dre Hart, of the County of Orancr, Attorney-at-Law, who has been for some time past in Surewssury, in Monmoutu County, in New-JERSEY. He saith that when he left Shrewsbury, as he conceives, far the greater part of that place was inhabited, or rather infested, with Tories or persons disaffected to the common cause of America, and that he has understood, from informa- tion, that their disaffection has been greatly increased by a numbér of persons who have gone from the city of New- York there, and, as he has understood, secretly laboured to deceive the lower set of people, the higher being almost all disaffected; that he knows that Joseph Wardell, John Cor- lies, and George Allen, went the week before last, or last week, to General Howe’s camp, on Staten-Island, after, as they pretended, two negroes, who had run away from Wil- liam Kipping and the said John Cortes; that they stayed some time there; that this examinant has been informed 603 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 604 and indeed believes that those three persons are disaffected, and heard that for that very reason the negroes were deli- vered to them by Howe’s order; that he has heard that they had a long conversation with some of Howe’s officers. And further, he saith that he was informed by Captain Jacob Dennis, a Militia officer, who had been ordered to guard Deal shore, in that Township, that he could scarce persuade a man to go there with him; and that the examinant knows that his brother, who is another Militia officer there, could by no means prevail on his men to go to defend that shore— the Whigs telling him they expected that if they went there, they would be delivered by the Tories to the enemy on their Janding; and that he was informed by the said Captain Dennis, that the inhabitants along Deal shore told him they did by no means thank him for guarding them, and that they would much rather have the Regulars than the Yankees there; and he (this examinant) was further informed by the said Captain Dennis, that there were some vessels of force lying off Shark River, which he supposed were landing some men there to get provision, as he observed flat-bottomed boats with them. And further, this examinant saith that he saw some armed vessels off Deal shore last Saturday, and observed some boats which seemed to be going on board said vessels, and that he verily believes that the inhabitants along that shore have communication with the enemy. And this examinant further saith, that Isaac Low, Wilham Wal- ton, Anthony Van Dam, John Roome, William Kipping, Hulet, a dancing-master, with a number of other persons from New-York, are there, whose names this examinant does not recollect. And further this examinant saith not. The aforegoing is a true copy of Mr. De Hart’s examina- tion, as delivered into the Convention at New-York by a Committee appointed for that purpose. Examined and compared by Rost. Benson, Secretary. RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, July 26, 1776. Dear Stir: Your letter to General Schuyler I received yesterday evening, and have forwarded it by express this morning. As soon as the troops arrive from the eastward, I shall advise you thereof by express, agreeable to General Schuy- ler’s orders to me, that batteaus may be furnished for them at Skenesborough. I do myself the honour to enclose you an invoice of axes forwarded since the 14th, including four hundred or four hundred and fifty which go this morning. I also send you a small quantity of twenty-four-penny nails and a cask of spikes for the carpenters at Skenesborough, and beg the favour of you to order them to be forwarded with all possi- ble expedition. Colonel Wynkoop has sent for a bellows and set of black- smith’s tools. As soon as they can be procured, I shall for- ward them to T'yonderoga to be sent to him. Ihave desired the commanding officer at Fort George to forward every article to you immediately on its arrival at his post. We have a report in town that General Clinton is killed, and that all his army are killed, wounded, or prisoners, and that his fleet is destroyed by General Lee, assisted by a gale of wind, which occasioned his landing. How much this account is to be depended on I know not, though it is be- lieved here that General Clinton has met with some disaster fatal to his expedition. I am, dear sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Ricuarp Varicx. To the Hon. Major-General Horatio Gates. COLONEL M. OGDEN TO MAJOR A. BURR. Ticonderoga, July 26, 1776, Dear Burr: I have been waiting with the greatest im- patience to know what is doing in York and Jersey. There are twenty different reports that contradict each other rela- tive to Howe and his fleet. It has once been generally beheved that a French fleet had arrived at New-York, and blocked up the British Army. Independence is well relished in this part of the world. Generalship is now dealt out to the Army by our worthy and well-esteemed General Gates, who is putting the most disordered Army that ever bore the name into a state of regularity and defence. If our friends in Canada, commanded by Burgoyne, will wait a few days, we shall give them a very proper reception. The Army are beginning to recruit fast, from the effects of a little fresh meat and some rum when 6n fatigue. Ten days ago, there were not in our regiment eighty men fit for duty. We have now upwards of two hundred and thirty; and, in a few days, they will be as rugged as New-Jersey is firm. Colonel Winds is sent home on a fool’s errand by the General, that he may be out of the way of doing any more harm to the regiment. The General assures me that I shall not be troubled with him again. I suppose, by that, he has written to have him detained below. A short history of this man will convince you that he ought to be nowhere but on his farm. He is, in the first place, a professed enemy to subordination, and has an utter aversion to discipline. He is positive, and prefers his own opinion to even the General’s, because he was in the service last war. He is not possessed of one qualification that distinguishes a gentleman, nor has he genius or education. His whole study is to gain the applause of the private soldiers, at the expense of every officer in the regiment. He is hated by all his own officers, except two, and despised by every gentleman in the Army. We are in great want of Brigadier-Generals—three at least; I mean for the men who are now here. General Arnold will command the water-craft on the Lake in per- son. ‘There are three brigades commanded by the Colonels Reed, Stark, and St. Clair. The last of these I sincerely wish was appointed a Brigadier by Congress. There is no better man. ‘The other two have full enough already. Please to forward the enclosed, with the letter to Mr. Spencer. My best respects to Generals Putnam, Greene, and Mifflin, and to Colonel Trumbull. Compliments to Webb. Iwait, with the greatest impatience, some important news from New-York. Pray write particulars relative to the conduct of the Jerseymen. Should any fall, mention their names. I am yours sincerely, Marr. Ogpen. COURT-MARTIAL ON CAPTAIN WENTWORTH. At a General Court-Martial held at Ticonderoga, the 26th day of July, 1776, by order of the Honourable Major- General. Gates. Colonel Poor, President. Members: The four eldest Colonels, the four eldest Lieutenant-Colonels, and four eldest Majors, of the Northern Army. Captain Wentworth was brought before the Court, and accused of “ refusing to go on duty when regularly warned by the Adjutant of the regiment to which he belonged.” The Court having considered the evidences, were of opinion that Captain Wentworth was guilty; and sentenced him to be cashiered, and advertised in the publick papers as having wilfully neglected his duty, with a view of being dis- charged the service. Avreeable to this sentence, Jonathan. Wentworth, of Somersworth, in Strafford County, New-Hampshire, late Captain in Colonel Poor’s regiment, is published to the world as a scoundrel, guilty of neglecting his duty evidently with a design of obtaining a discharge from the service of his country—a crime, till this day, unheard of. His countrymen, it is hoped, will treat him with the con- tempt merited by so infamous a conduct. By the General’s order: Joun TrumpBu.y, Deputy Adjutant-General of the Northern Army. Head-Quarters, Ticonderoga, August 26, 1776. All printers in the United States of America are desired to publish the foregoing in their respective papers. J.T. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 26, 1776. Honourep Sir: [send by a boat thirty oars and some boards, with the arms of our regiment, which want repair, and hope that you will be pleased to give directions that they may be immediately repaired, as many men are now —EE——— 605 at this post without guns. The arms of the sick we shall make go as far as possible. The oarmakers are going on with their business. I still keep a strong covering party with them. There are some batteaus here which want repairing. I would have them put in order, if I had some pitch and oakum sent here. I have also a small boat which would be very useful, if finished. We want the above materials to complete it. . 1 am, sir, with great respect, your most humble servant, Tuos. Hartvey. To General Gates. GOVERNOUR COOKE TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE CONVENTION, Providence, July 26, 1776. Sir: On Sunday last Lieutenant Calcott, of the Merlin, came into the harbour of Newport with a flag, and brought a letter from Lord Howe to the Commander-in-Chief of this State, which I suppose to have been a circular letter exactly of the same tenour with that I haveethe honour to enclose ou. The Lieutenant delivered me two others directed for Connecticut and Massachusetts, with a request that I would forward them. I enclose you a copy of my letter to his Lordship, and beg leave to assure you that [ am, with great truth and esteem, sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, Nicus. Cooke. To the Honourable the President of the Convention of New- Hampshire. Eagle, off the Coast of the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, June 20, 1776. ; Sir: Being appointed Commander-in-Chief of the ships and vessels of his Majesty’s fleet employed in North-Ame- rica, and having the honour to be by his Majesty constituted one of his Commissioners for restoring peace to his Colonies, and for granting pardons to such of his subjects therein as shall be duly solicitous to benefit by that effect of his gra- cious indulgence, I embrace this opportunity to inform you of my arrival on the American coast, where my first object will be an early meeting with General Howe, whom his Majesty hath been pleased to join with me in the said com- mission. In the mean time, I have judged it expedient to issue the enclosed Declaration, in order that all persons may have immediate information of his Majesty’s most gracious inten- tions; and I desire you will be pleased forthwith to cause the said Declaration to be promulgated, in such manner, and at such places within the Colony of Rhode-Island, as will render the same of the most publick notoriety. Assured of being favoured with your assistance in every measure for the speedy and effectual restoration of the pub- lick tranquillity, 1 am to request you will communicate, from time to time, such information as you may think will facili- tate the attainment of that important object in the Colony over which you preside. I have the honour to be, with great respect and consi- deration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Howe. To the Hon. Governour Wanton, &c., &c., Rhode-Island, or other Chief Magistrate of the Colony. ed By Ricuarp Viscount Howe, of the Kingdom of Ireuann, one of the King’s Commissioners for restoring peace to His Majesty’s Colonies and Plantations in Nortu-Ame- rica, ¥c., &c., &c. DECLARATION. Whereas by an act passed in the last session of Parlia- ment to prohibit all trade and intercourse with the Colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, Con- necticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the three lower Counties on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North- Carolina, South-Carolina, and Georgia, and for other pur- poses therein mentioned, it is enacted that “it shall and may be lawful to and for any person or. persons appointed and authorized by his Majesty to grant a pardon or pardons to any number or description of persons, by Proclamation, im his Majesty’s name, to declare any Colony or Province, Colonies or Provinces, or any County, Town, Port, District, or place, in any Colony or Province, to be at the peace of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 606 his Majesty; and” that “from and after the issuing of any such Proclamation in any of the aforesaid Colonies or Pro- vinces, or if his Majesty shall be graciously pleased to sig- nify the same by his royal Proclamation, then, from and after the issuing of such Proclamation,” the said “act, with respect to such Colony or Province, Colonies or Provinces, County, Town, Port, District, or place, shall cease, deter- mine, and be utterly void :” And whereas the King, desirous to deliver all his subjects from the calamities of war, and other oppressions which they now undergo, and to restore the said Colonies to his protec- tion and peace as soon as the constitutional authority of Government therein may be replaced, hath been graciously pleased, by letters patent under the great seal, dated the sixth day of May, in the sixteenth year, of his Majesty’s reign, to nominate and appoint me, Richard Viscount Howe, of the Kingdom of Ireland, and William Howe, Esq., Gen- eral of his Forces in North-America, and each of us, jointly and severally, to be his Majesty’s Commissioner and Com- missioners for granting his free and general pardons to all those who, in the tumult and disorder of the times, may have deviated from their just allegiance, and who are willing, by a speedy return to their duty to reap the benefits of the royal favour; and, also, for declaring in his Majesty’s name, any Colony, Province, County, Town, Port, District, or place, to be at the peace of his Majesty: I do therefore hereby declare, that due consideration shall be had to the meritorious ser- vices of all persons who shall aid and assist in restoring the publick tranquillity in the said Colonies, or in any part or parts thereof; that pardons shall be granted, dutiful representa- tions received, and every suitable encouragement given, for promoting such measures as shall be conducive to the estab- lishment of legal government and peace, in pursuance of his Majesty’s most gracious purposes aforesaid. Given on board his Majesty’s ship the Eagle, off the Coasts of the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, the twentieth day of June, 1776. Howe. Providence, July 27, 1776. Lieutenant Calcott, who came last Sunday to Newport with a flag from on board the Merlin ship-of-war, and deli- vered a Letter and Declaration from Lord Viscount Howe, returned next morning with the following Answer from his Honour the Governour : ‘*Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, Newport, July 21, 1776. “ My Lorp: I am favoured with your Lordship’s letter of the 20th of June last, enclosing your Declaration. I have communicated them to the General Assembly of this State, now sitting here, and at their request inform your Lordship, that they will transmit copies of them to the most honourable the General Congress of the United States of America, to whom every application respecting the disputes between the said States and Great Britain ought to be addressed, and must be referred. “T have the honour to be, with great respect and esteem, my Lord, your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant, “« NicHotas Cooke.” GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO WILLIAM WILLIAMS, Lebanon, July 26, 1776. Dear Sir: I intend to give you the state of our Army from Canada. Enclosed is a copy of Major Ely’s report on the subject of the small-pox, with which he was charged. From others, with some things I learn from him, I think it apparent that our troops went most imprudently into inoc- ulation near Quebeck ; and when the enemy came out upon them, our Army fled when there was little force to pursue ; that discontent, disorder, and confusion, had taken place— clamour for want of supplies of clothing, provisions, and wages—and by degrees discipline and subordination failed ; everything was neglected that tended toa reform. When General Burgoyne, with the troops under him, arrived, a general dispiritedness appeared ; the force at the Cedars was very inconsiderable—not more than thirty-seven Regulars, with two or three hundred Indians; that the latter were loath to go, and mostly tarried at Oswegatchie. Had our men behaved well, that defeat would not have happened; this was occasioned by the same causes that are just before men- tioned. Why they were in such manner neglected, and left 607 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 608 without supplies and without their wages, is matter of wonder and astonishment; and last spring there were ten battalions, amounting to about six thousand four hundred men, sent from New-York to join this Army, There were at the same time, in Canada, two battalions of Pennsylvanians, three from New-England, and one or two from New-Jersey; all of them strong, amounting at least to four thousand men more, which, joined with the others, made the Army upwards of ten thousand strong. There are now three thousand sick, and about three thousand well; this leaves near five thousand to be accounted for; of them, the enemy have cast perhaps one thousand—sickness another thousand; which leaves near three thousand; in what manner they are disposed of, is unknown. Among those who remain, there is neither order, subordination, or harmony; the officers as well as men, of one Colony, insulting and quarrelling with those of another. This wretched situation of our troops induced the General Officers, in a council of war, to determine on a retreat to Ticonderoga, and conclude on occupying a post on the east side of the Lakes, very advantageous; it is a height opposite the old works, which commands the entrance of the Lakes Champlain and George; it is almost inaccessible, except in two places, where they propose to make roads; the rest is surrounded by rocks and precipices. Supplies may be easily had from Skenesborough, at the head of Lake Champlain; from hence they expect easily to retire into the country. This, without a naval superiority on the Lakes, they will be obliged to do, notwithstanding the strength of their camp, unless very soon joined by six thousand or eight thousand men. How they will maintain their naval superiority, I must confess myself much ata loss. They build a gondola, per- haps, one in a week; but where are they to find rigging for them—where the guns? To be sure they have a great train of artillery, but very few of them mounted on carriages; at present their materials and conveniences for making them are very slender. They have neither places for them to work in, nor materials in that plenty they ought to have. ‘To oppose the enemy on the Lake, they have a schooner of twelve carriage guns, a sloop of eight guns, two small schooners to carry four or six guns each, and three gondolas; and the large schooner is now in good sailing order, and about to take a trip down the Lake to make discovery. The sloop is a most un- manageable thing; it is impossible to beat up against a head wind inher. ‘The two small schooners are not armed—the gondolas are not armed—and even the carriages of their guns are yetto be made. ‘The enemy are at St. John’s repairing the works at that place, and building three schooners and two sloops; they have no doubt everything ready to their hands—-the rigging made, the guns mounted, and only the wooden work to perform, in which, I fear, they will have the advantage. General Sullivan set off to New-York and Philadelphia in disgust at being superseded by General Gates; the latter was ordered to command in Canada; the Army from thence being retreated within the limits of New- York, the command devolves on General Schuyler. It is justly to be expected that General Gates is discontented with his situation; finding’ himself limited, and removed from the command, to be a wretched spectator of the ruin of the Army, without power of attempting to save them. A truly melancholy scene. General Schuyler has gone to the German Flats ; he writes me July 17th, “ Larrived here yesterday, and found very few Indians. ‘This day one hundred and fifty Indians have come in, and we expect a numerous body of them in a few days. Mr. Ryckman, a trader from Albany, who has been detained at Niagara, by the British officer commanding there, since last year, because he was a friend to our cause and had in- fluence among the savages, has found means, by the help of the Indians, to make his escape. He arrived here last night, accompanied by twenty-one warriors of the Seneca nation. ‘The account he brings of the temper of the Senecas (the nation who could distress us most) is very favourable ; and he assures me, that he has reason to believe the Indians will not attack our frontiers.” You are sensible the extreme busy season retards the filling our regiment going to New-York; and to this is added the dread of the small-pox to those inlisting to go into service in the Northern Army. Now, as business will soon admit men to leave it without so much loss, and the fear of that infection prevailing in the Northern Army is relieved in so great a measure, | hope the battalions from this State will all be filled, and march to their several destinations. Nothing in our power will be omitted to promote it. My fears for the Northern Army and frontiers are great, besides what is men- tioned above, and Major Ely’s report. A reform is abso- lutely necessary; the soldiers are ragged, dirty, and many lousy; clothing greatly wanted—some destitute of sufficiency to make themselves comfortable and decent to appear; to remedy this, shall send from hence, shirts, trowsers, breeches, shoes, stockings, and some woollen clothes, as soon as possible. Subordination and harmony is next to be restored; to do this, the officer that effects it, will meet with great trouble; and when done, will expect to reap the honours of it. To prevent uneasiness and jealousies between the Generals who were to have had the command in Canada and New-York, why, is it not best, and even just, each command the same body of men as expected, without respect to the place where. General Schuyler will have full employment at Albany, and below on the river, and at Tryon County, &c.; while General Gates commands the same Army at Ticonderoga, &c., which it was expected he would have had in Canada. The good of the general service is the great object. Doth not a regard to what will keep up harmony, and prevent jealousies, come within it? Captain Winslow and his party of ship-carpenters, are arrived, and gone to work. Captain Lester, going by water, did not get to New-York until the river was invested with the ships, and they were obliged to take to the land. The one thousand felling-axes requested by General Schuy- ler, are provided, and will be sent forward on Monday. Your kinsman is come to preach to us. Your family is well. Mr. Gerry keeps Sabbath here. Mr. Jay came here on Friday for the loan of cannon to use on the North River. The twenty nine-pound cannon for the ships are ready for use, bored and drilled; and we have lent bim ten twelve and ten six-pounders. Messrs. Hobart and John Brown were here yesterday, a Committee from the New- York Convention, to ask our assistance. ‘They found we had made provision, that six Western regiments, next towards New-York, might be called on by General Washington, if needed; this was one chief thing they had to ask. It is time to break off. This letter may be communi- cated, as you think fit, with my compliments, to the other Delegates, &c. With esteem and regard, dear sir, your affectionate, JonaTHAN ‘T'RUMBULL. To William Williams, Esq. P. S. By Friday’s post, received Lord Howe’s letter of the 20th of June ultimo, and his declaration of pardons to all those who, in the tumult and disorder of the times, may have deviated from their just allegiance, and who are willing, by speedy return to their duty, to reap the benefits of the royal favour; that pardons shall be granted, dutiful repre- sentation received, and every suitable encouragement given for promoting such measures as shall be conducive to the establishing legal government and peace, in pursuance of his Majesty’s most gracious purposes. In his letter he says, “I have judged it expedient to issue the enclosed declaration, in order that all persons may have immediate information of his Majesty’s gracious intentions.” He desires me to pro- mulgate it, assured of being favoured with my assistance in every measure to restore the publick tranquillity; and re- quests such information as will facilitate the attainment of that important object. I shall by next post forward copies of both to Congress; to them I shall refer him. Who began the war? Who withdrew his protection? Who refused to hearken to most dutiful and humble petitions ?- Who invaded our rights? Is not the appeal made to the Supreme Direc- tor of all events? Will not the Judge of all the earth do right? Doth not pardon presuppose guilt? Are we guilty of want of duty and allegiance? Could anything but tyranny, oppression, injustice, cruel war and desolation, have driven us to cast off our mother country ? TIMOTHY NEWELL TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Boston, July 26, 1776. GentLemen: I am directed by a letter just now received from the Deputy Secretary, to lay before your Honours the state of the order of the General Court relative to the camp- kettles and canteens. It has given me extreme uneasiness that there has happened any delay; but not in the least 609 occasioned through any neglect in me, as I assure your Honours the kettles (which was all I engaged) have been ready these ten days past; and the delay is wholly owing to the canteens not coming from Hingham. The last parcel of one hundred and two dozen came yesterday, upon which I immediately went in pursuit of a team, and after riding six miles out, I returned without being able to procure one, except accidentally one for Pittsfield, which 1 despatched yesterday. This morning early I prevailed for one of the Continental teams, which set off for Concord betwixt ten and twelve o’clock this forenoon, with one hundred and seventy-eight kettles, and one thousand and seventy can- teens, which completes the order of the five thousand troops raised for Canada and New-York. The last order for the two hundred and fifty kettles, for the fifteen hundred troops, will be ready by Monday night next; but unless more workmen are put upon the canteens supplied by Theophilus Cushing, Esq., at Hingham, I ap- prehend the same delay will be as heretofore. I am, with great respect, your Honour’s most obedient servant, Timo. NewE.u. To the Honourable Council of Massachusetts. =F ORDER TO LIEUTENANT GILMAN TO RETURN COAT-MONEY TO SOLDIERS. Colony of New-Hampshire, in Committee of Safety, July 26, 1776. To Lieutenant Joun Gruman: Complaints being made to this Committee that you re- ceived of the Colony Paymaster last year, coat-money belonging to several persons, soldiers in the same company with you, which you have not paid to them, and refuse to pay, therefore, that justice may be done, you are required to appear before this Committee, on Wednesday the seventh day of August next, to answer to said complaint. By order of the Committee : M. Tuornton, Chairman p. t. In Committee of Safety, August 6, 1776. The Committee having heard Lieutenant Gilman on the within complaint, are of opinion, that he ought, without delay, to pay the coat-money he has received in behalf of any soldier to them respectively. M. Weare, Chairman. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM ST. EUSTATIA, DATED JULY 27, 1776. Since my last we have the agreeable news that Captain Wickes, in the ship Reprisal, from your place, is safe arrived at Martinico, after having an engagement with the Shark sloop of war, a ship of about equal force with himself. The story is related as follows: This day week, the Shark, lying at anchor in St. Pierre’s harbour, sawa ship beating in, which she took for an American, on which she slipped her cables, bore down on Captain Wickes, and fired two shots in order to bring him to; but Captain Wickes took no notice of them, and stood on his course till within hail of the Shark. On being asked by the Captain, where from, and to what State belonging ? he answered, from Philadelphia, and belonging to the honourable the Continental Congress; and at the same time saluted him with a broadside, which was returned in course by the Shark, without much damage to either that I can find. ‘The engagement continued very hot for fifteen or twenty minutes, when the Shark sheered off. Captain Wickes stood in, and came to in St. Pierre’s; the Shark followed soon after, when the Captain went on shore and de- manded the American Rebel pirate, as he was pleased to’term Captain Wickes’s vessel; but the Governour did not think proper to grant his moderate request, and desired he might not attempt to commit hostilities within the bounds of his Government. Captain Wickes requested protection, and leave to clean his ship, which was granted, and he has gone to some little distance from St. Pierre’s to heave down. It appears from every account I can learn, and by the letters of the French merchants at St. Pierre’s to their friends here, who were eyewitnesses of the engagement, that Cap- tain Wickes and his ship’s crew have acquired much applause by this affair. Captain Wickes had taken three prizes on his passage, bound from the West-Indies, English property, so that he was eighty men short of his complement. He Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 610 was across another vessel, and discharged her, finding she was Irish property. The colours which the American show- ed were a field white and yellow, with thirteen stripes. A French frigate arrived last Sunday at Martinico, from old France, with despatches as late as 22d of June, to the Governours and Commanders of all the different French Islands, to put themselves in the best posture of defence, and to aid, assist, and protect all American vessels that might put into their ports, as far as possible. It is confidently reported from Martinico, that Spain was about or-had actually declared war against Portugal. These are good omens of a war between England and France. God grant it may be soon! It will be the making of America, by calling off the attention of the British fleet from the coast, and leaving the ports open for trade with all the world. JAMES CRESWELL TO W. H. DRAYTON. Ninety-Six, South-Carolina, July 27, 1776. Honovrep Str: I make no doubt that you are anxious to hear bow our affairs stand in this perplexed and unhappy district since the heathen have broke in on our frontier. Fame on such occasions speaks variously, nor is it easy to report only real facts. You may rely on the following. It is quite evident that the savages were made acquainted with the designs of the British fleet against Charlestown, and that there was a connected scheme between them against our country. Nor is it less certain that the disaffected party among us knew the intentions of the Indians, and were really elated with the prospect. ‘They made no secret of their expectations of safety; and when the time drew near that was appointed for the savages to murder, they refused to muster or obey any officer appointed by their country over them. ‘This insolent behaviour, at such a threatening time, very much alarmed us. At this time, it evidently appears that they were by compact to assist the savages to ruin the country; and had they been in possession of their arms, many of them would have actu- ally engaged in the bloody scheme. But, providentially for us, their arms were scarce, and the savages killed the disaf- fected in common, without distinction of party. ‘This greatly alarmed them, changed their countenance and tone, and made them look out for safety for their families. Others of them justly supposed that any of their party that were killed must have suffered through mistake. This now appears plain to us, by the Indians giving up those of them which they had taken as prisoners. The savages have spread great desolation all along the frontiers, and killed a great number. On the 14th, they attacked a part of Colonel Williams’s regiment, at Lindley’s Fort, but were repulsed by the loss of one lover of his coun- try, who, unfortunately, suffered a cruel death by them. This attack was made by about ninety Indians and one hundred and twenty white men. ‘Ten of the white Indians were made prisoners, nine of whom were painted. ‘They are now safe at Ninety-.Stx, where they will remain, unless released by their brethren. Major Williamson and the officers under him have exerted themselves in getting our forces together, and arming them as well as could be done among us. Our Army is about one thousand or eleven hundred strong, and has advanced about fifteen miles over the line. Ninety- Six is now a frontier. Plantations lie desolate, and hopeful crops are going to ruin. In short, dear sir, unless we get some relief, famine will overspread our beautiful coun- try. As our Army is now over the line, the dread of savages and the disaffected will deter the lovers of their country from looking after their affairs at home. Fences are thrown down, and many have already suffered great loss. Such of us as are in forts have neither suitable guns nor ammunition for the defence of our wives and little ones, as we were obliged to furnish our Army with our best arms. By every intelligence we have from Georgia, we learn that the New-Purchase is in great distress. Should the savages break through the New-Purchase, we will then be a frontier in that quarter. The release of the prisoners at Charlestown, at this criti- cal juncture, very much alarmed us. We really dread that party. [cannot express our distress. Your friendship on our behalf with our Governour to pro- cure us the Rangers, or part of them, to assist us, will be 39 611 acknowledged by all with real gratitude, and by none more than by, honoured sir, your very humble servant, James CRESWELL.* To the Hon. Wilkam Henry Drayton, Charlestown. JOHN PAGE TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 5, 1776.] Williamsburgh, July 27, 1776. Str: We had the honour to receive your letter of the 16th instant, by express, enclosing two resolutions of Con- gress, one respecting the taking the forts and garrisons on our frontiers on the Continental establishment, and the other desiring that a quantity of lead should be sent from hence to Philadelphia. 'The Convention is not sitting, but we can- not doubt that it would highly approve of the former resolu- tion; as to the latter, we have sent off an express to the lead-mines, ordering a large number of hands to be imme- diately hired, to assist those already employed there. By this means, it will not be long before we shall be able to furnish the twenty tons you require; but at present we have had such demands for lead from North-Carolina and our frontiers, on account of an Indian war in which we are at present engaged, that it is impossible to procure any for you till more can be extracted from the ore. We have not in our publick magazines two tons of lead and ball, and our cruisers are not yet furnished with that article; so that it will not be in our power to send any from hence. However, sir, we hope to procure you a ton or two; but even this we almost doubt of, since we have reason to believe that the lead which our Delegates have sent to Fredericksburgh for, will be all given out to the cruisers on Rappahannock, or the Militia now out on the alarm spread by the enemy’s fleet in their neighbourhood. We have enclosed you, sir, a copy of a letter from the President of South-Carolina, and another from General Lee, with one from the President of the Committee of Safety of North-Carolina, enclosing a letter from Brigadier Rutherford, from which letters you will see how unavoid- ably we are engaged in an Indian war, and may judge how extensive it may prove, if the Creeks, and other nations bor- dering on the Cherokees, should join them. We did not hesitate a moment to adopt the plan recommended by the President of Carolina and General Lee, and have ordered twelve hundred men to be immediately raised, and marched into the Overhill ‘Towns; but this force is, we hear, by no means sufficient, if the other Indian tribes should join against us. We are by the Indian war daily incurring many and heavy expenses, which we humbly conceive must be a Continental charge. Written by order of the Council. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, JoHN Pace, President. To the Honourable John Hancock, President of the Con- gress, in Philadelphia. Copy of Mr. President RutLepGE’s Letter to the President of the Vircinia Convention. Charlestown, July 7, 1776. Sir: I am sorry to acquaint you, that notwithstanding the most friendly appearance is given to the Continental Com- missioners at the late Congress by the Cherokee Indians, those people have actually begun a war against the Colonies. The Lower towns some time ago suffered Cameron (Stuart's deputy in the Overhills) to leave. ‘Two men (Hamptons) who resided there, and were in our interest, were seized and carried to Cameron; but they refused to suffer any of our people in their towns, who were in the King’s interest, to be taken. They have also made several prisoners, plun- dered houses, and on the 30th ultimo proceeded to kill several people. ‘These outrages must not go unpunished, but be instantly checked, conceiving that the most effectual way of putting a stop to them, will be to march a consider- able force from this Colony and North-Carolina, into the heart of the Lower and Middle ‘Towns, and of the Valley Settlements; and at the same time, oras soon as may be, the Overhills should. be attacked from Virginia, from whence alone it can be done to advantage, and may with the greatest ease ; and General Lee (who writes to you on this subject) *Mr. Creswell was a respectable Preacher, residing between Saluda and Broad Rivers, in Ninely-Six District. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 612 and our Council being of the same opinion, I have given orders to Major Williamson to proceed with what men he has imbodied and can raise, which I suppose may amount to about eleven hundred men, and march, as I presume he will within a very few days, against the lower Cherokees, and then to carry on a war against them, unless they will submit to reasonable terms. I have written to the President of the Council of North- Carolina, to order assistance from that Colony to Major Williamson; and I hope that, as the object is of the utmost importance, and there is not a mo- ment to be lost in taking such steps as may prevent future apprehensions of danger from those Indians, and others who may be intimidated by their fate, you will immediately cause a considerable force to march from Virginia, with the utmost expedition, and wage war with the Overhill Cherokees, until they shall be brought to such terms as may be safe and honourable for the Colonies.’ Enclosed you will receive an extract of a letter to Major Williamson. I shall be glad of your answer by the bearer, as soon as possible, and hope to meet with no difficulty, delay, or disappointment, in this matter, on the part of your Colony. 1 am, with great regard and respect, sir, your most obe- dient and very humble servant, J. Rur.epece. P.S. You will be pleased to forward the letter herewith delivered to my brother as soon as possible, and to acquaint him what will be done by your Colony in consequence of my application, as I think it material that the Congress should be apprized of the disposition of these Indians, &c., as soon as may be. Copy of a Letter from General Lee to the Convention of Vireinta. Charlestown, July 7, 1776. Sir: Mr. Rutledge will inform you by this express of the outrages committed by the Cherokees, which must be con- strued as the commencement of a war. As it is now certain that a capital and favourite part of the plan laid down by his most excellent and clement. Majesty George the Third is to lay waste the Provinces, burn the habitations, and mix men, women, and children, in one common carnage by the hands of the Indians, and as this part of his plan, though of apiece in point of humanity, is certainly more big with mischievous consequences than the rest, it appears to me absolutely necessary to crush the evil before it arises to any dangerous height; indeed, if we avail ourselves of the event, it may prove a fortunate one; perhaps in policy we ought to have wished for it. We can now, with the greatest justice, strike a blow which is necessary to intimidate the numerous tribes of Indians from falling into the measures of the present Administration ; and as these Cherokees are not esteemed the most formidable warriors, we can probably do it without much risk orloss. I think, then, sir, without a moment’s delay a body of your frontier riflemen should be furnished forthwith, and march into the country of the Overhill Cherokees, and make a severe, lasting, and salutary example of them. The Caro- lineans propose at the same time attacking their lower towns, and, with the codperation of Virginia, entertain no doubt of success. Clinton’s Army and Parker’s squadron are pretty much in the same situation as when I wrote last. ‘They daily, in- deed, make some alteration in the position of their land troops, from one Island to another, perhaps for new air or water, of which the deserters say they are in great want. They tell us likewise, that considerable sickness prevails in the Army, and greater discontents from hard duty and bad diet. The spirit of desertion begins to show itself. Five soldiers came over these two last nights, who assure us that were they not on an Island, from which it is difficult to escape, two-thirds of their Army would soon be with us. I am myself inclined to believe them. Upon the whole, when I consider the difficulties which the enemy’s Generals have to encounter, the temper and disposition of their troops, and the improving spirit of ours, I assure myself that the game is in our hands. God give us more grace than to shuflle it away. Iam your most obedient, &c., Cuartes Ler. To the Hon. Edmund Pendleton, President of the Conven- tion of Virginia. P. S. I must request, sir, that any letters that I address to the Convention may be forwarded to the Congress when you think them of sufficient importance. 613 Copy of a Letter from the Convention of Norru-Caroxina to Governour P. Henry, enclosed in a Letter from the Council of Vinarnta, 27th Jury, 1776. Halifax, North-Carolina, July 21, 1776. Sir: We have the honour to transmit your Excellency copies of two letters from Brigadier Rutherford, who lives in Rowan County, near Salisbury, the commanding officer on the frontiers of this Colony, directed to the Board, re- specting Indian affairs, to which we beg leave to refer you. The contents of these letters you may depend upon the trath of. Brigadier Rutherford has been directed by me to have a sufficient force immediately on the frontiers, and to act in conjunction with Major Williamson, who commands eleven hundred men, raised by the Colony of South-Carolina. It is intended that General Rutherford and Major Williamson should march into the Cherokees Lower Towns; they have their orders for that purpose. We are in full and certain expectation that your Colony will, upon this very alarming and dangerous situation of the frontiers of the southern Colonies, immediately order the commanding officer on the western settlements of it to imbody a sufficient number of men to march against the Overhill Cherokee towns, so that the lower and upper towns of those faithless savages may be attacked at one and the same time, as nearly as may be. It will be very necessary for your officer to give Briga- dier Rutherford notice from time to time of his intentions, in order that their future operations may go hand in hand together. This Colony is in the greatest want of lead; we have to request that you will order from Chiswell’s Mines a present supply of five tons, as the inhabitants on our frontiers have scarcely any, and are in the most distressed situation; and we have no other means of procuring that article but from your Colony; therefore must once more request your friendly and speedy assistance. We cannot help mentioning the suspicions many of our western people have with respect to a design the Indians have in view of cutting off the persons at Chiswell’s Mines; and as the savages have many white men now out with them (who are well acquainted with the importance of a lead mine in scouting parties, there may be some reason for the belief of such an intention. We congratulate your Excellency on your being appointed to the government of the Commonwealth of Virginia; and have the honour to be, &c., your most obedient, &c. Signed by order of the Council of Safety: Cornetius Harnett, President. To His Excellency P. Henry. Copy of Brigadier RuruEerrorn’s Letter to the Council of Safety of Nortu- Caro.ina, enclosing the Letter of the Council of Viraintia. July 14, 1776. HonovurasLe GentLemen: I am under the necessity of sending you by express the alarming condition this country isin. ‘The Indians are making great progress in destroying and murdering in the frontiers of this County, Thirty-seven, I am informed, were killed last Wednesday and Thursday, on the Catawba River. 1 am also informed, that Colonel McDowell, ten men, and one hundred and twenty women and children, are besieged in some kind of a fort, and the Indians round them; no help to them before yesterday, and they were surrounded on Wednesday. 1 expect, the next account, to hear that they are all destroyed. Colonel Back- man’s is the frontier of this County. Pray, gentlemen, consider our distress, and send us plenty of powder, and I hope, under God, we of Salisbury district are able to stand them ; but if you allow us to go to the nation, I expect you will order Hillsborough district to join Salisbury. Three of our Captains are killed, and one wounded. ‘This day I set out with what men I can raise for the relief of the dis- tressed. I am, gentlemen, in haste, your humble servant, GrirrirH RurHerrorp. To the Hon. the Council of Safety, North-Carolina. ELISHA WINTERS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Chestertown, July 27, 1776. Gentiemen: I gladly embrace this opportunity to inform you I shall have twenty-eight muskets ready to your order | * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 614 by Monday, 3d August, making up forty muskets per month, agreeable to my contract. I remain, with much respect, gentlemen, your most hum- ble servant f Exisua WINTERS. To the Honourable the Council of Safety, Annapolis. CHARLES CARROLL, BARRISTER, TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Mount-Clare, July 27, 1776. GentLemen: I do not know whether you have received any answer to your letter to Philadelphia to your Deputies, desiring them to look out for an Engineer, or whether they may be able to get one to come down. I therefore intro- duce to you Mr. Allcock, of Baltimore-Town, who, from the character I have of him, will be able to do you service. He has been, as | am informed, of great help to the gentle- men of Baltimore-Town in designing and erecting their fortifications at Whetstone. He now, at my desire, waits on you, and will look at all your situations. He keeps a school in this town, and cannot very well spare the time for his journey. I have, however, prevailed on him to ride down, on a promise of a compensation for his time and trouble. You will, on conversing with him, judge whether he can be of any assistance to you as a desigver or otherwise. I fancy it will be difficult to get Engineers from the north- ward, and we must, in my opinion, avail ourselves of the skill of such as we can meet with among ourselves, though their knowledge be not so perfect or complete. I was yesterday at Whetstone, and find Captain Smith has five eighteen-pounders to spare, four of them on high carriages, and the other on a low carriage. I think the sooner you get them down to Annapolis the better. I intended to come down about the middle of next week, but have had a touch of the fever and ague, which I believe will keep me up here a little longer. I am, very respectfully, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant ? Cuas. Carrow. To the Honourable the Council of Safety, at Annapolis. COLONEL SOMERVILLE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Calvert County, July 27, 1776. GentLemeEN: I received orders from Colonel. Mackall (who is now at St. George’s) yesterday to send a company of our Militia to St. Mary’s, to relieve the company now stationed there, which I shall do without loss of time. As Captain John Brooke, and his First Lieutenant and Ensign, have enrolled the number of men directed by Convention to entitle them to their commissions, I would humbly beg leave to ask if it would not contribute greatly to the ease of our Militia if they were ordered to be stationed either at Drum Point or down in St. Mary’s, in lieu of the compa- nies of Militia now at those places, until such time as your Honours may think proper to order them otherwise ? I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, ALEX. SOMERVILLE. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. CHARLES RUMSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Cecil County, July 27, 1776. GentLemen: The bearer, Captain John Oglevie, finding Captain Alexander had not made up his company by the 20th instant, and being zealous in the cause, proposed to march with his company, or with such a part of them as could, with convenience, leave their homes; upon which, in a few days time, he had the number enrolled, agreeable to his Return. Hope they will be accepted, as they are a parcel of active, stout, willing men. _ We are, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servants, Cuarves Rumsey, H. Hotircsworru. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. We, the subscribers, do hereby enrol ourselves to serve as Militia of Maryland, in the Middle Department, that is * 615 to say, from this Province to New-York, inclusive, until the Ist day of December next, unless sooner discharged by the honourable Congress, according to the resolution of the Convention of Maryland, held at Annapolis, the 21st day of June, 1776. Capt. John Oglevie, 1st Lt. Jos. Tanner, 2d Lt. Elisha Rod- David M. Guffin, gers, Alex. Thompson, Ensign James Boggs, John Sands, William Tilyard, James Connor, Thomas Ramsay, William Duffield, Samuel Bing, James Hasson, David Morrison, William Mullen, Hugh McDowell, James Perry, ‘John Minor, Thomas King, Elisha Gatchell, Eliot Williams, John Johnson, James Hindman, Oliver Bing, Michael Askin, Benjamin Moody, William Smith, JamesClendenin, (a George Robinson, Benjamin McMahon, James McKibbin, John Jameson, lad,) drummer, Alex. Armstrong, Patrick Donnelly, George Glass, Matthew Morgan, William Strean, John Phillips, George Cunningham, James Wright, William Brisland, George Day, James M. Clenshey, William Bean, William Brison, Carbery Cuningham, Andrew Thompson, David Robinson, James Morrow, George McClelland, The within and above men were viewed, and are able- bodied and effective men. Cuarues Rumsey. July 25, 1776. Samuel Thompson, Alexander Simpson, Josiah Porterfield, William Jameson, James Stevenson, Thomas Newell, Matthew McDowell, Benjamin Hasson, William Johnson, James Welch. MAJOR PRICE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Upper Camp, St. George’s, July 27, 1776. GentLemen: The day before yesterday, in the evening, the Roebuck and other ships returned down the river, and came to about five miles from this place. At two o’clock yesterday morning, I received a line from Captain Nicholson, acquainting me that he intended to attack the fleet at day- break. I immediately despatched an officer, with orders, if possible, to speak to Captain Nicholson, and let him know the ships had returned down the river, and were then within nine or ten miles of the fleet, and that I did not think it prudent to attack them. Colonel Barnes had sometime before despatched an officer. ‘The one I sent got to his camp, but neither of them could come up with Captain Nichglson. I immediately, on the receipt of the letter, ordered the troops under arms, and despatched Captain Thomas with about forty on the Island, to alarm the enemy in that quarter, Major Eden with about the same number on the Point, with a four-pounder, and I took the remainder, twenty-five in number, on board of two boats and canoes, and went down St. George’s River as near the enemy as we could with safety, when I left them under the command of Lieutenant Adams, with orders, if there should be any confusion in the fleet, to push up with their boats to Cherry- field Point, where I would be. I then went across to the Point, where our people from the lower camp had been at work all night, and by the time the sun was rising, had mounted the two largest cannon. About an hour after, we espied the Defence making up for the fleet. The Fowey, which lay about a mile from the battery, did not see her, or seemed to take no notice of her, for more than an hour, when we noticed boats going ahead of her, as we supposed, to carry out her anchor, in order to warp her out; and in a short time, we observed her hauling out, when I immediately ordered the cannons to be fired at her. We fired four times from the nine-pounder, and twice from the four, one of which the nine, we think) hulled her; the other struck a boat laying at the stern, with, I believe, men in her. I saw them a very little time before, the Fowey all the time hauling out. By this time, observed the Defence put about, and stand down the river. I believe she must have seen the Roebuck, which was seen some time after standing down after her, the Fowey giving chase a very little while before. Upon the whole, the enemy appears to be a good deal alarmed, and I am in hopes will leave this in a short time. Captain Boucher came to camp last night; he left two row-galleys about two miles above this place. I furnished him with a boat and some hands to go back by water; he expects to be down with the galleys this evening. Iam collecting all the boats and cannons, to give him all the assistance in my power. The remainder of the Militia here must be discharged to-morrow night. I expected to have had a fresh recruit of them by this time. Shall be very weak—not less than twenty regulars down with fevers at this time. There will be great difficulty in getting the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 616 cannon back by land; should think it best to have them carried by water, if vessels can be had, as soon as the enemy goes off. Enclosed you have Governour Eden’s answer to Mr. Wolstenholme’s letter, which was brought to Captain Forrest, who I ordered to that station, in place of Captain Mackall, whom | could not so well depend upon. You have also enclosed Captain Forrest’s letter to me, and Mr. Wolsten- holme’s answer to Governour Eden. This is a shocking country: everything scarce; water we are obliged to haul nearly three miles; no liquor but bad whiskey to drink; everybody fatigued and tired of the place. If the enemy continue here, must certainly have fresh troops. I had almost forgotten to tell you that the nine-pounder turns out extraordinarily good, perhaps none better; all here are much pleased with her. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Tuos. Price. To the Honourable Council of Safety. Roebuck, July 20, 1776. Dear Sir: I received this morning your letter of the 19th, and the annexed declaration and assurance that any flag sent for you and your effects shall be received with the respect due to it. Commodore Hammond's inclination to render any service in his power to any of his Majesty’s offi- cers in your situation, has induced him to order a flag to be sent on shore for you on Monday or Tuesday next; and you shall have as good accommodations for your passage to England in the victualler he has been pleased to grant to me, as it will afford. And I am desired to assure you that any flag, or vessel with a flag, that you may employ to bring off your effects and stock, with their provision and water, shall be allowed to return immediately unmolested. Doctor Scott and four other gentlemen, besides myself, take this opportunity of going to England; he desires his compliments to you and such of our friends as may be with you, in which I join, and in wishing you health and a good passage. I am, dear sir, your obedient, humble servant, ; Roserr Epen. To D. Wolstenholme, Esq. Sir: I am much obliged to you for your very kind favour per Lieutenant Sandys, and beg that you'll be pleased to pay my most respectful compliments to Commodore Hammond, and acquaint him of the high sense I entertain of his goodness in sending for me a flag of truce, and to acquaint him that I have been twice stopped by the commanding officers at St. George’s; but the first order revoked, and afterwards repeated, with fresh instructions to the officers of the troops stationed at my house, not to permit my embark- ation, till the pleasure of the Council of Safety should be known. The express has returned, which, at present, puts a stop to my embarkation; what may happen from a second ex- press that was sent, and to which no answer is yet returned, I cannot say; though I much doubt their first resolution will not be rescinded. I think myself much obliged to your Excellency for the kind part you have acted on this occasion, and that you may rest assured that no sinister event whatever shall ever shake those principles of honour becoming an officer in his Majesty’s service. I have only now to repeat my most respectful compliments to Commodore Hammond, Dr. Scott, and all the gentlemen of my acquaintance, and to wish you a pleasant passage, and a happy sight of your friends in Eng- land ; being, very respectfully, sir, yours, &c., Danie, WoLsTENHOLME. To His Excellency Governour Eden. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO RICHARD DALLAM. [No. 83.] Sir: We received yours of the 22d of July, and are glad to hear that you have made as many guns as will reimburse the money already advanced; they may be delivered to Colo- nel Carville Hall, or his order. The price you ask is high for guns, but we want them at present, and therefore will Annapolis, July 27, 1776. 617 take any number you may make in six weeks from this time, and give you £4 10s. currency for them completely finished. We are, Xc. To Richard Dallam, Esq., Harford County. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GORDON AND PATTEN. {No. 84.] Annapolis, July 27, 1776. Gentiemen: Enclosed you will have a plan of a knap- sack and haversack in one, adopted by three Provinces, and which they offer to make, of the materials, dimensions, and in manner described, in Philadelphia, at 8s.6d. If you in- cline to make two thousand six hundred at that rate, we will agree to pay that price, provided they be made in the space of six weeks at farthest. We expect your answer immediately, that we may apply elsewhere in case you do not incline to furnish us. We are, Xc. To Messrs. Gordon and Patten. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GERARD HOPKINS. {No. 85.] Annapolis, July 27, 1776. Sir: Enclosed you will receive an order on the Treasurer for £50, to pay off the debts you have incurred on the ac- count of the knapsacks and haversacks, for girth and diaper web, and what you may want for future purchases of that sort. I have it in command from the Council to inform you that it is impossible for them to fix the price of making the haver- sacks, as they cannot be judges of the value of work they have never seen, and haversacks are made in various forms, and of course more work must be bestowed on one kind than another. Knapsacks and haversacks in one, are offered to be made in Phaladelphia, and all materials found, for 8s. 6d. apiece; you speak only of haversacks; it is not known if you mean haversacks alone, or knapsacks and haversacks together. As soon as the price can be fixed, the cash will be sent you. The Council will pay what the Committee of Baltimore shall fix their value at. It is by no means agreeable to the Council that the officers of the Flying-Camp should have any command over the stores of this Province; and they cannot look upon you as acting in the line of your duty, in disposing of them to any of them, without orders from their Board: they are to be in Continental pay, and no regular account can be kept against the Continent without such commands issuing from the proper place. They will, however, take the eight hun- dred and fifty haversacks made in consequence of Colonel Erving’s request to you, which you are to deliver only to the order of the Council of Safety. They again desire to know whether you mean haversacks alone, or knapsacks with them. Enclosed is a letter open, which you are desired to seal and deliver to Messrs. Gordon and Patten. It contains proposals for making a quantity of knapsacks and haversacks, the pattern and price, and they are requested to give an answer speedily. I am yours, &c., Gasriet Duvat.. To Mr. Gerard Hopkins, son of Richard. DELAWARE ASSEMBLY. In the House of Representatives for the Counties of New- Castle, Kent, and Sussex, upon Delaware, at New- Castle, Saturday, July 27, 1776, P. M.: The House, taking into consideration the Resolution of Congress of the 15th of May last, for suppressing all autho- rity derived from the Crown of Great Britain, and for estab- lishing a Government upon the authority of the People, and the Resolution of this House of the 15th of June last, in consequence of the said Resolution of Congress, directing all persons holding offices, civil or military, to execute the same in the name of this Government until a new one should be formed, and also the Declaration of the United States of America absolving from all allegiance to the British Crown, and dissolving all political connexion between them and Great Britain, lately published and adopted by this Gov- ernment as one of those States, are of opinion that some speedy measures should be taken to form a regular mode of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 618 civil polity; and this House, not thinking themselves autho- rized by their constituents to execute this important work, Do Resolve, That it be recommended to the good people of the several Counties in this Government to choose a suit- able number of Deputies to meet in Convention, there to order and declare the future form of Government for this State. Resolved, also, That it is the opinion of this House, that the said Convention consist of the number of thirty persons; that is to say, ten for the County of New-Castle, ten for the County of Kent, and ten for the County of Sussex; and that the freemen of the said Counties respectively do meet on Monday, the 19th day of August next, at the usual places of election for the County, and then and there proceed to elect the number of Deputies aforesaid, according to the directions of the several laws of this Government for regula- ting elections of the Members of Assembly, except as to the choice of Inspectors, which shall be made on the morning of the day of election by the electors, inhabitants of the respec- tive Hundreds in each County. Resolved, 'That every elector shall (if required by one or more of the Judges of the Election) take the following oath or affirmation, to wit: “I, A. B., will, to the utmost of my power, support and maintain the independence of this Government, as declared by the honourable Continental Congress.” Resolved, also, That it is the opinion of this House that the Deputies, when chosen as aforesaid, shall meet in Con- vention in the Town of New-Castle, on Tuesday, the 27th day of the same month of August, and immediately proceed to form a Government on the authority of the people of this State, in such sort as may be best adapted to their preserva- tion and happiness. Extract from the Minutes. Published by order: James Booru, Clerk of Assembly. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO JOSEPH TRUMBULL. Philadelphia, July 27, 1776. Sir: Enclosed you have a resolution of Congress for the supply of provisions to the frigates in the Eastern Depart- ment, out of the stock of provisions in that quarter; and am to request you will, by the next post, issue your orders to your Deputy there to furnish such quantities as shall be ap- plied for by Mr. Cushing and others who have the care of the ships. I have paid all your bills which have been presented. Money will soon be sent to the Paymaster. I wish you happy; and am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Jos. Trumbull, Esq., Commissary-General, New- York. MARYLAND DELEGATES IN CONGRESS TO COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 27, 1776. GentLemeN: Colonel Smallwood, apprehending his bat- talion would be in want of many necessaries at the camp, applied to us for a sum of money, and we advanced him 1,335, for which he is to be accountable to the Conven- tion of Maryland. We hope this advance will meet with your and their approbation, as not much can be expected from soldiers badly provided; and such is the discretion and economy of Colonel Smallwood, that we are persuaded he will make a very judicious application of this money. The Congress has allowed a regimental Paymaster to each battalion in the Flying-Camp, the appointment of which officer is left to the several States from which those battalions come. In the recess of our Convention, the appointment is in you, and we beg you may appoint one as soon as may be. Colonel Smallwood recommended to us for this place Mr. Christopher Richmond. We mention this circumstance be- cause we know the appointment of Mr. Richmond will be very agreeable to the Colonel. There are now lodged in Mr. Shries’s house fifty odd muskets, lately imported for the use of our State; they want repairing and cleaning. We submit it to you whether we shall not keep these muskets here, to arm in part one of our Militia companies passing through this city, on its way to the Flying-Camp; this will save the expense and trouble of sending them to Maryland. 619 We are informed that there are large quantities of flint- stones at the landings on Wye and Choptank rivers; these were brought by the ships as ballast, and thrown out on the banks. The Congress has desired us to write to you on the subject, and to procure some person who understands flints, to look after them, and to report to Congress whether they are good or not. We have nothing new from New-York: the post is not yet come in: we heard from General Washington yesterday: all was quiet. ‘The ten vessels mentioned in the papers appearing in the offing at New- York brought over Highland- ers—how many we know not. As the harvest is now over, we imagine the Militia will come in fast to compose the Flying-Camp; and we hope the Maryland Militia will march with all possible expedition. Weare, with regard, gentlemen, your most obedient, hum- ble servants d Samueu CuaseE, Cu. Carrout of Carrollion. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland, at Annapolis. GEORGE STEVENSON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 31, 1776.] In Committee of Inspection and Observation of Cumberland County, at Carlisle, July 27, 1776. Sir: Agreeable to the request of Congress, recommended by our Convention, by their Circular Letter of the 19th instant, by this Committee forwarded to the Colonels or commanding officers of the several battalions of Militia As- sociators in this County, to hasten the march to New-Jersey of as many of their companies as can be armed, the in- habitants have voluntarily and very generally offered their service; and, by the answers which we have received from the officers, it appears to us that eleven companies will be sufficiently armed and accoutred, and the last of them march- ed from this place, in about a week from this time. ‘Three companies more are preparing, if they can get arms; and many more declare themselves willing to march; but we are well assured arms are not to be got in this County. A con- siderable quantity of arms were purchased in this County last winter, and sent to Virginia, by permission of the Com- mitiee of Safety; several chests of arms were sent to the Committee of Safety, and with them fifty-six of the new arms, made here by order of the Assembly; all the companies who have hitherto been raised in this County have been supplied with our arms; therefore there can be but very few arms now in this County. The money we sent for by our order of the 14th instant, we disposed of to the companies first raised, and we are now obliged to draw for £1000 more in favour of Mr. John Pol- lock, of this place, our express, whom we hope you will not detain, as it is a doubt with us whether we can borrow money sufficient to answer the necessary demands of the companies before they can march; and if that should be the case, some of them will be obliged to wait his return. After the men shall have marched, we shall render an account of the dis- posal of the money. If arms and accoutrements are to be had at Pheladelphia we can send more men. An answer to this and to our former letter, will oblige us much. We are, sir, your most obedient and humble servants, GerorcGE Stevenson, Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 27, 1776. Sir: General Heard and General Roberdeau have con- sidered with me the plan proposed for attacking the posts on Staten-Island. Two things we entirely agree in, namely, that the number of troops proposed are by no means equal to the undertaking. We cannot rationally suppose the enemy’s force on the Island to be less than ten thousand. Where these are chiefly posted we have no intelligence to be depended on. Several outeuards posted along the shores of the Island are in our view, but these we can only regard as necessary to the security of their main body, who may speedily come to the assistance of any one post. ‘The craft necessary to convey a suflicient body for a successful attack on the enemy is not, so far as I can find, to be collected CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 620 along theshoreshere. It is true there are many small vessels, but the greater number ill-constructed for making a descent. It is, therefore, our opinion, that before any grand effort is made, a number of flat-bottomed boats should be constructed for the purpose, as well as those we have, put in the best repair, We have carpenters enough in the troops here ; tools, nails, and other materials may be had ; and we wait your orders to set about this part of the service. In Rariton River are craft of different sizes calculated to transport one thousand men; Rahway River three hundred. General Heard will be able to inform your Excellency what craft may be ready in Thompson’s Creek, Elizabeth-Town, and Newark. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant ? Hueun Mercer. P. S. No troops have joined since last return. GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Sir: In consequence of your favour to-day, I have order- ed ammunition for the troops at Elizabeth-Town, also two pieces of cannon, with their arrangement of necessary articles. ‘They will be with you to-morrow, and I will do myself the pleasure of then paying you my respects. I am very sorry you do not find people actuated with such a split as you wish. General Washington, under the dread of leaving this part of the country naked, through the desertion of such numbers, has directed me to send no more men, after Colonel Atlee’s, to New-York. H. Mercer. To Col. John Dickinson, commanding at Elizabeth-Town. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 29, 1776.] New-York, July 27, 1776. Sir: I was yesterday morning honoured with your favour of the 24th instant, with its several enclosures, to which I shall pay the strictest attention. The confidence Congress are pleased to repose in my judgment demands my warmest acknowledgments; and they may rest assured it shall be invariably employed, so far as it shall be in my power, to promote their views and the publick weal. I have enclosed a letter received from Major French two days ago; also, one from him to his lady. Congress will perceive thereby what he says and thinks about his parole, and will be pleased to transmit to me, by the earliest oppor- tunity, the results of their opinion, and such orders as they may think necessary to be taken upon it. The letter for Mrs. French they will please to return me. It was only forwarded to show his views more explicitly than what that to me does. Since my last, nothing material has occurred. Yesterday evening, report was made that eight ships were seen in the offing, standing towards the Hook. 'The men-of-war and tenders are still up the river. ‘They have never attempted to pass the Highland fortifications; and a day or two ago quitted their station, and fell down the river eight or ten miles. The vigilance and activity of the Militia opposite where they were, have prevented their landing, and doing .much injury. One poor peasant’s cot they plundered, and then burnt. I would wish to know whether the allowance given to officers the 17th of January, of one-and-a-third dollars for every man they inlist, Congress mean to extend to the offi- cers who inlist for the new Army for three years. At first, it may appear wrong, or rather exorbitant, supposing that many will be recruited out of the regiments now in service, and under them; but the allowance will be of great use, as it will interest the officers, and call forth their exer- tions, which otherwise would be faint and languid. Indeed, I am fearful, from the inquiries I have made, that their utmost exertions will be attended with but little success. It is objected, that the bounty of ten dollars is too low, and argued, that if the States furnishing men for five or six months allow considerably more, why should that be accept- ed, and when the term of inlistment is to be for three years? I heartily wish a bounty in land had been, or could be, given, as was proposed some time ago. I think it would be attended with salutary consequences. In consequence of my application to Governour Trumbull, 621 he has sent me two row-galleys, and I expect another from him. None from Governour Cooke are yet come, nor have I heard from him on the subject. One is complete here. The fire-ships are going on under Mr. Anderson’s direction, but rather slowly; and I am preparing some obstructions to the channel nearly opposite the works at the upper end of this Island. When all things are ready, I intend to try, if it shall seem practicable, to destroy the ships and tenders above, and to employ the galleys, if they can be of advantage. The Militia for the Flying-Camp come in but slowly. By a return from General Mercer yesterday, they are but a little more than three thousand. If they were in, or can be there shortly, and the situation of the enemy remains the same, I would make some efforts to annoy them, keeping our posts here well guarded, and not putting too much to the hazard, or in any manner to the risk. I have the honour to be, with the utmost respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. - Hartford, July 22, 1776. Sie: A letter which I saw to Captain Delaplace, direct- ing his Majesty’s officers, prisoners here, to send their letters under cover to you, occasions my troubling you with the enclosed, which I request you will direct to be sent to his Excellency General Howe, by the first flag of truce; and as I am certain there must be many letters for me and the other gentlemen here, we shall esteem it a favour if you will direct inquiry to be made of the flags of trace which may be sent to you. I make no doubt you will grant us this small con- solation in our captivity, that we may have the satisfaction of hearing from our friends. When the parole which I signed to the Committee of Safety at Philadelphia was tendered to me, and I had read as far as “that I would not bear arms against the United Colonies for twelve months,” I refused to sign it for so long a time; but one of the members, (Mr. Morris,) observing there was an alternative, viz: “unless exchanged,” I agreed, and signed it; from which it is evident, that I, with Ensign Rotton and Mr. McDermott, who were taken with me, as also Mr. Goldthorpe, a private soldier in his Majesty’s Twenty-Second Regiment, and Alexander Allen, a private soldier in his Majesty’s Forty-Fifth Regiment, who came under the same articles, are entitled to our enlargement on the 12th of August next, at which period our parole expires, for which I beg you will give orders. I should not have presumed to remind you of this circumstance, which I know would naturally occur, but through an apprebension that the multiplicity of business now on your hands might occasion it to escape your memory. I am, sir, with all due respect, your most obedient, humble servant, Curistr. FRENCH. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, Saturday morning, July 27, 1776. Dear Sir: Colonel Hand reports five ships, one brig, and five schooners, at the Hook. One very large vessel came up last evening to the fleet. One other ship sailed about one this morning, but the Colonel don’t write whether she went down or up. I have four prisoners, inhabitants of Queen’s County, that were taken yesterday, attempting to make their escape to the enemy. I am just going to examine them. If 1 dis- cover anything worthy your Excellency’s notice, it shall be transmitted you immediately. I received information last evening of there being thirty or forty Tories on a little Island near the entrace of Jamaica- Bay. Three boats full of men were seen off there day before yesterday, but they did not land, nor speak with any boats, that the guards could discover. I sent a party of sixty men to scour the Island this morning, and to take all they found there prisoners. 1 am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s very humble servant, Naruau. GREENE. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Saturday, twelve o’clock, July 27, 1776. Dear Sir: I have examined the prisoners, and find them to be a parcel of poor ignorant, cowardly fellows. ‘Two are CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 622 tailors, named John and James Dunbar; and the other two are common labourers, named Isaac Petit and Will Smith. They candidly confess they set off with an intention of going to Staten-Island, but not with any intention of joining the enemy, but to get out of the way of fighting here, I believe the true reasons of their attempting to make their escape were, there has been a draught amongst the Militia to fill the new levies, and it was rumored these were a part that were drawn. It was also reported they were to go into the North- ern Ariny, and that almost all that went there died, or were killed. ‘The prospect was so shocking to them and to their grandmothers and aunts, I believe they persuaded them to run away. Never did I see fellows more frightened; they wept like a parcel of children, and appear exceeding sorrow- ful. One of them is in an exceeding ill state of health, very unfit for any fatigue. I beg your Excellency’s direction how to dispose of them; they don’t appear to be acquainted — with one publick matter; they have been Toryish, but I fancy not from principle, but from its being the prevailing sentiment in the County. Mrs. Grant desires to go on board the fleet to-morrow, and to carry the necessary provision for her passage, agree- able to the order or permit of Congress. Your Excellency will please to signify your pleasure in the matter. I have the honour to be, your obedient servant, Naru. GREENE. COLONEL SHEE TO GENERAL MIFFLIN. NA sia Mount Washington, July 27, 1776. Sir: I know of no vacancy in the Third Pennsylvania Battalion but one, occasioned by the promotion of Lieutenant Woelpper, who requested me not to recommend any person in his room, as he was not determined to leave the regiment; of which he promised to advise me on his arrival at Phila- -delphia. Lieutenant Knox has been a long while imprisoned at Philadelphia. As it is not likely that he will join the regi- ment, Congress may probably think proper to deprive him of his commission: Should there be a vacancy in conse- quence, as well as one on the advancement of Mr. Woelpper, I should, as I have already done, beg leave to recommend John Davis and Samuel Dewees, to fill the post of Ensigns. Iam, sir, your humble servant, JOHN SHEE. To Brigadier-General Mifflin. N. WOODHULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. White-Plains, July 27, 1776. Sir: Iam directed to transmit to your Excellency the enclosed Deposition, relative to William Sutton’s declaration after returning from on board Governour Tryon’s ship last fall. I bave the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant ? : Natu. Woopnutt, Pres’t, To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. . Committee Chamber, White-Plains, July 12, 1776. Mr. . . . . being duly sworn on the Holy Evan- gelists of Almighty God, deposes and says: That some time after Wilkam Sutton returned home from Governour Tryon’s ship, he (this deponent) was informed by said Sut- ton, as follows: That our people were to be cut off from New-York, and that the King’s troops were to land about ten miles from Mamaroneck ; that Hudson’s River was to be occupied by them; that the fleet was to be drawn up in.a line before New-York, with intent to keep the forces there in action, in order to give the transports a better opportunity of running up the North River with intent to cut off the communication between the country and city; that the King’s standard was to be hoisted, and that the Tories would then have a chance. That said Sutton further informed this deponent that Robert Sutton, of Long-Island, would join the Regulars, with seven hundred men, well equipped; that a proclamation would be issued out by the King’s party; that the people would then know what they had to expect, and that there would be forty-five thousand troops sent over to America this summer. And this deponent says that he heard John Sutton, son of the aforesaid William, declare that the Regulars would land between Mamaroneck and Horseneck, and that he would join them. And this depo- 623 nent further says that he heard James Horton say that he was sure the Ministerial Army would conquer, and that matters would soon be settled; and further says not. By order of the Committee: Joun Tuomas, Jun., Chairman. In Committee of Safety, ye ite 4 July 13, 1776. The within deponent came before this Committee and made oath that he saw Joshua Gedney, of Dutchess County, have a long list of men’s names who would join the Minis- terial Army; that the said list of names was delivered to Governour Tryon by said Gedney, in the presence of this deponent. And this deponent further says that he heard Caleb Fowler, Jun., of North- Castle, degrade the service he had been in, and say that if he went again, he would go like a man, and join the Ministerial Army. By order of the Committee: Joun Tuomas, Jun., Chairman. RICHARD BRUERE (PRISONER) TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. At Mr. Jonathan Tyler’s, Bedford Township, i New-Purchase, July 27, 1776. GrentLemen: J am very sorry to trouble you so often on the same subject; but as I received my bills for money on England by the hands of one of your officers about a week past, and as I have no method of supplying myself with money, think it somewhat strange that the gentlemen of the Committee, if they have received directions from you, have not supplied us with money according to the general reso- lution of the Congress; but should rather, as to my own part, have been glad to have got money for bills on England. However, I will take it as a favour that you will give the necessary directions for the usual allowance as soon as may be. I am, gentlemen, your humble servant, Rp. Bruere, prisoner of war. To the Gentlemen of the Provincial Congress of New-York. N. B. The Committee have been applied to more than once. , RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, July 27, 1776. Dear Sir: I send you this morning about twelve hun- dred weight of spikes, of different sizes, and four hundred weight of twenty-four penny nails, for the carpenters at Skenesborough ; as also some axes, in addition to the twelve hundred heretofore sent, and some spades and _pickaxes, which will be immediately forwarded from Fort George. As soon as the iron and other articles can be procured for the works at Skenesborough, I shall forward them. It is now confidently reported that General Lee has repulsed Clinton seven times in his attempts to land, with much loss of men and shipping. ‘The remainder of the fleet were supposed to have gone to Barbadoes to refit. If this be true, his business is done for this campaign. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Ricu. Varicx. To the Hon. General Gates. a MARINE COMMITTEE OF RHODE-ISLAND TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS. Providence, July 27, 1776. Gentiemen: The bearer, Captain Grannis, is appointed Captain of Marines on board the Continental ship Warren, provided he obtains a dismission from the service of the State of Massachusetts-Bay, in which he is now engaged. We think the furnishing of these ships with able officers and good men, is of the greatest consequence to these United States ; we therefore request that you would be pleased to dismiss the said Captain Grannis from your service, and give him permission to inlist a company of men within your territories—permitting such of your people as are willing, — and are now in the land service, to go on board the ship with him. Weare in hopes to get the ships to sea in about three weeks. We are, (for the Marine Committee here,) your Honours’ humble servants ; : Nicus. Cooxr, Chairman. Jasez Bowen, Secretary. The Hon. Council of State of Massachusetts-Bay. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 624 CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY, Ata meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, July 27, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour, Elipht. Dyer, Jz. Huntington, Jed. Elderkin, Nathl. Wales, Jun., and Ben. Huntington, Esquires. Voted, That the felling Axes purchased in this Colony be sent forthwith, without delay, by trusty wagoners, to Skenesborough, to the care of such persons as have a right to receive them, for the use of the Continental Army, as has been requested by General Schuyler. On application of Mr. Jay, from the Committee of Con- vention of the State of New-York, Voted to grant the loan of twenty Cannon, viz: ten twelve- pounders and ten six-pounders, now at the Furnace at Salis- bury, to the State of New-York ; also, a suitable proportion of Shot for said Cannon—said Cannon to be replaced, and said Shot to be replaced, or accounted for by said State, when requested; and the overseers of said Furnace are directed to cast a sufficient number, or as many as can be, of iron Trucks or Carriage-Wheels for said Cannon, to be loaned to said State, and returned or accounted for with the Cannon aforesaid. All to be delivered to Mr. Jay, or order, by said overseers, taking proper receipts for the same. Copy delivered to Mr. Jay, July 27, 1776. JOHN JAY TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Whereas the Convention of the State of New-York did, on the 16th day of July, 1776, “resolve. unanimously that a secret Committee be appointed to devise and carry into execution such measures as to them should appear most effectual for obstructing the Channel of Hudson’s River, or annoying the enemy’s ships in their navigation up the said river, and that the said Convention pledge themselves for defraying the charges incident thereon;” and whereas the said Convention did then resolve and order “that Mr. Jay, Mr. Robert Yates, Major Tappen, Mr. Robert R. Living- ston, Mr. Gilbert Livingston, and Mr. Paulding, be the said Committee;” of which said Committee, the above-men- tioned Mr. Robert Yates hath by them been appointed their Chairman. Poughkeepsie, July 22, 1776. The said Committee met, according to agreement, at the house of Mr. Van Kleek. Present: Mr. Robert Yates, Chair- man, Mr, Jay, Major Tappen, Mr. Robert R. Livingston, and Mr. Gilbert Livingston. It appearing to the said Committee that a number of Cannon were wanting and absolutely necessary for the defence of Hudson’s River, as well at the forts erected on ° its shores, as for the armed vessels ordered to be prepared for its defence, Resolved unanimously, That Mr. Jay forthwith repair to Salisbury Iron Works, and endeavour to procure there twenty of the heaviest Cannon that can be had there, eight Can- non six-pounders, and eight Cannon four-pounders; also, a proper quantity of Shot and Trucks for the said Cannon; (the whole to be sent to Colonel Hoffman’s Landing ;) and that he take with him Davis Hunt, a carpenter, to take the dimensions of the said ‘Trucks, in order that Carriages may be immediately made for the said Cannon. Resolved unanimously also, That Mr. Jay-be authorized to apply to Governour, Trumbull, and, in behalf of the Con- vention of the State of New-York, to request his aid and influence in the premises; and further, that Mr. Jay be, and he hereby is, authorized and empowered to impress Car- riages, ‘Teams, Sloops, and Horses, and to call out detach- inents of the Militia, and generally to do, or cause to be done, at his discretion, all such matters and things as he may deem necessary or expedient to forward and complete the aforesaid business committed to his care. - Rosert Yates, Chairman. Joun Jay, Rost. R. Livrneston, Gitsert Livineston, Curistr. Tapren. Lebanon, July 27, 1776. The above is a true copy of my instructions from the Committee therein mentioned ; and, in pursuance thereof, I 625 request the favour of his Excellency Governour Trumbull to furnish the Convention of the State of New-York with as many Cannon for the defence of Hudson’s River as the State of Connecticut can conveniently supply, not exceeding the number in the said instructions specified. Joun Jay. JOSEPH WARD TO JOHN BRADFORD. Boston, July 27, 1776. Pursuant to directions from the Continental Congress, and from his Excellency General Washington, General Ward requests and directs John Bradford, Esq., agent to the Continental Navy, to forward to his Excellency General Washington all the within-mentioned articles with the utmost expedition and despatch, as they are greatly wanted for the Continental Army at New-York. JosepH Warp, A. D. C. List of Articles taken in the Transports which his Excel- lency Gen. Wasuineton requests Gen. Warn to forward Jrom Boston to New-York as soon as possible. From Ship George: All the fusees, small-arms, and bay- onets, shouider straps, gun straps, leather bullet pouches, hair and canvass knapsacks, belts, flints, markees and sol- dier’s tents, common tent poles, tin canteens, camp kettles, blankets, watch coats, soldiers’ clothing, stockings, and black plumes. From Ship Lord Howe: All the small-arms, bayonets, and cartouch boxes, cask of canteens and kettles, soldiers’ blankets, cutlasses, canvass knapsacks, markees. From Brigantine Annabella: All the small-arms, shoes, soldiers’ tents, sheet lead, packsaddles, cartouch boxes, leather bullet pouches, shoulder straps, gun straps with lashes, bayonets and belts. By order of his Excellency General Washington: S. B. Wess, A. D. C. COLONEL HURD TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Haverhill, (Cohos,) July 27, 1776. Sir: I am favoured with yours of the 20th instant by Mr. Atkinson, and observe your several appointments to raise the men for the protection of this part of the country, which by present appearances may be sufficient; but how long they may continue so is very uncertain. I am just now informed, by a person from the College, that Captain Woodward has raised his men and gone out into the woods toa place called Royalston, I suppose about midway between Connecticut River and the Lake, to erect some stockade or fortification there, from whence they may keep their scouts going; but they have not thought proper to inform the Committee what their plan may be, or any- thing of their intention. We hear that Captain Jeremiah ames is upon the road on his way here, and wish he may be able to make up his quota of men, so as to be on duty soon, that the people at Upper Cohos may keep about their husbandry, and not lose the advantage of such promising crops as are now on the ground. Colonel Bayley will, | believe, inlist his fifty without difficulty, chiefly from those men that have been working on the new road, when he shall immediately employ them on necessary duty. One of our scouting parties came in from Onion River two days ago, by whom I received a letter from Colonel Wait, a copy of which I shall enclose, and by which you will observe the change of command at that station, with the complaints he makes. If it be so as there represented, we must have had some cruel enemies, snake-like, in the grass, that have been secretly working out our ruin all in their power, which, it is to be hoped, will by and by come to light. No wonder we have not succeeded better in that department. As to those persons in this quarter who proposed sending to General Burgoyne or into Canada for assistance, we have our eyes upon them, and watch all their motions; but at present, think it not prudent to make much stir. This afternoon, came into Newbury four Frenchmen from Metcalf’s, on the Lake, in six days’ travel. Bad weather retarded them, or they would have been here, they say, in three days, with a letter to Colonel Bayley from Mr. Metcalf, (an extract of which I have also enclosed,) by which it Firru Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 40 626 appears our affairs in Canada are not so desperate as we might have imayined. These men give much the same account as the othera few days ago, and having the appear- ance of open, honest folks, we shall treat them with civility, and forward them along to the Army at Crown-Point, where they are desirous of going, as quick as possible, with a pilot and proper guard. There are also two or three of Bedel’s soldiers come into town direct from thence, who give very indifferent accounts of our Army there; such as, their being very sickly ; that many officers of Stark’s regiment, disgusted at General Sud- livan’s being superseded, were determined to quit the service; that great part of the Army were drawing offto Ticonderoga ; Colonel Bedel and most of his officers returning home. But we don’t give much credit to these stories, as they come from fellows we suppose to be deserters. I am glad to hear that your powder-mill is in such for- wardness, and that we are likely to have a good supply of arms and ammunition, which will give our people fresh spirits. Your goodness, I hope, will excuse my lengthy epistles. Beg my grateful respects to the gentlemen of the Commit- tee; and am, sir, youtymost obedient humble servant, # Joun Hurp. To the Honourable Meshech Weare, Esq., Chairman of the Committee of Safety. London, September 2, 1776. This day arrived Colonel Maclean, from Quebeck. This officer raised a body of men, chiefly Scotch emigrants, in Canada, who were of infinite service in the defence of Que- beck last winter. He had been promised establishment and rank for this corps, but the promise was not kept. He left Quebeck July 27th. General Carleton did not go forward with the Army; he was at Quebeck. General Burgoyne was at Chambly, with six thousand British and two thousand Brunswick troops. Some of the Brunswickers had deserted, and eight of them, retaken, had been hanged. His advanced guard, consisting of Light-Infantry and Grenadiers, were at Isle-aux-Noiv. The design of sending a party to Oswego, and down the Mohawk River, was laid aside. Colonel Patrick Gordon was killed in a scouting party that had been attacked. The Provincials were said to have four armed vessels on Lake Champlain, each carrying sixteen guns, nine-pounders. General Sullivan commanded the American Army, consist- ing of seventeen regiments, (about six thousand men,) at Crown-Point, which he was repairing; and it was imagined he would there make his stand. Many of his men are ill with the small-pox. He has with him Brigadier-General Arnold and Brigadier-General Woedike. ‘The Indians, it was supposed, would be neuter. The shipwrights at Montreal and other places were hard at work building eight schooners and a proper number of batteaus, for crossing the Lakes; but it was not expected that they could be ready to go upon Lake Champlain till the 15th of September. Some untoward circumstances are said to have happened, viz: not a good understanding among the officers; an appre- hension of a want of provisions, the French inhabitants not having sown any corn on account of the war; therefore, unless great quantities of provisions are sent from England, with allowance for casualties, it is impossible to subsist so large an Army there. ‘The last year’s crop was very indif- ferently got in, and was nearly all consumed by the Pro- vincial forces while in Canada. EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN PHILADELPHIA, FROM ST. EUSTATIA, DATED JULY 28, 1776. I have acquainted you, by my former, from Martinique, of the good disposition of the French towards the Continent of America, and how willing they are to admit and welcome all vessels from thence; for which purpose they have now by them, and daily import, all sorts of goods in demand with you, particularly powder and other warlike stores, which you may purchase and ship without any difficulty. And it is more than probable that if the Congress declares its inde- pendency to the European States, and offers to open their ports to foreigners, your ports will be crowded with them 627 from all parts; and it seems France only waits for that event to assist you in your defence. We have at present no other news than what is brought by a Dutch ship, arrived here within two days from Amster- dam, viz: that the French, Spanish, and Portuguese, are making great preparations for war, by land and by sea, as well as the States General; that the Spaniards had marched an army to the frontiers of Portugal, and had sent to sea a fleet of sixteen sail of the line, the destination of which was not known, and that they had sent considerable numbers of troops to their Colonies. The States of Holland had absolutely refused to renew the prohibitions for the exportation of powder, We., to the Colonies, or to cede to the English the four Scotch regiments the States have in their service, and furnish them with a number of men-of-war which the British Court had required of them. ‘The vexation occasioned by this in the British Ministry induced them to take several Dutch ships, amongst which are two that sailed from this Island, which were carried to London, and another to St. Christopher’s. In consequence of this, the Dutch have armed forty ships of war, and ordered sixty more to be built with the greatest diligence in their different ports, and to raise twentyfhousand men to aug- ment their land forces, &c. &c. * DR. DAVID MORROW TO COLONEL RUMSEY. Charlestown, Maryland, July 28, 1776. Dear Sir: You will cblige me much if you will inform me, by the return of the post, whether I am appointed one of the Surgeons for the Flying-Camp, or not; and, if I am, how am I to be provided with medicines, &c. I have had an offer from the northward, but must confess I rather choose to go from Maryland; I therefore refused the offer until I could have an answer from Annapolis. I some time ago enclosed to the Council of Safety a recommendation from Drs. Cadwalader, Bond, and Shippen, of Philadelphia; should be glad if you would enclose it to me, as it will cost me some trouble ,to obtain a second. I am, sir, your humble servant afta, ’ Davin Morrow. To Colonel Berxyamin Rumsey. GENERAL CHAMBERLAINE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Talbot County, July 28, 1776. GentLemen: When it was proposed to me that a ma- gazine should be fixed in our County, I was told that a detachment from the Fourth Independent Company would be stationed there as a guard. I received from three wagoners, the other day, what is supposed to be six thousand pounds of powder, the greatest part of which, I think it probable, is cannon powder, and such as will be useless with musketry. I send you a sample of it, and hope it will be found better than it looks tobe. I made a trial of it in a small cannon that we have, and found it to have equal force and quickness with some English powder that I had. I have directed a guard from our Militia, and shall con- tinue them till I have your directions, which shall be glad to have by the bearer. It is very inconvenient to those now on that service, and if they must continue, you will please to direct the number that shall compose the guard, Your obedient humble servant, Jas. Ltoyp CHAMBERLAINE. To the Honourable President of Council of Safety. CAPTAIN DEAN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Kent-Island, July 28, 1776. GentLemen: Agreeably to your orders, | have marched the company under my command to this place, and am sorry to find no provision made for us. You will please direct whoever you may think proper to find us all that is fit and necessary for a company of men. We expected to have found some pork, which we supposed was left by Cap- tain Harrison, but were disappointed. You will please direct attention immediately in this matter, as we live only on what we can borrow. I am, gentlemen, very respectfully, your very humble servant, Joun Dean. To the Honourable Committee of Safety of Maryland. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 628 BENJAMIN MACKALL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Drum-Point, July 28, 1776. Gentiemen: | left the camp at St. George’s yesterday, and Major Price requested me to send to the Council, at- tended by a subaltern officer, Mr. Bratthwait, who deserted from the fleet Thursday night, and brought with him two trunks, which shall be sent up to you as soon as Mr. Mid- dleton’s boat returns from the mouth of Potomack, where she is waiting upon the Defence. I am, with much respect, gentlemen, your most humble servant : Bens. Macxatn, 4th. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. P.S. Lieutenant Gray, who comes with Mr. Bratthwait, desires nothing more for his trouble than his expenses paid by the Province. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL DENT. [No. 86.] Annapolis, July 28, 1776. Sir: Enclosed you will receive your commission, omitted to be made out by the last Convention. The greater part of the companies of the Flying-Camp are enrolled, and a number of them arrived here. As we apprehend your presence would greatly contribute to expedite their being properly armed and disciplined, as also accelerate their march, we should be glad to see you as soon as possible. We are, &c. To Brigadier-General Dent. —f ema GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Camp on Long-Island, July 28, 1776. Sir: Colonel Hand reports that the enemy continues as they were. ‘They fired several guns last night different from any custom that has prevailed amongst them since the arrival of the fleet. A considerable noise and movement of the boats was heard after the signal guns, and the hurry and confusion they seemed to be in after the firing, discovered they were alarmed. Perhaps they have heard of the fire- ships. Captain Talbut, of Colonel Mitchcock’s regiment, begs the command of one of these vessels. He is a daring spirit, and I doubt not will execute the command agreeable to your Excellency’s wishes. As | am totally ignorant of the matter, I could give him no encouragement until your Excellency’s pleasure was known. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant : N. Greene. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, Sunday, 12 o’clock, July 28, 1776. Colonel Hand’s morning report contained nothing mate- rial. Lieutenant-Colonel Chambers reports this moment that he saw, at ten this morning, ten sail of vessels standing in for the Hook, but at too great a distance to discover what they were. Mrs. Grant applies again for permission to go on board the fleet. Should be glad to know your Excellency’s pleasure in the matter. She pleads great distress, but it can amount only to a family matter, make the best of it. The new levies that come in hanker after milk and vege- tables. I should think it would benefit the service to allow all the regiments to draw one-third the value of the animal food in money to purchase milk, &c.; and direct, in the most positive terms, the Quartermasters to provide it for the men. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant, N. GREENE. COLONEL RITZEMA TO COLONEL SEVEY. Sunday, nine o’clock, July 28, 1776. Dear Sir: His Excellency the General’s answer to my letter this morning has so much weiglit with it as to make me in some measure ashamed of my hasty request, to which I was induced by the advice of my Lieutenant-Colonel. You'll therefore be pleased just to request of the General, in my behalf, that the matter be determined to-morrow. I an, sir, your humble servant Pat se 4 Roop. Rirzema. . 629 GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, Sunday, July 28, 1776. Sir: Your letter of the 19th instant was delivered me last evening. When I left Ticonderoga I made all possible despatch to Albany, and, immediately on my arrival, I not only ordered every felling axe which had been collected agreeable to my orders before I left Albany to be sent to you, which was accordingly done, but I also took every measure in my power to procure a speedy supply; and, if T am not misinformed, twelve hundred have already been sent up since the 12th instant, as many more are collecting as possible, and one thousand are daily expected from Governour Trum- bull, to whom I had wrote intreating his assistance in pro- curing this necessary tool. Of this I advised you in my letter of the 25th instant. I am astonished beyond imagination to be informed that not one gondola was arrived at Ticonderoga in the course of fifteen days—-that is, from the time we wereat Skenesborough to the date of your letter; especially as you cannot but re- collect that you, and [ believe General Arnold, and all the gentlemen with us when we were there, saw one on the stocks and considerably advanced in the timbering, and a stage prepared to erect another upon, a considerable quan- tity of plank already sawed, and the mill at work in sawing more. I hope, therefore, that when you saw such an impor- tant work so shamefully neglected, that you sent a proper person to inquire into the cause, and to push on the business with more despatch. ‘Two gondolas more at least ought to have been finished by the 19th, unless the weather has been remarkably wet. I very well recollect, sir, that I observed that five gondolas a week could be built when the carpenters | expected should arrive; but neither you nor any person else have ever heard me say that they could be built with what carpenters were there. If I had written so to Congress, I should most cer- tainly not only have deceived them, but wilfully deceived them; and I believe that respectable body will not, upon the most minute examination, find that I ever did or ever in- tended them so gross an insult. Congress well knows what carpenters I expected; and I well know that few, and I believe none, of these were arrived at Skenesborough when your letter was written ; and therefore I do repeat, that when they all arrive and get to work, if they are middling good workmen, and do not build five gondolas a week, they will not do their duty. I am sorry the blacksmith made a mistake in the iron work for the saw-mill. He is a man much accustomed to that work, and perhaps does more of it than any five others now in the County of Albany. I did not point out any particular route for the officer who might take charge of the Indian goods, as I know of none for carriages but by the way of Schenectady. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHvuy.er. To the Honourable General Gates. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 28, 1776. Dear Genera: There is an immediate want of some rum at this place, and should be glad your Honour would convey some by first opportunity. Wood Creek is grown so very low that it is almost impos- sible to pass up or down with the boats; but I am deter- mined to keep it passable, if possible, by constantly keeping a party thereon to clear out the logs and obstructions that are in the creek. We are very much in want for teams; but we intend to get as much timber by the side of the lake and creek, and bring them to the place they are wanted by fatigue parties, as we Can. A number of grindstones is very much wanted, and I fear the business will suffer by their being so few, as the carpen- ters are obliged to wait for each other to grind. I am, with respect, dear sir, your Honour’s humble ser- vant, Davin Warersvry, Jun. To the Honourable Major-General Gates, commanding at Ticonderoga. P. S. The bullets which were sent down here are all too Jarge for the guns. I should take it as a favour if there could be a pair sent down of small-sized bullet-moulds. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 630 COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 28, 1776. Honovurep Sir: The oar-makers have this day, being Sunday, come here. They allege they want some neces- sary tools, to prosecute the business with more expedition. They were very desirous to go to Ticonderoga, to procure some matters they stand in need of, and propose to return to-morrow. My party is ready to cover and guard them whilst at work. There have been spying parties of the enemy near them. ‘There have been several marks; but the place where the oars are to be cut, though eight miles off, is in view of Crown-Point. From a proper signal, I could, upon any occasion, support my party in a very short time. I have sent out a party some miles to the right of this place, to examine the country; they will return to-morrow. Captain Wilson is not yet come up. I hope that some of the loose parties of the enemy who have been attempting to come up this way, or the canoe with the two Tories who lately went down to St. John’s, may fall into his hands or the party which I sent to cover his retreat. The Lake, I presume, will be pretty well secured by our shipping in a short time, and I think I have taken such steps as to make us pretty safe on the land side. If any enemy appear against this place, we may expect Indians or Cana- dians amongst them. The rough ground on this point is so favourable for our Riflemen, I should not be the least afraid of double our numbers. The boats I have always ready, if it be necessary to retreat. I mount a guard of a subaltern, two sergeants, three cor- porals, forty-two privates; and a picket of a subaltern, one sergeant, three corporals, and thirty men, daily» One of the Captains acts as officer of the day. I have at least twenty- five sentries every night. I believe I shall not be surprised. I send out parties daily. The men here are recovering in their health fast, notwithstanding their duty. I am, sir, with great respect, your most humble servant, Tuos. Harruey. To Major-General Gates, at Ticonderoga. P.S. [send you all the oars now made. You will be pleased to direct Colonel Belding to deliver the oar-makers such tools as they want. Ticonderoga, July 28, 1776. Immediately after divine worship this day, the Declara- tion of Independence was read by Colonel S¢. Clair; and, having said ‘‘God save the free independent States of Ame- rica!” the Army manifested their joy with three cheers. It was remarkably pleasing to see the spirits of the soldiers so raised, after all their calamities; the language of every man’s countenance was, Now we are a people; we have a name among the States of this world. GENERAL LEE TO PATRICK HENRY. Charlestown, July 29, 1776. Dear Sir: [used to regret not being thrown into the world in the glorious third or fourth century of the Romans, but I am now thoroughly reconciled to my lot. ‘The reve- ries which have frequently, for a while, served to tickle my imagination, (but which, when awakened from my trance, as constantly I considered as mere golden castles built in the air,) at length bid fair for being realized. We shall now, most probably, see a mighty empire established of freemen, whose honour, property, and military glories, are not to be at the disposal of a sceptred tyrant, nor their consciences to be fettered by a proud, domineering hierarchy. Every faculty of the soul will be now put in motion; no merit can lie latent; the highest offices of the State, both civil and military, will now be obtained, without Court favour or the rascally talents of servility and obsequience, by which Court favour could alone be acquired. Sense, valour, and industry, will conduct us to the goal; every spark of ability which every individual possesses will now be brought forth, and form the common aggregate, for the advantage and honour of the community. ‘The operations of war will be directed by men qualified for war, and carried on with that energy natural to a young people, ‘True unartized know- ledge, unsophisticated learning, simple genuine eloquence and poetry, will be carried to the highest degree of perfec- tion. ‘This, to many, I am sensible, would appear rant, but to you, who, I think, have congenial feelings with my own, 631 it needs no apology. However, I shall now endeavour to deliver myself more like a man of this world. I most sincerely congratulate you on the noble conduct of your countrymen; and I congratulate your country on having citizens deserving of the high honour to which you are exalted ; for the being elected to the first Magistracy of a free people is certainly the pinnacle of human glory; and lam persuaded that they could not have made a happier choice. Will you excuse me? But I am myself so extremely democratical, that I think it a fault in your Constitution that the Governour should be eligible for three years successively. It appears to me that a government of three years may fur- nish an opportunity of acquiring a very dangerous influence. But this is not the worst: Tacitus says, Plura peccantur, dum demeremur, quam dum offendimus. A’man who is fond of office, and has his eye upon reélection, will be courting favour and popularity, at the expense of his duty. He will give way to the popular humours of the day, let them be ever so pernicious. In short, his administration will be relaxed in general, or partial to those whom he conceives to have the greatest interest; whereas, were all hopes of reélection pre- cluded till after the intervention of a certain number of years, he would endeavour to illustrate the year of his government by a strict, rigorous, and manly performance of his duty. These notions may, perhaps, be weak and foolish; but such as they are, I am sure you will excuse my uttering them. There is a barbarism crept in among us that extremely shocks me: I mean those tinsel epithets with which (1 come in for my share) we are so beplastered—his Excellency and his Honour, the Honourable President of the Honourable Congress, or,the Honourable Convention. This fulsome, nauseating cant, may be well enough adapted to barbarous Monarchies, or to gratify the adulterated pride of the mag- nificd in pompous Aristocracies; but in a great, free, manly, equal Commonwealth, it is quite abominable; for my own part, I would as lief they would put ratsbane in my mouth as the Excellency with which I am daily crammed. How much more true dignity was there in the simplicity of address amongst the Romans: Marcus Tullius Cicero, Decimo Bruto Imperatori, or Caio Marcello Consult, than to his Excel- lency, Major-General Noodle, or to the Honourable John Doodle. My objections are, perhaps, trivial and whimsical, but for my soul I cannot help starting them. If, therefore, I should sometimes address a letter to you without the Excel- lency tacked, you must not esteem it a mark of personal or official disrespect, but the reverse. The discontent of the troops, which you mention as CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. ~ 632 arising from the want of regular payment, might have been remedied by General Lewis; his warrant is undoubtedly sufficient for the Paymaster; however, I have written to that gentleman on this subject, and am in hopes that affairs for the future will be more satisfactorily conducted. An old rice-boat, which we converted the other day into a row-battery, has made a considerable prize—no less than a brig with a whole company of the Royal Highland Emi- grants on board, consisting of two officers and fifty men. Although they saw that they were inevitably our prize, they had the impudence to throw their arms overboard, for which they ought to have had their ears cut off, as it was contrary to all the rules of war. I send you enclosed the state of the enemy’s Navy. I think there is no doubt of their Army having steered their course northward. On this presumption I shall direct my course towards Virginia, but first must assist to regulate the military affairs of this Province in the best manner I can, though, in fact, that will be doing little; the inconveniences of this complex play we are acting, of Duke and no Duke, are numberless and great. The President is thought by some to be the real commander; I am thought so by others ; in short, there must be no troops but Continental. The Council is at present employed in settling a more regular post. We have received none these eighteen days; for my own part, I conclude the mail has been intercepted and carried on board the man-of-war. Seven tons and a half of powder were safely landed four days ago at Georgetown. Adieu, dear sir, and believe me to be, most entirely and sincerely, yours, Cuarves Ler. His Excellency P. Henry, Jun., Governour of Virginia. EXTRACT OF A LETTER, DATED CHARLESTOWN, JULY 29, 1776. Now at anchor off Charlestown bar the Bristol, of fifty guns, Experiment, of fifty guns, with a small sloop, supposed to be armed, acting as a tender, the Paliser transport ship, still having part of the Expertment’s cannon or stores on board, another transport ship, and a brigantine, which have discharged the Bristol’s cannon and stores they had on board. Within the bar at anchor, the Active, of thirty-two guns, Sphinx, of twenty guns, and the Pzgot hospital ship. Sailed from the bar on Wednesday last a frigate of twenty or more guns, which arrived the day before, and steered to the southward. The Syren, of twenty-eight guns, yester- day morning steered the same course. Monthly Return of the Forces in Souru-Carouina, for July, 1776. PRESENT. Field Commiss’d Staff’ Officers Non-Commis- Rank ond Fil pia sane Officers. | Officers. ‘ sioned Officers. retinmiatassit lel: a Elz a yi eS . o|o Oa | eae Co 2 CORPS OR BATTALIONS OF |2| | 5|S/# S12 1S/= -) ie Bil g THE BRIGADES. © lel : 105 |-S S/Shsla oe AA : id = | 1s $} LaStslal | FigSi S|. iSgle| f | SL eT araEsaly sites slal8|.| 3] ela Sleleisl2eelelal Sissi 2] les 1s| ele] | dle sol lZl S/S} slcidis|slsisisis|sl2] § s/E) x uk oo alba so |. a| 2 SISisiol Si] sl S sl SSSHMSSlSist| SEs] € le lelel S /S/El ¥ |2lsi/s] 5 Prsislel S| S| 42S Stars SS SSR Pl slels| 2 |Slois| S$ | Ple] € 138i si]2] 2 BjO;Aje|o|A BIAAER DO Rlaelaldld ARIA EK |Blom| a ialAl a |e jalaja First Battalion North-Caro- 0 Peay 2 a Te 7 a PO) ee ee eg ata Goutinbeiledionoe t -|1}1)1) 8}16] 7} -|-}-/1}-]-]1]1]1]-| 26/1] - |14) 278] 88)-|-| 366] 6]18} 207 1] - |68 Sec’d Battalion North-Caro- sie eae 1]}1/1| 4} 6/8 |-|-]-]1]-!1]-|1]-] -| 23] -| -]15) 244] 3953)-} 336] 3] 9] 304 speeit 3 Third Battalion North-Caro- Eetnabanahenlal ay, BERS Aj1}1) 8116) 7] -)-}-)1)-]-7-]1)-[-| 25) -|-] 9) 272) 55, -]-1 327) - | - | 239) - | - | - 125 Eighth Battalion Virgini Rentinentaly cess eg ]-[afafa] 9/43] 5-1-1. fa]-falalata}-|sa]-|-] 5| s1o|aso| 4-| asa] afas| a47}a| 4] 45] 56 irs ttali th-Caro- irae sts Be Lust ; rae 1}1}1] 9/12] -|-}-}-]1}-]1]a]-]1]1| 25/1] - '14) 257] 94] 2}-| 353] 5] 6] so7]/- | -] -| - ’d Battalion South-Caro- ARG, RUE Anais are 1]1}2}10/17] -|-|-|-}1]1)1/2/2!-]-| 24) -]}- 13! 319] 49) 41-} 372] -}.-]| - |- lar} -| 2 pin iear panponenyy | -{1}1] 9)16| -|-|-]-j1]-|1]-|1]-|-[18]-]-]-] 366] 18-}-| asa} -}-] - 1-7 4-116 *Fourth Battalion of South- Carolinas cites saciecetouts sok Wendl fad ee bk ne ame WU leh can ta at) ne A ca nn PS 2 ca 29 [PS 2S S12 5) pe lpslibscler=lentesilos a i ttali - Sixth Battalion of South- “Carolina... ce ee ete t- lf 2] 6)2] 4] -]-}-]-1-]a}-la}-]-fant-t-| 5} 247] a6 7}-] e77] -| -| - [1] 2] 2] 8 Third Company of North- Caroling Howmeias nee sp+$ (cde dieser 2.7 | | | eral Rea | Ol Pe | — | |e ie eins Care <4 218/8i9167 115135! 11-lilsli!zleélsls la leo7le| - le49,555 1532741 - 13,1941 15 | 461,094! 2 191 | 47 [178 * South-Carolina Battalion of Artillery. Tuomas Buxuirr, Deputy Adjutant-General. _ N.B. These battalions were early hurried into a campaign, before several of them had time to form, therefore the Colonels cannot be so correct in their Returns as is necessary. They have assured me they will attend to forming and regulating their battalions, and have promised me to make their Returns as soon as they can get in. 633 PROCEEDINGS OF BRUNSWICK (VIRGINIA) COMMITTER. Brunswick Committee, July 29, 1776. The fatal consequences which must inevitably attend the counterfeiting the Paper currency of any of the Thirteen United Colonies, render it necessary that the strictest search and most dilizent inquiry should be made after those persons who are justly suspected of being guilty of that atrocious crime; and as those who harbour, advise, or countenance such offenders, are, we conceive, as great enemies to their country as the offenders themselves, we shall ever think it our duty to expose to the displeasure and contempt of the publick the conduct of all such persons, whenever the same shall be made known to us. An offence of this nature appearing before this Committee, is the cause of publishing the following facts: On the 23d day of June last, at one of the Churches of St. Andrew’s Parish, in this County, two strangers appeared, with letters for the Chairman of this Committee, {rom the Committees of Hartford and Chowan Counties, in the Province of North- Carolina, informing him that indubitable testimony had been laid before those Committees that a certain Henry Lightfoot had been concerned in counter- feiting and passing the paper currency of that Province, particularly the four-dollar bills, issued in pursuance of the resolution of the North-Carolina Congress, held at Hills- borough, the 21st day of August, 1775, and that they were informed the said Lightfoot was then in this County. ‘The Chairman of this Committee, being then at Church, imme- diately engaged Captain John Machn to proceed with the messengers after the said Lightfoot. The Captain, on his return, represented, that in a very short time after he en- gaged in this service, he went to the house where he was informed the said Lightfoot was, and made diligent search, but to no purpose, and from thence proceeded to a meeting, where he expected to find him; but when he arrived, he was told he had precipitately made off, and that there was reason to suspect a certain William Wall, of this County, had given him notice of the business the messengers from North-Carolina were upon. On the 22d of July, these circumstances were proved before this Committee, and the said Wall was, in consequence thereof, ordered to appear before them on the Monday following, being the 29th, to answer the same. Accordingly, on that day, he made his appearance, was charged with the fact, and confessed that he was the means of giving intelligence to the said Light- foot, which induced him to make his escape; which con- fession, together with the testimony of other persons relative to the conduct of the said William Wail in this matter, make it appear, to the full conviction of this Committee, that he ought to be exposed as an enemy to his country. And it is ordered, that a representation of the above proceedings be transmitted to the Printer, to be laid before the publick. By order of the Committee: D. Fisuer, Clerk. Baltimore, July 30, 1776. Yesterday, by order of the Committee of this Town, the Declaration of Independency of the United States of Ame- rica was read at the Court-House to a numerous and respectable body of Militia, and the company of Artillery, and other principal inhabitants of this Town and County, which was received with general applause and_ heartfelt satisfaction. At night, the Town was illuminated; and at the same time, the effigy of our late King was carted through the ‘Town, and committed to the flames, amidst the accla- mations of many hundreds—the just reward of a tyrant. GEORGE WOOLSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 29, 1776. GentLeMEN: Agreeable to your directions, I have ex- amined all the wharves about this place, and find on the most of them a few flint-stones, but I think not of the best quality. I am told by many people here, that there are quantities sunk in the wharves; therefore, if you think proper, I will employ people to search for them. At the same time, I have been informed that there is a flint quarry about two miles from the head of Elk. If so, no doubt the flints there would be more easily got. Mr. Henry Hollingsworth can give you information respecting it. Iam, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Geo. Wootsey. To the Council of Safety. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 634 CAPTAIN THOMAS TO GEORGE PLATER. Head-Quarters, St. George’s, July 29, 1776. Dear Sir: Yesterday, the Roebuck, with the fleet under her convoy, arrived here from their cruise up the river. They were watched all the way down by two row-galleys from Alexandria. They will be here this evening, and I expect to-night we shall engage the fleet. The Roebuck stood down the Bay, and is now out of sight. The Defence made her appearance yesterday morning, but on the Fowey’s wearing out, thought it pradent to stand down again. We are preparing all the boats we can get to assist in boarding all such vessels as are not armed, and I am in hopes we shall be able to give a good account of them. I most sincerely wish the business over. The place is exceedingly disagree- able. Not a drop of water but what is brought three miles, together with the uncomfortable tents that we have, I am afraid will make us all sick. Near half of mine and Cap- tain Beall’s company are down. The Militia do every duty exceeding ill, and the service is so very unknown to them, that the whole burden lies upon the few regulars that are here. Nearly half of the fleet are gone, and the rest, I suppose, will go in a few days. Whenever they do, I shall proceed to Annapolis, on my way to the northward, and shall be extremely obliged to you if you will have the tents, knapsacks, haversacks, camp-kettles, and canteens, com- pleted for my company, ready at Annapolis. What I want will certainly be finished in that time. If the tents are Jarge, they will hold eight men, so that, at that computation, T shall want fifteen tents for the whole company, with other things in proportion. I trust you will endeavour to procure them for me by the middle of next week, by which time I shall, I hope, be at Annapolis; but I shall necessarily be delayed here a few days, to get on board the cannon, and in providing vessels to transport us; but not one moment shall be lost. Be pleased to present my compliments to Mrs. Plater, and believe me to be, dear sir, yours affectionately, J. A. Tuomas. To the Hon. George Plater, Annapolis. P.S. I forgot to mention that we yesterday morning opened our battery, which played, as it is thought, with success, on the Fowey. Numbers of dead bodies come on shore every day, so that we are poisoned with the stench. ARCHIBALD BUCHANAN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Sir: Upon application of Mr. Sewell, by the desire of Mr. Cowen to him, we agreed, if it was agreeable to the Council cf Safety, to undertake the building of two or three gondolas; to begin upon them immediately with a number of hands, and finish as soon as possible. We have an opportu- nity of engaging what hands we want immediately, and will undertake it on the same terms as other carpenters, and will give any bond and security that may be required. Colo- nel Hall and Mr. Risteau both promised to wait upon you for a line, but I have not heard from them; if it is approved of, please to write me, and I will begin the work, and come down if necessary; but if my coming a few days hence to enter into the bond would do, it would suit me better. Iam at present unwell. It will be necessary for me to hear of your determination, and shall be much obliged to you for a line. I am, sir, your obedient, humble servant, Arcu. Bucuanan. To Benjamin Rumsey, Esq., Annapolis. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS. [No. 87.] Annapolis, July 29, 1776. GentLemen: We have directed Captain Nicholson, who goes to Philadelphia on business of his own, to endeavour to procure some salted provisions for the use of the Navy. Should any difficulties attend the execution of his orders, we must request you will endeavour to remove them, and at the same time to advance him money to pay for what he may engage. We are, Nc. To the Deputies of Maryland in Congress. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL SOMERVILLE, [No. 88.] Annapolis, July 29, 1776. Str: We are willing and desirous to ease the Militia of your County all we can with safety to the Province, and 635 therefore have ordered Captain John Brooke to Drum- Point, there to remain until] Captain Beall returns, or until the further order of the Council of Safety. The contractor is to furnish rations for his men. We are, &c. To Colonel Alexander Somerville. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL KENT. [No. 89.] Annapolis, July 29, 1776. Sir: The Council of Safety request you will, immediately upon the receipt of this, attend them at Annapolis; they want to consult you upon matters relative to the arming, marching, and equipping the battalion under your command. We are, &c. To Colonel James Kent. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL DASHIEL. [No. 90.] Annapolis, July 29, 1776. Sir: We have given to your Quartermaster, Mr. Severe Hitch, an order on the Treasurer of the Eastern-Shore for the sum of £750 currency, which no doubt he will deliver you. This sum is intended to pay the Militia for their ser- vices heretofore, also something to your Quartermaster, the remainder to answer growing expenses of Militia, for which you are to render an account hereafter. The expense of the witnesses against Atkinson is referred to the Board of Accounts; they are not here at present; we shall Jay all the accounts before them when they meet again, which we expect will be in a few days. We doubt your account is too general, and that the Board will expect par- ticulars for the lumping charges: that must be left to them. We think the march of one-half of Captain Watkins’s com- pany somewhat extraordinary; expect to hear more of it. We have already ordered you more powtler. If it does not come down soon, apply to Brigadier Chamberlaine, who has the care of the Eastern-Shore magazine, and will deliver you five barrels for the use of Somerset County. We are, Wc. To Colonel George Dashiell. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE. At a Meeting of the Committee, July 29, 1776: Present: Samuel Purviance, (Chairman,) W. Lux, (Vice Chairman,) A. Buchanan, J. Cradock, T'. Gist, T. Sollers, W. Wilkinson, W. Tolly, Jun., D. Lux, T. Rutter, J. Merryman, J. Calhoun, D. Shaw, E. Talbot, C. Ridgely of William, J. Gittings, J. Smith. This day, agreeable to the resolve of this Committee of the 22d instant, the Declaration of Independency was pro- claimed at the Court-House by Mr. Wilham Aisquith, (Mr. Christie being out of ‘Town:) Captain Nathaniel Smith’s Company of Matrosses, Captain John Sterrett’s Company of Independents, Captain John Smith’s, Captain James Cox’s, Captain George Wells’s, and Captain William Rich- ardson’s Companies being drawn up under arms on the occasion. A Letter was received from the Council of Safety, direct- ing security to be taken of Alexander McGee for his good behaviour, and directing him to be confined until he gave said security, and paid the expense of taking him to and from Annapolis; which the said McGee could not comply with, therefore he was ordered to Prison, with the following Commitment to the Sheriff: “Baltimore County, ss: “ Receive from Benjamin Wood the body of Alexander McGee, and him in your Jail and custody safely keep, until he gives bond in the sum of £300 currency, with good security to be approved of by the Committee of Observation of this County, with condition that he do not in any manner correspond with or give intelligence to the enemies of Ame- rica; and further, that he obey all orders of the honourable Congress and Convention, agreeable to an order of the Council of Safety of this Province; and for your so doing this shall be your sufficient authority. “Given under our hands and seals, this 24th day of July, 1776. “ S. Purviance, Jun., [L. s.] “James Catyoun. [L. s.] “To Robert Christie, Esq., Sheriff of Baltimore County.” CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 636 Mr. Hercules Courtenay applied to the Committee for their Instructions in what manner he should act as a Magis- trate when any person should be brought before him to give security fora Levy. ‘The Committee, on deliberating the matter and recurring to the Association, wherein we unite, associate, and solemnly engage ourselves to support good order and the publick peace, and to support the civil power in the due execution of the laws, so far as may be consistent with the present plan of opposition, are of opinion, that it be recommended to the Magistrates in such cases to act with lenity, and as they may think most conducive to the good of the community. The Fines of William Lavely and George Lavely, who prove to be upwards of fifty years old, are remitted. On the representation of Thomas Randall, the Collector is desired to suspend distressing his effects for payment of his fine till the further orders of this Committee. N. B. Several blank papers for taking a List of the Inhabitants of this County, were given to the persons em- ployed. Attest : Grorce Lux, Secretary. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 29, 1776. Srr: I have been honoured with your favours of 22d, 25th, and 27th instant. I hope by to-morrow’s post to transmit you answers to the whole of your letters which are yet unanswered. ‘The exceeding warm season and the constant attention of Congress to business the last week, induced Congress to adjourn from Friday evening to this morning. I shall directly lay your letters before them, and request their immediate attention to them. Congress having indulged me to make a demand of money from Mr. Brimer, who I judge to be with Mr. Howe on Staten-Island, | have sent the bill to Mr. Palfrey, and de- sired him to apply to you, and I request you will please to suffer him to conduct this matter for me. I have the honour to be, with much esteem, sir, your very humble servant : 4 Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 29, 1776. Str: Since I sent off my letter of this morning the Con- gress have met, before whom I laid your letters, and I have the pleasure to inform you the Congress readily agreed to your having another Aid-de-Camp. I have the honour to be, sir, your humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington. PETITION OF GEORGE NICHOLSON. [Referred to the Board of War. | To the Honourable Congress of the free and independent States of America: The humble Petition of Groner Nicuorson showeth : That your petitioner has had the honour of serving the honourable Congress as an officer since the 4th of September, 1775, in Canada; was appointed Aid-de-Camp to General Wooster, the 7th of March, 1776, which office he continued in till the General quitted the service; and as the corps to which he formerly belonged is in a manner broke, (the men’s time being expired, and many of the officers provi- ded for in other regiments,) he hopes this honourable House will continue him in the service, and order him to be paid the trifle that is due to him. Ass it is the sole ambition of your petitioner to spend his life in the service of his country, he is the more anxious of being speedily placed, on account of the critical situation of affairs, preferring a military life to any other. Should your honourable House grant this request, your petitioner would have no objection to join any of the regiments either at York or Ticonderoga. And your petition- er, as in duty bound, will ever pray. Grorce NicHoison. 637 JOSIAH BARTLETT TO JOHN LANGDON. Philadelphia, July 29, 176. My Frrenp: Yours of the 15th instant is now before me, and with you I lament the selfish disposition that is but too prevalent among almost all orders and degrees of men ; even the Senate and Army are not entirely free. However, we | must not expect perfection in human nature, but must endeavour to correct it in ourselves, and to point it out and oppose it in others. The retreat of our Army to Ticonderoga has no doubt alarmed the western parts of our State, though IL think there will be no great danger at present, as there isa very powerful Army there, who are now getting well of the small-pox, and will be soon ready for action, besides the numerous Militia who are marching to join that Army. Our friend General Sullivan is disgusted at the appoint- ment of General Gates to be a Major-General, and being sent to the Northern Army. By permission of the Generals Schuyler and Washington, he (General Sullivan) has left the Army, and is now here, and has petitioned Congress for leave to resign his commission. What will be done in the case I cannot say, but hope it will be settled without his dismission. Brother Whipple is here yet, and will not set out for home till the Confederation is settled, which may possibly take a week or ten days’ time, as there is a great deal of other business to be done in the mean time, and the sentiments of the members of Congress very different on many of the articles. I should be glad he might hear the whole of the debates here, and be present in our Colony when it is laid before our Legislature for their concurrence, to answer any questions and remarks that may be made upon it. It isa matter of the greatest importance, but the interests and opinions of the several members are so various that I see it will not be settled agreeable to my mind. It is a very still time as to news here. The fleet and Armies at New- York and Staten-Island remain in statu quo. The Army in the Jerseys is increasing very fast, so that there will soon be a powerful body of men there. July 31st.—I can now inform you that the affair with General Sullivan is settled, and he is to return to New- York, to be employed by General Washington in that department; so hope you will not make many words about it. I am, sir, your friend and most obedient, humble servant, JostaH Barrett. P.S. By the enclosed you will see the resolves passed by Congress, and sent to Generals Howe and Burgoyne, in consequence of the affair at the Cedars. By letters yesterday from Virginia we are informed that Dunmore with his fleet has gone up Potomack River, has burnt some houses near the shores, and has endeavoured to burn more, but was hindered; that the Virginians had taken a tender with one of the most infamous ‘Tories in the Pro- vince on board; the number of men and guns I have forgot. They have also taken a vessel from Dunmore, with linens, &c., said to be worth twenty thousand pounds sterling. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JOHN ADAMS, DATED PHILA- DELPHIA, JULY 29, 1776. We have no news. It is very hard that half a dozen or half a score of armies can’t supply us with news. We have a famine, a perfect dearth of this necessary article. I am, at this present writing, perplexed and plagued with two knotty problems in politicks. You love to pick a political bone; so I will even throw it to you. If a Confederation should take place, one great question is, how we shall vote,—whether each Colony shall count one; or whether each shall have a weight in proportion to its number, or wealth, or exports and imports, or a com- pound ratio of all? Another is, Whether Congress shall have authority to limit the dimensions of each Colony, to prevent those which claim, by charter, or proclamation, or commission, to the South Sea, from growing too great and powerful, so as to be dangerous to the rest? Shall I write you a sheet upon each of these questions ? When you are well enough to read, and I can find leisure enough to write, perhaps 1 may. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 638 GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 29, 1776. Srr: A very great dissatisfaction prevails among the troops here, and all the several posts from hence to New- York, on account of the quality of the provisions and the great inattention paid by the Commissaries in serving the rations. We have here three Commissaries of equal powers in this service, namely: Mr. Lowrie, Mr. Dunham, and Mr. Ogden. The services performed by Mr. Dunham have fallen more immediately under my notice. By what Ihave seen, that gentleman is very unfit for any extensive business in this way, insomuch that if we .are to depend on his abilities and assiduity, the Army must starve. It is, in my opinion, absolutely necessary that one person be employed here as Commissary-General for the camp, who is to employ and be answerable for the necessary subordinate persons to issue provisions. Mr. Lowrie, by all accounts, would suit very well, and would undertake it. It is of equal conside- ration with me who the person is, so one has the sole direc- tion. I beg your Excellency will please to consider how essential it is that no cause of complaint be given the troops in our present circumstances, and that you will interpose your authority with Mr. Trumbull to have this put on a proper footing, and as speedily as possible. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To His Excellency General Washington. GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Perth-Amboy, July 29, 1776. Sir: We have to-day had a Court of Inquiry of the commanding officers of battalions, to rectify, if possible, the disorders in the management of the Commissary’s branch of business. I have written to General Washington. It will give me pleasure to remove the discontents. In the mean time take what method appears to you most likely to answer that purpose. H. Mercer To Col. John Dickinson, commanding at Elizabeth- Town. [Procured the troops stationed here to be satisfied with their pro- visions. J7D:] GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 30, 1776. Referred to the Board of War.] New-York, July 29, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 24th, I received on Saturday evening, and agreeable to your request shall expunge the preamble to the resolution subjecting the property of sub- jects to the British Crown to forfeiture and confiscation. Our stock of musket powder is entirely made up in car- tridges. I therefore request that Congress will order four or five tons more of that sort to be immediately forwarded, it being not only necessary that we should have more for that purpose, but also some stock to remain in barrels. Yesterday evening Hutchinson’s and Sergeant’s regiments from Boston arrived; also two row-galleys from Rhode- Island. 1 am fearful the troops have not got entirely clear of the small-pox. I shall use every possible precaution to prevent the infection spreading, and for that purpose have ordered them to an encampment separate and detached from the rest. By Saturday’s report from Long-Island camp, five ships, a brig, and five schooners, had got into the Hook. By yesterday’s, two ships more and a sloop were standing in: what they are, I have not been able to learn. I have transmitted a General Return herewith, by which Congress will perceive the whole of our force at the time it was made, I have enclosed you an account of sundry prizes, which was transmitted to several gentlemen here by Saturday’s post. ‘The two last prizes I did not see mentioned in the letters shown me, and I fear the report of the second pro- vision vessel is premature. I was also this minute informed that Captain Biddle had taken a ship with sugars for Britain, and in bringing her in, unfortunately lost her on I*sher’s Island. I have the honour to be, with the greatest esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON, 639 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 640 Return of the Army in the service of the Unrrep Couontes, in and near the City of New-York, commanded by His Excellency Grorce Wasuincton, Esquire, General and Commander-in- Chief. OFFICERS PRESENT. ne j aes RANK AND FILE. phe to | Since last Commissioned. Staff. omeoneh complete. Return. a a j= z oe eS : ih © REGIMENTS. e e|% 2 ail es sjia| Bla G, | oo : 2) | 15/28) lalelsty Mes bch ioc Oe a abet he: 3 28\.(2/2/3| see] | 2) 2] 22) 2/2] 2 | 2 e/@/ 3 la] [Pls A BG eg | el asta |e SIS/Sl an io} 2 os a | s So F, o| ma cs} 3 .| als Sislso Ss as = a8 o|=]/ Cig o & oO =. a 5 ol oO é a Sis a=] nd Sse) S/E) Seles siblal le) 8 |e is) ale) 2 lees lelslals ODS/O/E|ala Dale] 2 ala Higlo lol & |jw\Al a Lelialeava Golone! Erand ‘sehen cmircvte e's o's 1? 1] 1}-| -4 7 G5) 1) aT =) Be pS S4S a eG he Sie iit) 16. 1.9305++.8 |} 4. 2385 Soe waa Late Colonel Learned’s.......... -} Ud 28P 8h 7S eT dT) (S25 be| SOR 4 aS eee eed ee 541 | - | 1 99) ceo leat = Golonely INiGRON Seite are oho: vis 3 ow, Di Us GA ore al hee eee 276 47) 21 87) - AS deer a 209'5} -| -| - Colonel Prescott sien cae» cs so Wa) Gla Sy ele ai Lek) tae ae cogil ey 296 48| 14 52) - 410 | -| - 930} - | -| 1] 2 Colonel Varnum’s... 2 0. ce sce e oe lily oe 7 5 S-} 1-) 7) 1 26) 16 |. 282) 64.10) 41) - B97 | ahem) 24301 57 = Colonel, Parsons’se sc ecc cle ctee Lie pedk ST) eae Nae TL) 298 6a S07 e137) tol ee SG GMleoo Lelie=n io AG my ehele oO ale Colonel Hitchcock’s.......ceees Th, WS Eh Sie Shem d ls macs Relea timed bit iad (1 a NE hs 7 AT 9 43] - 386. j=) = (254 -) Pier y = Colonelibitite nose sics es ts os 010 6 os 1} i) 1) 67 8 8) er a Ta 1) Ba ASIA 2 B29) 1 57S ee ole 464) -| -| 176 -|1)|-] - Colonel RoR. oes sore e's 8 0s.k5 5 SL) SS a Sree Rene sb at et) O08 1G 245 | 108} 11) 161) - Eales LD Sheb oly Lee ea Colonel Huntington’s........+++- u-}| F 8 & Fay did 31) 14] 226 | 134) 25) 151; 2} 538} 1) -}] 10231] -| 3] - COLONEINWVED DeSis tae cic es ia. 910 be e s10 a=! DT) A Sheeley EPL Soma | eid 933° |. 110) 10) 197) 2 SoBe |e SS peat Leeds) |) Re Colonel Arnold's. &cccceccsosees) =| 1 Tf Sl Sto 7, Bsa Ti Te Le Sey a SS Aa Sees Giepeneg |e SEQ =e Qa © LOSI, Bal HP D Golonel Ward's. fosk..ove et ocwes Vee | 3b OS eS So Eee!) SG rrASee1e OUST aoe DLS Fl Ga clke aiaued Ol laa a Colonel Wyllys’s....-+++sssee0- Da) iT PAS Seve EL ie 2o tty 237 | 103) 6) 201) - S47 | ee G3 =n al el fe Colonel Bailey’s.....++++s0- She Li A GIG) tie all Tete heooe | Ooo rid All Ole 1G ieee 5388) |) = - | 102) Sean = Wolonel bald wWin’s.;.ree ce sees «cre =) aU ab 2 Sr Ge Sh ty UA OW TON? 18%, | SSeS ASG al WEAR Tete aol eed Sete aed ee 7 Companies of Col. McDougall’s} 1;}-} 1} 5} 5) 5} 5) 1} 1} 1) 1) 1) 35 | 16 254 85s bd lds = 457 | 1 |2 26315 | -|5| 4 CGlOnelIRITZeINaBirves fe ocesls cere cites] ed ell Ale Ol Alea ed aL ee ee |e cen eee oem mE rol ome 81) 3 MGT teeth al PSUS eed Colonel Magaw’s.....+seeseeeee Lela 8S Tess esate 401 53} 28 10) 3 495 | -| 5 345) =| =| =} Colonel Shee s. 2. « «+s che eleiea etn LIES) “GaSe Si BE eT eS oes.) 4 015 10 DNA. |, 2500) dy) 4a L408 Oa ce heen Total........c0ceecceeeec ee f 14 17117|1221127/124/123) 14/20/19)17119| 513 272 | 5,464 |1682/201| 2,284) 37 19,668 {15 25 |3,21237 |13 |17 [22 Return of General Scort’s Brigade ; sixty-seven men, rank and file, to a Company, and ten Companies in a Regiment, is the establishment. Colonel Lasher’s....+-.000+-++4 I] I Wj 1 10 10, - [=a a-|-]) 30/15 | 462 | 4a, 8 30) 13 5551-15) iad -121- Colonel Malcom a (S. ooe wahoo: 1111 1| 9) 9| 9) -] 1) a} alal-| 27/16! 196] 14114] 50| 2| 2976/3141] 394 -| -|10] 3 Eélonel Drake's! cosets. 1) 1| 1) 10| 10) 10} - | - 1 1 1 - 99/17] 359 | 57/12} 40/12] 480/1]3] 190) -| -| 815 5 Comp. of Lt. Col. Hardenburgh’s) - nie: Wi ak ah Let 1S 9 222 22) - Gaal 25Ashean a1 81) =| -} -] - rial 1S. ere o 3) 4) 3} 34 34) 34! - [al al al a! -| 101 | 57 11,299 | 135] 34/ 1271 30 |1,565 | 4 13 | 790i 17/1 - 201 8 Return of General Hearv’s Brigade ; seventy-two men, rank and file, to a Company, and eight Companies to a Regi- ment, is the establishment. Colonel) Forman’ sow oie lara oe & dele ore 1 ELL See Tie LL EE al 8 AES: 370 42) - Sip yy 452 13h 3 144, 8 -| -|6 7 Companies of Col. Hunt’s......| - 1 1] 6 6 i 6}-) 1) 1) j-) 24) IL] 271) 23) - 4, 3} 301} 4)]3/] 203) 18 -| -|5 7 Companies of Col. Martin’s....| 1 Wet ey 6 eel ala) superb) 2s) |i ial 281 55| 11 6 3 OO Neen 148} 4) 1] -| - 3 Companies of Col. Newcomb’s.| 1 1 UMP eh aM al a rh ors ails ape 9 3 90 6| - 3} - Osa ne No yAt Ha ef She 5 Comp. of Col. Van Cortlandt’s.| 1) 1; 1) 4, 4! 3) ZA hele 18 6 176 1A) zd By 200 | 2) 4 160} 14), - | - | - Total ere. eer ee 4\ 5! 5| 26 26 Qil 25\ 31 51 4! 5] 4! 108 | 46 [1,188 | 140] 111 30! 19 [1,388 112 fe | ral aala | - ay Return of General Wavswortu’s Brigade ; eighty-three rank and file to a Company, and eight Companies to a Regi- ment, is the establishment. Colonel Sillimanm’s ski. ee sais oe cies TU ety ell eae May te! YU 20)8 245) ~36f iF 2] 98 375|2|3) 289 -{ -|] -|1 Golonel Gay'aid.s suits cieeeged iil-| e| ef si siial aja} 28/16] 216] 73 -| 115| - | 404f4]-| 260 -| 1] 2] - Colonel Bradley as) osbypwssce ce dl Sid) Or Bye ty Gy Apna y Ab 29 | 15 SOC Asie Geol is AT louealie= 4] e193) aeleaulle al Colonel Sage’Siacicc sees. oviewy ec) til) Lin Gl con op Ore edt Ue | sy ip 155| 63} 4) 79) - SLU Le rile’ sSXe3) to tee Ne ye Golonel Selden’ac. oe cect eh ay ApS P al tal shea] Cage aha] aepee!l Whigs pless< P acroletifoss| eu! suezige See eae Colonel Douglass’s...<-.ssesuses aja 6 7 7 el ai a} a) 1a) 25/13] 274] 57 -| sal - | 443) 7) 3] Qa] -| -| -] - Colonel Chester’s..s..sscsceee es i] 11 5| 6} 8} 4{-[ a] 1/4) 1} 26 | 14| 184) 44] -|, 196| - | 354] 6| 2} 310| - | -| -| - Total, wevsad at sncepts 7| 7 5! 43) 41| 421 43] 4| 7| 7| 7| 6| 197 | 90 | 1,625] 339] 8} 622] - | 2,504/34 [21 [2,054 -] 1] 1] 1 Total of General Heard’s........ 4| 5| 5 26| 26| 21) 25] a| 5 4| 5| 4| 108 | 46 | 1,188] 140, 11] 30] 19 | 1,388/12 16 | 779 44f a | - [an Total of General Scott’s......... 3| 4{ 3! 3a] 34] 3a) - | a] 4! al a|-| 101 | 57 | 1,239] 135| 34| 197] 30 | 1,565] 4 |13 | 780| 17| - [20| 8 Total of the old estab’d Regiments|14/17/17 122 127 124|123|14|20 19|17/19| 513 [272 | 5,464 {1682}201}2,284| 37 | 9,668)15 25 |3,219) 37| 13/17 | 22 Total of the whole........ +++ + «(28133130 295]29812201191129'36 34132129! 909 l465 | 9,516 |2296'254! 3,063) 86 115,215 65 '75 16,8201 981 15/38 | 42 Head-Quarters, July 27, 1776. Return of the Regiment of Artillery, commanded by Colonel Henry Knox, Esquire, in the service of the Unirep Co.Loniegs. t 2 Pe Ee s : . 2 = eS . fs | 8 4 ie £ S| 2] 2 a a. ten 3s]. ai8\.l#lzlzlelalalele| (figlelel.tei2 Sire eS TE TS fers Pie tae Meee Fe ei) eee eens : SL SSSI 21S) ELEIBIE| S191 Sh 212] Slebana| a Sie |S a | os | et 8 tg re eet weed So | Re) ee eee Tico ° OoOfelae lO lO (aor ie lates | aod too pea | ais Present, fitifor duty .. ass ese « vere voters PED Se 6 5 TO eer 1 1 20 Issam) lo} 178) dao LEK PTEsehts atdatastas ells ola otter. alec tents Oh) Stott een: Ce Ot es (ae OO Me) ete (es ea oes ge 10 a6 Sick ADSCN bs. pide ac suteckst ip saapeiventonts - - - - - - - - - - - < - - 1 - - - 5 6 Oi COMMA neo seu aie eae eae Clos oe Aisle KIS - - - 4 4 6 9 - - - ~ =e) lala nieean. 20 1 | 17 al Tae Titel eet. ase ee eee ee 1/1! 2/10! 10! 12149] 11 11-11 1! 11321311641 63| 2| 93] 314) 588 New-York, July 27, 1776. 641 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE BOARD OF WAR. New-York, July 29, 1776. Gentiemen: At length I have been able to comply with the first part of a resolution of Congress, relative to a return of the vacancies in the several regiments composing that part of the Army under my immediate command, I thought to have made this return much sooner, but the dispersed situ ation of our troops, the constant duty they are upon, the difficulty of getting returns when this is the case, especially when those returns are (more than probable) to undergo several corrections, and the variety of important occurrences which have intervened of late to withdraw attention from this matter, will, I hope, be admitted as an excuse, and the delay not ascribed to any disinclination in me to comply with the order; as I shall, while I have the honour to remain in the service of the United States, obey, to the utmost of my power, and to the best of my abilities, all orders of Con- gress with a scrupulous exactness. With respect to the latter part of the aforementioned resolution of the 27th of June, I have to observe, that I have handed in the names of such persons as the Field- Officers of the several regiments and their Brigadiers have pointed out, as proper persons to fill these vacancies. I have neither added to nor diminished aught from their choice, unless the following special information, which I considered my indispensable duty to give, should occasion any altera- tions. For the Twentieth Regiment, then, (late Arnold’s,) there were two competitors, to wit: Colonel Durkee, the present Lieutenant-Colonel, who has had charge of the regiment ever since the first establishment of it, and Lieutenant-Colo- nel Tyler, of Parsons’s regiment. ‘The pretensions of both, and a state of the case, I have subjoined to the list of vacan- cies given in by General Spencer, as I have also done in the case of Colonel Learned to another list exhibited by Gene- ral Heath. If Learned returns to the regiment, the vacan- cies stand right; if he should not, I presume the regiment will be given to the Lieutenant-Colonel, William Shepherd, who stands next to T'yler in rank, and not second to him in reputation; this change would, in its consequences, occasion several moves. There is a third matter, in which I must be more particu- lar, as it is unnoticed elsewhere, and that is, the Lieutenant- Colonel of Wyllys’s regiment, Rufus Putnam, acts here as a Chief Engineer, by which means the regiment is totally deprived of his services; and to remove him from that depart- ment the publick would sustain a capital injury; for although he is not a man of scientifick knowledge, he is indefatigable in business, and possesses more practical knowledge in the art of Engineering than any other we have in this camp or Army. I would humbly submit it, therefore, to Congress, whether it might not be best to give him (Putnam) the appointment of Engineer with the pay of sixty dollars per month; less than which I do not suppose he would accept, as I have been obliged, in order to encourage him to push the business forward in this our extreme hurry, to give him reasons to believe that his Lieutenant-Colonel’s pay would be made equal to this sum. If this appointment should take place, then it makes a vacancy in Wyllys’s regiment, which I understand he is de- sirous of having filled up by Major Henley, an active and spirited officer, now a Brigade-Major to General Heath. am sorry to take up so much of your time as the recital of particular cases and some others require; but there is no avoiding it, unless Congress will be pleased to appoint one or more persons, in whom they can confide, to visit this part of the Army once a month, inspect into it, and fill up the vacancies, as shall appear proper to them upon the spot. This cannot be attended with any great trouble nor much expense, as it is only in the part of the Army under my im- mediate direction that such a regulation would be necessary; the officers commanding in other departments having, I believe, this power already given them, I have the honour to enclose a list of the officers of the regiments at this place, and long ago directed the like return to be made from the Northern and Eastern troops, which I hope is complied with. I also make return of the Artillery according to Colonel Knoz’s report, and of the ordnance and stores, &c., agreeable to the Commissary’s return. I come now to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 20th instant, with several enclosures, relative to a propo- Firrn Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 41 642 sal of Mr. Goddard, and beg leave to give it as my opinion, that the introduction of that gentleman into the Army as Lieutenant-Colonel would be attended with endless confu- sion. I have spoken to Colonel Parsons (who is a very worthy man) upon this subject. I have done more, I have shown him the memorial; in answer to which he says, that in the conversation had between him and Mr. Goddard the latter was told, that unless Lieutenant-Colonel Tyler was provided for, the Major Prentiss advanced to a Lieutenant- Colonelcy in some other regiment, and his eldest Captain ( Chapman) not deprived of his expectation of the Majority, his coming in there would give uneasiness; but, nevertheless, if it was the pleasure of Congress to make the appointment, he would do everything in his power to make it palatable. If all these contingencies were to take place before Mr. Goddard could get into a regiment he had been paving the way to, what prospect can there be of his getting into any other without spreading jealousies as he goes? With respect to the regiment of Artificers, I have only to observe, that the forming of them into one corps at the time 1 did, when immediate action was expected, was only in- tended as a temporary expedient to draw that useful body of near six hundred men into the field under one head, and without confusion. ‘The appointment of officers, therefore, in this instance, was merely nominal, and unattended with expense. ‘The mode of promotion, whether in a Continental, Colo- nial, or Regimental line, being a matter of some considera- tion and delicacy to determine, I thought it expedient to know the sentiments of the General Officers upon the conse- quences of each, before I offered my own to your Board; and I have the honour to inform you, that it is their unanimous opinion, as it is also mine, from observations on the temper and local attachments of each corps to the members thereof, that regimental promotions would be much the most pleasing. But this, it is thought, had better appear in practice, than come announced as a resolution, and that there ought to be exceptions in favour of extraordinary merit on the one hand, and demerit on the other—the first to be rewarded out of the common course of promotion, whilst the other might stand, and sustain no injury. It is a very difficult matter to step out of the regimental line now without giving much disquie- tude to the corps in which it happens. Were it, then, to be declared, as the resolution of Congress, that all promotions should go in this way, without some strong qualifying clauses, it would be almost impossible to do it without creating a mutiny. ‘This is the sense of my officers; as also, that the promotions by succession are not meant to extend to non- commissioned officers further than circumstances of good behaviour, &c., may direct. As the list of vacancies are returned, in consequence of an order of Congress, and would, I doubt not, be referred to your Board, I have sent no duplicate; nor have I written to Congress on the subject. But, that I may not appear inattentive to their commands, I must request the favour of having this letter, or the substance of it, laid before them. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, &c., Go. WasuineTon. To the Hon. Board of War, &c., John Adams, Roger Sher- man, B. Harrison, James Wilson, and Ed. Rutledge. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 29, 1776. Dear Sir: Yours of the 22d instant I received ‘by post, and note the contents. ‘The company of Artificers you mention are much wanted, and I would have you order them with all convenient despatch. If was necessary the troops, on their march for Ticonderoga, should be furnished with powder and ball. I have written several times about the remaining part of the arms, which you have not noticed in your letters. There is yet a deficiency in the carbines, which are not all arrived; these, with the other arms taken in differ- ent vessels, I wish you to send on. Iam exceedingly anxious to know if you have forwarded the powder I mentioned, what quantity, and where stored. [must beg your answer to these particulars in your next. ‘The pork taken from Ire- land the Commissary-General requests may all be secured for the use of the Army, and desires you will order the Deputy-Commissary, Mr. Miller, to secure it in store till he receives his orders respecting it. Colonels Hutchinson’s and 643 Sergeant’s regiments have arrived, with one man who has the small-pox, but hope to be able to prevent the spreading of that fatal disorder. The enemy’s fleet are daily arriving; it appears they must have been scattered on their passage, as they come in sometimes single, at others three, four, and so on. I hope our cruisers may pick up some of them. I am, sir, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Major-Gen. Ward, or officer commanding in Boston. P.S. We are in distressing want of Artillerymen. Ifyou can make any tolerable shift, | must urge your sending on Captain Burbeck with his company as soon as possible. Iam, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. ROBERT H. HARRISON TO DANIEL TILLINGHAST. New-York, July 29, 1776. Sir: I have it in command from his Excellency to inform you that your favours of the 15th and 17th came duly to hand, and that the arms, &c., contained in the invoices therewith transmitted, have been safely received into the Ordnance stores. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Rosert H. Harrison. To Daniel Tillinghast, Esq., Continental Agent, Provi- dence. JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 29, 1776. Sir: I am to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 27th instant, directing me to supply provisions to Mr Cushing and others, who have the care of the Continental ships in New-England. It came just in time for me to send the necessary orders to Mr. Charles Miller, in Boston, per this post, which I have done, and directed him to notice the several gentlemen thereof. The following is an extract of a letter received per post: from Mr. Charles Miller, in Boston, my deputy there, dated 22d July, 1776: «Yesterday, a large transport came into our eelpot. The fort fired on her. ‘The Captain sent his boat on shore, to know the reason why he was fired at. Our people detained the boat and men, and sent a boat and men of their own on board, and brought her safe to town. She has on board fifteen hundred barrels of beef and pork, a quantity of butter and oatmeal, and several other articles. We have just received advice from Salem, that a small letter-of-marque sloop, fixed ovt there, and bound to the West-Indies with lumber, fell in with and took a large ship from Jamaica for London. She has on board near eight hundred hogsheads of sugar and rum, and twenty-seven pieces of cannon. On their return for Salem, they fell in with a sloop bound for New-York, loaded with bale goods, which she likewise took. After which, she fell in with and took another small sloop, and all are safe arrived at Salem, Massachusetts.” Our people seem in a good way to make up their losses, I have a letter likewise from Jabez Bowen, Esq., at Providence, informing that their Captain, (Martindale,) and part, of our Bunker-Hill prisoners, have made their escape from Hali- fax jail, and got safe home. I hope the Paymaster here and at Albany will both be supplied with money soon, as we are allbankrupt at present. Lam, sir, with esteem and respect, your most obedient, humble servant, J. TRUMBULL. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Congress of the United States of America, at Philadelphia. P.S. I have ordered Mr. Miller to secure the eatables on board the transport, for the Continental service; and General Washington has written on the subject to General Ward. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 29, 1776. Str: Colonel Hand reports nine ships, four brigs, and two sloops, at the Hook, that came in last evening. Two brigs came up to the Narrows, and one went down. _Lam, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, N. GREENE. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 644 Return of the Officers’ Names, their Rank, and the dates of their Commissions, in 1775, in the Continental Service, belonging to the Fourth Regiment of Foot, raised in the Colony of the Massacuuserrs-Bay. Names. Dates of Commissions. Field- Officers. FOUMUINIRON rises ots OOLGTIEL « cc icn's 'o Coictslecie oleierm July; Tits: Thomas Nixon.......Lieutenant-Colonel.......- July 1, 1775. Andrew Colburn... .. Major ....ssscccccssecees Jan. 1, 1776. Dates of - D f Com- Namen, © | DatesotCom- [1 amen, | Daten f Com Captains. Second Lieutenants. Joseph Butler..... July 1, 1775. |\John Sawyer..... Jan. 1, 1776. Joseph Thompson. do. Nath’! Cretonton..| July 1, 1775. Adam Wheeler... do. Benj. Haywood...| Jan. 1, 1776. Michael Gleason .. do. Abel Holden...... do. Ebenezer Winship. do. Rich. Buckmaster.| July 1, 1775. Thomas Barnes... do. William Lemont. . do. Jerom Gilman..... do. John White......| Jan. 1, 1776. Moses McFarland. do. ( Vacant.) First Lieutenants Ensigns. Silas Walker..... July 1, 1775. ||Warham Wheeler.| Jan. 1, 1776. William Toogood.}| Jan. 1, 1776. ||/Ephraim Wheeler. do. Jonathan Hill..... Jan. 1, 1775. ||Ephraim Minot.... do. James Kimbell....| July 1, 1775. ||Peter Clayes...... do. Nathaniel Wheeler| Jan. 1, 1776. ||Mason Wattles ... do. Silas Bent........ July 1, 1775. |\Isaac Nichols..... do. Simon Sartwell ...} Mar. 28, 1776. ||William Hutchins.| March 28. Joseph Wood.....| Jan. 1, 1776. |\Dudley Tyler.....} January 1._ Names. Dates of Warrants Staff- Officers. Hezekiah Smith..........- Chaplain. Abel Holden... 5. .050+e-« Adjutant....ccsece.| July 1, 1775. OHM VVINItectewkaers cls te cinioisle Quartermaster......- July 1, 1775. Benjamin Putnam..........Surgeon ...+.- .».-.| March 18, 1776. Asa Kingsbury N. B. Second Lieutenant vacant in Captain McFarland’s Company. Ensign Dudley Tyler recommended to fill wp the vacancy in Captain McFarland’s Company; and Sergeant Samuel Frost recommended to be Ensign of that Company. Joun Nixon, Colonel. New-York, July 6, 1776. Return of the Officers’ Names, their Rank, and the Date of their Commissions in 1776, in the Continental service, belonging to the First Regiment of Foot raised in the Colony of New-York. Names. Dates of Commissions. Field Officers. Alexander McDougall....Colonel...... eseees| 30 June, 1775. Herman Zedtwitz........ Lieutenant-Colonel..| 8 March, 1776. Barnabas Tuttle.......... MOF Gr set ote sate tale ote he 30 June, 1775. Dates of Commis- sions or warrants. Date of Commis- Names, sions or warrants. Names. Second Lieutenants. Henry Tiebout....|24 Feb., 1776. Arant Van Hook. .|24 Feb., 1776. Peter Vergereau.. .|24 Feb., 1776. Cornelius Beeker. ./24 Feb., 1776. William Tapp... .|13 June, 1776. William D. Tripp .|24 April, 1776. Joseph De Groot. .}25 April, 1776. Andrew Taylor...|18 June, 1776. William Dunn... .|30 Mar., 1776. Captains. John Johnston... .|28 June, 1775. Richard Varick .. .|28 June, 1775. Benjamin Ledyard|28 June, 1775. David Lyon...... 28 June, 1775. 124 Feb., 1776. oe S24 Hebe dies Ezekiel Hait...... 25 April, 1776. Cornelius Steinrod.|27 April, 1776. Ambrose Horton. .|28 June, 1776. First Lieutenants. Ensigns. Leonard Bleecker..|14 May, 1776. |/Theodosius Fowler|24 Feb., 1776. William A. Forbes}24 Feb., 1776. ||James Fairly..... 24 Feb., 1776. James M. Hughes.|24 Feb., 1776. ||( Vacant.) .|24 Feb., 1776. Tea e's eb. , Caleb Holby...... 95 April, 1776. Esade Titust. ste. 27 April, 1776. Thomas Le Foy.. .|28 Mar., 1776. James Bonnell... .|26 Feb., 1776. W. W. De Peyster|24 Feb., 1776. Samuel Young... ./24 Feb., 1776. Isaac Pioneer..... 25 April, 1776. Benjamin Jones.../27 April, 1776. (Vacant.) Dates of Commissions or Names. Warrants. Staff- Officers. Israel Evans ...seececececeess Chaplain. ..... 1 June, 1776. ANUTCW, LAV Ober cs cla ele se lebs ofale Adjutant. ..++- 18 March, 1776. NOSED Cart sem cial sieteneleteretar sere Quartermaster. .}| 1 May, 1776. Benjamin Curtis..... peraqel bol slat Surgeon...++«.| 1 March, 1776. Isaac Led yards jsissins ens sje peg Mate...+..++. 20 March, 1776. ALEexaNnpER McDoveat, Colonel. This Regiment is raised during the present contest, the Congress of the Colony having had regard in the nomination of officers to such per- sons as would probably be able to raise men to recruit the Regiment. The Colonel declines naming persons for Ensigns to fill up the two vacancies. 645 A Return of the Names and Rank of the Officers of the Nineteenth Regiment, Juty 29, 1776. The Regiment under my command was raised in the Colony of Connecticut, in July, 1775, to continue in service five months; said service ended December 6, 1775. Said Regiment was ranked in said Colony the Seventh Regiment at the end of said campaign. The Officers set down in thet following Roll engaged anew, and raised the Regiment now under my command, to continue until the 1st day of January next, in the Continental service, and is the Nineteenth Regi- ment in the said service. Date of Commissions. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. ——A-—— | a Names. Rank: Colony Commis- |Continental Com- s10ns. missions. Charles Webb..... Colonel seeceeeee (July 6, 1775. (Jan. 1, 1776. Street Hall......-- Lieutenant-Colonel|July 6, 1775. |Jan. 1, 1776. John Brooks......-+ Major....eeeeeees June 6, 1775. |July 1, 1775. Joseph Hait....... Captain. ...+...+- July 6, 1775. |Feb. 1, 1776. Nathaniel Tuttle... do. do. do. Edward Shipman... do. do. do. Isaac Bostwick..... do. do. do. Peter Perritt....... do do. do. Eli Leavenworth... do. do. do. William Hull...... do. Ist Lieut. do. | * do Nathan Hale....... _ do. Ist Lieut. do. do. Joseph A. Wright. .,1st Lieutenant.... do. do. PAGatlin.. .p0csr ss do. do. do. John Yates..... eal do. ss do. ¢ do. Samuel Hurlbut.... do. } Bagvest: 0 ; do. Charles Pond...... do. do, do. do. Robert Lewis...... do. do. do. do. John Shumway.... do. do. do. do. (Vacant.) «ic .e sees (Vacant.) Reuben Scofield... ./2d Lieutenant..... - Jan. 1, 1776 Jesse Grant.....ee. do. - do. (MET) Vaceae daa (UREN Paabe tee - do. Elisha Bostwick... .|2d Lieutenant..... - do. Samuel Sandford... do. - do. Charles Webb..... Do. and Adjutant... - do. William Clark..... do. - do. John Elderkin..... Do. & Q. Master.. - do. Stephen Betts....../Ensign.....seeee- - do. Amos Johnson..... do. - do. Selah Benton...... do. - do. Amos Bostwick.... do. - do. William Smith..... do. - do. AM} sy aig Br: 9) ik iA pl do. - do. Charles Whittlesey. do. - do. George Hurlbut.... do. - do. Cuarves Wess, Colonel. Camp, New-York, July 2, 1776. N. B. The Colonel is commander of the Ninth Regiment of Militia in the Colony of Connecticut. The Lieutenant-Colonel was a Captain last war, 1775. Major John Brooks was born in Medford, in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay. Staff Officers belonging to the Nineteenth Regiment. Rev. John Gano... 2cc.ccrcsencevccscccese Chaplain. Charles Webb, Jun..... Bfactuietelehastalevel Aiaara‘a sie) Adjutant. John Elderkin..... aicinrclate dcke eraielanl atel et olcere‘eiere = Quartermaster. Elisha Hly....sccccsccsscccccscctsccccscecs Surgeon. Preserve W00G.......cscsscccccsccscsscccce Surgeon’s Mate. Cuarxtes Wess, Colonel. Camp at New-York, July 29, 1776. PERSONS RECOMMENDED TO FILL THE VACANCIES IN LORD STIRLING’S BRIGADE, JULY, 1776. Remarks on the Officers and vacant Commissions in the Fourth Regiment, commanded by Col. Joun Nixon. There is only one vacancy in this Regiment, which is a Second Lieutenancy in Captain McFarland’s Company ; to fill up which, Ensign Dudley Tyler, of the same Company, is recommended; and Sergeant Samuel Frost, of Captain Gleason's Company, to be Ensign to Captain McFarland’s Company. Remarks on the Officers and vacant Commissions in the First Regiment of New-Yorxers, in the service of the free Unirep States or Norru America. Lieutenant-Colonel Herman Zedtwitz, a brave good offi- cer; but so disabled by a rupture, occasioned by a fall from a precipice in the attack of Quebeck under General Mont- gomery, that he is unfit for active duty. If some stationary duty, such as the command of some fort, could be allotted him, and another Field-Officer put into this Regiment, it would benefit the service. Captain Richard Varick. He is Secretary or Aid-de- Camp to General Schuyler, and ought to resign his com- 646 mission in this Regiment; in which case, William A. Forbes ought to succeed to his Company; Henry Tiebout, Second Lieutenant, should succeed him as First Lieutenant; and Ensign Theodosius Fowler in the room of him as Second Lieutenant. There will then be three Ensigncies vacant in this Regi- ment, for which the following are recommended: Gilbert R. Livingston, who had a warrant in this Regi- ment, dated February 24, 1776, went volunteer to Canada with Colonel Winds’s Regiment, and is now returned to this Regiment. Wiliam Munday, Sergeant in this Regiment. Hugh McConn, Sergeant in this Regiment. Remarks on the Officers and vacant Commissions in the Nineteenth Regiment, commanded by Colonel Cuarues Wess. In this Regiment are two vacancies of a First Lieutenancy in Captain Hale’s Company; to fill up which, Charles Webb, Second Lieutenant of Captain Leavenworth’s Com- pany, is recommended; and John Elderkin, Second Lieuten- ant of Captain Hale’s Company, to be Second Lieutenant of Captain Shzpman’s Company. Ensign Selah Benton, of Captain Shipman’s Company, to be Second Lieutenant of Captain Leavenworth’s Com- pany; and Ensign Charles Whattlesey, of Captain Hull’s Company, to be Second Lieutenant of Captain Hale’s Com- pany. ‘T'wo of these changes are made to avoid having the Adjutant and Quartermaster in the same Company. Benoni Shipman, Sergeant-Major, to be Ensign to Cap- tain Shipman’s Company. Thomas Updike Fosdick, Ser- geant, to be Ensign to Captain Hull’s Company. Remarks on the Officers and vacant Commissions in the Third Regiment of New-Yorkers, in the service of the free Untrep Srates or Norru America. Major ». vacant. : Captain Andrew Billings, eldest Captain in this Regi- ment, has done the duty of Major for several months past, served as a Captain last campaign with the reputation of a good officer, is recommended to fill this vacancy; and Adju- tant Benjamin Pelton, who served as a Lieutenant in the First Regiment last year, was at the taking of St. John’s, and in the attack of Quebeck under General Montgomery, returned from thence in May, too late for any other commission, and therefore accepted the Adjutancy on the promise of the first vacant Company,—he is recommended to succeed Captain Billings. Lieutenant Jonathan Hallet is recommended to be Adju- tant in the room of Benjamin Pelton. RECAPITULATION OF THE COMMISSIONS RECOMMENDED TO BE ISSUED. For Colonel Nrxon’s Regiment. Ensign Dudley Tyler to be Second Lieutenant in Cap- tain McFarland’s Company. Sergeant Samuel Frost to be Ensign in the same Com- any.” ta Colonel Wexp’s Regiment. Second Lieutenant Charles Webb to be First Lieutenant in Captain Hale’s Company. Second Lieutenant John Elderkin to be Second Lieuten- ant in Captain Shapman’s. Ensign Selah Benton, of Captain Shipman’s Company, to be Second Lieutenant of Captain Leavenworth’s Com- any. : mana Charles Whittlesey to be Second Lieutenant in Captain Hale’s Company. Sergeant-Major Benoni Shipman to be Ensign in Captain Shipman’s Company. Sergeant Thomas Updike Fosdick to be Ensign in Cap- tain Hull’s Company. Colonel McDoveatu’s Regiment. First Lieutenant William A. Forbes to be Captain, in the room of Captain Varick. Second Lieutenant Henry Tiebout to be First Lieutenant in Captain Forbes’s Company. Ensign Theodosius Fowler to be Second Lieutenant in ditto. Gilbert R. Livingston to be Ensign in Captain Johnson’s Company. William Munday to be Ensign in Captain 647 Ledyard’s Company. Hugh McConnell to be Ensign in Captain Horton’s Company. Colonel Rirzema’s Regiment. Captain Andrew Billings to be Major. Adjutant Benjamin Pelton to be Captain, in the room of Captain Billings, promoted. Lieutenant Jonathan Hallet to be Adjutant. The foregoing recommendations fixed with the Field- Officers of the respective Regiments. Srirvine, Brigadier-General. July 22, 1776. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED NEW-YORK, JULY 29, 1776. Yesterday one of our galleys, mounting one thirty-two pounder in her bow, and the other a New-London galley, mounting two twelve-pounders in her stern, and two eigh- teen in her bow, went up the North River to Spiten Devil, or King’s-Bridge Creek, with an intent to lay there till the ships come down the river. Should that be the case, I make no doubt we shall be able to give a good account of them. This moment arrived a sloop, Captain Hawkins, from Rhode-Island, which gives the disagreeable news of Captain Biddle’s \osing his prize, the ship Nathaniel and Elizabeth, Captain Hoar, from Jamaica,with three hundred hogsheads of sugar and one hundred hogsheads of rum, &c., at Fisher’s Island reef, just entering the Sound. Captain Hawkins says he saw the ship on the rocks last Friday, and saw one vessel take up an iron-bound cask, which he took to be a hogshead ofrum. ‘There was a great number of people on board, and several vessels alongside; and her masts were cutaway. He does not know if any of the cargo is saved or not. New-York, July 29, 1776. The fourth man in the Counties of King’s, Queen’s, and Suffolk, on Long-Island, and Westchester, Dutchess, Orange, and Ulster, were last week ordered to hold themselves in readiness to march at a moment’s warning; indeed, many of them are gone to their proper stations already. An old gentleman, between sixty, and seventy, now does duty in the Militia near Newark, in New-Jersey, is the father of about fifteen children now alive, nine of whom are in the Continental Army, from captains to privates. Several cannon were fired last Thursday afternoon, from our Battery at Amboy, at a number of boats from Staten- Island, bound to Sandy-Hook, supposed to join part of the Ministerial Fleet lying there. ‘This brought on a cannonade from the encampment of the Regulars near Billop’s Point, on the Island, which continued very hot on both sides for near an hour. ‘The boats got clear, but many of the regulars were seen to fall, and several were carried off, supposed to be wounded. On our side, a soldier belonging to one of the Philadelphia battalions was killed, and one wounded; a horse in a carriage had his head shot off in the street, and some damage was done the houses. General Hospital, at New-York, July 29, 1776. Wanted immediately in the General Hospital, a number of women, who can be recommended for their honesty, to act in the capacity of Nurses; and a number of faithful men for the same purpose. Any who incline entering the service in this way, will meet with good encouragement, by making application to the Quartermaster of the Hospital at King’s College, New-York. Wanted also for the use of said Hos- pital a large quantity of dry herbs, for baths, fomentations, &c., &c., &c., particularly balm, hyssop, wormwood, and mallows, for which a good price will be given; and also old linen for the use of the sick and’ wounded soldiery. The good people of the neighbouring towns, and even those who live more remote from this city, by carefully collecting and curing quantities of useful herbs, will greatly promote the good of the Army, and considerably benefit themselves. From principles of benevolence and humanity, it is presumed that many will attend to this matter, (which is really of con- sequence,) and cheerfully contribute to the relief of their sick and wounded brethren, though from any pecuniary conside- ration they might neglect, as having the appearance of small unportance, ‘Those who have already collected any con- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 648 siderable parcel of herbs or rags, may find a ready sale, by applying at the above-mentioned place to ‘Tuomas Carnes, Steward and Quartermaster to the General Hospital. ORANGE COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE. Clark’s Town, July 29, 1776. In County Committee on the South side of the Moun- tains, in the County of Orange: Whereas Dennis Snyden, Jesse Snyden, William Snyden, and Samuel Snyden, all living at or near a place commonly called Snyden’s or Dobbs’s Ferry, on the west side of Hudson’s River, in the County of Orange, and State of New-York, have refused to. sign any or either of the Associations that have been put forth, or recommended by our honourable Convention; and as the abovesaid persons are greatly sus- pected of carrying on a treasonable correspondence with our unnatural enemies, or ships-of-war, belonging to the King of Great Britain, lying in the abovesaid river, by the great opportunity afforded them in the privilege they have by keep- ing ferry, knowing the abovesaid persons to be inveterate enemies to the common States of America : Therefore, Resolved, That the above Dennis Snyden, Jesse Snyden, William Snyden, and Samuel Snyden, are hereby forewarned not to keep ferry, or employ any other person to ferry in their room, or employ a craft on the above- said river, upon any pretence whatsoever: and all other persons are hereby forewarned against having any corre- spondence with the abovesaid Snydens, or any other person or persons whatsoever, that are in any degree enemies to the liberties of America. And whereas John Snyder is advertised in the publick Gazette as pilot of the ships-of-war up the abovesaid river, greatly to the damage of the said John Snyder: Itis hereby requested, that the said Printer will insert Robert Snyden, instead of John Snyder, who has always appeared to be a warin friend to the common cause of America. Per order of the Committee : Joun Cor, Deputy Chairman. Attested : Joun Coteman, Secretary. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, July 29, 1776. Sir: Lieutenant Welch has delivered me your and General Arnold’s letters of the 22d instant, with the Indian articles mentioned in a list enclosed in the latter. General Arnold writes me that the greater part was al- ready delivered to the Army before my letter came to hand. I know they were greatly wanted there. We shall be greatly distressed for a supply for the Indians; something more than eleven hundred are already arrived, and we this day expect between four and five hundred more. When there is no fresh or any other beef, there is no al- ternative left, and the pork must be used, as the Army will not live on bread alohe; but I should hope that you received a supply of beef soon after the date of your letter, from what Mr. Livingston observes in his to you. .On the subject of the gondolas I wrote you yesterday. If the carpenters had not arrived at Skenesborough until the Ist day of November, or indeed never, it would not have been my fault. Months are elapsed since my first applica- tion, and my last was made immediately after, if not before, the retreat of the Army from Canada, What could I do more? I could not create them. Although I remained only part of Fr¢day and Saturday at Albany, when I returned from Crown-Point, I neverthe- Jess thought of the Army letters, and requested the Postmas- ter to send them all up to you, with a blank commission for a Postmaster at Ticonderoga, to be filled up by you. This he promised me would be immediately done. If he has not fulfilled his promise, I am sorry for it. I shall remind him of it. If you or the Army conceive that any letters are stopped at Albany by my order, you are mistaken. I am not allowed to interfere in the post office. Colonel Gansevoort is not ordered to intercept any letters; at least neither he por any other person has such an order from me. I should imagine if he took your letter from the messenger that brought it to Fort George, it was in order to expedite it; and if he did do that, I cannot possibly discover any criminal intention 649 in it. It is his duty to forward all letters on publick business with all possible despatch: he has my orders so to do. If he should, therefore, stop any letters going to or from the Army, he would be culpable, and merit punishment. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHuyLer. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. p GENERAL GATES TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 8, 1776.] Tyonderoga, July 29, 1776. Sir: I am but just now honoured with the receipt of your letter of the 8th instant, with the resglves of Congress enclosed. As their resolves will ever be held sacred by me, they may be assured of my implicit obedience to them. I have this day written to General Schuyler, to assure him of my entire satisfaction and acquiescence in the resolves of Congress, and of my unalterable resolution to obey his com- mands. Iam confident we shall, as the Congress wish, go hand in hand to promote the publick service. Affairs here begin to wear a less gloomy aspect. ‘The carpenters‘are all got to Skenesborough from the different Colonies, and our fleet is increasing rapidly, as it ought. General Arnold, ever active, and anxious to serve his country, is just returned from Skenesborough, where he has been to give life and spirit to our dock-yard. Two schooners and a sloop will be at Crown-Poznt this evening, well manned and armed; four gondolas will follow in a day or two. When what we have finished get to Crown- Point, we shall have as many armed vessels there as will carry fifty-two pieces of cannon, with all the swivels we have to mount. More swivels are written for to New- York, and we shall collect all the heavy cannon we can from Albany and the posts upon the communication thither. I wish they may be sufficient. More should be sent could they be procured. The Militia begin to come to Skenesbo- rough, from whence I do not propose to remove them, until all danger of the small-pox is far removed from us. General Waterbury remains at Skenesborough, and has my orders to exert his utmost vigilance and authority to prevent that pes- tilence from spreading again amongst us. The Director of the Hospital complains heavily of a want of medicines. LI have, at his urgent request, ordered him to New-York to get a supply. General Arnold (who is perfectly skilled in maritime affairs) has most nobly undertaken to command our fleet upon the Lake. With infinite satisfaction, | have committed the whole of that department to his care, convinced he will thereby add to that brilliant reputation he has so deservedly acquired. I suppose General Sullivan, who left us the 12th instant, has made a report to the Congress of the state of this Army upon his leaving it. Brigadier Baron de Woedtke went, by my permission, to _ the General Hospital, at Lake George, about a fortnight ago. His health was indeed so much impaired, that I doubt his recovery. In the mean time, I have appointed the three eldest Colonels to command brigades—Colonel Stark, Colonel Reed, and Colonel St. Clair. Should the conduct of these gentlemen be such as to merit approbation, (of which I have not the least doubt,) I am confident the Congress will show them some honourable mark of esteem, Independence has been received by this Army with that applause that the great benefit America will receive thereby, so justly claims. A French gentleman is just got here from Canada, by the way of Cohos. He left Canada three weeks ago. He says General Carleton has summoned all the Canadians to be at St. John’s the last of August, to go with his Army of ten thousand men to drive the Rebels before them like sheep, and to meet the Grand Army at Albany. Perhaps this may prove a vain boast. Enclosed is a letter from General Washington to me, of the 19th instant, with my answer. I beg you, sir, and the gentlemen of the Congress, will believe, that if the Generals in this department do not act with the same ability and have not the same good fortune, that they will not be ex- -celled in zeal or military virtue by any of your officers, however dignified or distinguished. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates, To the Hon. John Hancock, Esquire. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 650 New-York, July 19, 1776. Dear Sir: I expected ere this to have heard from you. As I have not, I will open the correspondence, by express- ing my exceeding great concern on account of the determi- nation of your Board of General Officers, to retreat from Crown-Point to Ticonderoga, assigning (contrary to the opinion of all your Field-Officers) for reason, that the former place is not tenable with your present force, or the force expected. My concern arises from information, and a firm belief, that your relinquishing Crown-Point is, in its conse- quences, a relinquishment of the Lakes, and all the advan- tages to be derived therefrom; for it does not admit of a doubt but that the enemy will possess themselves, if possi- ble, of that pass (which is a key to all these Colonies) the moment you leave it, and thereby confine your vessels to the narrow part of the Lake in front of that post; or, by having them in the rear of it, cut off all kind of supplies from, and intercourse between, your camp and them; securing by this means a free and uninterrupted passage into the three New-England Governments, for invasion thereof. Nothing but a belief that you have actually removed the Army from the Point to Ticonderoga and demolished the works at the former, and the fear of creating dissensions and encouraging a spirit of remonstrating against the conduct of superior offi- cers by inferiors, have prevented me, by advice of the Gen- eral Officers here, from directing the post at Crown-Point to be held till Congress should decide upon the propriety of its evacuation. As the case stands, I can give no order in the matter, lest between two opinions, neither of the places are put into such a posture of defence as to resist an advancing enemy. I must, however, express my sorrow at the resolu- tion of your Council, and wish that it had never happened, as everybody who speaks of it also does, and that the measure could yet be changed with propriety. We have the enemy full in view of us, but their opera- tions are to be suspended till the reinforcement hourly ex- pected arrives, when I suppose there will be pretty warm work. Lord Howe is arrived. He and the General, his brother, are appointed Commissioners to dispense pardons to repenting sinners. My compliments to the gentlemen with you of my acquaintance. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINnGTonN. To Major-General Gates. Ticonderoga, July 29, 1776. Srr: General Schuyler, who left us the 10th instant, pro- mised me to give your Excellency a very particular account of the state of the Northern Army; I conclude he has done it, but it might not have reached your hands when the post left New-York the 19th instant. Your Excellency’s letter of that date is now before me. The Board of General Officers mentioned by your Excellency were assembled by order of General Schuyler, who presided at it. ‘They were unanimous in adopting his sentiments; which were, in my opinion, founded in reason and good sense. _As to the Field- Officers being all of a contrary opinion, whoever gave your Excellency that intelligence was the author of an assertion contrary to fact. ‘Two Field-Officers did object to it, but those whose judgment and experience entitle them to be the best attended to, acquiesced in the opinion of the General Officers. Colonel St. Clair and Colonel De Haas, in par- ticular, men whose long service and distinguished characters deservedly give their opinion a preference, your Excellen- cy’s Council could not see, nor did not know the circum- stances of this Army, when they took upon them to decide that the General Officers here had acted reprehensibly. ~ My letter to your Excellency of the 16th instant too plainly describes the deplorable state to which death, defeats, desertion, and disease, had most unhappily reduced the Northern Army. Your Excellency speaks of works to be destroyed at Crown-Point. ‘Time and the bad construction of those works had completely effected that business long before General Schuyler came with me to Crown-Point. The ramparts are tumbled down, the casemates are fallen in, the barracks burnt, and the whole so perfect a ruin, that it would take five times the number of our Army, for several summers, to put it in defensible repair. Your Excellency also mentions the troops expected to reinforce this Army. It would be to the last degree impro- per to order those troops to Crown-Point, or even hither, 651 until obliged by the most pressing emergency; as that would only be heaping one hospital upon another. ‘Those troops, when they arrive, are all ordered to halt at Skenesborough. Everything about this Army is infected with the pestilence: the clothes, the blankets, the air, and the ground they walk upon. ‘To put this evil from us, a General Hospital is esta- blished at Fort George, where there are now between two and three thousand sick, and where every infected person is immediately sent; but this care and caution has not yet effectually destroyed the disease here ; it is, notwithstanding, continually breaking out. General Schuyler assures me he has written to the Kast- ern Governments, and acquainted them with the precautions taken to purify the Army, and directed the reinforcements still expected to halt at Skenesborough. General Arnold is just returned from thence, where he has been exerting his utmost diligence in forwarding the vessels constructing there. Our little fleet already built is equipping under his direction, with all the industry his activity and good example can inspire. As fast as they are fitted, they are sent to Crown- Point, where the Sixth Battalion of the Pennsylvanians, commanded by Lieut. Colonel Hartley, is posted. ‘Three hundred men and officers have been draughted from the corps here to man the vessels: one-half seamen, the other to act as marines. As soon as all the vessels and gondolas are equipped, General Arnold has offered to go to Crown- Point and take the command of them. This is exceedingly pleasing to me, as he has a perfect knowledge in maritime affairs, and is, besides, a most deserving and gallant officer. The command of the water is of the last importance ; for, should the enemy ever get a naval force superior to ours upon the Lake, the command thereof is theirs, let who will possess Crown-Point. As to their penetrating the astern Governments, they may attempt that by Onion River, which empties itself into Missisgue Bay, sixty miles below Crown- Point. I must now take the liberty to animadvert a little upon the unprecedented behaviour of the members of your Coun- cil to their compeers in this department. ‘They, sir, having every ample supply at hand, make no allowance for the misfortunes and wants of this Army, nor for the delay and difficulty that attend the procuring everything necessary here. Had wea healthy Army, four times the number of the enemy, our magazines full, our artillery complete, stores of every kind in profuse abundance, with vast and populous Towns and Counties close at hand to supply our wants, your Excellency would hear no complaints from this Army; and the members of your Council, our brethren and compeers, would have as little reason then, as they have now, to cen- sure the conduct of those who are in nothing inferior to themselves. I an, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To His Excellency General Washington. P.S. Enclosed is a letter I received this morning from the Director of the Hospital at Fort George. I must beg your Excellency will give Doctor Morgan your directions to relieve the pressing wants which Doctor Stringer com- plains of. Fort George, July 24, 1776. Sir: My daughter’s illness occasioned my being absent from this post a few days; and on my return yesterday eve- ning I found Major Stewart’s letter of the 18th, also one from Colonel Trumbull of the same date, requesting a return of the sick, &c., who I find are greatly increased, insomuch that we are in the utmost distress for both assistants and medicines; which events I foresaw might happen, and took the timely precaution of representing it to General Schuyler so early as the 25th of October last, and to General Wash- ington the 10th of May, together with my want of power, which (by the resolve of Congress, a copy whereof is here enclosed) is limited in so positive terms, as to render me incapable either to relieve or guard against them by any other method. Both my letters, the Generals have informed me, were sent to Congress; notwithstanding which, the matter rests as it did. At the same time that I wrote to General Washington, 1 requested an augmentation of the Hospital Surgeons and Mates, and sent a list for such a supply of medicines as I CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 652 thought necessary for the campaign; and, from a letter I received from Mr. Giles, Apothecary-General, before I de- parted, I expected the medicines to be forwarded immedi- ately; but, to my great mortification, except a few that Dr. Potts brought with him, none are arrived, not even a quan- tity that the Doctor informed me were to come from Phila- delphia, under the care of Mr. McHenry. What we are to do, under these shocking circumstances, I know not; I say shocking, because nothing can appear more so than our present situation—men dying for want of assistance that we are not empowered to give. Besides a want of Surgeons, Tam not furnished with Clerks or Stewards; one Clerk, that I took upon myself to appoint, with General Schuyler’s con- currence, is not now capable of going through the business he is obliged to take charge of. As our men’s lives are thus wasted, would it be improper (as writing answers no end) that I should leave ‘the care of the sick to Dr. Potts, and go to York myself, and see the medicines forthwith forwarded by land, until they can be safely conveyed by water, and from thence wait on Congress in person, lay our situation before them, and endeavour to have my powers enlarged, or at least get their consent to provide the number of assistants that are requisite? If, sir, you should approve of such a step, | should be much obliged to you for a letter enforcing the necessity of the application. I should not, at this time of distress, hesitate to engage Surgeons, had not General Schuyler received an answer in the winter to the purport of my letter above mentioned, which was contained in a fresh resolve, “that the resolve (now enclosed) was sufficient.” I must beg, sir, that you will not impute it to neglect that you have not received returns of the sick before this time, but let the above relation account for it. Regularity and a strict adherence to duty are what I much admire, and was uneasy when I found we were still so much backward as not to be able to send you a return, a thing that I know, from long service, ought to be done weekly. Mr. Potts wrote this morning respecting Mr. Mouse, or the gentleman sent to be examined for the Surgeoncy of the Navy. As he will not answer, you will readily conceive that it will be adding to our distresses to part with any of our gentlemen for that purpose; neither do I suppose that any place on this side of York can furnish a person properly quali- fied ; and as it is probable the Navy will be much augmented, I think a couple of Mates, at least, would be necessary. Doctor Potts informed me that there were twenty half- chests of medicines, already put up at York, to be sent off by the first sloop, for ten battalions in this department. I made at Albany the strictest inquiry about them, and find they are not come. Whence such a dilatoriness arises, I cannot account; but there certainly is a remissness some- where that ought to be removed, if possible. Just now Lieutenant Diffendorff arrived, and acquaints us that a large number of sick are coming, in addition to what we already have, (about fifteen hundred.) In the name of God, what shall we do with them all, my dear General ? Mr. Gansevoort, brother to Colonel Gansevoort, and mem- ber of the New-York Convention, a gentleman of noted character, arrived at Albany from York, on Saturday last, and tells me that it is beyond a doubt that a French fleet of fifty ships of force, and fifteen thousand troops, are actually on their way for Quebeck; that it was reported, that it was in consequence of the receipt of our Ambassador’s letter from France, that Independence was so suddenly declared; for which event’s taking place, he was obliged to pledge the faith and honour of the Colonies, so soon as his letter should arrive, or he could not have obtained the armament. How will George like this, and what will Burgoyne now say? No elbow room. ‘They are effectually to prevent succours from getting up, and to spare ships to secure those of our enemy and the country. The privateers Schuyler and Montgomery took a store-ship last week; two Jamaica-men are also taken. One hundred thousand horned cattle, besides a vast number of hogs and sheep, are driven off Long-Island. ; I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Sam. STRINGER. To the Hon. Major-General Gates, Ticonderoga. P.S. We have upwards of fifty thousand men in and about York, so far as Anthony’s Nose, on both sides the river. I must write you something more, Lord Howe is 653 certainly arrived, with three ships; the rest behind. He sent a letter “To George Washington, Esq.,” which was not received. General Washington sent him the Declaration of Independence. The next day he received a letter directed to “ His Excellency, &c., &c., Commander-in-Chief of the United Colonies;” and it is said expressed a concern that Independence was so suddenly declared; that it was proba- ble there might have been an accommodation, his powers being very extensive. Only two frigates and three tenders are above the town as yet, and lie nearly opposite Peekskill. The man that piloted them was a Tory, and on board the Asia all winter. He landed at night, in order to go to his family, who lived a little distance from the river, and the inhabitants got knowledge of it, seized him, and tore him into atoms. m~ GENERAL ORDERS. Ticonderoga, July 10, 1776. (Countersign, New-York.) The boats that came with Colonel S¢. Clair’s Regiment to be returned to Crown-Point as soon as possible. Colonel St. Clair will order a proper detachment from his corps to execute this order. Colonel St. Clair’s, Colonel De Haas’s, Colonel Wayne’s, and Colonel Irvine’s Regiments, are to hold themselves in readiness to encamp upon the Heights opposite to the old redoubt. As soon as the Chief Engineer can get the road up the hill finished, those Regiments will be ordered to remove. Two Captains, six Subalterns, eight Sergeants, eight Corporals, two Drums, and one hundred and ninety-two Privates, to parade to-morrow morning, at eight o’clock, to go on fatigue, under the direction of Lieutenant-Colonel Baldwin, Chief Engineer. This party to get their break- fast before they come to the parade, and to take with them a day’s provision, ready dressed. (Parole, Washington.) Head-Quarters, July 11, 1776. (Countersign, Warren.) Captain Williams, with all the blacksmiths that came with him from Crown-Point, to proceed as soon as possible to Skenesborough. Lieutenant Bowman and the armourers to remain at Ticonderoga. Lieutenant Beal, with the house- carpenters, and Mr. Noah Nichols, with the wheelwrights, are to remain at Ticonderoga, under the direction of Colonel Baldwin, Chief Engineer. Mr. Richard Tillock, with the thirteen ship-carpenters under his direction, are to proceed immediately to Skenesborough. Lieutenant Curtis, with his gang of ship-carpenters, are to remain at Ticonderoga, under the direction of Commodore Wynkoop. The same fatigue party as was directed by yesterday’s orders, to parade to-morrow morning at the same hour, and under the same directions and regulation as therein expressed. This party to be furnished every morning by the Pennsyl- vania Regiments, until further orders. A Return of each Corps to be delivered to Colonel Trum- bull to-morrow morning at ten o’clock, that the duty may be regulated. ‘The Commanding Officer of the Pennsylvania Regiments to send a scouting party of one Subaltern, one Sergeant, and twenty men every morning, half an hour before day, who are carefully to examine the ground in the front of the old French lines and the Isthmus between the Bridge and the side of the Lake to the northeast of the Fort. ‘Che officer to report to the General upon his return. (Parole, Boston.) Head-Quarters, July 12, 1776. (Parole, Philadelphia.) (Countersign, Franklin.) Head-Quarters, July 13, 1776. (Parole, Williamsburgh.) (Countersign, Virginia.) One woman from each Company of each of the Pennsyl- vania Battalions now at this post, to be draughted as soon as possible, and sent to the General Hospital at Fort George to nurse the sick. ‘They will have the customary allowance of provision, &c., from Doctor Stringer, Director of the Hospital there. Captain Stevens, of the Artillery, will encamp with his Company near the Landing on the east side of the Lake, where all the artillery, stores, &c., are to be landed. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 654 When the batteaus are unloaded, Captain Stevens will order them all to be carefully returned, and made fast in the Bay, to the south of the old Fort. Lieutenant-Colonel Baldwin will draw provision twice a week for all the Artificers, and take the whole under his direction. Head-Quarters, July 14, 1776. (Parole, Hartford.) (Countersign, Deane.) Captain Mayhew to send fifty of the seamen he brought yesterday from Crown-Point, under proper officers, to bale out the batteaus, and prepare them fit to be returned to- morrow morning to Crown- Point. The Commanding Officer of the Artillery to be indefati- gable in landing the cannon and artillery stores at the point directed in yesterday’s orders, that the batteaus may be returned. The Chief Engineer to order the Artificers to get proper necessaries made over the rock opposite their huts, that the new encampment may be preserved clean against the troops’ arrival. Captain Stevens will do the same in regard to his people. Lieutenant John Williamson, of the Fourth Pennsylvania Battalion, is appointed Batteau Master, and is to be obeyed as such. Head-Quarters, July 15, 1776. (Parole, Maryland.) (Countersign, Annapolis.) The Batteau Master, Lieutenant Williamson, is to see forty batteaus put in proper order to be returned to Crown-Point as soon as possible. Colonel Maxwell and Colonel Ogden will each of them order one Captain, two Sergeants, and sixty men, to parade at one o’clock, to take forty batteaus to Crown-Point. The Pennsylvania Regiments to encamp upon the new ground to-morrow. Colonel S¢. Clair, with the assistance of Colonel Wayne, will this morning mark out the ground for their encampment. The General, anxious to preserve the new Camp perfectly clean and free from infection, recommends it in the strongest manner to the Commanding Officers of Regiments to have their necessaries fixed upon the brink of the precipices, or in such places as are least obnoxious. If there is a neces- sity of having any dug in the front of the Regiments, care must be taken to have them frequently covered, and no person to be suffered to ease himself in any other part of the encampment. The sick of Colonel Winds’s and Colonel Maawell’s Regi- ments to be immediately sent to Fort George. Head-Quarters, July 16, 1776. (Parole, Carolina.) (Countersign, Lee.) The Court of Inquiry that have set upon Colonel Bedel, to sit again as soon as possible. One Field-Officer, two Captains, eight Sergeants, eight Corporals, four Drums and Fifes, and one hundred and twenty Privates, to mount guard to-morrow at troop-beating. The Field-Officer will receive his orders from the General where to post his guard. The ammunition wanted to complete the Riflemen, will be ordered to be delivered as soon as the Commanding Officers of the Regiments make a return of the deficiency. Head-Quarters, July 17, 1776. (Parole, York.) (Countersign, Savile.) The Commanding Officer of Artillery is immediately to be provided with a proper place for a Laboratory, and another for casting musket-ball and buck-shot. The Commanding Officers of Regiments, and their Sur- geons, are to be answerable that the General is immediately acquainted with any persons who are seized with the infec- tion of the small-pox, that they may be immediately removed. to Lake George. The state of the men’s ammunition to be immediately examined, and the deficiencies reported. The troops will, as soon as possible, be completed to as many rounds as the pouches and cartridge-boxes they are possessed of will hold. A quantity of spare cartridges will always be ready in store, to furnish an immediate supply when more is wanted. 655 Tead-Quarters, July 18, 1776. (Countersign, Harrison.) Ensign Thomas Ryerson, of Colonel Maxwell’s Regiment, is appointed a Second Lieutenant in the said Regiment, in the room of Lieutenant John Higgins, deceased. The forty -batteaus ordered for Crown-Point to set out immediately. ‘The Commissary will send what flour is wanted for that Post. As Colonel Reed and some of the Members of the Gen- eral Court-Martial ordered at Crown-Point are absent, or gone with the sick to Lake George, that Court-Martial is dissolved. A General Court-Martial to sit to-morrow morning, at ten o’clock, for the trial of Colonel Hazen, and such prisoners as shall be brought before them. The Court to be composed of the thirteen eldest Field-Officers in this Camp: that is, the five eldest Colonels, the four eldest Lieutenant-Colonels, and the four eldest Majors. All evidences and persons con- cerned to attend the Court. Captain Crafts’s Company, of Colonel Greaton’s Regi- ment, to be detached to make a quantity of musket-cartridges in the Laboratory assigned for that purpose. The Regiment to be allowed in the roll of duty for this Company. Colonel John Trumbull is appointed Deputy Adjutant-Gen- eral to the Army. He is to be obeyed as such. For the Court-Martial: Colonel Poor, President; Mem- bers: Colonels: Bond, Maxwell, Paterson, De Haas; Lieu- tenant-Colonels: Gilman, Poor, Johnston, Shreve ; Majors: Cilley, Loring, Morris, Haussegger. Captain Scott to act as Judge Advocate. (Parole, Hampton.) Head-Quarters, July 19, 1776. (Parole, Wilmington.) (Countersign, Richmond.) The weather having been so very wet and stormy all last night, the Commissary is to issue one gill of rum to every non-commissioned officer and soldier now in camp. The Chief Engineer is to get all the wood-axes helved and ground immediately, that they may be ready for use, when the weather clears up. © As soon as the General Court-Martial now sitting have finished the trial of Colonel Hazen, they are to proceed to try Colonel Bedel and Major Butterfield. A Return of each Regiment to be given to the Deputy Adjutant-General to-morrow morning, at eleven o’clock. Colonel Trumbull will give two blank Returns to each Ad- jutant, which are to be filled up, one for the General, and the other for the Colonel of the Regiment. ‘The Commanding Officer of each Regiment, the Commanding Officer of the Artillery, and the Chief Engineer for the Artificers, will regu- larly every Saturday, at orderly time, send their Returns to the Deputy Adjutant-General. Head-Quarters, July 20, 1776. | (Parole, Falmouth.) (Countersign, Norfolk.) The men who were draughted from the several Corps at Crown-Point, to serve with Captain Mayhew, on board the Continental armed vessels, are to parade at one o'clock, by the General’s Quarters. Whereas a scandalous and most irregular custom prevails among the soldiery, of firing arms in and near the Camps; any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall hereafter be detected firing, without order, must be sent to the Com- manding Officer of the Regiment to which such delinquent belongs, who is hereby ordered to have the prisoner imme- diately stripped, and punished with twenty lashes. A Return of the Names, Regiments, and Companies, of the Ship-Carpenters in this Army, to be delivered to the Deputy Adjutant-General, as soon as possible. The Army is to be immediately Brigaded in the following manner: the First Brigade, commanded by Brigadier-Gen- eral Arnold, to consist of Bond’s, Greaton’s, Burrell’s, and Porter’s Regiments; the Second Brigade, commanded by . Colonel Reed, to consist of Reed’s, Poor’s, Paterson’s, and Bedels Regiments; the Third Brigade, commanded by Colonel Stark, to consist of Stark’s, Maxwell's, Winds’s, and Wynkoop’s Regiments; the Fourth Brigade, commanded by Colonel St. Clair, to consist of St. Clair’s, De Haas’s, Wayne’s, and Irvine’s Regiments. Brigade-Major to the First Brigade, Stoddard ; to the errand Rice; to the Third, Wilkinson; to the Fourth, cull. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 656 Head-Quarters, July 21, 1776. (Countersign, Providence.) As the Chief Engineer will have a sufficient number of felling axes ready to employ a large body of men to-morrow, the General desires the Commanding Officers of the three eldest Brigades will send as many men as can be sent from those off duty, to clear the ground for the encampment of those Brigades. Captain Romans’s Company will encamp with the Fourth Brigade, commanded by Colonel St. Clair. Major Badlam will order two twelve and two four-pounders from the guns already mounted in the fort, to be placed in the old French lines, under the care and command of Captain Romans. Colonel St. Clair will order the ground to be marked for Captain Romans’s Company. The General recommends it to Colonel Si. Clair to get platforms laid, as soon as possible, for the guns ordered to his Brigade. The Commanding Officer of each Brigade will be punc- tual in reporting, and in obliging the Colonels and Command- ing Officers of Regiments to report to him, the persons who are infected with the small-pox. After Orders, July 21, 1776.—The Regiment of Cana- dians, with all the Canadian families, now at Ticonderoga, to march to-morrow morning, under the command of Lieu- tenant-Colonel Anti, for Albany. (Parole, Charlestown.) Ticonderoga, July 22, 1776. (Parole, St. Eustatia.) (Countersign, Alexandria.) The Commissary will deliver all the soap he has in store in the following proportions to each Regiment: To Col. Reed?s\ io... 47 ounces. ‘To Col. Wynkoop’s. .226 ounces. Cols Starkis'sec sere Mey V nia Col. Paterson’s...303 ** Col. Maxwell’s...294 ‘ Col. Burreil’s..\.% -2ld a) "6 Col. Winds’s..... S007) Cole Porter’ssy. accoon as Col. Bonds... <.2.294) +“ Col: Bedel?s:. «a's 254“ Col. Poor’s......- 3 ened The Companies of Col. Greaton’s....297 *s ATTITErY sols o'= ote 14a es Col@StaClatriscwc4 om as The Carpenters...144 ¢* Col. De Haas’s...555 = *¢ Ahe Smithsec cere 144 «5 Col. Wayne’s,...709 The Armourers...144 “ Colmlrvine*s.piisenoiie ance The Chief Engineer, Colonel Baldwin, will order that the soap delivered to the Artificers be delivered properly between them. The three Brigades, commanded by General Arnold, Colonel Reed, and Colonel Stark, will encamp as soon as possible upon the ground allotted them upon the Heights. Colonel St. Clair’s Brigade to furnish a guard of a Cor- poral and six men daily, to guard the batteaus. ‘The Corporal will receive his orders from Lieutenant Williamson, Batteau Master. Head-Quarters, July 23, 1776. (Parole, Martinico.) (Countersign, Monckton.) Whereas it is of the utmost consequence that a well-re- gulated body of Seamen and Marines should be immediately draughted from the several Brigades of this Army, to the end that the Army of the United States may continue to support their naval superiority and command of the waters of Lake- Champlain ; and for the encouragement of such sea- men and marines as shall be so draughted for the important purpose aforesaid, the honourable the Congress of the United States have ordered each non-commissioned officer, seaman, and marine, while employed in the service aforesaid, an additional pay of 8s., lawful money, per month, over and above the pay they are entitled to receive in the corps to which they respectively belong. The following is the detail for the Non-Commissioned Officers, Seamen, and Marines, to be draughted from each Brigade. ‘They are to parade to-morrow morning at eight o'clock, and immediately to be delivered to the Officers appointed to command them. Each Officer will keep a roll of their names, Regiments, and Companies, that their pay-abstracts may be regularly made up and adjusted once a month. Detail for the Seamen and Marines. First Brigade..,...6 Sergeants, 4 Corporals, 4 Drummers, 64 Privates. Second Brigade....6........ nist vend shers cieietes Mvteietetsia ate! 9/36 OS SS Third Brigade..... THES SA ASH OG Desie e'stetes she 2g Sane 6035 Fourth Brigade...10.....s...+. GAN eich Br eee eeeeee 103 ons Total.......28 Serg’nts, 16 Corp’rals, 16 Drum’ers, 288 Privates. Colonel Poor’s Regiment is immediately to be removed into the Third Brigade, commanded by Colonel Stark ; and 657 Colonel Wynkoop’s Regiment into the Second Brigade, commanded by Colonel Reed. The Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Reed was President, is dissolved. Samuel Tenners, of Captain Trow’s Company, Colonel Bond’s Regiment, and William Prudox, Fifer in Captain Egery’s Company, the same Regiment, ropemakers, are to be immediately sent to the Captain of the Sloop, to be employed by him. They will receive the same additional pay as the other artificers. ; A Court of Inquiry to sit to-morrow morning, ten o’clock, to inquire into the conduct of Captain Romans, of the ‘Train of Artillery, in a dispute between him and his Lieutenant. Colonel Wayne, President. Members: Lieutenant-Colonel Irvine and Major Fuller. Head-Quarters, July 24, 1776. (Parole, Havana.) (Countersign, Putnam.) The Commissary to issue one day’s fresh provisions to the Troops now here, to-morrow morning, at eleven o'clock. The Captains of the armed vessels and gondolas to send this evening a signed return to the Deputy Adjutant-General, of the ammunition and military stores wanted for each vessel and gondola. Head-Quarters, July 25, 1776. (Parole, The Congress.) (Countersign, Independence.) Mr. John Shreve is appointed.an Ensign in Captain Brearley’s Company, of Colonel Maxwell's Regiment. He is to be obeyed as such. Head-Quarters, July 26, 1776. (Parole, Lancaster.) (Countersign, Armstrong.) The Commissary for next week to issue four days’ fresh, and three days’ salt, provisions. As live cattle increase, the Commissary will issue five days’ fresh, and two days’ salt, a week. Head-Quarters, July 27, 1776. (Parole, York.) (Countersign, Bristol.) The Commanding Officers of Regiments, the Command- ing Officer of the Artillery, and the Chief Engineer, will be very exact in obliging their Surgeons to make an immediate report of every person infected with small-pox. Sutling has become so frequent and pernicious in this Camp, that it is absolutely necessary every Commanding Officer of a corps should exert himself to suppress it. The General therefore recommends it in the strongest manner to them, to seize all the rum and spirituous liquors from Sutlers who are detected making private sale thereof, and deliver the same to Mr. Commissary Avery, who will give his receipt for it. The twenty-five men who have been draughted from General Arnold’s Brigade, as shingle-makers, under En- sign Calkin, are to be employed in that business till further orders. Head-Quarters, July 28, 1776. (Parole, Durham.) (Countersign, Roxbury.) The Commissary will issue eight pounds of soap to every hundred men, per week, now in this Camp, upon a proper signed return being delivered to him by the Commanding Officer of each corps. ‘The Commanding Officer of Artil- lery and Chief Engineer for the Artificers to draw in pro- portion to their numbers. Captain Wentworth, of Colonel Poor’s Regiment, tried at a late General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Poor was President, for refusing to do his duty when properly called on, was found guilty by the Court, sentenced to be cash- iered, and published in the publick papers as having wilfully neglected his duty with a view of being discharged from the service. ‘The General approves the sentence of the fore- going Court-Martial, and orders it to be put in execution accordingly. Lieutenant B. Miller, of Colonel St. Clair’s Regiment, tried at the same General Court-Martial, for possessing him- self of part of the hangings of Lieutenant Christie’s sword, and on suspicion of having secreted some effects of the late Captain Watson; the Court unanimously acquit him with honour. The General approves the sentence, and orders Lieutenant Miller to be immediately discharged from his arrest. Firtu Sertes.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 42 658 Head-Quarters, July 29, 1776. (Parole, Rhode~Island.) (Countersign, Newport.) Captain Young, of Colonel Bedel’s Regiment, tried at a late General Court-Martial, “ for deserting his post, at sS¢. Anw’s, on the Island of Montreal:” The Court, after con- sidering the evidence in the case, adjudge that Captain Young is not guilty of the charge, and do acquit him from his arrest. . Captain Newland, tried at a late General Court-Martial, of which Colonel Poor was President, for damning and other- wise abusing Colonel Stark: The Court are of opinion, upon examination of the evidences, that the charge Is fully supported, but judge, at the same time, that the satisfaction offered Colonel Stark at the time of the abuse was sufficient, and therefore acquit Captain Newland from his arrest. The General approves both the above sentences, and orders that Captain Young and Captain Newland be imme- diately discharged from their confinement. Ensign Steel, of Captain Austin’s Company, and Colonel Burrell’s Regiment, tried at a late General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Greaton was President, for leaving the Army and going on to Crown-Point with a batteau and men, contrary to orders; the prisoner pleads guilty: The Court therefore adjudge Ensign Steel to be cashiered and dismissed the service. The General approves the sentence, and orders it to take place immediately. GENERAL GATES TO RICHARD VARICK. Tyonderoga, July 29, 1776. Sir: I send you, under the care of the bearer, the chain requested by General Schuyler’s letter to me of the 25th instant, and have enclosed Colonel Baldwin’s (the Chief- Engineer’s) invoice of the pieces and links that the whole consists of. It will be all in the boats, on the other side of the camping-place, this evening, and will not, I hope, be delayed in its passage to you. [ must desire you to assist the bearer in getting it forward to Poughkeepsie, as the Committee seems so anxious to have it there. Lam, sir, &c. Horatio Gates. To Captain Richard Varick. JOHN DEWITT TO GENERAL GATES. Ticonderoga, July 29, 1776. Honovrep Sir: I make bold to return your Honour my most grateful thanks for your goodness in granting mea Court of Inquiry. Captain Romans, in his return of the company to the Brigade-Major, the 26th instant, bas entirely left me out. I inquired of the Conductor, who draws the return, the reason of the omission; who told me he had positive orders from Captain Romans so to do. ‘This I thought my duty to in- form your Honour of. Although a stranger to your Honour, t flatter myself were you to know the man I had to deal with, you would not disapprove my conduct. He has neither honour, honesty, nor true valour in him. If I am to receive no further satisfaction for the injury done me, I would most ardently request your Honour’s leave to resign and quit the service; and that your Honour will order me to be paid off and give me a pass for that purpose. I assure your Honour I sacrificed everything that was pleasing to me for the sake of serving my country, and now would cheerfully undergo the greatest hardships for sake of the same, were I to be used with common decency. All which is most humbly submitted to your Honour by him, who, with the greatest respect, begs leave to subscribe himself, honoured sir, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, To Major-General Gates. Joun Dewitt. COMMITTEE OF POULTENEY TO GENERAL GATES. Poulteney, July 29, 1776. To His Excellency General Gates: We understand that several of the frontier towns have applied to the Continental store for powder and lead; we, being one of the frontier towns, do now apply to his Honour, by Lieutenant Joszah Grant, for fifty weight of powder and one hundred and fifty weight of lead, fora town stock. We 659 are upwards of fifty, able to bear arms when called for. We are for liberty in general, and don’t know that there is one dam’d ‘Tory in this town. Your compliance will much oblige us, the Committee of Safety. This from us, true Sons of Liberty, Nenemian How, Witxiam Warp, Heser ALLEN, Committee of Safety. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM TICONDEROGA, DATED JULY 29, 1776. We are hard at work every day repairing the old French lines, that have once already been very fatal to the Bratesh Army; and if they will but let us alone for two weeks, I think they will meet with as warm a reception here as ever they did. We have a General that is at once the soldier and the gentleman, and a parcel of men that are determined to defend this place; so that let the enemy come when they will, they will get what they little expect. GOVERNOUR COOKE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Providence, July 29, 1776. Sir: I have the honour to acquaint your Excellency that last evening Captain Bucklin, in a privateer from this place, returned from a successful cruise, in which he took five valu- able prizes, bound from the British Islands in the West- Indies to Great Britain. He informs me that on the 25th instant, in latitude 40° 20', S.S.E. from Nantucket Shoals, upon the clearing up of a fog, he found himself in the midst of twenty-six sail of ships, two of which appeared very large, and were all standing about west. He also tells me that on the 27th of June, in latitude 35°, longitude 52°, he spoke with the ship Morris in the Continental service, Captain Thomas Bell, from Havre-de-Grace for Philadelphia, with a lading of duck, powder, lead, &c. Captain Bell informed him that the Portuguese had seized all the American vessels in their ports. A prize which arrived here this day, on Thursday last spoke with two schooners from the eastward, bound on a cruise, who, the day before, had taken a large ship laden with provisions for the enemy’s Army at New-York. Lam, with great esteem and respect, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Nicus. Cooke. To His Excellency General Washington. Newport, July 29, 1776. The Jamaica ship lately taken by the brig Andrew Doria, Captain Biddle, was last Friday chased ashore near Watch- Hill, by the Cerberus, Captain Symons, who had almost got within gunshot of her, but being afraid to risk his ship any nearer, was obliged to stand off again and leave her. The prize, we hear, is a little bilged, but by the assistance of the Cabot and Connecticut brig, and a number of small craft, the cargo is likely to be nearly all saved, and it is thought the vessel may be got off. Yesterday the privateer Montgomery, Captain Bucklin, of Providence, went in at the east side of this Island, and carried with him a fine large snow, Captain Gooding, from Antigua, loaded with three hundred hogsheads of sugar, and one hundred hogsheads of rum. And we hear Captain Bucklin, in company with another privateer, has taken five other considerable prizes, viz: three ships, one snow, and one brig, which were but about one day’s sail behind him, two of which, with the other privateer, were to make some port to the eastward. Last Saturday night, as the Cerberus was lying about three miles from Block-Island, Frank Gould, a mustee Jad, of this place, swam from the ship to the Island, where he got a cedar boat with two sails, in which he came off, alone and naked, and landed at the fort on Brenton’s Point yester- day in the afternoon. He is one of the hands Captain Biddle put on board one of the Scotch transports some time past, and which was retaken by the Cerberus, and again taken by a New-York privateer. He says Mr. James Jo- stah, Captain Biddle’s former Lieutenant, who was prize- master on board the transport, is treated very ill on board the Cerberus, as are some others, for refusing to act against CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 660 their country; that there are about forty Americans on board said ship, her whole number of men being now about one hundred and sixty; she has taken on this station eighteen vessels, mostly small sloops and schooners, sixteen of which have been burnt; and that about a week ago they spoke with seven sail of transports, with Scotch troops on board, bound to New-York, who had been in Boston Bay. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL GATES. Lebanon, July 29, 1776. Sir: I have not received any of your letters. On the return of Major Ely, I am informed of the care taken to prevent the spread of the infection of the small-pox, which I hope will succeed. From other intelligence I am become acquainted with the wretched condition of the Army retreated from Canada, where you were to have commanded them. I wrote fully to Congress by last post, which goes from Hartford this day, what I had heard concerning that Army, ‘their sick, ragged, and dirty condition; that they were in want of clothing, shirts, trowsers, stockings, and shoes; that there would be some quantities sent from hence soon; and next, subordination and harmony are to be restored. 'To do this, the officer that effects it, will meet with great trouble, and when done, will expect to reap the honours of it. I have mentioned to them, that to prevent uneasiness and jealousies between the Generals who were to have had the command in Canada and in New-York, why is it not best, and even just, that each command the same body of men as expected, without respect to the place where? General Schuyler will have full employment at Albany, and below on the river, and at Tryon County, &c.; while General Gates commands the same Army at Ticonderoga, &c., which it is expected he would have had in Canada. The good of the general ser- vice is the great object. Doth not a regard to what will keep up harmony and prevent jealousies, come within it?” I wish fo cast in my mite for that end. General Schuyler wrote to me to send a number, not exceeding one thousand, felling axes to Albany, for the use of the Army. On advice, I have sent them the same route the soldiers march, by Bennington, and so on to Skenesbo- rough, that the same may be in use sooner than they would be if sent by Albany. 1 have written to Brigadier-General Waterbury, or in his absence, to Colonel Sw2ft, to see them properly delivered, and receipts given for them. ‘The ac- counts of numbers, &c., come with each parcel. I wish for direction, when clothing is forwarded, which way it is best to send it, and to whose care, as I know not your Quartermaster, or the proper channel in which it is to pass. Since Major Ely’s report, I have reason to hope our two battalions—Colonel Swift’s and Colonel Mott’s—will soon fill and come on. ‘The former, I conclude, is got to Skenes- borough ; the latter, one company marched last Thursday ; the rest will march to-morrow. I learn about seventy men in a company; leaving subalterns to recruit, which I trust will fill soon. I am, with great regard and esteem, sir, your obedient, humble servant, Jontu. TRUMBULL. To the Hon. Major General Gates. P.S. August 1, 1776.—Srr: This serves to confirm the foregoing, sent by. Mr. Hyde, the wagoner, and to inform that there is fresh intelligence of four thousand Hessians near on our coast. I am, ut supra, Jontu. TRUMBULL. STEPHEN BUCKLAND TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Hartford, July 29, 1776. May ir PLease your Honour: On the 14th of the current month, I left Crown-Point, where Captain John Bigelow’s company, of the Train of Artillery, then was, consisting of about thirty-six privates, which was much less than any other company of the Train in the Northern De- partment; and it has been proposed by General Arnold to augment that company to the number of sixty, by new recruits, if possible; and as L was Captain-Lieutenant of the company, and about to come home for the purpose of regain- ing my health, which had been much impaired, I was 661 directed by General Arnold to call, in my way, upon Gene- ral Schuyler, who was then supposed to be at Albany, and request his orders and directions how, and in what manner, to effect the inlisting a number of recruits, sufficient to fill the company; but when I arrived at Albany, I found Gene- ral Schuyler was absent, on a journey to the German-Flats ; so have obtained neither orders nor directions in the matter. Would therefore beg the favour of your Honour’s advice and direction with respect to the same. I am, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, SrerpHEeN Bucxianp. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. Hartford, July 29, 1776. The following is a true state of the situation of the North- ern Army, with respect to the small-pox, given by a gen- tleman sent by the Governour and Council of this Colony to make inquiry into the state of said Army, viz: “All infected with said disorder are removed to Fort George. The main body of the Army are at Ticonderoga, at which place a stand is to be made. The greatest care js taken to prevent the further spreading of that fatal dis- order, as the Generals have taken every precaution necessary, and have left no infected person with the main body, which, together with the stations assigned for the two battalions now raised in this Colony for the Northern Army, viz: at Skenesborough and the east side of Ticonderoga, will effectually render the campaign safe as to the above dis- order.” N. B. The health of the Army is much recruiting. Pro- visions are now plenty, both fresh and salt. JAMES BOWDOIN TO GOVERNOUR COOKE, Boston, July 29, 1776. Sm: I had the honour of your letter per the post, enclosing Lord Howe’s Circular Letter and Declaration to this Government, together with a copy of your answer toa like letter from his Lordship. I shall immediately transmit them to the Council at Watertown. Your answer to Lord Howe expresses the mind, I believe, of every one of the United States. I amtsure it does of this. If he has no further powers than appears by these papers, he is probably, before this time, convinced that his commission is very inade- quate to the effecting the business he proposes to have come upon—the reéstablishment of peace between these States and Great Britain. I have the honour to be, with most perfect regard, your Honour’s most obedient and humble servant, James Bowporn. To the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governour of Rhode- Island, at Providence. JAMES BOWDOIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, July 29, 1776, 1 o’clock, P. M. Sir: The enclosed declaration is this moment sent to me by the Sheriff, which I thought necessary to be communi- cated to your Excellency. The ship Peggy, mentioned in it, was taken by two of the Continental cruisers, and sent into Marblehead. The pas- sengers on board, who fled from Boston last March, came to town this morning, and are now in jail here, who, I understand, have been, or will be, examined by General Ward. It is probable you will have, by this post, the result of that examination ; but if you should not, the enclosed may give you some necessary information. I cannot be more particular, as the post is just setting out. I have the honour to be, with the most perfect regard, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, James Bowporn. To His Excellency General Washington. Examination of Captain James Kennepy, Master of the Ship Peaey, taken by two Privateers. Boston Jail, July 29, 1776. I, James Kennedy, Master of the ship Peggy, in the merchant service, declare that I Jeft Halifax about the first instant, under convoy of the Renown, of fifty guns, with a * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 662 fleet of sixteen transports, containing the Forty-Second and Seventy-First Scotch Regiments, and Frazer's new-raised regiment, about three thousand in all, and three large ships with Hessian troops on board, about six hundred in all, and one ship with five companies of English Foot-Guards, and four victualling ships—the whole fleet bound for New-York. Off Nantucket-Shoals, we fell in with the Flora frigate, of thirty guns, and four transports, with Highland troops. These had been in Boston-Bay, where they got information from a fisherman that the town was evacuated, on which they stood for Halifax, until they met with us. They then joined our fleet for New-York. The Scotch troops were all to be of Colonel Campbell’s division of the grand Army in America, the whole of which Army, I was informed, would, by the last of July, amount to fifty thousand. The Hessian troops left England about the 12th of May. Some of the officers informed me that they came out with three hundred and four sail, under the command of Commodore Hotham, on board of which were ten thousand foreign troops, and some English troops, number unknown. Last Friday night, in a gale of wind and thick weather, I lost the fleet, and on Monday, I fell in with two armed schooners, Captains Skinner and Tucker, to whom I surrendered, after a short engagement, in which I had only one man wounded. The day after the fleet left Halifax I saw from my deck forty sail of ships standing in for that harbour, and which I sup- pose to be part of the fleet under Commodore Hotham. GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, July 29, 1776. Sir: Yesterday the armed schooners Franklin and Han- cock, commanded by Captains Skinner and Tucker, sent into Marblehead a ship from Halifax, bound to New-York, with refugee Tories and Tory goods on board. ‘The invoices which Mr. Glover, the agent, sent me, I have enclosed. The same day Captain Burk, in the armed schooner Lee, came into Marblehead to refit, having a few days since engaged a ship and a schooner, (supposed to be transports,) and was likely to have taken them both, but, by some unhappy acci- dent, a quantity of powder took fire and blew up part of his quarter-deck, killed two men and wounded several more, by which accident he was obliged to leave the vessels he had engaged, and come into port to refit. All the articles your Excellency wrote for which I could procure of the Agents, I have forwarded to Norwich. In- voices of them, which I received from Mr. Bradford and Mr. Glover, are enclosed. Mr. Glover informs me he let Colonel Glover have the arms taken in the ship Anne, for the use of his regiment; and he being at New-York can give an account of them. Mr. Bradford informs me he has a prospect of collecting the most of the arms he parted with, which, if he accom- plishes, I will have them forwarded immediately. The agent for the Connecticut brig Defence, which assisted in taking three of the Scotch ships, protested against sending the articles written for until the decision of the Court of Ad- miralty was obtained and a division made; but I thought, in the present circumstances, I should be justified in ordering them to be immediately forwarded. I am your Excellency’s obedient, humble servant, Artemas Warp. To General Washington. P.S. I have enclosed a Halifax newspaper, which was found on board the prize. Boston, July 29, 1776. Yesterday was carried into Marblehead, taken by the privateers Hancock, Captain Tucker, and the Franklin, Cap- tain Skinner, the ship Peggy, commanded by James Kennedy, mounts six three and two two-pounders, bound from Halifax for New-York. She is one of the fleet of twenty-four sail which came out with transports, under convoy of two men-of- war, the Renown of fifty and the Flora of twenty guns, having on board a number of troops. ‘The cargo consists of seventy-five dozen hose, one hundred and eighty yards of Trish sheeting, two boxes cord, seventy-four dozen porter, eighty-three dozen strong beer, three hundred and eleven tierces salted beef, six barrels herring, twenty-four camp- kettles, five dozen canteens, two dozen kettles with covers, 665 candlesticks and spoons, two thousand six hundred and forty-eight mutton hams, forty dozen rappee snuff, one hun- dred gallons of rum, three thousand eight hundred and eighty-four yards osnaburghs, twelve dozen claret, four barrels flour, two kegs barley, two hundred and thirty dozen red port wine, fifty dozen sherry, fifty-three dozen white port wine, sixteen dozen strong white beer, amounting to £1,509 1s. 9d. sterling, and some cash. Also the following ‘Tory gentlemen and ladies, viz: Patrick Reed, Thomas Frazier, Robert Semple and wife, Elizabeth Burns, John Burns, Abigail Pecit, Thomas Semple, and the pious Benjamin Davis, and son Benjamin Davis, Thomas Pamp, and John Witehead. The privateer Warren, Captain Burk, engaged with an- other of the fleet, and was near taking her, when, by some accident, she had three of her men blown up and seven wounded, which obliged them to put into port. Tuesday, 2d of July, put into Halifax a transport-ship, having on board a number of the Hessian troops. The above Tories were brought to town in a Marblehead schooner early this morning, and escorted up to jail. They say they left Halifax near a month ago; that three transports, with Hesstan troops, sailed in company with them, bound to New-York, and that the day they lelt Halifax they saw a fleet of forty sail, which they supposed to be transports with Hessian troops. GENERAL WARNER TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. State of Massachusetts-Bay, July 29, 1776. May rr PLEASE your Honours: I have been directed by Major-General Warren to muster the Militia in my brigade, and draught from them every twenty-fifth man, agreeable to orders issued by your Honours; whereupon I immediately ordered the several Colonels under my command to make such draught in their respective regiments, and meet me, together with all the other Field-Officers, at Worcester, with the number and names of the men thus draughted, for the purpose of forming them into companies, and choosing Captains and subaltern officers, agreeable to your Honours’ divection ; who met me accordingly. And the amount of all the returns from the several regiments is two hundred and sixty-four men, which js sufficient to form three companies ; and accordingly the Iield-Officers proceeded, and chose for Captain Ezekiel Knowlton, First Lieutenant Barrister Wil- liam Tafts, Second Lieutenant Ensign David Mc Clalland, for one Company; and Benjamin Richardson Captain, Samuel Baldwin First Lieutenant, Robert Kelly Second Lieutenant, and Jonathan Mason Ensign for another; Manasseh Sawyer Captain, Moses Harrington First Lieutenant, Samuel Sawin Second Lieutenant, and Jostah Carter Ensign. But the said Field-Officers, on finding that your Honours had so far super- seded their command in the Militia as to appoint others not now in actual commission to take the field command of their men thus draughted when they arrive at Dorchester Heights, unanimously agreed to hold the names of the men thus draughted in their own hands, until a proportionable part of the men from among themselves should be called upon to take such field command. ‘They say it seldom or never was known that there was a detachment from any army, brigade, or regiment, without a proper proportion of officers out of them tocommand the same. ‘They conceive that the Militia Act knows no new creation of officers for any such detachment of Militia. I am, your Honours’ humble servant, t Jona. Warner, To the Honourable Council. In Committee oF CounciL, July 31,1776: Read, and ordered that the within Officers be commissioned agreeable to their respective ranks. Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. RICHARD DERBY TO JAMES BOWDOIN. Salem, July 29, 1776—eight o’clock, Evening. Srr: I sent the Captain of the Colony brig Massachusetts to Boston, to endeavour to purchase twelve pieces of their duck for making small sails for said vessel, and he informs me that he very luckily met with that quantity on board the French vessel lately arrived there, and which the Commis- sary-General has purchased, and only waits to see orders CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 664 from the Board to deliver it. The bearer of this waits on you for that purpose ; and as thé duck is much wanted, I hope he will not be detained. A master of a vessel of mine, who had been taken and carried to Halifax, is just arrived from thence, which place he left about fifteen days ago. He informs that thirty sail of transports, with the Hessians, had arrived there and sailed again for New-York; and as he came out he saw another considerable number of ships, which he supposes were the remainder of the fleet, which, they told him, consisted in the whole of seventy sail. He was on board the man-of-war at the time when the Yankee-Hero was taken: one man only was wounded. He was also on board, and in Nantasket, when the boats attacked Captain Mugford: they went in five boats; the Admiral’s Lieutenant was killed, and seven men, and nine wounded. The people in Nova-Scotia in general wish well to our cause, &c., &c. I find great difficulty with Obrian’s crew, and am ap- prehensive I shall not be able to prevail on them to go to sea; they want their wages, which I shall not give them, and without them I think they will not go. His other mat- ters I could have delivered him this day; but until matters are made easy with the crew, it is not worth while to expend anything on the vessel. The Court of Captures sits here on the morrow, when the justice of the capture of some vessels are to be tried in which the Colony is concerned. I think it best I should attend, and therefore shall not be at Council till Friday morning, when I hope to attend. In the mean time 1 am your Honours’ most obedient servant, Ricuarp Dersy, Jun. To the Hon. the President of the Council in Watertown. MARITIME COURT FOR CAPTURED VESSELS. Massacuusetts-Bay, Middle District, ss: To all whom it may concern: Notice is hereby given, that the Maritime Court for the Middle District of the Massa- chusetts-Bay will be held at the Court-House in Salem, on Monday, the 19th day of August, 1776, at the hour of ten in the forenoon, to try the justice of the capture of the ship named the Queen of England, of about two hundred tons burden, (lately commanded by Jangs Arnot,) and of her cargo and appurtenances ; against which a libel is filed before me (the said ship having been taken and brought into the Middle District aforesaid) by Caleb Hopkins, commander of the armed ship called the George, in behalf of the Offi- cers, Mariners, and Marines on board the same ship, the owner or hirers thereof, and of himself. Aud the owners of the said ship Queen of England, or any persons concerned, may appear and show cause, if any they have, why the same ship and her cargo and appurtenances should not be condemned. Timorny Picxerine, Judge of said Court. Colony of the Massacuusetts-Bay, Lincoty, ss: Libels are filed before me against the sloop Nancy, burden about eighty tons, commanded by Peleg Crooker; against the sloop Betsey, burden about eighty tons, commanded by Jonathan Blodget; against the sloop Endeavour, burden about thirty tons, commanded by James Tattersall; against the sloop Beaver, burden about seventy tons, commanded by Nathan Phillips; and against the schooner Dolphin, burden about fifty tons, commanded by Jonathan Carleton ; which vessels are said to be improved in carrying supplies to the Fleet and Army employed against the United Colonies, and taken and brought into the Counties of Cumberland and Lincoln; and the Court erected to try and condemn all vessels that shall be found infesting the sea-coast of America, and brought into either of the Counties of York, Cumber- land, or Lincoln, will be held at the Meeting-House ‘in the East Precinct of Pownalborough, on Tuesday, the third day of September, 1776, at the hour of ten in the forenoon, to try the justice of said captures; of which this notice is given pursuant to the laws of this Colony, that all persons claim- ing in said vessels or cargoes, or are any way concerned therein, may appear and show cause (if any they have) why the said vessels, or either of them, with their appurtenances and cargoes should not be condemned, Timoruy Lanepon, Judge of said Court. 665 TURBUTT WRIGHT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee of Observation, July 30, 1776. GentLemen: We take the liberty to inform you that Captain Dean's company are armed, and have marched to Kent Island agreeable to their orders; and that Captain Darnes’s company is full, but we are clearly of opinion that arms cannot be got for them in this County. We believe between twenty and thirty firelocks may be had on Kent Island, on loan, for the defence of any part of this County, but the people will not part with them to go out of the County; and, indeed, these are the terms upon which the chief of the arms lent to Captain Dean’s company have been pro- cured. We thought it necessary to give you this information relative to Captain Darnes’s company, that you may take such steps as may be in your power to furnish them with arms. Captain Darnes is in a very disagreeable situation with his men, who are continually complaining to him of the want of employment, and of the necessity they have been under of boarding themselves out until they receive orders to march. By order of the Committee. I am your obedient servant, Tursutr Wricut, Chairman. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. GENERAL HOOPER TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Head-Quarters at Cambridge, July 30, 1776. HonouraBe Sirs: Since my last I have received from Major Fallen, who is stationed at Hooper’s Straits, an ac- count of the guard there under his command having taken a small schooner belonging to the enemy, in a creek making out of Holland’s Straits: Major Fallen having received intelligence of the schooner being in the creek, sent a detach- ment of thirty men, who took her and the cargo, consisting of a hogshead and a half of rum, thirty barrels of salt, the sails and rigging of a sloop, a large quantity of old iron, a few guns, swords, and cartridge boxes. The schooner had four men, three of whom were just out of the small-pox, and are now sent you by the Committee of this County, to be dealt with in such manner as your Board may judge proper. I informed you a few days since of the draughts I had ordered to be made out of the several battalions in my bri- gade, which I have since ordered to be stationed at the fol- lowing places: Colonel Richardson, with one hundred and twenty-five privates of his battalion, at this place; ninety privates of Colonel Fddiman’s battalion, together with thirty privates of Colonel Ennall’s battalion, at Cooke’s Point, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Stainton; Cap- tains Robson and Stephen Woolford, with fifteen privates each, at Taylor's and James’s Islands ; Captain Keene, with a party of filteen privates, at Meekin’s Neck; Captain Tra- vers, witha party of fifteen privates, at Hooper’s Island; Cap- tain Wheatley, with a party of fifteen privates, on Ascom’s Island; Lieutenant-Colonel John Ennalls, with a party of forty-five privates, at Hungar River; Colonel Murray with a party of one bundred and thirty privates of his battalion, and Major Fallen with thirty privates of Travers’s corps, at Hooper's Straits. The draughts from Colonel Dashiell’s and Colonel Hayward’s battalions, consisting of two hundred and seventy privates, are stationed at Nanticoke-Point, Dammed Quarter, and Animessex. The Colonels of the several battalions in Somerset and Worcester Counties having consulted together, were of opi- nion that the Militia of Somerset County would at present be sufficient for the defence of that County, and requested per- mission for the Worcester Militia, who had marched to Prin- cess Anne, to return home; which I have granted them, upon the assurance of the officers that they will hold their men in readiness to march on the shortest notice, if occasion should require it. I cannot, in justice to the brigade, omit to inform your Board of the alacrity with which the officers and privates have stepped forth on this occasion. We have scarcely in a single instance been obliged to draught to make up our num- bers, and in several companies there has been no small con- tention for the privilege of being permitted to march; and indeed the spirit and alacrity shown by the whole brigade has been such as does them great honour, and has given me great pleasure. Yo induce the privates to enter cheerfully into the service, I ordered the Colonels to direct a Captain, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 666 Ensign, Sergeant, and two Corporals, to march with the draughts of each company; and though the number of offi- cers was greater than I deemed necessary, yet I incline to think the men would not have marched with the same alacrity had they not been accompanied by their Captains. After the troops had arrived at their several places of ren- dezvous, I discharged the supernumerary officers in every instance when I could do it without breeding great discon- tent among the troops, both officers and privates being in general averse to the measure. I have further to inform your Board, that I have taken such steps as will put it in the power of every officer and private now on duty to attend and give their votes at the ensuing elections without leaving our coast exposed to the attacks of the enemy, which it is not at all improbable they will make, under an idea that our people are taken off to attend the elections. I have the honour to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, Lia tiecees To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. JOSEPH W. HARRISON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Port-Tobacco, July 30, 1776. Genttemen: I have the happiness to inform you that the Molly, Captain Thomas Conway, is once more safely arrived in Great Wicomico, Virginia, with a fine cargo of arms and ammunition. ‘The enclosed papers will furnish you with particulars. Captain Conway will remain at Port- Tobacco till the ex press returns, waiting for your orders. M brother adventured in this vessel to the amount of £211 7s. 6s., Maryland currency. He writes the customary freight is ten percent. If so, the amount shall be remitted by the first safe conveyance. ‘The goods consist of twenty bolts of osnaburgh, nine barrels of powder, and seven small swords. I am, very respectfully, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant 4 Jos. W. Harrison. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. N. B. Captain Conway had a passage of fourteen days. GERRARD HOPKINS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, July 30, 1776. Sir: I received yours of the 27th instant, wherein you enclosed me an order on the Treasurer for £50, which Il am much obliged to you for. You desire me to inform you whether I have the knap- sacks and haversacks made in one. When Colonel Ware requested me to have the five hundred made, he desired I would have haversacks made, and did not mention knap- sacks. I also showed him a pattern before they were made. Colonel Ewing’s are made without knapsacks also. I think they cannot cost altogether, finished off, more than 3s. apiece. They are made out of cruder out of the magazine. I have advanced myself, as the women were in want of cash, as far as 9d. apiece; which, 1 make no doubt, is within bounds. They think, as they found thread, they ought to be allowed 1s. apiece. I shall pay all attention to what you say in regard to the delivery of the stores. You desire to know I can inform you I have not yet received any, but make no doubt but that I shall receive it soon. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Gerrarp Hopxins, son of Rd. To Gabriel Duvall, Esq., Annapolis. P. S. Ihave received the linen sent by Alexander Brown, and delivered it to Mr. Johnson, who will make the tents as soon as possible. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COL. HOLLINGSWORTH. [No. 91.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. Str: We should be obliged to you, if you would inform us by letter how soon you can comply with the enclosed resolve. We are, &c. To Colonel Henry Hollingsworth. 667 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO ARCHIBALD BUCHANAN. [No. 92.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. Sir: Enclosed you have a copy of the agreement made between the Council of Safety and Messrs. Galloway and Stewart. Two galleys are not yet contracted for; and as a favour- able representation has been made of the skill and diligence of the workmen in your yard, and we place great confidence in you, if you can contract to build them by the 15th day of November next at farthest, and will enter into a similar engagement with the enclosed, we are inclined to give you a preference. ; You are desired to attend the Council, to enter into a contract and receive a draught of the row-galleys, as soon as possible. Weare, &c, To Mr. Archibald Buchanan. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JACOB SCHLEY. [No. 93.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. Sir: The publick service requires that you should send to this place, with all the expedition you can, the rifles by you made for the use of the Province; also, the ten large rifles contracted by you to be made and delivered on the first day of August next. We therefore earnestly request you will comply with your engagements ; and are yours, Xc. To Mr. Jacob Schley. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GUN-LOCK COMMISSIONERS. [No. 94.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. GenTLEMEN: As a considerable time has elapsed since your erecting your gun-lock manufactory, we are in great hopes you have made a number for the use of this Province. The Province is in great distress for arms. Few of the troops raised for the F'lying-Camp are supplied with them, and the Militia will not lend theirs. ‘There is an absolute necessity, therefore, that you immediately send down what locks you have. We expect fire-locks from John Yost. They may come from thence, if you continue them there. We desire also to know how many locks you make per week. We have barrels enough here and in Kent for the locks you can make. We are, &c. To the Commissioners of Gun-Lock Manufactory. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MAJOR PRICE. [No. 95.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. Sir: We have given orders to Captain Mantz to march down to St. Mary’s, to take the place of Captain John Allen Thomas’s company, until further orders. You will be pleased to station him in such manner as may be most for the publick service. And we request that Captain Thomas’s company may immediately march to the northward, according to the order of Convention. The cannon that were sent down, will be wanted here. Should the men-of-war be gone off, which we expect either is or soon will be the case, we request you would order the cannon to the mouth of the Patuxent, and let them be ‘brought up here by water, if the passage appear safe, other- wise you are to order them up by land. Nothing new from New-York, only that the Highlanders not taken by our eruisers, are arrived. When all is quiet below, we expect to have the pleasure of seeing you here. And are yours, &c. ‘To Major Thomas Price. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL CHAMBERLAIN. [No. 96.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. Sir: We shall esteem it a particular favour if you will have an examination made of the powder in your magazine, and give us an account as well of the number of barrels of cannon as musket; and when we receive the account, we shall take care to make such regulation as will leave a suffi- cient quantity of each kind to answer every purpose. You must continue your Militia guards over the powder until the place of Captain Hindman’s company is supplied by a Flying-Camp company. When they will be raised, armed and equipped for that or any other purpose, you can CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 668 ascertain full as well, if not better, than we can. As to the number of men requisite for a guard, you must certainly be a more competent judge than we are. We are, &c. To Brigadier-General Chamberlain. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAINS BARNES AND ELLIOTT. [No. 97.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. GentLemen: You are requested to furnish Captain Dean with as much ammunition and flints as will be necessary for his company, while it continues upon that Island, out of the powder, lead and flints, delivered to you by the Council of Safety. We are, &c. ‘To Captains Barnes and Elliott. ’ MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO ISAAC GRIEST. [No. 98.] Annapolis, July 30, 1776. Sir: We received the several patterns of wooden bottles, alias kegs. We should be much obliged to you to bespeak two thousand of them, of the sort marked at 2s. 7d. We approve of it, and imagine you can engage a quantity much cheaper than a single one. We desire you will bespeak them immediately. We are, &c. To Mr. Isaac Griest. BALTIMORE COMMITTEE, Ata Meeting of the Committee, July 30, 1776: Present : William Lux, (Chairman,) J. Merryman, B. Griffith, J. T. Chase, W. Aisquith, J. Calhoun, J. Cockey, J. Boyd. A Plan of a Magazine was offered by Mr. Benjamin Grif- Jith, of forty feet long, twenty-six feet wide, divided in the middle, so as to make two rooms of thirty-two feet by six and a half wide, and sufficient to hold five hundred barrels of powder; which the Committee agrees to adopt, instead of the one exhibited the 18th instant, that being, on calcula- tion, too small. They accordingly agreed with Mr. John Cockey to furnish the scantling, at 13s. 6d. per hundred, delivered on the spot; the inch-plank at 8s., and the one- and-a-quarter-inch at 9s., also delivered on the spot. Ordered, 'That advertisements be put up, desiring any person willing to contract for the Carpenter’s work of the said building, to apply, on Wednesday next, the 7th August, to Mr. Benjamin Griffith, and leave their Proposals, in writing, with him. The Chairman is directed to answer the Letters from the honourable Council of Safety relative to building the said Magazine. The Chairman being informed by Mr. Robert Christie, Sheriff of this County, that he had reason to be apprehen- sive of violence being offered to him, the said Sheriff, on account of his not attending to read the Declaration of In- dependence on Monday last, agreeable to the desire of the Committee; and that from these apprehensions, he would be under the disagreeable necessity of retiring to the coun- try, and withdrawing himself from the publick service; whereupon, Resolved, That the Committee do declare their utter disapprobation of all threats and violence being offered to any persons whatever, as contrary to the Resolves of Con- gress, and the sense of the Convention of this Province; that they conceive themselves bound to protect (as far as is in their power) the Civil Officers in the discharge of their duty; that they do expect of, and call upon every good citizen and friend to his country to assist them in their endeavours to preserve the peace and good order of society, and to prevent all riots and tumults, and personal abuse or violence to individuals; that the good people of Baltimore, having hitherto been so respectfully attentive to the Resolves of this Committee on all occasions, they flatter themselves that due regard will be paid to this recommendation. Attest : Geo. Lux, Secretary. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. Sir: I do myself the pleasure to enclose, at this time, sundry resolves of Congress, relating principally to new appointments and promotions in the Army. 669. The return of Colonet Elmore’s Regiment (which you will please to give orders to join you) I now transmit, together with blank commissions, to be filled up with the names of such officers as appear with their respective companies in the regiment. I shall deliver commissions agreeably to the enclosed resolves, as soon as possible, and order the gentle- men to repair to their respective departments. The regiment raised in Connecticut, under Colonel Ward, you will order wherever the service, in your judgment, shall require it. L have the honour to be, with sentiments of the highest esteem, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. P. S. I return you the letter from Mrs. French. Your favour of the 29th this moment came to hand. I shall send the blank commissions this evening, by Fessenden. Several resolutions are passed in consequence of your letters. I will send by Fessenden, and not longer detain the post. $500,000 will be on the way to you to-morrow; $60,000 also to the Flying-Camp. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776, Sir: Monsieur S¢. Martins having been recommended to Congress as a gentleman conversant with the Engineering branch, they have been pleased to appoint him in that department with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. I have delivered him his commission, and directed him to repair to you, at New-York, to receive orders, and you will employ him where you judge the service will be best promoted. I have the honour to be, with much esteem, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO CAPTAIN MORRIS. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. Sir: In consequence of an application from General Mercer for six Lighthorse to be sent to him at the Flying- Camp in New-Jersey, as soon as possible, I am to request, by order of Congress, you will give the necessary orders to Mr. Randolph, and the party who are engaged with him in that service, to repair to the Flying-Camp immediately. You will please to lose no time in complying with this requisition. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Captain Samuel Morris, commanding the Lighthorse, Philadelphia. SAMUEL CHASE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. GentLemen: I this moment received the enclosed letter from Colonel Stricker, and send it to you for your orders to him. If you think proper to grant him the liberty of inlisting into the German battalion from the companies raised for the F lying-Camp, it might promote the service, as the former are inlisted for three years, and the latter only till December. I am sensible difficulties will occur. Arms and blankets are as necessary as men; but an account should be transmitted to your Board. Unless you give orders as to the quantity and mode of subsistence, I am afraid great extravagance will happen. No news from New- York, except that a sail, supposed part of Lord Howe’s fleet, arrived at the Hook the 27th. I am, gentlemen, with respect, your obedient servant, Samu. CHAse. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. THOMAS STONE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. GentLemen: We shall endeavour to procure the instru- ments desired by yours of the 25th; but they are not easily procured, the demand for the Continental Army being very CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 670 great, and many of the cutlers of this city having gone to Jersey with the Militia. The powder and arms were sent some days ago to Anna- polis, which we hope will be attended with no inconvenience. We have not the least doubt but everything in your power will be done in the best manner for the publick service, and the preservation of every part of the United States. Mary- land, to be sure, must be a principal object of your attention ; and we hope, considering the spirit and alacrity which all ranks of men have shown, whenever occasion required their services, that our coast will be secure against the ravages of Dunmore and his rascally gang of Pirates. We have nothing lately from Ticonderoga. The enemy do not stir from Staten-Island. Eight ships arrived there a few days ago; but whether they brought men or not, we have not heard. General Washington has now a consider- able strength at New-York ; but there are only three thou- sand men in Jersey, where there ought to be at least ten thousand. Colonel Smallwood is at New-York. We have no doubt but the subsistence money will be readily paid, and we wish every necessary which can be had may be furnished the Militia before they march. Money will be advanced to them now if they need it. Hunting-shirts will be a convenient and good uniform, if they can be had. We shall at all times give you the earliest information of all im- portant occurrences, and shall with pleasure execute your commands. And have the honour to be, your most obedient servant, T. Srone. To the Hon. Council of Safety of Maryland. P.S. My brothers are engaged in other business, and the post is going, so that their signatures must be dispensed with. TSe MARINE COMMITTEE TO JOHN BRADFORD. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. Sir: We take the liberty to enclose herein some despatches for Messrs. Samuel and J. H. Delap, merchants in Bordeaux, which you will please to deliver into Captain Cleveland’s own hands, with a strict charge to take the utmost care of them, and follow the orders also enclosed herein directed to him, which you will be pleased to deliver, and enjoin his punctual obedience, on which will depend his future employ- ment and advancement in the publick service. Mr. Morris informs us of the alacrity with which you have executed his commission in the purchase of the brigantine Despatch ; and anything further of this kind offers, this Committee will claim the liberty of troubling you again ; being very respect- fully, sir, your obedient servants. To John Bradford, Esq. MARINE COMMITTEE TO CAPTAIN CLEVELAND. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. Sir: We have been regularly informed by John Brad- ford, Esq., of his purchasing, loading, and fitting the brigantine Despatch, in consequence of our orders; and we approve of his having appointed you to the command of that brigantine, in the Continental service, as he gives you an extremely good character, of which we hope and expect to find you very deserving. ‘The honourable Continental Congress, of which we are members, authorized us, as a Committee, to purchase the brigantine, and to order her on such voyage as would best answer certain purposes to the States of America. You will receive this by the hands of John Philip Merkle, Esq., and are to be governed by the following instructions during the present voyage, or until you receive others from Congress, or from this or some other Committee of Congress : Mr. Bradford will require bills of lading from you for the entire cargo on board the Despatch, consigned to the above- mentioned John Philip Merkle, Esq., (who is to go passenger in the brigantine,) at her discharging port in Europe. Such bills of lading you are to sign; receive Mr. Merkle on board ; assist him in providing sea-stores ; and then proceed with the utmost diligence to the.coast of France, avoiding most care- fully all vessels at sea, and put into the first convenient port you can make in that Kingdom, (Nantz or Bordeaux, per- haps, may be the safest,) and you must there deliver to Mr. Merkle any part of the cargo he may find it convenient to sell, or the whole if he chooses it. We enclose to Mr. 671 Bradford, by this conveyance, a packet directed for Messrs. Samuel and J. H. Delap, merchants in Bordeaux. Mr. Bradford will deliver that packet to you, and we require your utmost care of it. Should you have the misfortune to be taken, you must throw it overboard slung with a weight that will sink it, for on no account must this fall into the hands of our enemies. On the contrary, if you get safe into Bordeaux, deliver it yourself to Messrs. Samuel and J. H. Delap, merchants, there. If you go into any other port, forward it to them by post or special messenger, as you may be advised is safest and best. You must also advise these gentlemen what other ports or places Mr. Merkle intends to order you for, and for this purpose inquire of him, and desire them to write you a few lines telling you how to direct let- ters to Silas Deane, Esq., so that they will certainly fall into his hands. We expect Mr. Merkle will direct you to proceed from France to Amsterdam, and you must obey his orders, delivering to him the rest of the cargo at any port or ports he may desire. He is not to pay any freight; but will supply you with all things necessary for the brigantine, and money to pay charges. For all you receive in money, stores, outfit, &c., you will grant him proper receipts; and when you have discharged entirely the present cargo, you are to receive from him all such goods, merchandise, arms, and ammuni- tion, as he may think proper to ship, granting him bills of lading for what he puts on board. We also give you liberty to arm the brigantine in the most complete manner, with as many four-pounder cannon, swivels, blunderbusses, muskets, cutlasses, &c., as may be proper for sucha vessel. You may also ship as many good seamen as you can conveniently accommodate, obtaining them on the best terms in your power; lay in a suitable stock of provisions, a sufficient quantity of ammunition, &c.; the cost and charges of all which, Mr. Merkle will defray, taking your receipts. Whilst this business is transacting, you will write, imme- diately after your arrival at the port where it is to be done, to Messrs. Samuel and J. H. Delap, of Bordeaux, and also to Silas Deane, Esq., if you obtain from them in time his address. ‘Tell them how to direct letters to you, and when you expect to sail, and we expect you will receive back from them letters and packets for us. must be taken of them. If you do, the utmost care Don’t let them be seen by any person whatever. Sling them with a weight ready for sink- ing; and if taken, be sure to let them go overboard in time. But we hope you will have better fortune, and bring them safe. When your vessel is completely fitted, the cargo on board, and you have received your despatches from Mr. Merkle, you are then to put out to sea, and make the best of your way back to America. We think it best not to fix on any particular port for you to aim at; but leave you at liberty to push into the first safe harbour you can make in any of the United States of America; and on your arrival, apply to the Continental Agent, if there be one at or near that place; if not, to the persons in authority there, desiring their advice and assistance to forward, with the utmost ex- pedition, to us all the letters, packets, &c., you bring. You will also write us the state and condition of your vessel, and we shall return orders for your proceedings. We send you herewith a commission, a book of regulations respecting cap- tures, &c., and a list of the Continental Agents, for your government, if you should take any prizes. But you are to remember prizes are not your object; we wish you to make an expeditious and safe voyage, and for this reason desire you will make all possible despatch, both at sea and in port. We expect you will be careful of the brigantine, her stores and materials. Allow your people plenty of good provisions ; but suffer no waste, and be as frugal as is con- sistent with true economy in your expenses and charges. These things duly observed will recommend you to the governing powers in America, and in time your utmost am- bition may be gratified, provided merit leads the way to promotion. If any American masters or mates of ships, or seamen, want passages, you may accommodate them free of any charge or expenses. Probably Mr. Merkle may find it proper to make your vessel a French or Dutch bottom, and clear you out for the /Vest-Indies. In such case, you will do what is needful on your part to answer his views; and we hope you will be attentive to accommodate and please him during this voyage. We are, sir, your humble servants. To Captain Stephen Cleveland. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 672 MARINE COMMITTEE TO MESSRS. DELAP. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. Genttemen: We must frequently give you the trouble to receive and forward our despatches to Stlas Deane, Esq. As you will be possessed of his address, and from the na- ture of his business, which requires him to move from place to place, we cannot, you will therefore hold us excusable, and he will pay any charge that arises by postage or other- wise. We send this by Captain Cleveland, of the brigan- tine Despatch, which will put into some port in France. If it should happep to be yours, he will deliver these despatches himself; if any other, he will forward them by post or special messenger, as may be thought best by those he consults. A John Philip Merkle, Esq., goes passenger, and to him this vessel. and cargo is addressed. If they call at Bordeauz, we beg to recommend Mr. Merkle to your attention. We have desired Captain Cleveland to inform you, either in person or by letter, where he is to land his cargo, when he expects to sail from thence, and how you can direct to him with a certainty of your letters reaching his hands. We also desired him to ask of you Mr. Deane’s address; for as we have a good opinion of this proving a safe convey- ance, we wish to hear from you and Mr. Deane by Captain Cleveland, who will take particular care of the letters, and you will gratify us very much by transmitting us all the publick news, newspapers, commercial intelligence, &c., that you think can be any ways useful. We are, sirs, yours, &c. To Messrs. Samuel § J. H. Delap. SAMUEL CHASE TO RICHARD HENRY LEE. Philadelphia, July 30, 1776. My pear Sir: Your letter of the 14th instant followed me to this city, and your other favour, of the 2lst, was delivered by yesterday’s post. I hurried to Congress, to give my little assistance to the framing a Confederacy, and a plan for a foreign alliance—both of them subjects of the utmost importance, and which, in my judgment, demand immediate despatch. ‘The Confederacy has engaged our close attention for a week. ‘Three great difficulties occur: Representation, the mode of voting, and the claims to the South-Sea. The whole might, in my opinion, be settled, if candour, justice, and the real interests of America were attended to. We do not all see the importance, nay, the necessity, of a Confederacy. We shall remain weak, dis- tracted, and divided in our councils; our strength will decrease; we shall be open to all the arts of the insidious Court of Britain, and no foreign Court will attend to our applications for assistance before we are confederated. What contract will a foreign State make with us, when we cannot agree among ourselves? Our Army at Ticonderoga consists of six thousand men, of which three thousand are in the Hospital, from the small- pox and other camp disorders. Our Army at New-York contains fourteen thousand, of which only ten thousand are effective. Our Flying-Camp in the Jerseys has but between three and four thousand troops. No news from General Washington. He writes, 27th, that eight sail, supposed to be part of Lord Howe’s fleet, arrived at the Hook that day. I shall always be glad to hear from you; and am, with great esteem, your affectionate friend and obedient servant, SAMUEL CuAsE. To the Hon. Richard Henry Lee, Esq. LANCASTER COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee of Observation, Inspec- tion, and Correspondence, at the house of ddam Reigart, 30th July, 1776: Present: Edward Shippen, William Atlee, William Bowman, Lod- wick Lowman, Henry Dehuff, Jacob Krug, Christopher Crawford, John Miller, Adam Reigart: William Atlee in the Chair. It is the sentiment of the Committee, that Christian Wer- ger, of Leacock Township, Gunsmith, and his Apprentice, Martin Micksell, ought to continue at home at that business, and ought not to be marched with Captain Bare’s or Cap- tain Roland’s Company into the Camp in the Jerseys, it being contrary to the Resolves of the Congress and Commit- tee of Safety to march tradesmen of that kind with the 673 troops; and those officers, and the Field-Officers of the Battalion to which those Companies belong, are requested to leave those persons at home, at the said trade, agreeable to the said Resolves. The Chairman is directed, by a line to Captain Scott, of Colonel Crawford’s Battalion, to request he will not march Robert Knox with his Company to the Camp in the Jerseys, his foot being in a condition which renders him unfit for duty as a soldier, his brother having lately, by accident, hurt himself so as to render him incapable of labour, and two of his sisters now lying in the small-pox, and no person remaining about the house or farm but himself who can in any manner assist them. Jacob, a Mulatto, belonging to Mr. Thomas Douglass, Peter, a Negro, belonging to John Hopkins, Trey, a Negro, belonging to Lionel Ellmaker, suspected and charged with intending to injure the inhabitants in the absence of the Associators, are brought to Town by Mr. Isaac McCammont, a member of the Committee for Salisbury Township, and ordered to be confined in Jail for examination, &c. Hugh Knox, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is permitted to work with Hann, Tailor, he here, in Committee, engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the Resolves of the Committee. Wiliam Sutherland, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is permitted to work with Michael Shindel, Tailor, Mr. Lod- wick Lowman, here in Committee, engaging to be answer- able for him, agreeable to the Resolves of this Committee. The Committee requests Colonel Slough will order Wil- liam Waggoner, a journeyman Hatter, in the employ of Captain Klatz, and an Associator in Captain Klatz’s Com- pany, to attend constantly to his business, and excuse him from guard duty, that he may the better attend Captain Klatz’s business in his absence. Nathan Wood, of the Seventh Regiment, is permitted to work with Nicholas Messersmith, 'Tailor, he here, in Com- mittee, engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the Resolves of this Committee. CAPTAINS MARTIN AND ADAMS TO LANCASTER COMMITTEE. Hinckel-Town, July 30, 1776. GeNTLEMEN: Since there have been two companies marched to this place yesterday, and they are not willing to march from here until they receive the month’s pay accord- ing as the Committee hath promised, we would be glad if you would send down money sufficient to pay off the men; after which they will be ready to march whenever the Colonel sees proper to march the battalion, which he thinks to do as soon as the battalion is all together. We are, gentlemen, your most humble, obedient, ALEXANDER Martin, eg eyih Isaac Apams ‘ Tha ? GENERAL MERCER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Perth-Amboy, July 30, 1776. Sir: Within these two days, we have observed sixteen ships pass from Sandy-Hook to the Narrows, but no new movement of the enemy on Staten-Island. Some more shal- lops have come down the Sound, from Fishkill, into Prince’s Bay. ‘To give us the entire command of the Sound, as well as to prevent the approach of tenders or armed sloops to this place, permit me to recommend to the honourable Congress, that some row-galleys be built in Rariton River, to mount eighteen-pounders, or any heavier metal. The cannon, I am told, may be sent from Philadelphia, and our artificers in the Army would construct the vessels at no great expense. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. P. S. I have this moment heard from the Blazing-Star, that our field-pieces have obliged one of the shallops to return into the Kill. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 30, 1776. Sir: Tam this moment favoured with yours of yesterday, and shall set about preparing boats with all possible expe- dition. Your favours by Major Ross were extremely accept- Firta Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 43 674 able. Since his arrival Colonel Griffin has joined me, very much to my satisfaction. Only four companies, intended for the Flying-Camp, have arrived since my last, and a battalion of Associators, consisting of three hundred and fity. These last 1 have sent on to Newark and Elizabeth- Town, for the purpose of relieving such of the troops as are to form the F'lying-Camp, that we may have our men who are to remain in service brought into proper order as soon as possible. It will contribute greatly to this end, if, now the harvest is secured, General Livingston were desired to call out into service such a number of the New-Jersey Militia as would guard the different posts from Bergen, along the Jersey shore. Not less than two thousand would be required for this purpose. His Excellency the General will please to consider how far such a measure is necessary. I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON, ~ Perth-Amboy, July 30, 1776. Sir: I enclose you a copy of what the officers deter- mined on yesterday, relative to the rations. I have this morning received instructions from Head-Quarters, to have proper boats built for the purpose of transporting troops with safety and expedition. Iam told that Captain Manuel Eyres, of your regiment, would be a proper person to direct this business. We should have at least twenty of them pre- pared. ‘The service requires that we should as speedily as possible set about this matter. After consulting with Cap- tain Eyres, you will be able to furnish me with such hints as may greatly expedite the service. I am, sir, your most respectful, and your obedient servant, Huex Mercer. To Col. John Dickinson, commanding at Elizabeth- Town, [Thus endorsed by me:—July 30, 1776, I took all the necessary steps on this letter—collected a dozen of the most proper persons—conferred with General Livingston and them—procured all the information I could, and sent Captain Eyres and Mr. Joshua Mercereau, July 31st, to General Mercer for his final orders; wrote so to himat large, with some material intelligence I had received concerning the weak guard on Newark-Bay; sent him the best map of Staten-Island that has yet been made, which I procured Mr. Mercereau to make. [The design was an attack on Staten-Island. it D.] GENERAL ROBERDEAU TO PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Amboy, July 30, 1776. Honovrep Sirs: Within these few days past the enemy have been collecting shallops and small craft, which makes me apprehensive they are planning a descent somewhere, probably in this place, as the present condition. of it seems to afford such an opportunity. Amboy is parted from Staten-Island by a Sound about four hundred yards wide. The river Rarzéon is on the south side of the town, from which, to a marsh on the north side, the bank is high, and I conceive easily defended. The marsh is in some places impassable; where it is not so, guards are planted ; but as the enemy have the command of the water, they have it in their power to go up the Rariton, and, by landing their men some miles above us, to attempt at least to intercept the communication between this place, which is on a point of land, and the country; in which case we should soon be distressed, as we have no magazine of pro- visions, and the small circle we should be enclosed in, not sufficiently stored to supply any considerable number of men any length of time. ‘This appears to me the most pro- bable scheme they can attempt here, while, from the best observations I can make, I am of opinion that a few row- galleys in the river Rariton would be the best means either to prevent their landing, or to destroy their craft after they had landed, and by that means retaliate their scheme, by cutting off their retreat. I observed while at Philadelphia, several pieces of can- non, in several parts of the city, which, though not suffi- ciently sightly for a man-of-war, would be serviceable in this case, and might, with a few carriages, be easily conveyed here, as the land carriage would be but thirty miles from Trenton to Brunswick. Here are some scows, and a large kind of flat-bottomed boats, called Wild-Cats, which might be expeditiously fitted up for temporary galleys, until others can be supplied, as we have several carpenters and ship-car- penters, but are in want of tools. 675 I can see many advantages we shall receive from the service of a few armed boats, the want of which distresses us greatly, our cannon on the bank being too light to give the enemy any material obstruction on the water; who, not- withstanding our fire, have passed from day to day through the Sound without receiving much injury. I am, honourable sirs, your most obedient and very hum- T ble servant, DanreL RoperpDEAv. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 1, 1776.] New-York, July 39, 1776. Sir: I was this morning honoured with your two favours of yesterday’s date; and agreeable to your request have given Mr. Palfrey liberty to negotiate your claim with Mr. Brimer, and wish it may be satisfied agreeably to you. I last night received a letter from General Schuyler, [dated German-Flats, July 24,] a copy of which I do myself the honour to transmit to you. You will thereby perceive his reasons for leaving Crown-Point and preferring the post the Council of Officers determined to take opposite to Ticonderoga. 1am totally unacquainted with these seve- ral posts and the country about there, and therefore cannot determine on the validity of his observations, or think myself at liberty to give any direction in the matter. Congress will please to observe what he says of their distress for money. From hence he can have no relief, there being only about three or four thousand dollars in the Paymaster’s hands, according to his return this morning, and all but two months’ pay due the Army, besides many other demands. I could wish that proper supplies of money could be always kept: the want may occasion consequences of an alarming nature. By a letter from him of a prior date to the copy enclosed, he tells me that a Mr. Ryckman, who had just returned through the country of the Six Na- tions, reports that the Indzans who were at Philadelphia, had gone home with very favourable ideas of our strength and resources. ‘This he heard in many of their villages. A lucky circumstance, if it will gain either their friendship or seture their neutrality. In my letter of the 27th, I informed Congress of my views and wishes to attempt something against the troops on Staten-Island. I am now to acquaint them, that by the advice of General Mercer and other officers at Amboy, it will be impracticable to do anything upon a large scale for want of craft; and as the enemy have the entire command of the water all round the Island, I have desired General Mercer to have nine or ten flat-bottomed boats at Newark- Bay and Elizabeth- Town, with a design principally to keep up the communication across Hackinsack and Passaick Rivers, which 1 deem a matter of great importance and ex- tremely necessary to be attended to. Since I wrote you yesterday, eleven ships more, four brigs, and two sloops, have come into the Hook. [have not yet received intelligence what any of the late arrivals are, but I suppose we shall not long remain in a state of uncertainty. Having reason to believe that Lord Howe will readily come into an exchange of such prisoners as may be more immediately under his command, and that something will be offered on this subject within a day or two, or rather come in answer to the propositions | have made General Howe, I shall be glad to have Congress’s interpretation of the re- solve of the 22d instant, empowering the Commanders to exchange, &c., whether by the word “sailor,” they mean sailors generally, as well those taken in the vessels of pri- vate adventurers by the enemy, as those belonging to the Continental cruisers or vessels in the Continental employ, or whether they only design to extend the exchange to the latter, those in their particular employ. I would also ob- serve, that heretofore sailors belonging to merchant ships that have fallen into our hands, and those employed merely as transports, have not generally been considered as prisoners. I submit it to Congress, whether it may not be now neces- sary to pass a resolve declaring their sentiments on this sub- ject, and in general who are to be treated as prisoners of war that are taken on board vessels belonging to the subjects of the British Crown, &c. The result of their opinion upon the first question proposed you will be pleased to transmit me by the earliest opportunity. { have enclosed for the consideration of Congress a me- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 676 morial and petition by Captain Aldridge, praying to be relieved against the loss of money stolen from him, not con- ceiving myself authorized to grant his request. ‘The certi- ficate which attends it proves him to be a man of character, and his loss is hard on his state of it. Whether making the loss good may not open a door to others, and give rise to appli- cations not so just as his may be, I cannot determine. ‘That seems to be the only objection to relieving him. I am informed by General Putnam that there are some of the Stockbridge Indians here, (I have not seen them myself,) who express great uneasiness at their not being employed by us, and have come to inquire into the cause. I am sensible Congress had them not in contemplation when they resolved that Indians might be engaged in our service. However, as they seem so anxious, as they were led to expect it from General Schuyler and the other Commissioners, as we are under difficulties in getting men, and there may be danger of their, or some of them, taking an unfavourable part, I beg leave to submit it as my opinion, under all these circumstances, that they had better be employed. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 22, 1776. (Parole, Richmond.) ,(Countersign, Savoy.) The Orderly Sergeants who attend at Head-Quarters, are hereafter to bring their dinners, and wait till they are regu- larly relieved. As it is much to be feared the state of the necessary houses in the city may endanger the health of the Troops quartered there, it is recommended to the officers and men to guard against it as much as possible; and if any method can be fallen on to remove or lessen the inconvenience, to apply to the Barrackmaster for that purpose. The General has noticed with pleasure the care of the Troops in the encampments, on this subject. He hopes they will continue it for the sake of their own health, and the credit of the Army. It being represented to the General that many Regiments would at this season choose to lessen their rations of Meat, and supply it with Vegetables, if they could be permitted; his concern for the health of the Troops, and desire to gratify them in every reasonable request, induces him to direct that the Colonels of such Regiments as choose to adopt this plan, signify it to the Commissary-General, and in two days after- wards the Quartermaster of such Regiment be allowed to draw one-quarter part of the usual Rations in money, to be laid out in Vegetables for his Regiment. Passes from Colonel Know for the Officers and Soldiers of the Artillery only, to be sufficient to pass the Ferries. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 23, 1776. (Parole, Trenton.) (Countersign, Upton.) Lieutenant Fuller, of Captain Keyes’s Company, Twen- tieth Regiment, tried by a General Court-Martial, of which Lieutenant-Colonel Hobby was President, for “inoculating, and disobedience of orders,” is honourably acquitted and discharged from his arrest. It is with great astonishment and surprise the General hears that soldiers inlist from one corps to another, and frequently receive a bounty, and that some officers have knowingly received such men. So glaring a fraud upon the publick, and injury to the service, will be punished in the most exemplary manner; and the General most earnestly requests and expects of every good officer who loves his country not only to oppose such practices, but to make the offenders known, that they may be brought to justice. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 24, 1776. (Parole, Virginia.) (Countersign, Wales.) Each Brigadier, with the Colonet and Commanding Offi- cer of the several Regiments in his Brigade, are to meet and estimate the quantity of Paper absolutely necessary to serve a Regiment for Returns, and other publick uses, for a month, and make report thereof to the General at Orderly time on Friday next, that the Quartermaster-General may be directed to provide and deliver the same monthly to the Colonels for the use of their respective Regiments. The General being sensible of the difficulty and expense of providing Clothes, of almost any kind, for the Troops, feels an unwillingness to recommend, much more to order, any 677 kind of uniform; but as it is absolutely necessary that men should have Clothes, and appear decent and tight, he ear- nestly encourages the use of Hunting-Shirts, with long breeches made of the same cloth, gaiter-fashion about the legs, to all those yet unprovided. No dress can be had cheaper or more convenient, as the wearer may be cool in warm weather, and warm in cool weather, by putting on under-clothes, which will not change the outward dress, winter or summer; besides, it is a dress justly supposed to carry no small terror to the enemy, who think every such person a complete marksman. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 25, 1776. (Parole, Abingdon.) (Countersign, Bedford.) Care to be taken in future, that the Provost Marshal’s Guard be properly officered, there having been a complaint made on that head. Henry Davis, tried for “ Desertion,” is sentenced to re- ceive twenty lashes. Patrick Lyons, for “ Drunkenness, and sleeping on his post,” thirty lashes. It is with inexpressible concern the General sees soldiers, fighting in the cause of liberty and their country, committing crimes most destructive to the Army, and which in all other Armies are punished with death. What ashame and re- proach will it be, if soldiers, fighting to enslave us for two pence or three pence a day, should be more regular, watch- ful and sober than men who are contending for everything that is dear and valuable in life. The honourable Continental Congress, in consideration of the Sergeant-Majors, Quartermaster Sergeants, Drum and Fife Majors not having pay adequate to their service, and hoping it will excite them to vigilance and industry, have been pleased to increase the pay of them—officers having no other appointment, one dollar per month, to commence the 16th instant. Those soldiers who have entered on board the row-galley commanded by Cook, are to repair immediately on board; and the officer of the regiment to which they re- spectively belong, are to forward them as much as possible, as the service is of the most important kind. Peter Gusten, Esquire, is appointed Major of Brigade to Brigadier-General Heard, and is to be obeyed and respected as such. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 26, 1776. (Parole, Cambridge.) (Countersign, Darby.) The General Court-Martial to sit to-morrow for the trial of Ensign Bryant, now under arrest for ‘sending some soldiers to take away old iron, and other materials, from the ships now fitting for publick use.” A guard at Harrison’s Brewery, to be mounted, consisting of one Subaltern, one Sergeant, one Corporal, and twenty- four Privates, every evening, and sentries to be posted at proper distances from the Air Furnace, along the shore, till they come opposite to Colonel Baldwin’s Quarters. General Greene being particularly engaged at present, passes signed by Lieutenant Blodgett are to be allowed sufficient to enable persons to cross the Ferries. Complaints having been made that some of the soldiers ill treat the country-people who come to market, the Gene- ral most positively forbids such behaviour, and hopes the officers will exert themselves to prevent it. Good policy, as well as justice, demands that they should have all possible encouragement, as the health of the soldiers much depends upon supplies of vegetables. Those who have been guilty of such practices will do well to consider what will be our situation, at this season, if we drive off the country-people, and break up the market: the healthy will soon be sick, and the sick must perish for want of necessaries. No favour will be shown to any offenders hereafter. ’ Head-Quarters, New-York, July 27, 1776. (Countersign, +) Complaints are made, that officers who are to attend the men upon fatigue and other duty grow remiss. The Gene- ral hopes they will consider what the effects of so bad an example might be to the men; and as he believes it pro- ceeds rather from inattention than design, flatters himself there will be no occasion to remind them of their duty hereafter. | (Parole, Effingham.) * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 678 Head-Quarters, New-York, July 28, 1776. (Countersign, Hungary.) Wiliam Peek, Esq., who has for some time past done the duty of Brigade-Major to General Spencer, is appointed to that office, and to be obeyed and respected accordingly. Some of the Adjutants have, of late, been very remiss in making up their returns by eleven o’clock, on Saturday, not sending their detachments properly officered, or relieving their Orderly-Sergeants at Head-Quarters. These gentle- men will, in future, be pointed out in the General Orders, and after that put under arrest, if they are not more attentive. The General, finding the number of sick to increase, and being desirous to have them as well accommodated as possible, directs that the Barrack-Master, under the direction of the Colonel or Commanding Officer of each regiment, fix on some house convenient to the regiment, to be improved as an Hospital for the reception of patients just taken down, or whose disorder does not require any special assistance beyond that of their own Regimental Surgeon. One of the Surgeons of the Hospital will occasionally visit these Hospitals, and determine when the nature of the case requires the patient to be removed to the General Hospital, which will hereafter be kept in different houses contiguous to each brigade. ‘The Regimental Surgeons are to receive directions from, and be responsible to, the Director-General, so far as respects the furnishing their Regimental Hospitals with conveniences for their sick. The Regimental Surgeons are also to keep a register of their sick, and make a weekly return to the Director and Commissary-General, severally, of the sick in their respective Regiments. As the rations issued for men in health are very improper for those who are sick, the following regulations are to take place: Whenever a person is taken sick, he is not to be borne on the provision return; but the value of his rations be obtained in suitable supplies from the General Hospital, to be drawn by the Surgeon of the Regiment, who is to conform to the rules of diet established in the General Hospitals, and to account with the Director-General. The Quartermaster of each Regiment to apply for neces- saries at the Quartermaster-General’s, for the sick. Guards to be on the parade every morning before eight o’clock. (Parole, Gravesend.) Head-Quarters, New-York, July 29, 1776. (Countersign, Kingwood.) The Quartermaster-General is directed to furnish twelve quires of Paper to each Regiment, per month, viz: one quire to the Commanding Officer of the Regiment, one to each Company, and one to the Adjutant; the remaining two quires to be kept by the Colonel, as a reserve for special occasions, exclusive of Orderly books and blank Returns. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 30, 1776. (Countersign, Medford.) The Quartermaster-General is to provide canteens as soon as possible, and to have the water in the several works, in casks, examined, that there may be a fresh supply, if neces- sary. It is represented to the General, that the pump-water in the city is very unhealthy. ‘The Troops are therefore cau- tioned against the use of it; and the Quartermaster and Commissary Generals are to consult together, and fix upon some mode of supply of fresh water for the ‘Troops in the city. (Parole, Jersey.) (Parole, Lancaster.) Head-Quarters, New-York, July 31, 1776. (Parole, Norwalk.) : (Countersign, Oxford.) Ensign Bryant, charged with “embezzling publick pro- perty,”’ having been tried by a General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Webb is President, is acquitted of any fraudulent intention, but censured by the Court for indiscre- tion, in permitting some of the soldiers taking away old iron from the shipping. The General approves of the sentence, and orders him to be discharged from arrest. It is with astonishment and concern the General finds that the precautions used to prevent the countersign being made known to any not entitled to it, are defeated by the ignorance or misconduct of those to whom it isintrusted. In order that none may plead ignorance hereafter, the officers and soldiers are to know that the following rule is established: The Adjutant General, at six o’clock, P. M., will deliver 679 the parole and countersign to the Majors of Brigade and Adjutant of Artillery; they, at Retreat-beating, and not be- fore, are to deliver them to the Adjutants of their respective Brigades. The Adjutants are to deliver them to the Field- Officers of their respective Brigades, if required ; then to the officers of the advanced guards; then to the officer of every other guard in and about the city orcamp. And the General flatters himself, that when the importance and necessity of secrecy upon this head is considered, every officer and soldier will pride himself in his fidelity, prudence, and discipline. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL HOWE. Head-Quarters, New-York, July 30, 1776. Sir: Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson, Adjutant-General of the Army under your command, at the interview between us, having proposed an exchange of Mr. Lovell for Gov- ernour Skene, I am authorized to inform you, that the Congress have not only approved of this proposition, but, judging that a general exchange of prisoners will be at- tended with mutual convenience and pleasure to both par- ties, have empowered their commanders in each department to negotiate one, in the following manner: “ Continental offi- cers for those of equal rank either in the land or sea service, soldier for soldier, sailor for sailor, and citizen for citizen.” They have also particularly mentioned the exchange of Colonel Ethan Allen for any officer of the same or inferior rank. You will be pleased to signify the time and place for that of Mr. Lovell and Governour Skene, that I may give direc- tion for the latter to be ready, who is now at Hartford, about one hundred and twenty miles from hence; also, to favour me with your sentiments, as well on the proposition respecting Colonel Allen, as on the subject of a general exchange. I have the honour to be, with due respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Gn twieateartk To Lieutenant-General Howe. » BARON DE CALBIAC TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-York, July 30, 1776. My Generac: I cannot express to you how humiliating it is to a man who thinks that his sentiments are of the purest kind, to be the sport of evil-minded men, who, I am informed, have said many things to my prejudice to your Excellency. To convince you of the purity of my inten- tions, and to give you a just idea of my views in coming to this country, | have enclosed you the copies of letters which I have written to the Minister in France, having sent a dupli- cate to Colonel McKean, having also communicated it to General Mifflin. I also enclose you my second commission, which I have found among my papers. I desire to be favoured with one minute of your Excellency’s precious time. Assuring your Excellency of my most respectful attach- ment to you and the glorious cause in which you fight, I am your Excellency’s most obedient, Le Baron ve Carsiac. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 30, 1776. Dear Generat: Since my last, there are several compa- nies arrived, and I intend immediately to post one company at Cheshire’s, to clear the roads as fast as possible. I here send you a few peas, which is all I could get at present. I sent three or four miles round to get some butter to send to your Honour, but could not get one pound on any account whatever. Every man here is employed to the best advan- tage for the publick good; the chief of our men are obliged constantly to be on fatigue in assisting the carpenters. I hope your Honour will excuse the gondola not coming sooner. ‘The reason was they had much more to do than they expected to complete the platform for the mortar. Axes and spades are very much wanted here, but shall endeavour to do with what we have until a supply comes, I am, sir, with respect, your Honour’s humble servant, Davin Wartersury, Jun. To the Hon. Major-General Gates, Ticonderoga. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 680 CAPTAIN WYNKOOP TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, July 30, 1776. Dear Genera: I have sent you one gondola more down, which the carpenters have named after me. I hope you will send a good officer.on board of her. I have had her made as strong as she could be made, which you will see by the work done in her. I also send you one sailor out of my regiment down. I would be glad you would order him on board immediately, or I am afraid he will run off and leave you. I will get one gondola and the row-galley finished this week, and send them down to you. As for boards, the General allows the soldiers and carpenters to use them as fast as I can possibly get them down as yet. I am, dear General, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant ? Cornevius Wynkoop. To Major-General Gates, at Ticonderoga. GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Ticonderoga, July 30, 1776. Dear GeneraL: Your favour of the 20th instant, I re- ceived last night. Iam sorry to hear your treaty with the Indians is so long retarded. You must have an infinite deal of trouble with them, which I am fearful will prejudice your health; and your presence is much wanted both at Skenesborough and this place. I wrote to you from the foriner place, the 25th instant, at which time only two com- panies of carpenters were arrived—one from Philadelphia and the other from Connecticut; since which, the whole have arrived, to the number of two hundred. I left them such directions as I thought necessary, and orders to begin four row-galleys, nearly of the construction of those built in Philadelphia, to carry four pieces heavy and two pieces light cannon each. The two largest schooners are at Crown-Point. The sloop goes this morning, and four gondolas will follow in two or three days. I intend to visit Skenesborough on Monday next. I shall be happy to accelerate the busi- ness all in my power, and to take as much trouble from off your hands as possible, as I am sensible you have more than your share of it. A Frenchman, who arrived here in fifteen days from St. Frangots, confirms the intelligence respecting the Indians, and adds, that all the tribes in Canada were determined on a neutrality; that the troops were busy in building batteaus and several large vessels at St. John’s; that General Carle- ton has given the French inhabitants notice of his intention of crossing Lake Champlain the last of August or beginning of September, and that he should depend on their joining him. If we were supplied with the articles [ have written for, we shall soon be in a condition to give bim a proper reception. Enclosed is a return of the ordnance stores, shot, &c., &c., by which you will observe there are many articles wanting to complete the same; as also a great deficiency of shot, in particular grape, double-headed, chain, and round, which will be very serviceable among vessels and batteaus. More heavy cannon will be wanted for the row-galleys; the four now building will carry eight twenty-fours and eight eighteens; four others will be set up soon, and will require an equal number of guns. ‘To supply the row-galleys and lines, we have only eleven pieces and ten twelve-pounders, which may answer, though not so well as heavier guns. If they are substituted, eleven pieces will still be wanting, with shot, &c., which I wish may be sent up, if they ean possi- bly be procured. With the approbation of General Gates, I sent to Connecticut for three hundred seamen. The ex- press had orders to call on you (if returned) and take your instructions in the matter. As it was uncertain if you were returned, I wrote Captain Varick, desiring him to give the express a warrant on the Paymaster-General for £1,000 to pay the bounty of the seamen. As the treasury was empty, he has proceeded on to General Washington. We are in- formed, that of the four regiments coming from Boston, there is a very considerable number of seamen, who are daily expected. Lam, &c., B. Arnon. 681 2 = or) sone r=] 2 ‘sauyuroy, | RTA ri ® 5 Ss PE = “SYIOIG AYO | hed S “SYORSIIAR ET | ee) Ste eC Ee Bi | @ MOO Oaes S -suoady | ye RFRA R S . *su10 1 | ger ee cg 1S tet f 8 | oS & fol lO RX nr wt AOQom Oa e oO - 2s sais | RSA LR 8 [A ‘sonmm-suinig | TTS RRa7 1S > a — Oocomenrs =) ty a *SUIOF-OUIWLT | RIAU” | R P= I Paeaas a = syaojsur'y | TAR m Ses sono S = *"YorepAy-AV0|S JO S[loD | Wet a (eh hes RODS n 2&8 SWUOM | Pt mR LS . i S = a spey| © (2 SRRTI NS s = eres x aes *sasund TO MSRORRieage & Heo Ss : — Ss be ° oreor = Be sruuvy | 6 RRR (S ~ Opa aie a) ~ a os 5.8 roug punoy | * Se 8 cid S ,eSROADS R bp & *JOUG 9SBQ | ORE perm ala ent tht R £§ ‘soSpuneg puuyg | ore eer lS P a RN <8 LS GOO a L S hs ssaspupededeg p18 1) OO Seok ss | é 3 oe ; i = -sadoy seiq | 0 eet at as qe aml, a +~+rootstas | A a saytdg-puepy | mMROSD + 1 | B = i, ~ a ‘saaeieg uosiuey | 6 TRBG se 1 1 |B 2 *saxog-aqny, | he LE RO Per eo be ilo => —I—) = Ss ‘saquy, | fie ade A ‘SS ' ‘le 2 c 2 at gk ssadony Svaqi:| 6 woe Sings rr enn an] S i a 5 Ja) ‘saryitog | (ae AY ae = ' (|S > = Sse Se ee ees oi 3 “yrrp-Mo[g jo sfog [ee et Qee eer lS . st~stos = Ss saul Ag-uiutg | 1 + tyr ehe Gigs 55 ‘syooisurT J ARAN eas tla ss "SULIOAA | ISSO | S wt F S = pesiDE LE ces eat, Aloe S owes | CESS SS) rey tigi ar | 08 = n ‘sosunda (NG. Nev | Se . n Snir Se oaS UF LRN fot s Se PIT[YUN SIopljIV) | Qin ar ‘8 S __—_ movmowrvs = 52 “pally saspiiaeg | RRRARAS | s Lae az ir) ae = "saspUWwd YIM GOYS ewsevg ez OOM ot Shane! la : So OD OQ = Og, "oyg aseg | HOR ORs + 1 A = [vo) — are “soSpinniws ym Goyg punoy | 1 ES = la a eaqsssss.. 18 CY FOUS punod | a SccRra) Hage | ea = "sasUl1IG Uosiiier | Ce Oeste ray | o8 = ‘saoernivg plang | oon hank tank oe RS “uouURd jo vaquuy | “TC RFRR™ ' | R i ¥% Ps’? , See! \ aes! : NADNOoOAHOA XN uouurg jo suaqueg | SAAS | N.B. The above Return includes all at or near this place, except what are on board the sloop or schooners; a number of carriages not fitting any of the cannon on the ground; two 13-inch mortars, with beds; forty 13-inch shells; one 43-inch cohorn; a number of 8-inch and other size shells, which exact number cannot at present be ascertained. A large quantity of sheet copper and tin will be necessary to complete the above; also, one hundred sheep-skins dressed for spunges, thirty pounds of spunge tacks, five pounds of copper nails,and a good tinman, for the Laboratory. N. B. Ten grape and ten double-headed or chain shot, wanted for all the cannon above 6-pounders, and a few for the 4-pounders. B. Arnoxp. One mortar is since burst on trying it in a row-galley. No hurt done wr R. V. ISAAC PEIRCE TO COLONEL BUELL. Head-Quarters, Ticonderoga, July 30, 1776. Srr: You are immediately, upon receipt of this, to set out for this place, in order to join your regiment. By the General’s command : Isaac Perrce, Aid-de-Camp. To Lieutenant-Colonel Buell. PETITION OF LIEUTENANT FOWLER AND OTHERS. The humble Petition of Lieutenant Samuri Fow er, Lieu- tenant Joun Wesster, Lieutenant Naruanirer Wa rs, and Ensign Frye Baytey, of Colonel Bepvex’s Regi- ment, humbly showeth : That your petitioners’ families, as also their whole sub- stance at home, being in a very deplorable state on account of the present troubles, beg the liberty to resign our com- missions, not through any dislike to the Army, or that we CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 682 are not willing to serve and defend our country; but self- preservation, the first law of nature, calling for our assistance to take care of our families, is the reason for petitioning for a resignation. If there should be any call, we shall be willing to return, after our securing our families; as also use our endeavours to collect and bring what men we can belonging to the service. Ticonderoga, July 30, 1776. Sami. Fowrer, Lieutenant. Joun Wessrer, Lieutenant. Natruy. Waues, Lieutenant. Frye Bayuey, Ensign. To Major-General Gates. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM TICONDEROGA, DATED JULY 30, 1776. We have no certain accounts of the strength of the enemy, who are at St. John’s, building boats and vessels, in order to take the Lake. A number of ship-carpenters from Philadelphia have arrived at Skenesborough, where they are building galleys, so that in a short time we shall have a strong force on the Lake. Some companies of Militia from New-England have also arrived there. We are impatiently expecting the return of a flag, sent by General Gates to Carleton, with the Declaration of Inde- pendency; also a requisition for the delivery of Forster and his party, that they may receive such punishment as their conduct merits, in suffering the savages inhumanly to butcher the captives, in direct violation of the capitulation entered into by General Arnold at the Cedars. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM INDEPENDENT-POINT, DATED sJuLy 30, 1776. Three schooners are gone down the Lake, and a sloop and six or eight gondolas will follow in a few days. Two hundred carpenters are employed in building more after the Delaware mould. We have plenty of large guns, and hope soon to have a formidable fleet upon Lake Champlain. Carleton and Burgoyne are at St. John’s, likewise busy in preparing a fleet. A Canadian, a friend of ours, and an officer in the Militia, arrived yesterday from St. Francois, twelve miles below Sorel, his property being seized by Carleton. He says that Carleton and Burgoyne have not yet ordered the Cana- dians to arms, but have notified them to be ready in Sep- tember to come with them over the Lakes, as they intend to drive the Rebels out of the country, and winter in Albany. This may be their intention, but I am certain they will find it impracticable. ‘They will have to pass, in the first place, the gondolas; secondly, Crown-Point ; and thirdly, the Nar- rows below Independent-Point and Ticonderoga. Our for- tifications are much stronger than when the French had this post, when, with only three thousand French and Canadians, they made such a terrible havock of the British Army in 1758. Good living here at present, having plenty of fresh beef and excellent bread. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, July 30, 1776. Honovurep Sir: Ensign Hughes, who had set off from here on the night of the 24th instant, returned here on the evening of the 20th. He went down as far as tht Isle Motte ; he expected to have met Captain Wilson there, but he was gone fiom thence. He imagined he might have returned home by the east side of the Lake. Mr. Hughes carefully examined all round the Isle Motte, but discovered no eneiny; nor did he see anything of the two men who had gone to St. John’s in a canoe. He surrounded Hays’s house in the night, but found no strangers. He went several miles up the river Sable, in expectation of intercepting some Indians and a Canadian, but discovered no marks of them. Major Bigelow passed the Island while the Ensign was there. He could not speak to him. I sent orders to Captain Wil- son, by Major Bigelow, to return. He probably saw him, There is (I believe) no enemy on this side of the White- House on the Lake. When Marines were spoken of by General Arnold, I 683 thought of Mr. Hops as a fit person for First Lieutenant among them. He was commissioned. I had not an oppor- tunity of consulting him first. He has, upon consideration, thought proper to make his resignation. He apprehends the Jand service will suit him best, especially as he cannot have the men he could wish with him. He holds an Ensigney in the Sixth Battalion, which he prefers for the present. His wound is not cured yet: salt provision might be injurious to it. He hopes his conduct will not give offence. Mr. Calderwood, an officer in this battalion, who is a scholar, and has been three years and a half in the sea service, part of which as a Midshipman on board a man-of- war, is desirous of serving as an officer of Marines on this Lake. He is a person of courage, and will show himself worthy of an appointment. I beg leave to recommend him to your Honour to be appointed a First Lieutenant of Marines on board the schooner Royal Savage, in the room of Mr. Hops. I would be very glad that his commission should bear the same date with that to Mr. Hops. Mr. Calderwood is a good draughtsman, and may be useful in this particular also on the Lake. I am afraid my writing so often may give you offence, but I shall not be so troublesome for the future. I am, sir, with the greatest respect, your humble servant, Tuos. Hart ey. To Major-General Gates. CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, July 30, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour; Elipht. Dyer, Jz. Huntington, Richd, Law, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Wm. Hillhouse, Nathl. Wales, and Benj. Huntington, Esqs. Voted and allowed to Prosper Wetmore, Esq., Sheriff of the County of New-London, the sun of £12 2s. 10d., for his expense and trouble in supporting and guarding twenty- two Continental prisoners, taken by Commodore Hopkins, and transporting them, with their baggage, to Windham Jail, as per bill. Also voted and allowed to said Wetmore the sum of £11 As., for transporting Dr. Church, by order of Congress, from Norwich to Boston, and from thence to Watertown, as per bill. Also voted and allowed to said Wetmore the sum of £9 5s., for his trouble and expense with Dr. Church whilst a prisoner in his care, from November 1775, until the 27th of May, 1776, and for his trouble in waiting on Dr. Church abroad for his health, at sundry times, during his imprison- ment, as was ordered by Congress; amounting, in the whole, to £32 11s. 10d., lawful money. (Order drawn and delivered Mr. Wetmore.) Voted and allowed to Ebenezer Backus, Jun., of Nor- wich, the sum of £12 2s. 8d., for victualling nineteen prisoners and their guards five days, as per bill 80th July, 1776. (Order drawn on the back of the bill, and delivered Mr. Wetmore.) Voted to draw an order on the Pay-Table for a £1000, in favour of Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., for the Colony use, and to render account. (Order drawn 30th July, and delivered to Colonel Hun- tington.) Voted the following Instructions to his Honour Colonel Huntington, from his Honour the Governour and Council of Safety: You are directed to proceed to New-London, with all possible despatch, and there, in behalf and for the use of the Colony, in conjunction with your son Mr. Andrew Hun- tington, to purchase necessary clothing for the Troops of this Colony, as you can procure upon the most reasonable terms. You are also to treat with the owner of the Ber- mudian sloop, brought into said port by the Continental fleet, for the purchase thereof, and to find out his terms, conditions, &c., and report make; and in the mean time to lay an injunction against the said sloop’s leaving said port till further orders from this Board be had thereon. And you, with your son, are to purchase all the swivel-guns and the shot belonging ‘to them, one-third of the cannon and CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 684 shot, and also one hundred stand of arms, and all the lead- shot lately brought into said port by a French sloop. Memoradndum.—There is a quantity of timber, plank, &c., at Hayden’s Yard in Saybrook, which belongs to the Colony, and must, at some seasonable time, be taken care of. WORCESTER (MASSACHUSETTS) COMMITTEE. Worcester, July 30, 1776. Avreeably to a Resolve of the Continental Congress, the Committee of the Town of Worcester having liberated Alex- ander Gardner and John Thornhill, two prisoners of war, that they might support themselves by their labour; and on the 28th day of July instant they went from this town to- gether, and have not since returned. Gardner had on, when he went away, a red coat lappelled with buff, buttons marked 10; he has been a drummer in the Twenty-Third Regiment of Fusiliers. Thornhill has been a sailor, had on a sailor’s blue jacket, speaks something slow, pretty tall. Whoever will take up and return the said prisoners to the Committee of Safety, &c., for the Town of Worcester, shall receive four dollars reward, and all reasonable charges, or two dollars for either of them. : Naruan Batpwin, Chairman. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO THEOPHILUS CUSHING. In Council, July 30, 1776. Sir: Lam directed by the Committee of Council to inform you that there are many complaints from different parts of this State for want of camp-kettles, canteens, &c., which you, as one of the Committee, were to provide. I need not press the necessity of forwarding them immediately, when I inform you that the men are now waiting on the road for those articles, and are very uneasy, to the great detriment of this State; therefore the Committee of Council earnestly request that you forward them without further delay. By order of Council: Joun Avery, Dep. Secretary. To Theophilus Cushing, Esq. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO JOSEPH NYE, JUN. In Council Chamber, July 30, 1776. Sir: In answer to your request of the 26th instant, we would have you proceed to muster and form your men into companies, agreeable to the resolve of Court for raising the men, and make return thereof to Council as soon as possible; upon which you will receive further orders. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM DOVER, IN ENGLAND, DATED JuLy 31, 1776. The Zachary Bayley, from Jamaica for London, and the Creighton, from Antigua, with rum for the Army, were taken by the Yankee privateer, Captain Johnson, carrying nine four-pounders, sixteen swivels, and forty-three men. The prizes were sent to New-England, and the masters, together with a Midshipman of the Experiment, man-of-war, who was a passenger, and eleven seamen, were taken on board the privateer. On the 3d of July they seized the privateer without bloodshed, and have brought her to Dover. They were chased by two sloops, whom they imagined to be American privateers, but durst not engage them because of the number of prisoners they had on board. Captain Johnson (the American commander of the pri- vateer) complained of the illiberal treatment he received, by being insulted frequently while at sea, calling him by the most. opprobrious names, and threatening him with the cruellest and most savage punishments; and also for suffer- ¢ ing many people to come on board after the privateer arrived in the river to insult him in the grossest terms, though he was then a prisoner. And when his brother came to see him, after a three years’ absence, they were not permitted to talk together one minute in private. The prisoners on board the Yankee privateer having peti- tioned not to be closely confined, but that they might be put to some employment, upon which it was agreed that they should be placed on board the guardships. The vessel was afterwards ordered to be sold, and the money to be given to the captors. 685 To His Excellency General Lex, Commander-in- Chief, &c.: The Petition of the Inhabitants of the Parish of Sr. Georee, and Sr. Pau, including the ceded lands in the Province of Georeta, most humbly showeth: That your petitioners, living on the frontiers of the western parts of the Province of Georgia aforesaid, are much exposed to the barbarous attacks of the Creek Indians, and more especially from the intercourse which necessarily must sub- sist between them and the Indian traders, whilst an Indian trade is carried on, as it tends to bring those savages down into the settlements, and they seldom return without either committing murder or robbery, and generally both, upon the white people. ‘That this trade is of the utmost prejudice to your petitioners, and the rest of the Province, excepting only a few men immediately concerned in it. And we would further represent to your Excellency, that at the treaty held between Sir James Wright, Bart., and John Stuart, Esq., on behalf of George the Third, and the Headmen and Warriors of the same nation, in the year 1774, the Indzan traders, from self-interested views, then recommended it to the said Sir James Wright and John Stuart to reject a certain offer made to them by the said Headmen and Warriors of a most valuable cession of a tract of land lying or being on Oconee River, being a fork of the Alatamaha, and by nature formed for the benefit and advantage of the inhabi- tants, in giving them an opportunity of sending and export- ing their produce to market. And your petitioners can with truth assure your Excellency, that if the Indian trade was banished, it would be not only the means of restoring peace and tranquillity to this back country, but likewise would encourage people to come and settle therein. ‘That your petitioners submit to your Excellency’s wise consideration how far prudent it might be to make an attempt to exter- minate and rout those savages out of their nation, as it ap- pears to your petitioners that a sufficient force might (with your Excellency’s assistance) now be raised against them ; and in such case your petitioners will be ready, at the hazard of their lives and fortunes, to unite together for so desirable a purpose. May it, therefore, please your Excellency to take the premises into mature deliberation, and to grant such relief to your petitioners as your Excellency may think most proper. And your petitioners will ever pray. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM CHARLESTOWN, SOUTH-CARO- LINA, DATED JULY 31, 1776. We are just setting out for the burning sands of Georgia. An expedition is planned against part of Kast-Florida, ‘Two brothers of Governour Wright, with many others, are in- trenched on St. Mary’s River, which divides Florida from Georgia. Besides the great number of negroes they have of their own, others flock to them. Colonel Somers’s regi- ment from North-Carolina, and Major White, of North- Carolina, with two companies of volunteers, have marched; and Colonel Muhlenberg’s regiment only waits for wagons to transport their baggage. GENERAL HOOPER TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Dorchester County, July 31, 1776. Sir: The conduct of Lieutenant Levt Willen and Ensign Job Todd, both of Captain Lake’s company of Militia, has of late been such as to give great reason to suspect their principles are unfriendly to American liberty, and which I think renders them unfit to hold their commissions. [I there- fore make this representation of them to your honourable Board, that you may take such order therein as you think necessary. I am, very respectfully, sir, your most obedient servant, Henry Hooper. To Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. CAPTAIN SMITH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fort at Whetstone, July 31, 1776. GentLemen: There is a soldier belonging to Captain Bowie's company (formerly Colonel Ewing’s) who deserted, and was taken up two days ago, and put into the prison in Baltimore. Colonel Ewing desired I would send his men to join their company as soon as I had an opportunity. I CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 686 should be glad you would let me know, as soon as convenient, whether the Sheriff must be allowed what is common for taking up servants, and the prison fees. You will observe he is committed by the name of Samuel Johnson; his name is John Montgomery. I should be glad to know who I am to apply to as doctor in Mr. Weisenthal’s absence. If it would be agreeable to you, would apply to Doctor Coulter, who I think the most skilful in this place, and will do it as cheap as any one. I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant, Naru. Smirn. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. DORCHESTER COUNTY COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee of Observation, Dorchester County, July 31, 1776. GentLemen: We herewith send, under a guard to your Board, Joseph Wheeland, Junior, John Evans, and Robert Howith, who were lately taken in Hooper’s Straits, in the service of Lord Dunmore, by a party of Major Fallen’s men, and sent by the Major to us, as by his letter, which we have enclosed for your perusal, will appear. ‘The depositions of Joseph Mareman, and Moses Yell, which are mentioned in the enclosed letter, we have since received from Captain Eccleston, the Magistrate who took them, which we have also enclosed. We have not seen Captain Eccleston since he took the depositions, but are informed Mareman and Yell have returned home, on a promise that they will attend your Board on notice. We apprehend the prisoners will not deny their being in the service of Dunmore; but if they should, and any further evidence should be necessary to prove that fact, on your informing us of it we believe such may be easily had. Wheeland is the man who, the last Convention (as we are told) were informed, served as pilot to Dunmore’s vessels up to Nanticoke Point, and he confesses to us he was with the party who took cattle from Hopkins’s Island. We are, gentlemen, your obedient servants. Signed per order of Committee : Epwarp Noe, Chairman. To the Honourable the Council of Safety, Annapolis. Joseph Mareman, being sworn on the Holy Evangels of Almighty God, deposeth and saith: That about the 15th day of this instant, he, with Moses Yell, left the mouth of Hungar- River, in a vessel bound to Potomack, loaded with plank and tar; but being a hard gale and a large swell, they were obliged to put back; but on their attempting to put back, the tide headed them. They afterwards hove about, and stood for the mouth of Potomack again; and about daybreak they espied Lord Dunmore’s fleet, at the distance of about a mile. ‘They then hove about, and stood for Smyth’s Island, and there came to anchor. ‘They staid there about two or three hours. ‘The wind moderated. ‘This deponent went ashore to Smyth’s Island, in order to buy some fish, and to seek for a canoe he had lost the night before, and to inquire if there was no inlet there to make a better harbour, and to get some fire to cook with. Before he got ashore, he saw two men in a canoe, making towards him, which he understood afterwards were Joseph Wheeland, Jun., and one Lazarus, a Mulatto; and by the time he got ashore, they came up with him. ‘This deponent says, they then asked him from whence he came, and what he had in. His answer was, they had plank and tar; that they were from Potomack, loaded in Hungar-River, and bound to Potomack again. Wheeland then asked this deponent if he did not belong to the fleet? This deponent asked, what fleet? They answer- ed, the English fleet. This deponent answered, he did not. He then asked, who he was for, either the country or the King? This deponent told him, he did not choose to intermeddle with either side. He then asked him, how many men he had on board? ‘This deponent told him, there was but one person besides himself. He then asked him, (this deponent,) if he was a Tory or not? He then told him he could not tell. The said Joseph Wheeland then told him he belonged to the English fleet, and he must go along with him. He then asked him if he was willing to stay with the fleet. He then told him, (the said Wheeland,) no; for he had a wife and children, and wanted to get home as 687 soon as possible. The said Wheeland said he would not detain any person that had a family against their will; but if they had no family, they should go. He then asked him for some victuals, for he was very hungry. He then ordered him to get into the canoe with the Mulatto fellow, Lazarus, and go up to the three schooners that Jay.in the creek, and tell some person to give him some victuals; and while he was giving orders, there came two other persons in a canoe, with a case of gin and rum, and gave hima dram. He then got out of his canoe, and sent one of the other persons with him, and he, the said Wheeland, and one of the persons in the other canoe, proceeded on board Captain Yell. We went some part of the way in the canoe, till they came to an anchor. ‘They then took it in, and ordered him to keep along shore. As this deponent was going along, he met with one of the Islanders, and had some conversation with him, till the said Joseph Wheeland came up with the said Captain Yell, and then took him aboard said canoe, and carried him, the said deponent, with the said Yell, on board the schooners that lay in the creek’s mouth aforesaid, in Smyth’s Island, where there was likewise a sloop dismasted, as they understood, which belonged to one White, up Nanticoke ; and when they came aboard, they saw about twenty persons sharing of plunder, and as they understood were all county born, except one. This deponent, with Captain Yell, re- quested the said Joseph Wheeland to go on shore. He then told them they might, but that Yel2 must leave his clothes on board. ‘They then went on shore, and got some victuals at Richard Evans’s. After some time, Marmaduke Mister, and sundry persons, came to the said house, and took supper. Some time after supper, Marmaduke Mister told this depo- nent and Captain Yell that they must go aboard, for they could not keep guard aboard and on shore too. ‘They then ordered them on board. As they were going along. he said, God damn you! do you go before the guard? John Evans’ said it would make no difference. He, the said Mister, said, they should not go before the guard. When they got on board, they ordered them down into the cabin, where they remained all night. ‘There were several on the guard, viz: Joseph Wheeland, John Evans, John Price, Robert Howith, and one Dial, and several others that he did not know, which said persons, as mentioned above, are under guard at Hooper’s Straits, except the said Dial. ‘The next morn- ing, Joseph Wheeland ordered three hands to bring up the vessel, They informed, when they returned, that she was between two bars, and they could not get her off. John Evans then persuaded the said Joseph Wheeland to let the men have the vessel again, as she would not be of any use to them. Wheeland then told this deponent, that Captain Yell might have the vessel if they would get her off. This deponentand Yel then went down to the vessel ; and when the said deponent and Yell returned, the said Yedl told the said Wheeland that he could get her off, and wanted his said clothes and money. He then refused him his clothes and vessel, and said he must have the tar; but if he would wait till he was gone to the fleet, he might have the residue of his cargo and vessel. The said deponent and Yell went to unloading the said vessel, and took out six barrels of tar, and put them on board Richard Evans’s boat, and told the said Wheeland that he should have the residue as soon as he could come at it. Wheeland told the said deponent that he had just received orders to come immediately to the fleet, and to burn that vessel that was understood to be White’s. The said Yell then asked him for his clothes and money. He then gave him part of his clothes, and told him some person had stolen his money, and that he might have his vessel and all his load. ‘This deponent says that he heard the said Joseph Wheeland tell the said Marmaduke Mister, that if he would see the aforesaid sloop that belonged to White burnt, he might have the iron of said vessel; upon which, said vessel was burnt; that the said Joseph Wheeland went off immediately. ; The said Yell and this deponent hired hands, and got off their vessel, and carried her to the creek aforesaid, in order to take in the remainder of her load; and before he had got her loaded, two tenders came in with the Island, and the said deponent and Captain Yedl went on shore; and as soon as they got on shore, two persons came down the creek, and went on board the said vessel, and carried her over to the fleet. One of the persons, as this deponent was informed, was Isaac Summers, from Little Annamésick, the other a lad CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 688 unknown. The aforesaid Joseph Wheeland was, as this deponent understood, esteemed the commanding officer of the said vessel ; and further saith not. Sworn before Joseph Mareman lives in St. Mary’s County, near Leon- ard- Town, on Breton’s Bay. Hueu Eccresron. Moses Yell, being sworn on the Holy Evangels of Al- mighty God, deposeth and saith: That some time about the 15th instant, this deponent was going in a vessel to Poto- mack River with tar and plank; but on seeing Dunmore’s fleet, this deponent returned, and anchored under Smith’s Island. About two or three hours after he had anchored, Joseph Wheeland, with one other man unknown to this deponent, came on board the vessel this deponent was in. Joseph Wheeland asked this deponent if he saw the fleet. This deponent answered that he had seen the fleet, and returned in consequence of it. Joseph Wheeland then asked this deponent whence he came, and where he was bound, and who he was for. This deponent answered, he had not a design to kill any person, but was a friend to his country. Joseph Wheeland then asked this deponent who he thought was right—the King, or the Shirtmen. This deponent answered that he thought the Americans were right. Joseph Wheeland then told this deponent he was for the fleet, and had orders from Lord Dunmore to take any vessel belong- ing to the Rebels, and destroy such as he thought proper, and carry the rest to the fleet. The said Wheeland then demanded a sight of this deponent’s papers, which this de- ponent gave him. The said Wheeland then took the papers, a pocket-book, about forty shillings cash, and all the clothes belonging to this deponent that were in the vessel, except what he had on, and carried this deponent, together with the clothes and money, on board a tender which he informed this deponent he had the command of; and likewise the said Wheeland informed him he had the command of the other two vessels that were with the one this deponent was put on board of. . This deponent saith, the said Wheeland told him he had taken a vessel belonging to White, in Nanticoke, and that he (Wheeland) intended to fit her out with four four-pounders and twelve swivels to guard the Islands, and keep the Shirt- men from going on to abuse the inhabitants. The aforesaid Wheeland told him he must take out the mast from his ves- sel, (Yell’s,) and put it in the vessel he had taken from White, which was then driven aground, and had lost her mast; but before he had got her over the bar, he (Yell) understood from an old man on board the tender, that Wheeland had received an express from the fleet ordering him to come up to Potomack, to assist the fleet in getting water, as quickly as possible, as orders were come to the fleet to go out as soon as they could—part to Martinico, to fight the F'rench, (as they expected a war there,) and a part to New-York or Halifax. Wheeland soon after ordered fire set to White’s vessel, and one other which he had not got over the bar; and put this deponent on shore, gave him part of his clothes, and told him he might take his boat again. This deponent saith that Marmaduke Mister was one of the persons that kept guard over him one night while he was on board the tender. The aforesaid Mister asked this deponent who he was for, whether King or county, This deponent answered, he was friend to every person that behaved well. The aforesaid Mister then commanded, in the King’s name, to tell him the truth. This deponent then told him he was born in this country, and had a right to defend his liberty. Mister then said, what them damned Rebels call liberty, I call slavery, and so the people will find it. This deponent further saith, that Marmaduke Mister set fire to one of the vessels that was burnt, and was to have the iron for doing it. ‘This deponent saith that John Evans, Robert Howith, and one Price, were likewise on board the same tender, under the command of the aforesaid Joseph Wheeland, (he supposes,) as he often heard them call him Captain. ‘This deponent saith he heard John Evans say he was determined to have several of the principal people on the Islands, either dead or alive, or get some of their negroes, This deponent saith he has seen Joseph Wheeland, John Evans, Robert Howith, and Price, the four persons above mentioned, since they have been under guard at the Straits, and that they are the same persons that he saw on board of 689 the tender above mentioned. This deponent further saith, on his asking Joseph Wheeland for his clothes, Wheeland threatened to put him in irons in the vessel’s hole. ‘This deponent likewise saith, that John Evans told him not to be uneasy about his clothes and money, for that Wheeland would give them to him after he was ready to go from the Island, for the paper money would be of no more use to him than blank paper. Sworn before Hueu Eccursron. July 27, 1776. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MAJOR PRICE, [No. 99.] Annapolis, July 31, 1776. Sir: Captain Mantz, who commands a company of the Frederick battalion, well armed and accoutred, this day marches to relieve Captain Thomas and his company, whom you may thereupon order up to this place in his way to the camp to the northward. He may leave his pots to Captain Mantz’s company to cook with, and may be supplied here with camp-kettles or pots more portable than those he has now in possession. Captain Mantz will occupy the posts and places where Captain Thomas’s company were station- ed, until further orders. The officers despatched by you to give Captain Nicholson notice, not being able to overtake him, had very nearly occa- sioned a loss of the Defence. She was becalmed, and obli- ged to come to an anchor, tide against her. The English fleet had a wind, which brought them down Potomack within three miles of her, where she lay becalmed, when fortunately a breeze sprung up, which enabled her to escape. ‘They heard no firing at your camp. Weare glad to hear the cannon proves good, as it will be advantageous to the Province, and a greater encouragement to those who use them in time of engagement, as they will put the more confidence in the rest. We are also well pleased on the account of Mr. Hughes’s succeeding in the way to satisfaction. We received copies of Mr. Eden’s, Mr. Wolstenholme’s, and Mr. Forrest’s letters, and still retain the opinion com- municated to you in our last, and of which we informed Colonel Barnes, in answer to his packet, that it is unsafe, at this period of time, to permit Mr. Wolstenholme to depart this Province, and the more especially as he would not en- gage secrecy with respect to our movements and present situation; and his letter to Mr. Eden, of the 20th July, so far from removing, has impressed it more forcibly on our minds. We are sorry for the fatigue and hard fare you have met with, and would alleviate it as much as lies in our power; it is only the fortune de la guerre. Another time, we hope you will have quarters more agreeable. We doubt not your humanity will interest you so far in favour of the sick as to have all the care taken of them you can. We have here- tofore written you about the cannon coming up by water, after the departure of the enemy. Weare, &c. To Major Thomas Price. P.S. We have some powder and small-arms arrived at Wicomico, in Virginia, as you will see by the enclosed receipt, and should be glad of your opinion how we could contrive it across in the safest manner to the Maryland side of Potomack. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THOMAS JONES. {No. 100.] Annapolis, July 31, 1776. Sir: We thank your Committee for the care they have and intend to take of the Molly’s cargo belonging to our Province. We are not yet certain whether we shall order wagons from Alexandria, or send a vessel to the mouth of Potomack for it. ‘This will depend upon the information we may receive from Major Price, who has the command of our troops stationed on St. Mary’s River. Should he think that it may be transported across the river without risk, either above or below St. Mary’s, it is probable we shall adopt what he may recommend. Weare, &c. To Thomas Jones, Esq., Chairman of Committee of Obser- vation for Northumberland County. Firru Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 690 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN CONWAY. {[No. 101.] Annapolis, July 31, 1776. Sir: Our Council would be very glad to see you imme- diately at Annapolis, to consult you about another voyage for the Molly, and also to be informed of the particulars that have happened relative to her last. We are, &c. To Captain Thomas Conway. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JOSEPH GILPIN. [No. 102.] Annapolis, July 31, 1776. Sir: Mr. Woolsey, of Baltimore-Town, informs us that he has heard there is a good flint quarry about two miles from the head of Elk, and of course, we are told, must be near your house, on your land. The Congress, foreseeing the necessity of having gun-flints manufactured among us, have requested the strictest search to be made after, and earliest intelligence given them of the discovery of any such quarry in any of the Independent States. We request you will make inquiry, and acquaint us of the success of the inquiry with all the speed in your power. We are, &c. To Joseph Gilpin, Esq. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO ALEXANDER McFADON. [No. 103.] Annapolis, July 31, 1776. Sir: There is an immediate demand for tenting and shirt- ing linen for the troops raised by this Colony in the Conti- nental service. It would be extremely serviceable to the publick, and agreeable to us, that you would exert yourself all in your power to furnish this Province with what quanti- ties you can, and send it directly to this place. We are, & To Mr. Alexander McFadon, Georgetown. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO THE PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, July 31, 1776. GenTLEMEN: The service at the Flying-Camp requiring some pieces of artillery, I have it in charge from Congress to request you will immediately send to General Mercer ten six-pounders, and an equal number of four-pounders. If you cannot furnish them out of the stores of the State of Pennsylvania, 1 am to request you will procure them with all possible despatch, and forward them to Amboy in New- Jersey. Whatever number you can spare, you will please to forward immediately, and procure the remainder as soon as possible. Your ardour and zeal in the cause of your country will, I am persuaded, supersede the necessity of arguments to induce you to an immediate compliance with this requisition. I have the honour to be, with respect, gentlemen, your most obedient, and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Pennsylvania. Ry PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July 31, 1776. Str: The enclosed resolves, which I do myself the honour of transmitting, are so explicit that I need only refer your attention to them. You will please to give such orders with regard to build- ing boats for the service of the Flying-Camp as you shall judge necessary. A copy of General Mercer’s letter to Con- gress on this subject you have enclosed. I have written to the Council of Safety of this State to forward to General Mercer ten six-pounders and an equal number of four-pounders, with the greatest expedition. Your favour of the 29th came safe to hand, and was immediately laid before Congress. I have forwarded to Generals Schuy- ler and Mercer a copy of the enclosed resolves, as far as they relate to their respective departments. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of the greatest respect and esteem, sir, your most obedient, and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. P.S, Upon conversing with General Sudlivan, and stating 44 691 to him the reasons of Congress’s promoting General Gates over him, he desired me to move for leave to withdraw his application to resign, in which the Congress have acquiesced. He has now orders to repair to New-York, where you will please to assign him such post of duty as you shall-think proper. A Continental ship arrived at Chester with three hundred and sixty-six pigs of lead, fifty-four boxes musket balls, one thousand stand of arms with bayonets, one barrel flints, one hundred and ninety-three whole barrels powder. [Endorsed on cover of Letter by J. H., Esq.: Also, a privateer has brought in a West-Indiaman bound to London, having on board, besides produce, eleven hundred johannes, seven hun- dred guineas, &c.] PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO BENJAMIN FLOWER. Philadelphia, July 31, 1776. Sir: The enclosed commission of Commissary of Military Stores for the Flying-Camp has been ready for you ever since the date of it. I should have forwarded it sooner if I had known where to send it. It was not till yesterday [ heard you were with Colonel Dickinson at the Flying-Camp. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Benjamin Flower, New-Jersey. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL MERCER. Philadelphia, July 31, 1776. Sir: I do myself the honour of transmitting the enclosed resolves, by which you will perceive that your application to Congress relative to building boats for the use of the Flying-Camp, is referred to General Washington, to whom I have written on the subject, by this conveyance, to give such directions as he shall judge necessary. I have also written to the Council of Safety of Pennsylvania, to forward to you immediately ten six-pounders, and an equal number of four-pounders. The Congress have allowed you a Secretary as long as you shall continue to act in a separate command. ‘The sixty thousand dollars for the use of the Flying-Camp will be sent as soon as possible. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Brigadier-General Mercer, New-Jersey. P. S. The appointment of a Brigade-Major resting entirely with yourself, you are authorized to nominate one as soon as ever you shall think proper. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Philadelphia, July 31, 1776. Sir: I am so extremely hurried that I have only time to forward the enclosed resolves of Congress, which are indeed so explicit, that there is not the least occasion to enlarge. I must therefore request your attention to them, and beg leave to conclude, by assuring you that I am, with sentiments of real respect and esteem, sir, your most obedient and very umble servan , SNES bli Joun Hancock, President. To General Schuyler, Albany, or elsewhere. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO JOSEPH TRUMBULL. Philadelphia, July 31, 1776. Sir: The Continental troops being ordered from Boston to New-York, and the Massachusetts-Bay left to depend entirely on their Militia, Tam to inform you, that should the Assembly of that State think proper to call any of them into the field, you will in that case take care that they are supplied with rations, making the enclosed resolve of Con- gress the rule of your conduct. I am, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Joseph Trumbull, Esq., Com’y General, at New-York. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, July 31, 1776. Sir: This morning two Negroes were brought to me who made their escape last night from Staten-Island, and were CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 692 taken up by our guards at South-Amboy. Their examina- tion contains nothing new, but is sent enclosed for your perusal. By the report of the commanding officer at the above mentioned post, it appears that thirty-nine sail of square- rigged vessels, three of them men-of-war, have come in from sea within these three days. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant ’ Hueu Mercer. Examination of two Negroes, Deserters from Staren-Istanp, Jury 31, 1776. The Examination of Joshua, a Negro slave, belonging to Peter Peleyon, of Richmond County, on sStaten-Island, taken at Perth-Amboy, July 31st, 1776, before Hugh Mercer, Esq., Brigadier-General. Saith he hath lived on the south side of Staten-Island, in Richmond County aforesaid, for the space of nine years; that having gone to see the fleet on Sunday last, his master threat- ened him with a beating; that at the Watering Place there is a large encampment with many soldiers. He has heard of no other large encampment on the Island, except at the post at Billop’s Point. He has overheard discourses among the enemy, of attacking New-York, when Lord Howe’s fleet shall arrive, before which time they should not have a suf- ficient number of men to pursue their design with ; that the troops on the Island are almost all frish and Scotch; that the English regiments are to come over with Lord Howe’s fleet; that said fleet was to consist of two hundred sail ; that the enemy have yet a plenty of provisions. ‘This exa- minant overheard an officer threaten to come over to the Jerseys, for stock, by-and-by. The Tories are well treated by the British troops; Governour Tryon has set a price on pro- visions; the soldiers are divided among the plantations within his knowledge on the east side of the Island. Lawrence, another Negro slave, belonging to the above mentioned Peter Peleyon, being examined, in like manner as the above named Joshua, saith: He has lived with Peleyon eight years; that an officer and fourteen soldiers live at his master’s house. He believes the greatest number of soldiers. to be on the shore near the place where the fleet lies. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 5, 1776.] New-York, July 31, 1776. Sir: This will be handed you by Captain Marquesie, with whom I have no other acquaintance than what is derived from the enclosed letter from General Schuyler. He says he has lost his baggage and all he had in our service. I have advanced him twenty dollars, and he is now going to wait on Congress, to whom I suppose he means to make his pretensions known. I have the Honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINeTON. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress. EPHRAIM ANDERSON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, July 31, 1776. Sir: I beg leave just to inform you that I have been for some time past very assiduous in the preparation of fire ships. Two are already complete and hauled off in the stream; two more will be off to-morrow, and the residue in a very short time. In my next I hope to give you a particular account of a general conflagration, as everything in my power shall be exerted in the demolition of the enemy’s fleet. I expect to take an active part, and be an instrument for that purpose. I am determined (God willing) to make a conspicuous figure among them, by being a “burning and shining light,” and thereby serve my country, and have the honour of meeting the approbation of Congress. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, and very humble servant, Epnraim ANDERSON. To the Hon. John Hancock, President of the Honourable Continental Congress, Philadelphia. P. S. The bearer, Captain Marquesie, Engineer, I have been acquainted with, in our service in Canada, and recom- mend him as a deserving officer. 693 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. New-York, July 31, 1776. Dear Sir: Your favours of the 14th, 17th, 20th, and 24th, have been duly received, and I am extremely happy to find that you have discovered and apprehended some of the ringleaders of a dangerous plot you say was forming in the neighbourhood of Albany; nor do I hear with little plea- sure of the harmony and good agreement between you and General Gates, knowing how essential they are to the ser- vice. ' Agreeable to your request, I communicated to Mr. Trum- bull that part of your letter respecting Mr. Livingston, and your apprehensions of his resigning in case any person should be appointed to act independently of him in the business he usually managed. Upon this occasion T must observe, that as Mr. Trumbull has the supreme direction given him by Congress of supplying the Northern Army, and is the person that is to be accountable if it is not done in a proper manner, his appointment should and must be regarded, or things in this instance will never proceed in a regular channel, and fatal consequences will otherwise ensue. Mr. Trumbull, | believe, has written to Mr. Livingston on the subject, and I imagine has mentioned in what manner he would have him to act; and also given necessary instructions to his deputies. It gives me great satisfaction to hear that taking post at Fort Stanwix has not given umbrage to the Indians ; and also that those who were at Philadelphia and this place, have returned to their several nations with such favourable ideas of our strength and resources. *rom this circumstance I am hopeful you will be able to engage them in our interest, and, with the assistance of the reward allowed by Congress, to excite their efforts to make prisoners of our enemies. I would have you press the matter strongly in both instances ; and though you should not succeed, I flatter myself you will secure their neutrality. That will be an important point to gain. I conceive it will not only be proper, but absolutely neces- sary, to request General Howe to deliver up the officers, who, regardless of their paroles, have escaped from Pennsylvania, and all other that have acted in the same manner, pointing out the impropriety of such conduct, and the difficulty it lays us under as to the line of treatment to be observed to others. In a conversation with the Adjutant-General of the King’s Army, I touched upon this subject, and he assured me all complaints of this nature would be strictly attended to by General Howe, and those who gave rise to them be handled with severity. Lord Howe, too, I am confidently informed, has expressed his great disapprobation of such behaviour, and said that those who were guilty of it should be severely noticed if they came into his hands. Every thinking and sensible person must see the impropriety of it, and the consequences that must attend it. I should suppose the requisition will claim General Burgoyne’s attention, and be readily complied with. The swivels you mention cannot be had; but if the ex- periments of a person who has undertaken to cast some three- pounders should succeed, perhaps after some time you may be furnished in part with a quantity of these. Colonel Knox seems to think they will be far superior to swivels. ‘The man supposes that after he begins he will be able to complete twenty every week. Neither are there any hand-grenades. We have a large number of 43-inch shells, which might be a good substitute. But Ido not know how things of this sort can be forwarded to you, as the water communication with Albany is entirely cut off. ‘The difficulty will be great if not almost insuperable. I observe your reasons for quitting Crown- Point, and pre- ferring Ticonderoga. My knowledge of the importance of the former was not properly my own; it arose from the infor- mation I had from gentlemen and persons who were, or said they were, well acquainted with it, and the situation of the country about it. Being founded on that, I cannot say any- thing myself upon the subject. Your representation of it most certainly lessens its consequence in a capital degree. However, I am fearful the observation of the Field-Officers, “that the New-England Governments, &c., will be thereby exposed to the incursions of our cruel and savage enemies,” will be but too well verified. If that post could not have been maintained, this evil, with others greater, must have happened. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 694 In respect to the privilege you have given the officers who hold double commissions to retain which they choose, I can- not object, if the authority giving them was the same, and such as was exercised usually and approved. I see no cause for it, and suppose the officers have that right. As to Lieute- nant-Colonel Buell’s case, 1 cannot give any direction about it, not having authority to appoint officers generally. It is not in my power to spare you any money from hence. Our chest is all but empty. Congress would be informed by your letters of your situation, doubtless; 1 mentioned it in mine; and have suggested, as I often have, the expediency, nay the necessity, of keeping regular supplies. Nothing of moment has occurred here lately. The enemy are growing stronger. For some time past ships, &c., have been coming in to them more or less. All the eastward ac- counts say that three or four captures have been made lately, among them a provision vessel from Ireland, which of herself came into Boston harbour. In the Southern Department we have been still more lucky: Sir Peter Parker and his fleet got a severe drubbing in an attack against our works-on Sullivan’s Island, just by Charlestown, South-Carolina. A part of their troops at the same time attempting to land were repulsed. ‘The papers, I presume, have reached you an- nouncing this fortunate event, where you will see the par- ticulars transmitted by General Lee to Congress. Iam, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To General Schuyler. MEMORIAL OF THE REGIMENTAL SURGEONS TO CONGRESS, JuLy, 1776. To the Honourable the Representatives of the United Free and Independent States of America: The Memorial of the Regimental Surgeons in the Army commanded by his Excellency General W asuineton, most respectfully showeth: That, immediately after the battles of Lexington and of Bunker’s Hill, the 19th April and 17th June, 1775, the inhabitants of the country rising in defence of their lives, liberty, and property, an Army was suddenly collected in the Province of Massachusetts-Bay, from that and the neigh- bouring Colonies: that Surgeons and Mates were appointed to take charge of the several regiments, and furnished at that time with such supplies of Medicines, Bandages, and Chirur- gical Instruments, as could be procured on that emergency from the respective Colonies in which the regiments were raised, for the use of the sick and wounded in the several regiments to which they belonged: that the honourable Con- tinental Congress, having afterwards appointed a Director- General and Physician-in-Chief, with power and instructions to establish a General Hospital for the reception of the sick and wounded, under certain regulations, agreed and fixed upon by the Congress, with Surgeons, Mates, and other officers to take care of them, no mention was then made of, or any orders given for, the regulation of the Regimental Surgeons and Mates, or allowance of Regimental Hospitals, which are thought necessary in regular Armies. ‘That the said Regi- mental Surgeons and Mates were thus left destitute of necessaries and conveniences for taking care of their sick, not knowing where to apply for them in any regularly estab- lished method, to the great injury of their patients; some of whose cases not requiring them to be sent to the General Hospital, if they could be supplied with a few refreshments under their proper Regimental Surgeons, and the cases of others rendering them unfit patients for a General Hospital, as patients labouring under dysenteries, the itch, hectical patients, and those having fevers likely to be rendered infec- tious by crowding many of them together, with other sick patients, into one large Hospital. ‘That the Regimental Surgeons have no means of providing the sick with wine, cordial, or any variety of refreshments in the dietetick way, as in the General Hospital: that they never have been provided with medicines (except from the General Hospital) since the first supplies from the Colonies were expended: that they are wholly destitute of Surgeons’ Instruments, except a very few, which are private property, and have never had any allowance made them whereby to enable them to provide themselves with the necessary bandages and im- plements of Surgery, by which they are left to depend on the General Hospital for those articles, contrary to all mili- tary rules; nor does it appear that the General Hospital can 695 furnish instruments to the Regimental Surgeons, even if they had an allowed right todemand them. ‘That on application to the Colonels of these regiments for a supply of what they want for these purposes, they are constantly told they have no orders to furnish them; and no assurance, if they were to advance money for these regimental purposes, that they should be repaid. ‘That, in consequence of this unsettled state of affairs, they have applied to the Director-General of the Hospital, and, at a conference on the subject, have agreed with him upon certain pro tempore regulations, if approved of by the Commander-in-Chief, (a copy of which are an- nexed,) for the occasional establishment of Regimental Hospitals, the direction of Regimental Surgeons and Mates, and settling the proper subordination of them to the Direc- tor-General, and ascertaining the dependance they are to have on the General Hospital for supplies of necessary re- freshments; and, by his advice, have thus represented their situation to Congress, "praying that the honourable Represen- tatives will take their case into consideration, and appoint in what method they would in future have them apply for Medicines, Instruments, and other implements of Surgery; and in case further necessaries and refreshments may here- after be wanted, over and above what is already settled by the foregoing rules, for the recovery or preservation of the men, whether the expenses will be allowed by Congress, and who is to defray the same; or whether the Congress may think fit, on any future regulation of the Army, to subject the soldiery to such small stoppages in their pay as may answer that purpose, according to the usage and custom observed in the British and other Armies, for the support of the General and Regimental Hospitals, (it being only an appropriation of part of their pay, by their own consent, at inlistment, and for their own good, where no other fund is provided.) And lastly, that as the Regimental Surgeons are wholly destitute of Chirurgical Instruments for the im- mediate assistance of the wounded of their corps, in case of action, and they cannot leave camp to procure them, they are constrained to entreat that the honourable Congress will be pleased to give some immediate directions for furnishing them with the necessary articles and implements of Surgery; and that, in all cases in which there are no orders given them for the government of themselves and the sick under their care, the usages and customs observed in the British and other European Armies may be allowed to direct them, till more perfect rules of conduct are established by the authority of Congress. And your memorialists, as in duty bound, shall ever pray, &c. MEMORIAL OF THE REGIMENTAL SURGEONS. To His Excellency Grorce W asnineron, Esq., Commander- in- Chief of the Army of the United Free and Independent States of AMERICA: The Regimental Surgeons of the Army, stationed at New-York, commanded by your Excellency, considering themselves aggrieved by the Regulations issued by your Excellency on the 28th of July, and having the strongest assurances that your ear is ever open to the just complaints, and that you are ever ready to redress the injuries, of those under your command, beg leave, with the utmost respect, to remonstrate: ‘That by those orders the sole right of judging and determining of the fitness of removing a patient from the Regimental to the General Hospital, is vested in the Surgeon of the Hospital, to the exclusion of the Regimental Surgeon, who must be supposed to be under equal, if not superior advantages to determine with regard to his own patient, of the propriety of doing it. ‘That we conceive the orders are expressed in such terms, and are in fact so understood by the oflicers of the respective regiments to which we belong, as represent your remonstrants in a very contemptible light, and their services of Tess importance in the Army than we humbly conceive they deserve. While your remonstrants reflect on their assiduity and constant attendance on the sick, the great numbers they have had under their care, in pro- portion to those admitted into the General Hospital, and the almost inconceivable disadvantages which they have labour- ed under till the present period, being almost wholly destitute of suitable supplies, they cannot, on the present occasion, see themselves considered by th® publick, and especially by your Excellency, in so disagreeable a point of light, without feel- ing it in the most sensible manner, While we complain to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 696 your Excellency on a very tender point, (a point in which we think our usefulness and honour are deeply concerned,) we beg leave to inform you, that we shall, with the greatest cheerfulness, submit ourselves, our Hospitals, and the whole of our conduct, as it respects the good of the Army, to the inspection and regulation of the Director-General. Confiding in your justice and equity for a redress of our grievances, we willingly leave it to your Excellency to remedy our complaints; and your remonstrants, as in duty bound, shall ever pray. James Coggswell, Percival Hall, Elisha Story, Jared Potter, John Hart, David Jones, Lemuel Cushing, John Condict, Thomas Ewing, John Crocker, jr. Gibbons Jewell, Josiah Hart, Benjamin Putnam, John Waldo, New-York, July 31, 1776. Samuel Richards, William Adams, Samuel Tenny, John Crocker, Elisha Eley, Ithur’] Pell. WILLIAM PALFREY TO FRANCIS LEWIS. New-York, July 31, 1776. Dear Sir: Agreeable to your directions I presented to Messrs. Murry & Sanson the two drafts for £100 sterling each, for which I received one thousand dollars in payment; which sum I shall apply to the publick service, and credit the United States of America accordingly. Any other commands that you may have, either publick or private, shall be executed with the greatest pleasure by, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Wm. Paurrey. To Francis Lewis, Esq., Member of Congress. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, July 31, 1776. Sir: Colonel Hand reports two ships that came in late last evening at the Hook. Nothing material has occurred in this camp since yesterday. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, NATHANAEL GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. COLONEL LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. ; $ Long-Island, July, 1776. Sir: The enclosed is a true state of the three detached companies of Colonel Clinton’s regiment, stationed at the east end of Long-Island. We have two field-pieces mounted on field-carriages, but no ammunition for them. If we-had a supply of that article, also ladles, rammers, and worms, for them, I fancy they would be of service to us, if the enemy should ever take it in their beads to visit us. The Com- mittee have fitted up these two pieces, and requested me to write to your Excellency for a supply of ammunition for them. I have with much difficulty prevailed on them to remove the cattle from some of the Islands, and to prepare boats to remove them from Shelter-Island as soon as a fleet shall appear in sight. ‘They have furnished us with five whale-boats since my arrival, and promise to procure a suffi- ciency for us, which will be a great advantage to us, as the companies can much more expeditiously assist each other by water than by land. ‘There are a prodigious number of cattle here, more than three companies can possibly protect. Montauk-Point or Neck, about eighteen miles in length and two in breadth, contains sixteen hundred head of horned cattle, five hundred horses, and ten thousand sheep. Should the communication be cut off between this neck and the country, it would be a fine supply for our enemies. LT remain your Excellency’s most obedient, humble ser- vant, Henry B. Livineston. To His Excellency General Washington. P. S. One of the companies is stationed on Montauk- Point, another on Shelter-Island, about twenty miles from Montauk, another at Oyster-Pond Point, about seven miles from Shelter-Island, and twenty-four miles from Montauk. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. German-Flats, July 31, 1776. Dear Sir: Indeed I give you much trouble, but I cannot avoid it, I am this moment informed that only seventy 697 sailors can be procured out of our Northern Army, and that we shall want two or three hundred more, and that they may possibly be procured in Connecticut ; and it is con- jectured that Captains Samuel Chew and Francis Brown, of New- Haven, Captain Amos Green, of Stamford, Captain Whittlesey, of Saybrook, and Captain Seth Warner, of Haddam, would, if not employed, be willing to engage as Captains to command vessels on Lake Champlain. Tam a stranger to all these gentlemen; permit me, therefore, to beg the favour of you to send them, or such others as you may think proper, to engage forty men apiece, and to make the best contracts you can with them for the men’s monthly wages and allowances, which will be strictly complied with. Tam greatly chagrined at the tedious delay of the Indians, as well on account of the very heavy expense in sending them, as that lam kept from the Army. Our misfortunes in Canada have made them somewhat assuming; but I have great hopes that they will not engage against us, although very little, ifany, except the Oneida nation, will take an active part with us. I am, sir, most sincerely and respectfully, your obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHUYLER. To the Honourable Governour Trumbull. COLONEL GANSEVOORT TO JOHN McKESSON. Fort George, July 31, 1776. Sir: I have only time to acknowledge the receipt of your favour of the 13th instant, which came to hand this morning; and in answer thereto, inform you that the companies of Colonel Wynkoop’s regiment which were here, are gone, some to Ticonderoga and some to Skenesborough. I am, sir, your humble servant, Peter GansEvoort, Lieutenant- Colonel, commanding Fort George. To John McKesson, Esq. COLONEL GREATON TO GENERAL HEATH. Ticonderoga, July 31, 1776. Dear Generac: I received your kind letter of the 13th June, which gave me great pleasure to think you had not forgotten your friend, though at a distance. You inform me you had not received a line from me since I left New-York. I have written to you but once, which I am very sorry you did not receive. [had not time, hardly, to write to my family when I was in Canada. Our fatigues and hardships have been very great; they are too tedious to enumerate at this time, but [ hope I shall have an opportunity some winter’s evening to inform you of what we have undergone. We have got out of Canada very well, considering the situation we were in, but happy would it have been for us if we had retreated three weeks sooner than we did; we should have saved three hundred men by it, and got to Crown-Point soon enough to have fortified there, and not have come to this sickly place. We are fortifying here as fast as we can. ‘The men are in very low spirits. You would hardly know my regiment now, they are so altered in every shape. We have various accounts from St. John’s. The best intelligence we can get here is, that they are building vessels, batteaus, &c., as fast as they can. ‘They have seven thou- sand Regulars, and about five thousand Canadians, dressed in Regular clothing and armed by the Regulars. They expect to be ready to cross the Lake the last of next month. The above news we have from a French Captain of Militia, who left his family for fear of being hanged, and came across the woods to this place. I hope we shall have the start of them. We have three schooners and one sloop ready to sail, and in a week or ten days we shall have fourteen row-galleys and gondolas ready, which will mount three cannon apiece, from twelve to twenty-four-pounders. General, | should take it as a great favour if you would let me hear from you, every opportunity you can, how affairs are in York. You wrote me about Major Sherburne’s get- ting great honour to himself amongst you; it is not so here; you will hear more about it. I would have written you more particularly, but the post is waiting, and I am in great haste. I subscribe myself your Honour’s sincere friend and obe- dient servant, Jno. Grearon. To the Hon, Brigadier-General Heath, at New-York. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 698 GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL WATERBURY. Tyonderoga, July 31, 1776. Dear Str: I am glad to hear that the Militia begin to arrive at Skenesborough. You must be careful to prevent their straggling to camp, as there will be the utmost danger of their carrying the small-pox back with them. Let me hear by every opportunity the state of your post, and what number of the Militia arrives there, and every Saturday send me an exact return. That of the 28th ts now before me—I am much obliged to you for it. I thank you for the peas. Vegetables and butter would be extremely welcome, as there are scarce any to be had in this part of the country. General Arnold has my directions to write to you; his letter goes by this conveyance. I am, &c. Horatio Gates. To Brigadier-General Waterbury. P.S. Let me know the state of your provisions and rum. Do the Militia bring ammunition? What shall you want? I am told a number of cattle are ordered to Skenesborough? Do any arrive? JOHN TRUMBULL TO LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GANSEVOORT. Ticonderoga, July 31, 1776. Sir: The bearer, Major Hubly, late Major of Brigade to General Woedtke, comes to take an inventory and appraise- ment of the late Baron Woedtke’s goods. This you will permit him to do, and to bring such goods, &c., as he shall think proper, with the will, to this place, where Colonel D? Haas proposes to administer on the estate. It has been told the General that some officers at your post (not yourself) have presumed to give furloughs to the sick, when discharged from the Hospital. You will inquire into this, and let any gentleman who may have done it here- tofore know, that if he is found guilty of a conduct so unpre- cedented and so prejudicial to the service, he will be imme- diately put in arrest, and tried for his presumption and breach of orders by a general court-martial. You will assist Ensign Hallenbach in forwarding the chain he has in charge to Albany. I am, sir, your very obedient servant, J. Trumpuut, Dep. Adj. Gen. To Lieutenant-Colonel Gansevoort. PETITION OF CAPTAIN YOUNG. The Petition of Samuet Y oune, Captain in Colonel BevEw’s Regiment, humbly showeth : That your Honour’s petitioner, from a true zeal for the American cause, and an utter abhorrence to slavery and oppression, engaged in the honourable Continental cause, on the earliest notice of the unhappy disturbance, for the defence of an injured country, in which I have endeavoured to do all in my power to serve the publick cause, and have left my interests at home under great disadvantages for the same. My last command in said service being at Fort St. Ann’s, my conduct in the same being called in question, General Arnold put me under arrest. As for my behaviour at said Fort, I declare on honour, if I did anything worthy of confinement or punishment, it was done ignorantly, and not for want of zeal in the cause, as at that time I looked upon myself to be in a defenceless posture. Of my proceedings I presume your Honour is acquainted, as I had a legal trial by a Court-Martial at Crown-Point, on the 13th instant. I would humbly observe to your Honour the situation of my company. My First Lieutenant did not join me till lately, and has been on command great part.of his time since, and at this time is on scout, from which he is not expected to return soon. My Second Lieutenant has like- wise been on command, and sick the whole of his time, and now remains sick; so that I have no officer except the Ensign to take care of the company, and he frequently on command. ‘That the company suffers much for the want of an officer; which company is the largest in said regiment, and has chiefly been under these disadvantages during my confinement, which is now fifty-nine days. I humbly beg your Honour may take the same into con- sideration, and order that the determination of the Court- Martial may be known, and that | may know my destiny; 699 if to command the company, I shall do it with the greatest pleasure, and exert every faculty in order for the publick good ; if otherwise, I shall submit to the honourable Court's decision, and, as in duty bound, ever pray, &c. SamueL Youne. To Major-General Gates. New-Haven, July 31, 1776. A few days since Captain Packwood arrived at New- London, in nine days from Cape Francois, and has brought fourteen tons of powder, some blankets, arms, &c., on account of the States. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, July 31, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 17th instant was duly received, and I am now to thank you for your attention to Winslow and Lester, and our carpenters, and also for the intelligence you give me concerning the state and temper of the Indians, more especially the Senecas, who could most distress us. It gives me great concern to hear that dissensions prevail in the Northern Army, and that they are inflamed and kept up by Colonial distinctions. I have, agreeable to your request, recommended to the troops from this Government to culti- vate harmony and a good understanding with the troops from other States as well as among themselves, and have pressed it upon them with all the earnestness the nature and impor- tance of the subject requires. I shall be very happy to find anything I have done, or can do, may contribute towards eradicating this evil. The felling axes are mostly provided. About three quar- ters of the number requested are on their way to the Army. The residue will be sent forward very soon. Being persuaded they might be sent to Skenesborough at a cheaper rate than they could by the way of Albany, and thinking they might come sooner to the use of the Army by that route, I have ordered them by Bennington to Skenesborough, and have written to Brigadier-General Waterbury to receive and for- ward them where they may be wanted, agreeable to such oiders as you may give, or he may receive from the Com- mander-in-Chief of the Army in your absence. Not long since, I received a resolve of Congress directing that clothing for the Continental Army should be procured in this Government, and proper persons are employed for that purpose, who are using their best endeavours to procure a sufficient quantity; and as I am informed that our troops from Canada are now in great want of that article, I shall send what can be immediately procured to the Quartermas- ter-General for that department, without waiting for further orders, as soon as may be, and wish to be advised by what route it will be best to forward it, and who is the Quarter- master-General to whom the same must be consigned. Per- sons are likewise employed to procure materials for tents, which will be made up and forwarded as soon as may be. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient humble servant, Jona. ‘TRUMBULL. To the Hon. Major-General Schuyler. CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, July 31, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour; Eli- phalet Dyer, Richard Law, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Wm. Hillhouse, Nathaniel Wales, Benjamin Huntington, Esquires. William Nichols, of Hartford, is appointed Paymaster of Colonel Heman Swift’s Regiment. Nehemiah Hubbard, Jun., of Middletown, is appointed Paymaster of Colonel Charles Burrell’s Battalion. Samuel Champlain, Jun., of New-London, is appointed Third Lieutenant on board the Colony ship, under Captain Cort. Azariah Whittlesey, of Saybrook, is appointed Master of the Colony ship, under command of Captain Coit. Voted, 'To draw an order on the Pay-Table for £250, in favour of Captain William Coit, to enable him to inlist his men, and advance their first month’s pay; and that said Cap- tain Cort lodge a bond, with surety, with the Pay-Table, in CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 700 common form, for his faithful performance of the trust of Paymaster. Order drawn 31st, and delivered Captain Coit. ‘oted, That Mr. Law is desired to compile a code of Laws for the Naval service of this Colony, as much in con- formity to the Laws of the Naval service of the United Colonies as may consist with the service of this Colony, and lay the same before this Committee at their next meet- ing, for their consideration. Voted, That Captain Coit be ordered to bring the Colony ship round to New-London as soon as possible. Voted, That Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, Junior, is desired to provide supplies of Provisions, Arms, Hammocks, Cabouses, Rigging, and every other needful article, to furnish the Co- lony ship fit for the seas as soon as possible. Eliphalet Roberts, of Hartford, is appointed Captain of Marines, on board the Colony ship under command of Cap- tain William Coit. John Prentice, 2d, of New-London, is appointed First Lieutenant of Marines, on board the Colony ship under command of Captain Coit. , of New-London, is appointed Second Lieu- tenant of Marines, on board the Colony ship under com- mand of Captain Coit. Voted, That six Midshipmen shall be allowed on board the Colony ship under command of Captain Coit. Voted, 'That Captain Cozt’s men on board the Colony ship shall be inlisted to be held in service until the first day of May, 1777, unless sooner discharged. Received Gurdon Saltonstall, Esq.’s, Account of sundry expenses in building the Fort in New-London, examined the same, and allowed a balance of £176 12s. 10d. due thereon, as per account on file, and voted to draw an order on the Pay-Table for the same. Order drawn and delivered Colonel Saltonstall. Voted, 'To direct Joshua Elderkin to purchase what Raven’s Duck is now to be had at Providence, at as reason- able a rate as he can, for the Colony use. Copy delivered. Voted, ‘To draw on the Pay-Table, in favour of Jedediah Elderkin and Nathaniel Wales, Jun., Esqs., for £250, to be on account for their making Gunpowder for this Colony. Order drawn and delivered Colonel Elderkin. Received, examined, and allowed the Account of Asa Spafford, of Windham, for £2 4s. 11d., for repairing sundry arms of soldiers in the service of the United States of Ame- rica, as per bill, and voted to draw on the Pay-T'able for the same. Order drawn and delivered Colonel Elderkin. MAJOR HAWLEY TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Northampton, July 31, 1776. May ir PLEASE your Honours: In these parts we have not been able to learn in what state the act called the Test Act at present is. But the general voice here is, that a re- solve, or order, very similar to what is passed lately by the Governour and Committee of Safety of Connecticut, respect- ing travellers, is absolutely necessary for this Government. There are, most certainly, extraordinary and unaccountable communications carried on and upheld between the disaffect- ed in this County and the County of Worcester, and the people of the same character on Hudson’s River, and so up this river, with the people in the new County in the Colony of New-York. As there is now a recess of our General Assembly, we are generally looking and wishing that some such order or resolve might without delay issue from your Honours, as the great Committee of Safety of this State in “the recess of its Assembly. Such a measure will be more favourable to government, and in that view I consider it of importance. It will be more likely to be temperate; but if some effectual order, in great part like that of Connecticut, is not issued by the Council, the people hereabouts will not run the risk of waiting till our Assembly meets, but every town will take their own plan; and in some places they are so incensed, that I believe they will proceed with a very high hand. They insist on it, that we cannot be safe till some of the big Tories are hung. Your Honours’ resolve might steer them a milder course. The day before yesterday (by some strange mistake) all 701 the kettles and canteens used for the Berkshire men were brought and delivered at my house, which ought this moment to be at New-York. The Berkshire men all marched about the middle of last week, very uneasy, and complaining that they were not supplied with those articles. The Quarter- master of the battalion was here last Sunday in quest of the articles, but as [ could not give any account of them, he went on to seek them; and as they came here by the way of Brimfield, I find that he has missed them, and suppose that he will go on to Boston, Alas! the ruinous fashion of leaving business to execute itself. I have the honour to be your Honours’ most obedient servant, Josepu Haw ey. To the Honourable Council. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO THE GOVERNOUR OF RHODE- ISLAND. In Committee of Council, July 31, 1776. Sr: I am directed by the Committee of Council to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated 27th July, and to acquaint you that the Committee would have wil- lingly complied with your request relative to Captain John Grannis, but think themselves not sufficiently authorized as acting in the capacity of a Committee of Council ; there- fore must defer this matter till the General Court meets, which will be soon. In the name and per order of the Committee, Jno. Avery, Deputy Secretary. To Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Providence. GENERAL PALMER TO BENJAMIN LINCOLN. Hull, July 31, 1776. Dear Str: I am just returned from the Armourer’s ; he has but little iron, no steel, and no files, and but little coal. Very little work can be done without tools and materials. There is another forge, but no bellows to it; and as a black- smith is much wanted for sharpening pick-axes, making spikes, mending wheelbarrows, &c., which is not in the Armourer’s way, I would advise that a pair of bellows be sent, and, if agreeable, I will endeavour to obtain a black- smith from Weymouth. Mr. Knoz is just arrived; by him received the well rope, paper, and a letter with news; thank you; I shall attend to contents. Here are two hogsheads of lime, the hogsheads are bursting ; pray send a mason to make it up into mortar. Candles are wanted. Colonel Johnson says there are none in the store. The Colonel wants one set of rules, &c., for the Army. At Dorchester, 1 observed some chevaux-de-frise used as common fence. May we not have them, if suitable, for our embrasures? I regret the loss of poor Robinson. I hope that all our other friends are past danger. Adieu, and believe me to be yours and the Committee’s friend and humble servant, Ry rarer To the Hon. Benjamin Lincoln, Esq., Chairman of the ' Committee of Fortifications, Boston. {Endorsed: Mr. Devens, or Mr. Chase, will supply the bellows and the coal. B. Lincoxy. ] MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO RICHARD DERBY. Watertown, July 31, 1776. Sir: The Committee of Council have directed me to write to your Honour, that you would, as soon as possible, procure a carriage at Salem, that will carry the four Indians, and the person whom the Board sends to accompany them, to General Washington, at New-York; and that you will be pleased to agree for the said carriage and drivers at the lowest rate, and order them here immediately. You will please to observe the owner of the carriage who brought the Indians here from Salem, mentioned, when here, his in- clination to carry them to New-York. Iam, &c. To the Hon. Richard Derby, Esq., or, in his absence, to the Hon. Daniel Hopkins, Esq., Salem. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. "02 MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO ABSENT MEMBERS. Council Chamber, July 31, 1776. Sir: The Committee of Council that now sit, being fully convinced from every intelligence from Boston that the small- pox is very infectious, and as most of them have not had the distemper, they are apprehensive that they are in very great danger, and are fearful of tarrying any longer; and as they are necessitated to Jeave some business that may very essen- tially affect the interest and safety of this State unfinished, have sent the bearer to request your immediate attendance, and they earnestly desire you would not fail. In the name and per order of the Committee: Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. To the several absent Members of Council. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. In Committee of Council, July 31, 1776. Whereas repeated applications have been made to the Council of this State, by Committees of Safety, &c., in several towns, for direction and assistance, respecting such persons as are called ‘Tories: Therefore, Ordered, That all Magistrates, Sheriffs, Com- mittees of Safety, and all other officers within this State, do exert themselves with vigour in carrying the laws and orders of said State into execution, so that the good people of the United States of America may not be exposed to such ini- mical persons. A true copy: Attest: Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Committee of Council, State of Massachusetts-Bay, Watertown, July 31, 1776. Sir: The bearer, Mr. William Shaw, waits on your Ex- cellency, with four Indians of the Mickmack and St. John’s tribes, who have agreed to join you in the war. The Hon- ourable Mr. Bowdoin (President of the Council) has, or will soon write to your Excellency particularly on Indzan affairs, enclosing the conference with the Indians, and the treaty made with them, to which we refer you. In the name, and behalf of said Committee, I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Joun Wintrurop, Chairman. To His Excellency General Washington, &c., New-York. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Watertown, July 31, 1776. May ir PLease your Excetiency: The bearer hereof, Newell Wallis, one of the St. John’s tribe of Indians, has applied to the Council for a commission, as he says he has had one under the French commander; but have referred him to your Excellency, to grant him such commission as you may think proper. Per order of the Council : Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. To His Excellency George Washington, Esq. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO JAMES BOWDOIN. Watertown, July 25, 1776. Sir: [am directed by the honourable Board to transmit to you copies of the Talks with the Chiefs of the Penobscot Tribe, and the concluding Answer of the Board to their requests; and the Board desire that you would send to Gen- eral Washington copies of such parts of these papers as you judge proper. Joun Avery. To Honourable James Bowdoin. Memorandum of sundries received by order of the Honour- able Council. From the Honourable ‘Tuomas Cusuine, Esq. Fifteen m. wampum, ten wampum belts, and ten shell gorgets, for the Truck House at Machias. From the Committee’s stores at Boston, viz: Nine hats, and yards Jace, for St. John’s Indians, Mickmack. Two hats, and 3§ yards lace, for Penobscot Indians. One piece pink tammy, No. 2, and six yards white bunting, to make their flags. Received by order: Watertown, July 25, 1776. Fra. Suaw, Jun. 703 STEPHEN SMITH TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS-BAY. Machias, June 22, 1776. HonovraBLe GentLemen: When your Honours were pleased to appoint me Truckmaster for the Indians, I was not apprized of the task I had to perform; the numbers of them far exceed my expectations; and the offers they have from the factors of Nova-Scotia cause them to be very troublesome. The sum of £400, lawful money, granted by your Honours, to supply at least one thousand men, exclusive of their families, is but small. Your Honours can’t expect | can satisfy them and keep friends with that sum, as I was obliged to credit near £200 for their spring hunt, which they have not yet paid. The news of the defeat at Quebeck has reached them. That, with the advice of General Wash- ington, obliges me to put up with many insults. I have given the bearer, Major Francis Shaw, Jun., a power of attorney to receive any further sum your Honours may be pleased to grant, with directions to purchase such articles as are most wanted. As soon as they come in from their spring hunts, I shall send the fur up. In the mean time, I am in much want for articles for them. With Major Shaw come up ten chiefs of the different tribes. Knowing the trouble and expense they would beat, we endeavoured, with all our art, to detain them, without effect. As they had letters from your Honours and his Excellency General Washington, they were determined either to pro- ceed, or rely on the assistance of Nova-Scotia. Of the two evils, I have endeavoured to choose the least, and have accord- ingly prevailed on Major Shaw to take the charge of them, which I hope will meet your Honours’ approbation. The Indians that were at Court last winter have received a supply, and one has since refused to pay, as he says his Excellency General Washington told them they should be paid for coming up, as well as carrying letters to the Mick- mack tribe. I am likewise much troubled with the inhabitants supply- ing them with rum, &c., as it makes them very troublesome and quarrelsome. I should be glad your Honours would give some orders that they may not have liberty to sell or give, as they take their furs for much less than their value, and detain them longer than needful. I have hitherto given eight shillings for beaver, to hinder them from trading with Nova-Scotia, and shall do it until I hear from your Honours. ‘This I do, as [am sensible, from the best accounts from Nova-Scotia, that they take every measure to defeat your Honours’ plans, and to bring them against the New-England settlements in this country. As Major Shaw has been here, and witness to their pro- ceedings, I refer your Honours to him for any further intel- ligence; and remain, with much respect, your Honours’ much obliged, humble servant, STEPHEN SMITH. To the Honourable Council and House of Representatives for the Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay. To the Honourable Provincial Congress or General Assem- bly of the Massacuuserts-Bay: The Petition of Jacos Barker, Isract Peruey, Puineas Nevens, Dantet Parmer, Mosrs Pickarp, Epwarp Coyr, Tuomas Hartt, IsratL Kenney, Asa Kimpat, Asa Pertey, Huan Quinton, and Otiver Peruey, a Committee chosen in behalf of the Inhabitants of the River Sr. Joun’s, in Nova-Scortia, humbly showeth: That we, your petitioners, have for some time past beheld with grief, the calamity brought on this nation and land by a ruinous and destructive civil war. Our situation being somewhat remote from the seat of these troubles, and our land producing most of the necessaries of life, we have not been so immediately affected as many parts on the Conti- nent, and therefore have taken no part in the present unnatural quarrel, but have quietly suffered a suspension of trade, hoping that God, in his Providence, would point out a way for the amicable settlement of these unhappy dis- putes; but our hopes have hitherto proved abortive, and troubles are rather increased. Our Governour hath thought proper effectually to prevent our being supplied with arms and ammunition, by ordering a large penalty. Many of those articles being shipped (or water-borne) in the Province, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., JULY, 1776. 704 at the same time requires us to asseroble in military array, and by force of arms to repel all invaders. Martial law is published throughout the Province, and civil authority made subordinate. Exorbitant taxes are required of us to sup- port the war against you. Under these circumstances we find it is impracticable for us to continue as neutrals, and to subsist without commerce. We now, in behalf of the inhabitants, openly declare, that we could never see any shadow of justice in that exten- sive claim of the British Parliament, viz: the right of enact- ing laws binding on the Colonies in all cases whatsoever. This system, if once established, (we conceive,) hath a direct tendency to sap the foundation not only of liberty, that dearest of names, but of property, that best of subjects. And as tyranny ought to be resisted in its first attempts, we are convinced that the United Provinces are just in their proceedings in this regard. The inhabitants of this place, after mature consideration, have thought fit to submit them- selves to your government, and desire your protection, and that you would esteem the river St. John’s as a part of your Province, which would add thereto a valuable extent of territory, though at present but few inhabitants. And we promise, in behalf of the inhabitants, to adopt such measures as you shall propose for our future conduct; and we are ready, with our lives and fortunes, to share with you the event of the present strugele for liberty, however God, in his Providence, may order it. We, therefore, humbly ask your protection as a defence- less people, and that you would grant us such relief and assistance as you in your wisdom shall think proper, hoping that you will not tamely see us butchered or plundered for showing ourselves friendly to your’cause. That God would speedily restore peace to America, and that you will be led to such measures as will be most to His glory and the good of His people, is the earnest desire of your humble petitioners. Maugerville, on the River St. John’s, May 21, 1776. Jacosp Barker, IsraEL Kenney, Puineas Nevens, Huenu Quinton, Dante, Pater, OL iver Pertey, Epwarp Coye, IsrarEL PERLEy, Asa Pertry, Moses Picxarp. Tuomas Hartt, Letter of Agency. Whereas the inhabitants on the River St. John’s, in the County of Sunbury, and Province of Nova-Scotia, being regularly assembled at Maugerville, in said County, on the 14th day of May, 1776, did then and there make choice of us, Jacob Barker, Phineas Nevens, Israel Perley, Daniel Palmer, Moses Pickard, Edward Coye, Thomas Hart, Israel Kenney, Asa Kimball, Asa Perley, and Hugh Quinton, a Committee in behalf of the inhabitants of said County, to make immediate application to the Congress or General Assembly of the Massachusetts-Bay, for relief under their present distressed circumstances : Now know ye, That we, the Committee above named, have, by these presents, constituted and appointed two of said Committee, viz: Messrs. Asa Perley and Asa Kimball, to act as Agents for the body of said Committee, to go per- sonally to the said Congress or General Assembly, and there present our petition; also to act and transact, determine, accomplish, and finish all matters touching the premises, as fully, finally, and effectually as the body of said Committee might or could do; and we do, in behalf of the inhabitants of said County, allow, ratify, and confirm whatsoever our said Agents shall do or cause to be done in and about this matter. In witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals, at Maugerville, in said County, this 20th day of May, 1776. IsraEL Peruey, Tuomas Hart, IsraEL Kenney, Ouiver Pertey, [L. Hueu Quinton, [L. Jacop Barker, [L. s.] Puineas Nevers, [L. Dante Paumer, [L. Moses Picxarp, [t. Epwarp Coys, [L. 705 All officers, civil or military, in the United Provinces, and all others, are desired not to molest or binder the within Asa Perley and Asa Kimball, in their progress ; on the contrary, to encourage and assist them, as they would merit the esteem of all lovers of their country’s liberty, and the thanks of this Committee. Copy of Resolves. The inhabitants of the County of Sunbury, in the Pro- vince of Nova-Scotia, being regularly assembled at the Meeting-House in Maugerville, in said County, on Tuesday, the 14th day of May, 1776, to consult on some measures necessary to be taken for the safety of the inhabitants : Istly. Chose Jacob Barker, Esq., Chairman. Qdly. Chose Jacob Barker, Israel Perley, Phineas Nev- ers, Esquires, and Messrs. Daniel Palmer, Moses Pickard, Edward Coye, Thomas Hart, Israel Kenney, Asa Kimball, Asa Perley, Oliver Perley, and Hugh Quinton, a Commit- tee to prepare a draught proper for the proceedings of the Assembly. The meeting then adjourned till three of the clock in the afternoon. Being again met, the Committee reported the following Resolves, which were read; and after a second reading, the Resolves were severally put, and passed in the affirmative, unanimously : Ist. Resolved, That we can see no shadow of justice in that extensive claim of the British Parliament, viz: the right of making laws binding on the Colonies in all cases whatsoever. ‘This system, if once established, we conceive, hath a direct tendency to sap the foundation not only of liberty, that dearest of names, but of property, that best of subjects. 2Qdly. Resolved, That as tyranny ought to be resisted in its first appearances, we are convinced that the United Pro- vinces are just in their proceedings in this regard. 3dly. Resolved, That it is our minds and desire to sub- mit ourselves to the Government of the Massachusetts-Bay, and that we are ready, with our lives and fortunes, to share with them the event of our present struggle for liberty, how- ever God in his Providence may order it. Athly. Resolved, That a Committee be chosen, to consist of twelve men, who shall immediately make application to the Massachusetts Congress or General Assembly for relief; and that said Committee, or the major part of them, shall conduct all matters, civil or military, in this County, till further regulation be made. Sthly. Resolved, That we, and each of us, will most strictly adhere to all such measures as our said Committee, or the major part of them, from time to time prescribe for our conduct; and that we will support and defend them in this matter at the expense of our lives and fortunes, if called thereto. 6thly. Resolved, That we will immediately put ourselves in the best posture of defence in our power. That to this end, we will prevent all unnecessary use of Gunpowder, or other Ammunition in our custody. Tthly. Resolved, That if any of us shall hereafter know of any person or persons that shall, by any ways or means, endeavour to prevent or counteract this our design, we will immediately give notice thereof to the Committee, that proper measures may be taken for our safety. Sthly. Resolved, That we, and each of us, will pay our proportion of all such sums of money as may be necessary for carrying these matters into execution ; and finally, that we will share in, and submit to, the event of this underta- king, however it may terminate, to the true performance of all which we bind and obligate ourselves firmly each to the other, on penalty of being esteemed enemies and traitors to our country, and submitting ourselves to popular resent- ment. The whole Assembly subscribed to the foregoing Re- solves. The Body then voted: Istly, That the above-named Committee shall be a Stand- ing Committee; to make application to the Massachusetts Congress; also, to conduct all matters, Civil or Military, in the County, till further regulations be made. Voted, That we will have no dealings or connexions with Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 45 706 any person or persons for the future that shall refuse to enter into the foregoing, or similar regulations. A true copy from the Minutes: IsraeL Perey, Clerk. Dated at Maugerville, on the River St. John’s, May 21, 1776. fics Memoranpum.—By desire of the Committee, represent the conduct of the Indians; that General Washington’s letter had set them on fire, and they are plundering all people they think are Tories ; and when that is done, perhaps the others may share the same fate. We think it necessary that some persons of consequence be sent among them. If it be asked what lands are granted on the River, it may be answered, that there are four towns and a half granted to sixty-eight gentlemen, mostly officers in the Army. The towns are a hundred thousand acres each. There are several other large tracts of land granted to particular gentlemen. Those townships and other lands have but few settlers on them. If it be asked, what proportion of the people signed the Resolutions, it may be answered, there are one hundred and twenty-five signed, and about twelve or thirteen that have not, nine of whom are at the River’s mouth. PORTSMOUTH (NEW-HAMPSHIRE) INSTRUCTIONS. Portsmouth, July 31, 1776. At a Meeting of the Freeholders and others, inhabitants of said Portsmouth, per adjournment, among other things, Voted, That the Representatives of this Town at the General Assembly be instructed for the following purposes, viz: Ist. That they do their utmost endeavours to procure the enactment of a law, that, from and after the dissolution of this present Assembly, no Member of any future Assem- bly hold any place in Government than his seat in said Assembly; and that when any such shall be chosen, and accept of a place, his seat shall become vacant, and a new writ issued to his Constituents for a new choice. 2d. That they do not consent that any person should hold more than one place in Government at the same time. 3d. That they do, in the most effectual manner, secure to the people of this State their inherent right of being judged and governed in the least prejudicial manner. Ath. That they, nor any future Representative, in future shall consent to any aleration, innovation, or abridgment of the constitutional form that may be adopted, without first consulting their Constituents, in a matter of so much impor- tance to their safety. A true copy. Attest: Joun Pennatiow, Town- Clerk. EXTRACT OF 4 LETTER FROM ST. PIERRE, DATED August 1, 1776. Captain Wickes has added much glory to the American flag, when entering this harbour. He fell in with the British ship Shark, Captain Chapman, a fine new vessel of equal force, that was despatched, we hear, for the express pur- pose of intercepting him. An engagement immediately commenced with spirit on both sides for about thirty minutes, when it terminated in the disgraceful and precipitate flight of the latter. Wickes then triumphantly entered this port, and landed amidst the acclamations and caresses of a multi- tude of people, who had been anxious spectators of the com- bat. There was not a man killed, in this action, on our side. On the other, we know not what damage was sus- tained. The very friendly and polite treatment Captain Wickes experienced from the Governour, will, I doubt not, be highly pleasing to the Congress. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM PENSACOLA, IN WEST-FLORIDA, DATED AuGusT 1, 1776. Our Governour (as well as Governour Tonyn, of East Florida) has published a proclamation, offering an asylum to such who, from the present distracted situation of affairs in America, may choose to come and settle in this Province, with an offer of one hundred acres of land for the master, and the same for the mistress of every family, and fifty acres 707 for every child and servant, and free of quitrent for a certain number of years, and even more land than the above, provided it shall appear that they are able to cultivate it. He has offered to any person, gratis, to cut down timber from his Majesty’s woods, for the making of lumber for the service of the West-India Islands, provided that security be given that it really and bona fide is intended only for their service. Every other encouragement is offered by the Governour to such settlers, and those who may think proper to furnish our Islands with lumber; and indeed here is enough in conscience, if we had but ships to transport it. Some vessels from Jamaica have been here; but our want of hands to prepare it is a great hinderance to that business. Being but an infant colony, we are in want of people. However, even this might be remedied if a trade was carried on, as we should soon get slaves if we had customers to take off the lumber when made. This country is much more healthy than I had been informed, and, instead of being a desert, has some good pasturage, and grows European corn of several sorts. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN WOOLSEY. [No. 104.] Annapolis, August 1, 1776. Sir: The vessel you and company have on the stocks, the Council of Safety are now desirous of purchasing, pro- vided they can have her on reasonable terms. Let us know, therefore, whether your company will sell, and what price they ask. We expect your answer as soon as possible, when Mr. Stewart, our agent, will attend to complete the contract, and give directions. We are, &c. To Mr. George Woolsey. GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, August 1, 1776. GeENTLEMEN: Enclosed you have my commission as Brigadier for the Flying-Camp, which I return for the same reason as that I don’t doubt you have received ere this, viz: that you have a controlling power therein, under which I am resolved never more to act. Iam, gentlemen, with due respect, your humble servant, &c., Jno. Dent. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. THOMAS SMYTH TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Chester-Town, August 1, 1776. Gentiemen: My son waits on the Council for his and his officers’ commissions, and for such orders as they may think necessary to give him. I am afraid the Companies raised in this County will be delayed a good deal for want of arms. ‘Those that are tolerably good are very difficult to get. Most people that have guns will rather sell than lend, and are very pressing for their money. It will be necessary to send some money to the Committee, to pay for guns and blankets. The latter, I believe, will be furnished without much difficulty. The Committee, in pursuance of your Honours’ request, have employed a cooper in making wooden bottles, a sample whereof you will receive by the bearer. The price is 2s. 6d. each. You will please to say how many you will have made, and the time when they must be finished. Tam, with much respect, you most humble servant, Tuo. Suyru. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. JOHN YOST TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Georgetown, August 1, 1776. GENTLEMEN OF THE CounciL: I have received your let- ter dated the 23d of July, and finding you desirous to know what complement of arms I had ready for the publick, I have them all ready of the first contract, including the bayonets, which I expect this day with an express which I have sent for them. Ihave also been much detained in the last contract, by repairing old arms for the Militia, the Colonel finding it very necessary. If I am not deceived in receiving the bayonets, I hope I can despatch all by the latter end of this week. I am, gentlemen, in duty bound, Joun Yost. To the Hon. Council of Safety of the Western-Shore. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 708 PETITION OF MARY GIDDINS. To the Honourable the Marine Committee: The Petition of Mary Gippins humbly showeth: That your petitioner is the widow of John Giddins, late Boatswain’s Yeoman on board the Alfred, who was killed on board said ship in her action with the Glasgow, as ap- pears by a regular certificate which she now produces to your Honours. That your petitioner is in very distressed cir- cumstances, and having confidence in the publick faith, has applied to the honourable the Navy Board for the bounty of two hundred dollars promised by Congress to the widows or children of seamen who fall in the defence of America ; that the honourable the Navy Board do not think them- selves authorized to pay this bounty without an order from your Honours, declaring that the fund out of whieh the bounty is directed to be paid is not in their hands. That your petitioner doubts not but that your Honours will con- sider the irreparable loss she has met with, and order her that temporary relief for which the Congress have pledged the sacred faith of the Continent, and not suffer their good intentions to be frustrated on account of any little irregu- larities of office, which it is not in the power of your peti- tioner to remedy. ‘The whole is submitted to the justice and humanity of your honourable Board; and in hopes of the interposition of your power in her behalf, She will, as in duty bound, ever pray. Mary Grpopins. GentLemeN: Were it in my power to support myself and family I should not have troubled this honourable House so often as I have done; necessity is the motive that compels me to this my first Petition, and all the rest of my returns before so honourable a body. I know it is the multiplicity of business that causes me to be thus neglected, but | hope that these lines will again bring the widow and family of him who died in the cause of liberty once more afresh in your memory, and order her a part of the dowry that your bountiful clemency has set apart for the poor widows and fatherless ; and in so doing, your poor petitioner, as in duty bound, will ever pray. Mary Grppins To the Honourable Continental Congress. This is to certify whom it may concern, that John Giddins, Boatswain’s Yeoman on board the ship Alfred, was killed on board said ship in the engagement with the Glasgow the 7th day of April, 1776. By order of Esek Hopkins, Esq., Commander-in-Chief. Samu. Lyon, Secretary. Philadelphia, August 1, 1776. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM PHILADELPHIA, DATED AUGUST 1, 1776. Last night arrived an account of the capture of the brig Richmond by the sloop Congress, (fitted out of this place ;) she was bound from London and Nevis for Halifax, and had on board the following articles, viz: one thousand and seventy-eight joes, six hundred and seventy-two guineas, fifteen moidores, forty-one hogsheads rum, six hogsheads five tierces and five barrels sugar, one hogshead loaf-sugar, twenty-four hogsheads prize molasses, three cases drugs, and a trunk of Irish linen. The brig is safe arrived at Egg- Harbour ; the gold they had in the water-cask. The cash and several London passengers are on board the privateer, which was left in chase of a three-decker. They took several London letters directed for people in New-York ; also some newspapers—one of the 23d of April, which is the only one we have not seen before; it contains very little, except advices from Jamaiea, by which they seem alarmed at the arrival of the French troops at Hispaniola, and that some of the merchants had forbid their orders for goods, expecting a visit from them. ‘That seven ships, one of them the Hancock and Adams, with wheat, had arrived at Lisbon from Philadelphia, and that two tobacco and one wheat loaded ships were arrived in France. Mr. Gibbs’s ship, Captain Robinson, is below, from Mar- sevlles, with eleven hundred arms, thirty-seven tons of lead, fifteen tons of powder, flints, &c. I have just seen the supercargo, who tells me they are seven weeks out; that they could not procure a newspaper, although he offered a guinea for one; but saw one as late as the 25th of May. 709 He says the first embarkation of troops sailed with Lord Howe about the 12th of May; that the second detachment of foreigners had not left Holland, and that it was reported that they had refused sailing till a cartel was established ; that France had two formidable fleets at sea, which were to join of Cape St. Vincent; that the Duke De Chartres was to command the whole, and was cruising off that Cape, where he had retaken an American vessel from an Englsh mah-of-war; that the carpenters in the French ship-yards were kept close at work, Sundays and holydays not except- ed; that all the naval and military stores were engaged for the King’s use; that all the seamen were ordered immedi- ately to be registered, and everything bore the appearance of war; that the Spaniards had marched a large body of troops to the environs of Portugal; that the English Par- liament and the Jrish were dissolved, and that a ship and brig from New-York were arrived at Marseilles. PENNSYLVANIA CONVENTION. : In Convention for the State of Pennsylvania, Tuesday, August 1, 1776, A. M. ; The Committee appointed to consider the Petition and Memorial from Northumberland County, reported that the facts therein set forth are well supported by evidence; and therefore recommend the immediate consideration thereof to this Convention. And the House having deliberated thereon, it was Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention that the inhabitants of the said County and of the County of Northampton are greatly exposed to Indian incursions, without being able to make a proper defence, on account of the scattered situation of the inhabitants, they being settled in such a manner as to be unable to afford each other neces- sary assistance. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention that it will be proper to raise and keep up a body of troops for the defence of the frontiers, not only of the County of Northumberland, but also of the County of Northampton, the latter County being equally exposed to Indzan incur- sions. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention that the defenceless situation of those parts of our frontiers be made known to the Congress by the Delegates of this State, and that they further inform them that the Battalion ordered to be raised for defence of the western frontier can afford no assistance to those two Counties, and that the quota of Militia of Northampton first required for the Flying-Camp, is already marched, and the residue of the Militia is about to march, agreeable to the late request of Congress; by which means they will be without the least defence, and request Congress to take these matters into their considera- tion. Extract from the Minutes: Joun Morris, Jun., Chairman. An Ordinance for securing the Arms of the Non-Associators of the State of Pennsyivania. Whereas the Non-Associators in this State have either refused or neglected to deliver up their Arms according to the Resolves of the honourable Continental Congress and the Assembly of Pennsylvania ; and effective measures have not been yet taken to carry the said Resolves into execu- tion : Be it therefore ordained by the authority of this Con- vention, ‘That the Colonel or next officer in command of every Battalion of Militia in this State is hereby authorized, empowered, and required, to collect, receive, and take, all the Arms in his District or Township nearest to such officer which are in the hands of Non-Associators, in the most expeditious and effectual manner in his power, and shall give to the owners receipts for such Arms, and the amount of the appraisement ; and such as can be repaired shall with all possible despatch be rendered fit for service, and the value, according to appraisement, of all such Arms, together with the repairs and transportation, shall be paid to the offi- cer by the ‘Treasurer, on the order of the Council of Safety, for the use of the owners. And be it further ordained, 'That the same Arms shall be appraised by any three reputable freeholders appointed CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. * 710 by the Commanding Officer. But if the owner of any Arms shall neglect or refuse to apply for such money within six months, the same shall be applied towards the repairs of the Arms. And the Colonels are hereby authorized to draw for the necessary sums of money, for the purposes aforesaid, on the Council of Safety. And it is further ordained, 'That the Colonels aforesaid shall arm the Associators with the said Arms, and keep an account to whom they are delivered, and return the same to the Council of Safety. And every Associator shall be an- swerable for such Arms or the value, unless lost or destroyed by some unavoidable accident, or in actual service. And be it further ordained, 'That in case any Arms so collected shall not be worth repairing, the same shall be laid by until such time as may be thought proper by the Com- mittee of the County to return them to the owner. A true extract from the Minutes: Joun Morats, Jun., Secretary, An Ordinance to prevent the Counterfeiting the Paper Money issued by the honourable the Continental Congress, or by this, or any other of the Unrrep AMERICAN States. Whereas great mischiefs may arise to the United States of America, and the property of the good people, inhabitants thereof, rendered precarious and insecure, by wicked and designing persons counterfeiting the paper Bills of Credit issued by the honourable the Continental Congress, or by any of the United States of America: For remedy whereof— Be it Ordained and Declared, and it is hereby Ordained and Declared, by the Representatives of the Freemen of the State of Pennsyivania, in General Convention met, ‘That if any person or persons shall presume to counterfeit any of the Bills of Credit issued, or hereafter to be issued, by the honourable the Continental Congress, or by and under any laws or resolves of the Assembly of Pennsylvania, or by the Legislatures, or Conventions, or Assemblies, of this or any other of the United States, by printing, or procuring the same to be printed, in the likeness of the said genuine Bills of Credit, and also, if any person or persons shall forge the name or names of the signers of the true Bills of Credit to such Counterfeit Bills, whether the counterfeiting of the bills or names be done within this State or elsewhere, or shall utter such bills, knowing the same to be so coun- terfeited as aforesaid, and being thereof legally convicted, by confession, standing mute, or by verdict of twelve men, in any Court of Oyer and Terminer hereafter to be erect- ed within this State, he, she, or they, shall suffer death. And the discoverer or informer shall have, as an encourage- ment for his or her discovery, the sum of fifty pounds, to be levied out of the goods and chattels, lands and tenements of the person convicted; and if no such goods or chattels, lands or tenements, can be found, a reward of twenty pounds shall be paid out of the publick treasury. And if any person or persons shall counterfeit any of the said Bills of Credit, by altering the denomination of the said bills, with design to increase the value of such bills, or shall utter such bills, knowing them to be so counterfeited or altered as afore- said, and shall be thereof legally convicted in‘any Court of Record hereafter to be established in this State, such person or persons shall be sentenced to the pillory, and have both his or her ears cut off and nailed to the pillory, and be pub- lickly whipped, on his or her bare back, with thirty-one lashes, well laid on; and, moreover, every such offender shall forfeit the sum of one hundred pounds, to be levied on his lands and tenements, goods and chattels, the one-half to the use of the State, and the other half to the use of the discoverer; and the offender shall pay the party double the value of the damages thereby sustained, together with the costs and charges of prosecution: and in case the offender hath not suflicient to satisfy the discoverer for his or her damages and charges, and pay the forfeiture aforesaid, in such case the offender shall, by order of the Court where he or she shall be convicted, be sold for any term not exceeding seven years, for satisfaction; and in such case the Treasurer of this State shall reward the discoverer of such insolvent offender to the value of five pounds, out of the publick moneys in his hands. And every such counterfeit bill shall be delivered to the said Treasurer, to be burnt and destroyed. And be it further Ordained and Declared, That the proper 711 Bills of Credit issued by the honourable the Continental Con- gress, or under the late laws, or by the resolves of the late Assembly of Pennsylvania, shall b@legal tender in all cases whatsoever within this State. By order of the Convention: Grorce Ross, Vice President. Passed August 1, 1776. Attest: Joun Morais, Jun., Secretary. PHILADELPHIA COUNTY COMMITTEE. August 1, 1776. In consequence of a Resolve of the Committee of Safety for proper persons to be appointed to distribute Money for the support of poor women and children, who are left des- titute by means of their husbands and fathers being now in actual service, Resolved, That the following gentlemen be appointed to that service, and that they be requested to draw upon the Treasurer, Mr. Joseph Mather, for such sums as they may think necessary for their different districts, viz: Philip Price, James Jones, John Price, Lindsay Coates, Isaiah Worrell, James Dungan, William Tiller, Peter Rush, John Collin, John Wilson, Peter Evans, Edward Burke, James Brookes, Alexander McMichael, Jeremiah Jordan, David Shottz, Henry Hise, George Hertzel, John Yost, Sen., John Roz, Joseph Ferree, Augustine Neiser, Nathan Levering, Wil- liam Wilson, Jonathan Robinson, Richard Bisbing, James Stroud, John Chain, John Bean, Israel Jacobs, John Weigel, Alexander Major. Extract from the Minutes: Enocu Epwarps. GABRIEL DAVIS TO LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. August 1, 1776. Sir: We, Committee-men of Earltown, having received orders from Colonel Peter Grub to collect wagon cloths and to have them at Hinkletown against Monday night, it was done. As there was no regular order from the Committee for these proceedings, George Rine sent me word this morn- ing that he went yesterday to Colonel Grub and Captain Martin, and demanded a receipt for the wagon cloths which were delivered to them, which they refused. Sir, I would take it as a particular favour if you would lay this matter before the Committee, and let me know, by a few lines from you, whether or no they will assist in getting money for the payment of these wagon cloths. You have, likewise, enclosed, a copy of a certain resolve which I hap- pened to stumble over. Sir, your humble servant, GasriEL Davis. To Mr. William Atlee, Chairman, Lancaster. GENERAL HOWE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Head-Quarters, Staten-Island, August 1, 1776. Sir: I have received the favour of your letter of the 30th of July, and shall accordingly direct that Mr. Lovell, who is now at Halifax, be brought to this post, of which I shall have the honour of advising you, that the proposed exchange between him and Governour Skene may take place. The extent of my command having no relation to Canada, it is not in my power to give you the satisfaction I could wish respecting the enlargement of Colonel Allen; it must therefore depend upon General Carleton’s determination. But wishing sincerely to give relief to the distresses of all pri- soners, I shall readily consent to the mode of exchange you are pleased to propose, viz: officers for those of equal rank, soldier for soldier, citizen for citizen; the choice to be made by the respective commanders for their own officers and men. You must be sensible deserters cannot be included in this arrangement; and for the mode of exchange in the naval line, I beg leave to refer you to the Admiral. I cannot close this letter without expressing the deepest concern that the unhappy state of the Colonies, so different from what I had the honour of experiencing in the course of the last war, deprives me of the pleasure I should other- wise have had in a more personal communication. I am, with due respect, sir, your most obedient servant, W. Howe. To General Washington, &c., &c. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 712 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, August 1, 1776. Sir: Congress having been pleased to empower me to order Colonel Ward’s regiment wherever I might think it necessary, I take the liberty of requesting you to direct him to march it immediately to this place, where I am of opinion the service requires it, and their aid may be extremely ma- terial, especially as the levies come in very slowly. : Since my last, nothing of importance has occurred, or that is worthy of notice, except an augmentation of about twenty-nine ships and brigs, with seven or eight smaller vessels, to the enemy’s fleet. I have not learned certainly what they bring; however, some troops were seen landing yesterday, which the gentlemen who observed them took to be Artillerymen. It is not improbable that they were some of the guards, whose dress is pretty much like that of the Artillery. I have the honour, &c., To Governour Trumbull. Go. WasHINGTON. P.S. The three galleys which you were kind enough to order, are safely arrived; as are two from Rhode-Island. With these, and one that we have finished here, we propose attempting something against the ships above, and are pre- paring for it. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, August 1, 1776. Sir: Having just received from Congress a return of Colo- nel Elmore’s regiment, now in your State, with directions that it shall join this Army, I request the favour of you to order him to march immediately to this place. They have appointed John Brown, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel of it, and Robert Cochran, Esq., Major. Commissions for such offi- cers as appear with their respective companies, | am to fill up. Lam, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Governour Trumbull, Connecticut. P. S. Half-past twelve o’clock.—I this moment received intelligence that thirty ships more were coming into the Hook. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL ELMORE. New-York, August 1, 1776. Sir: Having just received from Congress a return of your regiment, now in the State of Connecticut, with directions that it shall jom this Army, I request the favour of you to march immediately to this place. ‘They have appointed John Brown, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel of it, and Robert Cochran, Esq., Major. Commissions for such officers as appear with their respective companies, I am to fill up. Tam, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Colonel Samuel Elmore, in Connecticut. GENERAL WADSWORTH TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, August 1, 1776. Honovrep Sir: In consequence of your orders received the 23d June last, I immediately issued orders to the Colo- nels commanding the several regiments in my brigade, for raising and for sending those men, when mustered and equip- ped, agreeable to my instructions. On the 29th of June last, I received a letter from General Washington, requesting, in the most pressing manner, not to lose a moment’s time in sending forward the regiments designed for New-York; with which I immediately acquainted the Colonels, and directed them to give all possible attention in carrying the same into execution; and on the 3d of July last, in New-York, I re- ceived it in command from the General to send an express immediately to Connecticut, to forward the regiments design- ed for this department, the British fleet being then in sight of this city. In this situation of affairs, many of the men marched (as I am informed since my last) without being first mustered; a circumstance which I mentioned to the General on my first knowledge of it, who then informed me that they must be mustered here by the Mustermaster; but no order has been issued for that purpose. Must, therefore, beg your Honour’s directions, whether to have the men mustered by a Mustermaster appointed here, or by one from Connec- 713 ticut, or any other mode of procedure which you shall think proper. By the last returns, it appears that about three thousand of the troops from Connecticut have arrived, in- cluding officers, more than three hundred of whom are re- turned sick. Colonel Bradley’s regiment is at Bergen-Point, in the Jerseys, and Colonel Gray’s going to Long-Island. Many of the Connecticut officers have not yet joined: three Captains of Colonel Selden’s regiment only are present. I sincerely wish all, except those who have leave from their Colonels to recruit, were present, as we have reason to be- lieve some of the foreign troops are arrived. ‘The post is just now setting out. I am, with great truth and regard, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, rey nocnerielin 9 . To Hon. Governour Trumbull. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, August 1, 1776. Dear Sir: Colonel Hand reports thirty sail of ships standing in for the Hook. Perhaps this may be part of the foreign troops. I detached for the galleys between forty and fifty men yesterday. Two companies that have been with Colonel Foreman’s regiment are gone from this post to join their regi- ment under General Heard. The woops in general are exceeding sickly, great numbers taken down every day. If the state of the Army will admit of a reinforcement at this post, perhaps it may be prudent. If it does not, I will do the best I can with what I have got. I am, all with due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, NECute To General Washington. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long esa Bs EE , Dear Sir: The fleet reported coming in this morning consists of about forty sail, tenders and all. ‘They are now off New-Utrecht shore. Pilots have gone down to bring them up. The dispute subsisting between an officer in Colonel Lit- tle’s regiment and Colonel Varnum’s, I hope is in a fair way to be accommodated. In to day’s orders a regiment of General Wadsworth’s brigade is ordered on this Island. If they can have tents, it will be much the best. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, N. GREENE To His Excellency General Washington, New- York, Head- Quarters. SYLVESTER SALISBURY TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Kingston, August 1, 1776. GentLemEeN: According to a resolve of Congress, the Militia in this County are to raise a regiment of men to be stationed on the west side of the North River, in order to prevent the enemy from penetrating into the country. Pur- suant to that resolve the Militia was called together,.as was also my company of Horse. The quotas of the different companies of Foot were soon raised according to your direc- tions. My company of Horse was also called upon to raise their quota of men, but unanimously objected to their turning out as footmen. They think it is not the intent and meaning of Congress that horsemen shall be turned into footmen: that after having properly equipped themselves as horsemen they should now again be obliged to equip themselves as footmen. I did all in my power to persuade them to comply with the request of the Colonel, though at the same time did not think it your intent and meaning. ‘The bearer of this letter can more fully inform you about my company, if required. I should be glad to know your sentiments concerning this matter; that is, whether we are obliged to turn out as horse- men or footmen. ‘They say they are willing to turn out as horsemen at any time when called upon. You will much oblige me if you will give me your opinion by the bearer of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 714 this letter, as soon as possible, because Colonel Pawling is to march with his regiment from here the beginning of next week. If we are obliged to turn out as footmen, my company of Horse will be dissolved immediately, because they think it very unjust that they should serve both as horsemen and footmen, and then, of course, [ shall resign my commis- sion. I am, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, your most obedient, humble servant, SYLVESTER SALISBURY RY. To the President of the Convention of the State of New- York. COLONEL SNYDER TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Kingston, August 1, 1776. GentLemen: Whereas by virtue of a resolve of Congress it is ordered to raise the one-fourth of the Militia of the seve- ral Counties therein mentioned, to guard Hudson’s River on both sides; and whereas I have the honour to command the First Regiment in Ulster County,—I have, in compliance with said resolve, ordered the Militia under my command to turn out the fourth man of each company, as well the troop of Horse as the rest of the Militia, to go into immediate service under the command of Colonel Levt Pawling. And whereas I find the Militia all ready and willing to go in said service except the troop of Horse, and as I have just under- stood that the Captain of the troop of Horse will appeal to your honourable Board for advice whether he is to deliver his quota of men or not, and if so, he will resign his commission and dissolve the company; and whereas I conceive that it isa matter of no doubt but it was the sense of Congress, in plain terms, by the resolve of Congress passed the 22d day of August, 1775, to regulate the Militia, that the troop of Horse should be subject to commands and duties the same as the rest of the Militia: Now if they should be exempted from doing duty equal with the rest of the Militia, it will effect a mutiny among us; reason, because it has been the general rule, as long as the troop has been known in our County, they have always delivered their quota of men as the rest of the Militia; and if they now should be excused, particularly in these critical times when all and all is at stake, we might rather have no troop at all, for the troop are chiefly the prin- cipal people, and ought of course to step forth to defend their liberties as well as any of the Militia. So, gentlemen, I shall rest the matter to your consideration; and remain your most obedient humble servant, Few ees To the President of the Convention of the State of New- York. P.S. Gentlemen, favour me with an answer by the bearer, that a mutiny may be prevented. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 8, 1776.] German-Flats, August 1, 1776. Smr: Yesterday afternoon I had the honour to receive your favour of the 24th July, with the resolutions of Con- gress it enclosed, which shall claim the most immediate attention I can possibly give them; but as I may not be so soon with the Army as I could wish, I shall transmit a copy to General Gates, and recommend the execution of them. The pain I experienced in finding that so much unbeco- ming and dangerous jealousy prevailed in the Army is not easily described. What little [ could do in my short stay at Crown-Point, towards eradicating an evil which strikes at the very existence of an Army, I did; and I doubt not but General G‘ates has directed much of his attention to so capital an object, and that in a little time we shall in a great measure be purged of the evil. I do not recollect that any complaints have been made that the persons intrusted with the disposal of the publick stores have made overcharges against the soldiers, as the resolution of the 19th ultimo intimates. ‘The idea I meant to convey in one of my letters to Congress, or to his Excel- lency General Washington, (L forget which, as I have not the copies here,) was, that the soldiers complained of the very high price of all kinds of necessaries, and that they were not on a footing with those in the more interior parts of 715 the country, who could purchase at much easier rates, and therefore wished an abatement on the first cost. Yesterday some of the Cayugas arrived, and the remain- der are expected to-day. The Senecas, it is said, will be here to-morrow; if so, the conference will begin on the next day. I sincerely wish it was ended. The consumption of provision and rum is incredible; it equals that of an Army of three thousand men, although the Jndzans here are not above twelve hundred, including men, women, and children. Two trusty Oneidas, whom we sent last week to Cayuga and the Senecas to inquire the reasons of their delay, in- formed us on their return that Colonel Butler had called another meeting at Magara, and that the consideration of the answer to his message had occasioned the delay. ‘They also advise us that they heard from Indians returned from Canada, that the British troops are making a strong fortifi- cation at St. John’s, but could say nothing of their numbers. Our emissaries amongst the Indzans advise us that an ac- count of our misfortunes in Canada has been industriously propagated amongst them; that our conduct in demanding a neutrality only, in all the former treaties, has been greatly applauded at all their councils; that they believe a devia- tion from that line of conduct will terminate greatly to our disadvantage. We are still at a loss what to do, and wait for further information. At any rate we are resolved in our first speech to point out, in the strongest terms, the faith- less conduct of some of them, and to threaten them with revenging the insults we have received. General Arnold, in a letter of the 24th ultimo, from Ti- conderoga, advises me that only seventy sailors could be draughted out of the Army, and that three hundred would be wanting, and entreated that measures should be taken to procure them. I have accordingly written to Governour Trumbull on the subject; and as General Arnold suggested that they could not be got for the wages allowed seamen by Congress, (as these would have no prospect of making prizes,) I have therefore ventured to entreat the Governour to engage them on the best terms he can, as Congress will perceive by the following extract of my letter of yesterday’s date: “JT am this moment informed that only seventy sailors can be procured out of our Northern Army, and that we shall want two or three hundred more, and that they may possibly be procured in Connecticut ; and it is conjectured that Captains Samuel Chew and Francis Brown of New- Haven, Captain Amos Green of Stamford, Captain Whittle- sey of Saybrook, and Captain Seth Warner of Haddam, would, if not employed, be willing to engage as Captains to command vessels on Lake Champlain. 1 am a stranger to all these gentlemen. Permit me to beg the favour of you to send them, or such others as you may think proper, to engage forty men apiece, and to make the best contract you can with them for theirs and their men’s monthly wages and allowances, which will be strictly complied with.” I hope this measure will meet the approbation of Congress, as the necessity of having sailors is evident, and as there can be no doubt but that Governour Trumbull will make the most favourable contract for the publick that he can. Since writing and despatching my letter, I am informed by my Secretary, who is at Albany, that Captain Bacon was sent on this service by General G‘ates, with orders to call on my Secretary for £1000 lawful; but the Paymaster having no money, he was disappointed, and has proceeded to New- York. Every department suffers greatly for want of a sup- ply of cash. I hope, however, that a little time will remove the difficulties we labour under on this account. I am, sir, with sincere esteem and respect, your most obedient, humble servant, To the Honourable John Hancock. Pu. Scuuyuer. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, August 1, 1776. Str: Yesterday I received despatches from Congress enclosing, amongst other papers, certain resolutions; copy of which Ll enclose you. I dare say that whatever you can do in the premises, will be effected. In consequence of General Arnold’s letter of the 24th ultimo, I despatched an express to Governour Trumbull, to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 716 procure five companies of sailors, of forty men each. Un- certain on what terms they might be procured, I entreated him to engage them on the best he could, and that his contract with them would be punctually fulfilled. Since which, Captain Varick advises me that you have sent Cap- tain Bacon on the same errand. Iam happy that you have done it, as by the joint exertions of the Governour and him, | it is probable the business will be much expedited. It was unfortunate that the Paymaster had no money to furnish Captain Bacon. Why we are so long left without a supply of that necessary article, [ cannot conjecture. My applica- tions have been frequently repeated. By an express whom I despatched yesterday with Gov- ernour T’rumbull’s letter, I also directed that a proper person should be instantly sent to Connecticut for the said cloth and cordage mentioned in General Arnold’s letter. As I fear that the pitch some time since written for from New-York may not be sent, I have directed tar-makers to be sent to St. George, and there employed in procuring a quantity of it, which is easily reduced to pitch. Congress has, I believe, mistaken the idea I meant to convey about the price of goods for the soldiers. I have explained the matter in a letter of this date. All the fatigues I have endured at the opening of the campaign cannot equal what I suffer from the uninterrupted importunity of the Indians. ‘They now exceed twelve hun- dred, and all the Cayugas are not yet arrived, and very few of the Senecas. It is reported that some Indians from Canada say that the British troops are making a large fortification at St. John’s. I cannot learn anything of vessels, although they are doubt- less building. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. Scuuyier. To the Honourable General Gates. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. German-Flats, August 1, 1776. Dear Sir: General Arnold, in a letter of the 24th ultimo, from Tyonderoga, advises me of the necessity of sending ten or twelve gunners, and as many gunners’ mates, for our armed vessels, as none can be spared from the Artil- lery. They are not to be had at Albany or its vicinity, and I know not of any place nearer than New-York where they can be procured. Will your Excellency be so good as to order them up with all possible despatch ? 1 have written to Governour Trumbull for seamen, as only seventy are to be got out of the Army, and three hun- dred are wanted. As it will not be possible to procure them on the Continental allowance for seamen, there being no prospect of making prizes, I have ventured to desire the Governour to engage them on the best terms he can. I hope this will meet with your Excellency’s approbation. Part of the Cayuga Indians arrived yesterday; the re- mainder are expected to-day, and the Senecas to-morrow, and we are in hopes of opening the treaty on the next day. We have advice by Indians returned from Canada, that the enemy are employed in erecting a large and strong fortifica- tion at St. John’s. I can learn nothing from them about any vessels building there. Fort Stanwix is repairing, and is already so far advanced as to be defensible against light artillery. It would already have been furnished with six months’ provisions, if the necessary supply of the Indians had not prevented. These people consume an amazing quantity of provisions—at least better than twice as much as so many troops. ‘They now consist of about twelve hundred, including women and chil- dren. I am, dear sir, with the greatest respect and esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Pu. Scuuy.er. To His Excellency General Washington, &c., &c. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, August 1, 1776. Dear Genera: Since my last, there are four companies of the Connecticut troops arrived; and instead of sending one company, as I wrote in my last, I yesterday sent off two to be posted at Cheshire’s; and gave orders to the com- 717 manding officer to use his utmost endeavours to forward the repairing the roads, and in lending his assistance in getting logs for the saw-mill, and hope I shall not be disappointed in his fulfilling his orders. We are constantly sending boats for boards, but cannot get them half so fast as they are wanted. ‘The troops suffer much by not being covered from the weather; but I shall use my utmost endeavours to cover them as fast as I can. I must once more trouble your Honour about a set of bullet-moulds, which is much wanted. ‘The bullets are all too large, and for that reason have not made up any car- tridges, but have dealt out a little, in case they should want it, to every company. There are so many oars sent off with the gondolas, and none sent back, that we can scarcely furnish out any boats. In case we should, we would be glad there might be some returned, We have great success in getting our timber by the creek side, and in getting it in by rafts, that it saves team-work greatly. And I hope the carpenters will make considerable show soon in their building, as they seem to be spirited in their undertaking. And am, in haste, your Honour’s most obedient, humble ervant a? Davin Wartersoury, Jun. HARMANUS SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, August 1, 1776. Dear Genera: We are entirely out of oakum, and I have sent two expresses to Albany, and have none as yet. I would be very glad, if there is any oakum or iron at Ticon- deroga, that your Excellency would please to send it by the boat that brings you this letter. We are also in want of several other articles, such as spades, axes, and ropes, which, if the General pleases to send, will be of great use. We have our third express to Albany now for all those articles, and are as yet destitute. Iam, dear General, your most obedient, humble servant, Harmanus ScHuyLER, A. D. Q. M. General. To Major-General Gates. GENERAL GATES TO CUMBERLAND COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COM- MITTEE. Tyonderoga, August 1, 1776. GentLemen: Your petition of the 24th ultimo I was favoured with yesterday by Colonel Barret. The Congress have ordered a regiment to be immediately raised under the command of Colonel Warner, for the de- fence of the frontier most exposed to the enemy, in which your County is comprehended. I therefore think the one hundred and twenty-five men you mention, can be more usefully employed for the publick service in building a bridge over Otter Creek, and cutting and repairing the road from Number-Four to the foot of Mount Independence. Colonel Barret has the necessary information upon this head, and would, in my opinion, be a proper person to superintend the work. I beg your Committee will give all possible discourage- ment to the scandalous desertion that has prevailed in this Army, by seizing and sending under a proper guard all stragglers, and persons who are not supplied with a written pass under my hand or the hand of some publick officer authorized by me. I must likewise entreat you, gentlemen, to acquaint all officers commanding regiments and compa- nies, who have directions to march to this post, that it is my positive orders not to loiter upon the way, but to march without delay to the place of their destination. NATHANIEL SHAW, JUN., TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-London, August 1, 1776. Sir: The bearer, Dr. Wolcott, will deliver you a turtle, which was taken in a ship bound from Jamaica to London, by Captain Biddle, in the brig Andrew Doria, and was sent into this port, but unfortunately was lost on the rocks off Fisher’s Island, being chased by a man-of-war. We saved about ninety puncheons of rum; the sugar, two hundred and fifty hogsheads, all lost, and the ship; and as the turtle was CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 718 intended for the support of our enemies, we thought best to send him to Head-Quarters, to be dealt with. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Naru. Suaw, Jun. To His Excellency General Washington, Commander of all the Forces of the United States, in New-York. Per Dr. Wolcott, with a turtle. THOMAS MUMFORD TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Groton, August 1, 1776. Honovurep Sir: I have, per last post, received a letter from Congress, requesting me to deliver to your order the quantity of powder lent General Washington, as you will see by a quotation from their letter below: (“We request you will apply to Governour Trumbull for an account of the powder lent by your Colony to General Washington when before Boston. We don’t know exactly the quantity, but believe it was about four tons. ‘The Governour, or some officer of your Government, have a receipt or certificate, either from the General or Commissary, which you will please to take up, paying the powder, and transmitting the same to us, with a receipt for the powder you so repay;’) in which they desire me to take your receipt for the said powder, and also to take up General Washington’s or the Commissary’s receipt, which they gave when said powder was delivered belonging to this Colony. I have three tons and upwards of their powder now here, which I conclude is as much as was delivered here. The remainder is at Providence, where some part that you lent General Wash- ington was received. I am ready to deliver to your order the quantity of powder at Norwich, which was received in this Colony, and the remainder I will give orders to be delivered at Providence when you please, but shall expect the receipts as directed by Congress in their letter to me as above. I shall be glad to have duplicates of your receipts, as I want: one to send to Congress and the other to keep, to warrant my charging them with said powder. I am, with much esteem and respect, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, Tar oeueMonenc an) P.S. I have twenty tons of powder lately arrived in seve- ral bottoms. ENOS STONE TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Whereas a complaint is carried in against us the subscri- bers by the Committee of the town of Lexington in said State, respecting our conduct with one John McAlpine; and whereas the said complaint is set forth in a colour most odious, we, in justice to ourselves, and in our own defence, beg leave to set forth the whole proceedings to your Honours in a fair point of light, which is as follows: —* Some time in January last past, the above said Mc Alpine was found at one Smith’s, in Stockbridge, in this State, a house for some time suspected to harbour unfriendly persons ; whereupon several of us immediately went to said Smth’s, and apprehended said McAlpine; and some of the captors being the Committee of Lenox, thought proper to consult with the Committee of Stockbridge, and, on a close exami- nation, judged the said McAlpine inimical to the United States, and in their wisdom thought prudent to send him to the Committee of Salisbury, in the State of Connecticut; upon which the prisoner was delivered into our care, with directions to the Salsbury Committee, and accordingly we delivered the prisoner with our directions to Salisbury Committee, and from them we received orders to proceed with said McAlpine to the Committee in the Little Nine Partners, with which orders we complied, and, on our arrival there, but two of the Com- mittee were to be found. We presented the prisoner, with the writiug we had received from the two former Committees ; but they declined receiving the said McAlpine till the whole of the Committee was present; and by this time the evening was far spent; we resolved to keep a good watch over the prisoner; and about eleven o’clock at night, the Committee not being met, there entered the house by surprise about thirty Tories, and with a retinue without, and to appearance seemed determined to retaliate and revenge for said Mc- Alpine’s suffering, and all in confusion, cried Kill, kill the Rebels, and then demanded the surrendering of our arms, and, crowding upon us in a savage manner, extorted from us a 719 very valuable cutlass and two pistols, and sundry writings of value, which never were returned, and immediately after bound us both; and after they had insulted and abused us, to the satisfying of their savage dispositions, demanded McAlpine’s money; but I was determined to divest myself of and secrete the money, let the consequence be what it might: accordingly, I did, at the time they were seeking of me; but they, finding the money was not about me, concluded we had left it back about ten miles. They then threatened our lives, and solemn- ly declared, if we would not promise to return the money of’ said McAlpine to his brother and sister, after we had satis- faction for our damage and expense, (if there was any left,) they would sacrifice us there; accordingly we promised the money should be returned, and upon that they relieved us from our confinement, also exchanged horses with me, but my horse made his escape from them, and returned the next morning to my quarters, so I have both horses in custody. At my return the captor demanded an equal right in the plunder, but we refused, and submitted it to the judgment of men, and they were only to have their expenses paid for assisting in apprehending the said McAlpine; but said cap- tors demanded said moneys, that they might make an equal distribution, not that the publick should be benefited thereby. I myself being one of the Committee of the town, supposed that I had a right to keep it until I should have directions from the honourable House of Assembly or elsewhere, that I might be secure. Must beg that I may not be condemned without a proper hearing; and I am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, be gah ids cr To the Honourable General Court of Massachusetts State. Amherst, August 1, 1776. State of New-Hampsuire, County of Hitusporovue : Pursuant to orders from the Committee of Safety for said State, to the Sheriff of said County, requiring him to proclaim Independency in Amherst, the shire-town of said County, the Sheriff, attended by the Militia, a great part of the Magistrates of the County, and several hundreds of other spectators, met at the Meeting-House in said Town, and, after attending prayers, were formed into a circle on the parade, the Sheriff in the centre, on horseback, with a drawn sword in his hand. ‘The Declaration was read from an eminence on the parade; after that was done three cheers were given, colours flying and drums beating. The Militia fired in thirteen divisions, attended with universal acclamations. The whole was performed with the greatest decorum. Charlestown, South-Carolina, August 2, 1776. We hear that about three weeks ago two armed vessels from \St. Augustine cut a sloop and schooner, loaded with rice, out of Ogeechee River, in Georgia. A party from the same place have been employed in building a fort at St. Mary's. A boat belonging to them, with Captain Peter Bachop and seven others on board, was taken about a fort- night since, after some shot being exchanged. Three of them were killed, and Captain Bachop, with the other four, brought prisoners to Savannah. GENERAL LEE TO RICHARD PETERS. Charlestown, August 2, 1776. Sir: I wish I had been informed how I am to address myself in writing to the Board of War—whether to the Board in general, to the first members on the list, or to the Secretary. Ihave ventured on the last mode: if it is wrong, I hope I shall be excused and corrected. The irregularity and tardiness of the post are now become a matter of my serious concern. We never receive a letter from Philadelphia in less than six or seven weeks. That from the members of the Board of War and Ordnance is only just now arrived, though dated the 12th of June. I have been pressed, sir, by several members of the Convention of Virginia, to establish a post for this district; but 1 am ap- prehensive that it might interfere with the Continental post. However, the consequences arising from the irregularity of the post are so very serious, that all other considerations must be waived. In the mean time, I am constrained to the necessity of putting the Continent to the expense of an ex- press on almost every occasion. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776, 720 I am extremely rejoiced at the establishment of a Board of War; for the business of Congress was so complex and heterogeneous, that it was impossible they should give the necessary attention to the affairs of any one distinct depart- ment. Their regulations, with respect to returns, &c., shall be punctually observed. I have ordered General Armstrong to collect the returns from different corps, to digest them into one, and transmit them immediately to the Congress. I am myself busied in arranging matters for an expedition into East-Florida. It is much to be lamented, that these Southern Colonies suffered the whole of last winter to pass over their heads without preparing the means either of offence or defence. Not a single row-galley or armed boat was furnished by Virginia, North or South-Carolina. Were we provided with a moderate fleet of these sort of vessels, I think I could ensure the reduction of East-Florida; an object, though not equal with Canada, is certainly of very great importance. Here the measures of the Southern In- dians are concerted and planned, their treaties negotiated and concluded; here they receive their bribes, for their murderous operations, and from hence they are supplied with all the means and instruments of war. From hence they have lately made some alarming incursions into Georgza, carried off a considerable number of negroes, and not less than two thousand head of cattle. They have likewise thrown up a post on the river St. Mary’s, which, if suffered to remain, may prove extremely troublesome to Georgia, by affording a ready asylum to negro deserters. From these considerations, although I cannot think of laying siege to Augustine, having neither boats, horses, wagons, nor any other means of conveying cannon, ammu- nition, or provision for the purpose, I think it both a prudent and necessary measure to attempt breaking up the whole Province of East-Florida. It will be a security to Georgia, occasion infinite distress to the garrison of S¢. Augustine, but, above all, make a salutary impression upon the minds of the Creeks, who are now thought to stand wavering. They profess a good disposition towards the American cause; but if, by a strong predatory expedition into the province of the enemy, we give an idea of our prowess and superior strength, they will be riveted in our interest. If I were sure Mr. Clinton and his Army had steered their course to New-York, as the deserters all agree, and a letter which was left in Long-Island confirms, (a copy of which is here enclosed,) I should, as I have nothing immediately else to do in my district, march in person with this party; but the bare possibility of his being gone to Vir- ginia will detain me. Every ship of the enemy has now repassed the bar. It appears by this same enclosed letter, that they were more roughly handled than even the deserters represented. The Congress, I make no doubt, have been informed of the incursions made, and the ravages committed, by the Upper and Lower Cherokees. An expedition, I understand, is furnished forth by Virginia against the Upper Nations; another, by this Province, against the Lower. ‘The success or miscarriage is of the last consequence. I am therefore desirous of forming a second line, or corps de reserve, and detaching, for this purpose, a regiment of Regulars, but have not, as yet, been able to procure wagons sufficient for two companies. It will be necessary that Congress should make some regular establishment for wagons. 1 should think one wagon, at least, if not two, should be purchased and ap- pointed to each company of the whole Army, and regiments made responsible for theirs respectively. We should then be able to march when occasion requires expedition. At present, it is sometimes as much impossible to march an hundred miles, although the fate of a Province depended upon it, as if the soldiers wanted legs. I hope the Congress and Board of War will excuse my giving an opinion on a subject on which it has not been asked ; but [ conceive it to be my duty not to remain silent on any affairs of such a moment. I find, sir, that representations have been made that many inconveniences would arise from putting the troops of this Province on the Continental establishment. I can assure the Congress, that it is almost impossible to carry on the service if they remain on the Colonial establishment. The difference of the laws, the distinction of rank, occasion so much confusion, and the ridiculous farce of Duke and no_ Duke we are playing, the officers not always comprehending 721 who is their proper commander, whether the President or the Continental General, occasions very dangerous distractions. But there are other matters, of more serious consideration, of which I shall not trouble you with a detail. Nor do I find that the officers of this Province object to a Continental establishment; on the contrary, all those I have conversed with seem desirous of it. Upon the whole, I think it abso- lutely essential to the publick service that these regiments should immediately be put on the same footing, and be governed by the same laws, with the rest. Nor am I singu- lar in opinion. ‘The two brigades, all the officers of every rank, and the greater part of the gentlemen of the country, concur with me. Colonel Muhlenberg, of the Eighth Battalion of Virgin- zians, has been made very uneasy by some letters he has lately received, with respect to the rank of his regiment. These letters intimate that it was never the intention of the Congress to consider the Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth Battalions of the Virginzans on the Continental establishment, until they were entirely complete ; that his regiment never was entirely complete; and that, consequently, after having so long thought himself on the Continental establishment, and, on this presumption, having marched five hundred miles from his own Province, under the command of a Continental General, he now, at last, finds himself only a Provincial officer. I have ventured to assure him, and his officers, who are equally uneasy, that there must be some mistake in this affair. In fact, the hardship would be so great, that I can- not believe their apprehensions are well founded. It was, if | remember right, notified in April, by the Committee of Safety in Virginia, that they were then taken upon the Continental establishment, and, though in this I may be mistaken, without the proviso of their being complete. It happened at this time, though not complete to a man, (for no regiment is ever complete to a man,) that Muhlen- berg’s regiment was not only the most complete of the Province, but I believe of the whole Continent. It was not only the most complete in numbers, but the best armed, clothed, and equipped, in all respects, for immediate service. I must repeat, that I cannot conceive that it was ever the intention of Congress that the establishment should be filled to a man; but that they should be competent to service, in or out of their Province. In most services, when new levies are raised, one-half of the proposed complement entitles them to establishment. Muhlenberg’s regiment wanted only forty at most. It was the strength and good condition of the regiment that induced me to order it out of its own Province in preference to any other. I certainly consi- dered them at that time as Continental troops; otherwise, I could have had no authority to order them out of the Province. I must now submit it to the consideration of the Congress, if it would not really be the greatest cruelty that their strength and good condition should be turned against them. It was their strength and good condition which carried them out of their Province, where, had they remained and known that it was a necessary condition of their establishment to be com- plete to a man, they certainly could have accomplished it in three days. I do, therefore, most sincerely hope, and con- fidently persuade myself, that MuAlenberg’s regiment will at least date their rank from the day | ordered them to march out of their Province. Not only justice, but policy requires it, for you will otherwise lose a most excellent regi- ment. _ [often represented to Congress how difficult or impossible it would be to engage, or retain after they were engaged, any engineers of tolerable qualification on the wretched pay established. The two appointed to my district have, as I expected, quitted the service. It was, indeed, impossible for them to exist. Stadler, I hear, has entered into the service of Virgina. Massenbaugh is retained by this Pro- vince at fifty-four dollars per month, a servant, rations, and his travelling expenses. He formerly begged his dismission from me, assuring me, and I believe sincerely, he was zeal- ous in the cause of America; that he would willingly, if I chose it, inlist as a common soldier; but that to ride about the Continent from North to South, find horses, and appear like a gentleman, was impossible. I could, not, in con- science, force him to starve; so consented to his engaging in this service. I am now without a single Engineer, and Firtu Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 46 122 really know not how to carry on the business, I hope the Board will consider the necessity of supplying me. I shall now, sir, conclude, with assuring them that I am, with_great respect, their obedient, most humble servant, Cuarves Lee. To Richard Peters, Esq., Secretary to the Board of War and Ordnance. TURBUTT WRIGHT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee of Observation, Queen Anne’s County, August 2, 1776. GentLemen: Complaint has been made to us by Lieu- tenant Hawkins, that Captain Dean’s company, stationed on Kent-Island, are greatly in want of water at their station, and informed that a sufficient quantity may be had at Blunt’s Warehouse, on the said Island, or at Captain Thomas Marsh’s plantation, adjoining their station ; and further com- plained, that Mr. Cummins, the Commissary, has neglected to make the necessary provision for the company, and that the company are in want of a physician. We have applied to Captain Marsh for his permission to Captain Dean to station his company, or a part thereof, on his plantation, and have received his absolute refusal; in consequence of which we have ventured to advise Captain Dean to remove his company, or such part thereof as he may judge necessary, from the present station to Blunt’s Ware- house, and to fix such and so many guards, and at such places, as he may think proper, to promote in the best man- ner the service in which he is engaged, until he shall receive the further orders of your Board. By order of the Committee. I am your obedient servant, Toursutt Wricut, Chairman. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. CAPTAIN GRAYBILL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, August 2, 1776. Gentiemen: Please to pay unto Captain George Keepot £400, to be applied for purchasing arms and blankets for my company of German troops, and you will very much oblige your most obedient humble servant, Puitip GRayBILL. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL HOOPER. {No. 105.] Annapolis, August 2, 1776. Sir: Since our last, we have had advice from Major Price, our commanding officer in St. Mary’s, that the British fleet lay near the mouth of Smith’s Creek, in Potomack ; that they were very weak in land forces, not exceeding three hundred men; that they were so sickly that fifty dead bodies had appeared on the shore, chiefly negroes; and that having gone up the river Potomack to take in water, and returned, he imagined they would soon sail from that quarter. Their forces appear so inconsiderable and contemptible to him, that he has dismissed all the Militia, and keeps only two Independent companies to oppose them, one of which, Captain Thomas, we have this day ordered to march to the northward, and Captain Mantz, of the Frederick battalion, marches to supply his place. Captain Dean’s company 1s stationed at Kent-Island, and Captain Goldsborough’s is to supply the place of Cap- tain Hindman’s, if the latter can get arms, which we cannot doubt the Militia will lend them for their defence, until the Province can supply them. These, with the two Indepen- dent companies, will make a company of near five hundred men. We therefore think that three-fourths of the Militia under your command may return to their habitations, and keep themselves in readiness to march in case of an attack, as the above force will be more than sufficient to repel an invasion from the fleet. We do not expect, from their weak state, that any attempt will be made, except to plunder; and we think the five hundred regular troops, together with the two hundred Militia, a sufficient force to protect your shore until the fleet sails, which we daily expect to hear of; and if some of them go to sea, and only a few remain at our Capes, and in Virgina, to destroy our trade, as it is sug- gested to us will be the case, the remainder of the Militia also may be discharged. 723 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 724 If the schooner you have taken would answer to make an armed boat or vessel for the defence of this Colony, we should be glad you would send her over, that she may be put in repair, and fitted ‘for the service, if she is unfit. An account of her size, value, and stores, will be agreeable to us. We are of opinion that a Court-Martial ought to be held on the conduct and opinions of the two military gentlemen you mention, and a representation made from it to our Board, as a foundation for their being deprived of their commissions. The spirit and order with which your brigade has acted on this occasion has been exceedingly agreeable to us, and we are possessed of the pleasing prospect that they will con- tinue to distinguish themselves on every future occasion by an animated affection to their country, leading them to brave every fatigue and peril to preserve her liberties inviolate. We are, Xe. To Brigadier-General Hooper. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEE OF DORCHES- TER COUNTY. [No. 106.] Annapolis, August 2, 1776. Gentiemen: The prisoners sent up by you we have not, by reason of the great deal of business now before us, been able to examine; but shall, when we do, apply to you to send up the witnesses, if they deny the facts with which they are charged. We send you a couple of barrels of musket gunpowder, and weight of lead. The cannon powder may remain with you. We rely upon you for taking especial care that they shall not be wasted, as you know our safety depends upo:. our economy in this point, We are, &c. To the Committee of Dorchester County. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS. [No. 107.] Annapolis, August 2, 1776. GenTLeMEN: We have received yours of the 27th July, many parts of which are already answered, as you will per- ceive by recurring to ourlast. The advance of $1,335 to Colonel Smallwood we approve of, upon presumption he had occasion for that sum, and that he will lay it out in pro- viding necessaries for himself and battalion with economy and discretion. We enclose you Mr. Christopher Rich- mond’s appointment to be Paymaster of the battalion, accord- ing to Colonel Smallwood’s desire and your recommendation. We have set on foot inquiries in several places with regard to flints, and shall hereafter let you know whether any stone can be found for manufacturing them here. Since our last, we have received two letters from Major Price, copies of which are enclosed. From them you will hear the situation of the enemy below. Our pilot-boat came up last night, and informs they are not yet gone off. Several vessels are dismasted, and on shore at the point of St. George’s Island, with intention to burn them. Middleton thinks they are going off down the Bay, and we hope soon to be able to write you to that effect, although we apprehend a visit to the Eastern-Shore, and are preparing accordingly. We have the satisfaction to inform you that the report of a landing at Colonel Smallwood’s was not true. Mr. Brent’s houses were burnt, and a good deal of damage done. We hear of no particulars of any other mischief up above. We send you also, enclosed, a copy of aletter from Cap- tain Deakins, as a sample of the many applications we have from almost all the Captains in the Flying-Camp. They are in want, not only of guns, but of almost everything else. We expect to be able soon to arm a number equal to that of the Regulars who have marched to the camp, and that we shall be able to send forward some companies (perhaps a battalion or more) by the middle of this month. To enable us to do this, we shall be obliged to advance more than the £5,000 given by the Convention to purchase arms. Few or none can be borrowed. ‘The companies, many of them, not yet complete. We expect the Convention will approve our advancing a further sum to furnish arms for the Flying-Camp. Without so doing, they would not have been in condition to march at all. We think it advisable to purchase for all the com- panies, rather than suffer them to remain here on expense, or be disbanded, which must have been the case. We have ordered Captain Mantz down to St. Mary’s, and given Captain Thomas positive orders to march, so that we hope he will soon be with you on his way to New- York. We congratulate you on the safe arrival of the Molly, Cap- tain Conway, in Great Wicomico, Virginia, with twenty- one thousand weight of gunpowder, and two hundred and seventy stand of small-arms, for the use of this Province. We shall get the cargo up here as soon as we can with safety. We send you a letter for the commander for the North American troops, which came by Conway, which please to forward to General Washington. One of the wagons that came with powder from Phila- delphia met with an accidént that is likely to prove fatal to a Sergeant of Captain Cox’s guard. Coming down the road, not far from J. Hammonda’s, a bridge over a deep gutter that runs through his old field gave way, and wounded two of the people, shattered the wagon, and stove some of the powder. ‘The loss of one barrel of powder is trifling to the life of the Sergeant. He is not dead as yet, but it is appre- hended cannot live. Another man slipped his shoulder, but is got better. ‘The powder and arms are safe at the maga- zine, except part of two barrels, making, in all, about one barrel lost. We cannot but admire at what you say, that there are only three thousand Militia in Jersey. Permit us to ask, what are become of all the Militia that we read in the papers are marched from Pennsylvania, Jersey, &c.? Be pleased to explain how it has happened that no more have as yet marched to their station in that Province. By the southern post, we have intelligence that the Chero- kees have committed some outrages on the borders of Caro- lina; that the squadron of Parker and Clinton are moving frequently from Island to Island, and are growing sickly. Yesterday, our election for this County began, and is not yet ended. We are sorry to inform you that Messrs. Johnson and Paca and Carroll of Carrollton, from present appearances, will not be elected. Worthington, Carroll, (barrister,) Chase, and R. Hammond, are greatly beyond any others on the poll. Very few people from Elk-Ridge, or the lower part of the County, have as yet attended. We are, &c. To the Deputies for Maryland in Congress. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GENERAL DENT. [No. 108.] Annapolis, August 2, 1776. Sir: At the time we wrote you first to take the com- mand, Major Price was on the Eastern-Shore. We knew your attention must be engaged with the Flying-Camp. Had he been here, we should not have troubled you at all, but sent the Major immediately down to take the command. Upon his return, and understanding that the enemy were landing at St. George’s Island, and that cannon would be necessary to repel them; hearing also that some of the fleet were preparing to move up the river, we came to the resolu- tion of sending Major Price down to St. George’s, expecting you might be usefully employed higher up the river, and occasionally with the Flying-Camp.. These were the mo- tives for sending Major Price, and not any intention of giving you offence. We tell you candidly that we have no reason to believe that you were not equal to the task, or that you were deficient either in military knowledge, assiduity, or personal courage, and that we are surprised you should entertain any such idea. We had never any insinuation to your prejudice; there- fore, there could be no foundation for appointing any hear- ing. We thought it would be of advantage to the publick cause to send down Major Price. The service was likely to be extensive, and a commander wanted in more places than one. We know you must be called off soon to the F lying-Camp, and accordingly wrote you the 28th, enclo- sing your commission, and requesting to see you. We now repeat that request, and are convinced that we are able, by personal conference, to satisfy you that we intended no affront or indignity to you, unless you think the Convention have acted improperly in adjusting the rank between the Regulars and the Militia. We wish to stand fair with yourself and all other worthy men; and whatever you may determine upon, be assured that we had nothing to allege against your conduct, and that we were actuated by no other views than those of service to the publick, and taking effectual measures to repel the com- mon enemy. We are, &c. To Brigadier-General Dent. 725 CHRISTOPHER PELISSIER TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Philadelphia, August 2, 1776. Honouraste Sir: I have received the commission [of Engineer, with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel] which the honourable Continental Congress has been pleased to point out for me; and shall take it as a very particular favour if the honourable House will order me two months’ pay ad- vanced, to equip myself for the service. Lam, with great respect, sir, your very obedient, humble servant, To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. PELISSIER. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, August 2, 1776. Sir: [am particularly instructed by Congress to answer that part of your letter of 29th ultimo, directed to the Board of War, which relates to the filling up vacancies in the Army. The Congress are concerned to find that an opinion is enter- tained that greater confidence has.been placed in, and larger powers given to, other commanders in that respect, than to yourself. They have in no instance, except in the late ap- pointment of General Gates to the command in Canada, parted with the power of filling up vacancies. The great confusion and many disorders prevalent in that Army, and its distance, induced Congress to lodge such a power in that General, for the limited space of three months, and only during his continuance in Canada. Should Congress ever empower its Generals to fill up the vacancies in the Army, they know of no one in whom they would so soon repose a trust of such importance as in yourself; but future Generals may make a bad use of it. The danger of the precedent, not any suspicion of their present Commander-in-Chief, prompts them to retain a power, that, by you, sir, might be exercised with the greatest publick advantage. I do myself the honour to enclose sundry resolves, and to request your attention to them. They relate principally, as you will perceive, to some new regulations with regard to Paymasters, Commissaries, and Quartermasters, in the Ame- rican Army, and are intended to prevent confusion and dis- order in those several departments. The Congress approve of your employing in the service of the States the Stockbridge Indians, if you think proper. The enclosed resolve, for taking into the pay of the States such of the seamen as may fall into our hands on board of prizes, will, I trust, be attended with the good effects Con- gress had in view when they passed it. I have the honour to be, with perfect respect and esteem, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To His Excellency General Washington. N. B. Your favour of 5th instant, just come to hand, will be replied to by to-morrow’s post. GEORGE MEASAM’S PETITION. [Read August 7, 1776. Referred to the Board of War.] To the Honourable Members of the Continental Congress, &c., &c., &e. The Memorial of Grorce Measam, late of Monrreat, in Canapa, humbly showeth: That your memorialist was well known by the late Bri- gadier-General Montgomery to be a true friend to the Ame- rican cause by sundry circumstances, both before and after the capitulation of Montreal, and in consequence thereof the General thought proper to recommend your memorialist as a person in whom confidence could be put to repose the trust and care of the Post-Office for that Province; and he was honoured with a commission from the Postmaster-General for that purpose, and did direct the same, and support it with his own proper moneys, until the American Army was obliged to retreat from thence. And further, the General was pleased to desire your me- morialist, with Major Lockwood, to superintend the landing of the stores taken by Colonel Easton, commencing the 20th of November, 1775; and on the 10th of December following, your memorialist was put in publick orders to superintend all the stores, except Artillery stores; and he has a small account of disbursements unsettled, contracted by order of the com- * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 726 manding officer at Montreal. That no rate, rank, or salary, hath been stipulated to the said office; and that your memo- rialist humbly conceives it highly necessary an officer should be appointed to superintend the issues of the publick stores of the Northern camp at and about Ticonderoga. That your memorialist had entered into the Indian trade pretty largely at four different posts above Montreal, and was possessed of other property, land, trade, and dealings, in that country; all which your memorialist has been obliced to abandon upon the retreat of the American Army from thence. Therefore, your memorialist prays your Honours will be pleased to confirm his appointment, and extend it to the Northern Army, or elsewhere, with such rate, rank, or salary, as your Honours shall judge proper; and your memorialist shall pray, &c. Philadelphia, August 2, 1776. Geo. Measam. Sir: The bearer, Mr. Measam, was a merchant of good reputation at Montreal; but having engaged warmly in the American cause, has been obliged to abandon that country to the great detriment of his affairs. He was appointed by General Wooster a Commissary of Stores there, and apprehending such an officer to be at this time necessary in our Northern Army, he has applied to Congress for a continuance in that office. I understand that his memorial is referred to the Board of War. As I have had occasion to know Mr. Measam as a good accountant, a man of method, and very correct in business, I cannot but think that if such an officer is wanting, he is extremely well qualified for the employ, and as such beg leave to recom- mend him to the favour of the Board. With great respect, I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, To the Hon. John Adams, Esq. B. FRanxuin. JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Perth-Amboy, August 2, 1776. Honovrep Sir: This serves to notice you, that I have this day drawn on you for $20,000, at four days’ sight, in favour of Mr. Azariah Dunham, to be improved in supplying the Continental troops in New-Jersey with provisions. I am, most respectfully, dear sir, your most humble ser- vant ’ Jos. TRUMBULL. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Con- gress of the United States of America, at Philadelphia. ESTATES OF NEW-JERSEY REFUGEES. In Convention of the State of New-Jersey, Brunswick, August 2, 1776. Resolved, That the several County Committees within this State do cause Inventories and Appraisements to be made of the Estates, real as well as personal, of all such per- sons within their respective bounds as have, or shall have absconded from their homes, and joined themselves to the enemies of this State; causing all perishable articles to be sold, and the moneys arising therefrom, and all other the goods and estates of such persons, that they keep in safe and secure custody, until the further order of this Conven- tion, or the determination of other proper judicature: Pro- vided, That the said Committees be empowered to leave any part of the said Estate in the hands of the relations or friends of such absconding persons, taking such security as they may think proper for the return thereof, or of the value. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 5, 1776.] New-York, August 2, 1776. Sir: Your favour of the 30th ultimo, with its several en- closures, I was honoured with by Wednesday’s post. Congress having been pleased to leave with me the direc- tion of Colonel Ward’s regiment, I have written to Governour Trumbull, and requested him to order their march to this place, being fully satisfied that the enemy mean to make their grand push in this quarter, and that the good of the service requires every aid here that can be obtained. I have also written to Colonel Elmore, and directed him to repair hither with his regiment. When it comes, IJ shall fill up 727 commissions for such officers as appear with their respective companies. Colonel Holman, with a regiment from the Massachusetts State, is arrived. Colonel Cary from thence is also here, waiting the arrival of his regiment, which he hourly expects. He adds, when he left New-London he heard that the Third Regiment from the Massachusetts was almost ready, and would soon be in motion. The enemy’s force is daily augmenting, and becoming stronger by new arrivals. Yesterday, General Greene reports, about forty sail, including tenders, came into the Hook. What they are, or what those have brought that have lately got in, I remain uninformed. However, I think it probable they are part of Lord Howe’s fleet with the Hessian troops. It is time to look for them. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. P. S. I am extremely sorry to inform Congress our troops are very sickly. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS- BAY. Head-Quarters, August 2, 1776. Sir: Your letter of the 16th ultimo, in behalf of the Council of Massachusetts-Bay, is duly received. ‘The con- tents have been attended to; and I have the pleasure to in- form you there is a prospect of an early exchange of the prisoners taken in the Yankee Hero privateer. As Mr. Tracy negotiated this matter, and had an interview with Lord Howe on board the Eagle man-of-war, I must refer you to him for particulars. Congress authorized me to comply with General Howe’s request of giving Governour Skene for Mr. Lovell. 1 have written informing General Howe thereof, and expect soon to have Mr. Lovell sent to some part of the Continent. Assure the members of your honourable body, it gives me particular pleasure that 1 have it in my power to relieve one of their citizens from a long and tedious imprisonment, and shall esteem myself happy in complying with any request they may make consistent with the important duties of my office. I have the honour to be, with great esteem, their and your most obedient, humble servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To the Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, Esq., Boston. August 5th.—P. 5S. On the 11th ultimo, I wrote your honourable body, respecting the St. John’s, Nova-Scotia, and Penobscot Indians. Since which, I have heard nothing from them. It is a matter of the greatest consequence. Must therefore beg an answer, acquainting me what steps they have taken, by the first post. Since the above, I have a letter from General Howe, acquainting me he has sent for Mr. Lovell for the proposed exchange. Iam, &c., Go. WasHIneron GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, August 2, 1776. Dear Sir: Colonel Hand reports nothing worthy your Excellency’s notice this morning. I was at the Narrows last evening, and find the fleet that came in yesterday consisted of thirty-six ships, four brigs, and five sloops: one ship and a sloop still at the Hook. I could not learn with any degree of certainty who they are; but I believe, from their uniforms, they must be the Guards and Artillery. If your Excellency has leisure, perhaps it may be worth while to pay a visit to the Narrows, to recon- noitre and view the fleet. With respect to the tents I wrote about yesterday, I can easily dispense with them, if there are barracks to be got for the regiment. I wrote to the Quartermaster-General to send over his Barrackmaster, to look up quarters for the regi- ment this morning. Shall notify your Excellency the result of the Barrackmaster’s inquiry. I have the honour to be, your Excellency’s obedient ser- vant d NatHaNnAaEL GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 728 NEW-YORK COMMITTER. Committee-Chamber, New-York, August 2, 1776. Resolved, That no Lambs be killed and exposed to sale in any Market of this City and County, (of which all Butchers and other inhabitants are desired to take particular notice,) until further orders from the Convention of this State or this Committee. Extract from the Minutes : Josepu Winter, Secretary. GENERAL GEORGE CLINTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Fort Montgomery, August 2, 1776. Dear Str: I take this opportunity by my brother (now on his way to New-York to settle some affairs of his regi- ment) to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency’s favour of the 26th ultimo, and of informing you of our pre- sent situation, and that of the enemy. On Thursday last the shipping and tenders fell down to the mouth of Croton’s River, where they have since continued at anchor near the east shore; since which, they have made one atteimpt to land on this side the river, with their barge, but were re- pulsed by our Militia. On Saturday last, the three hundred New-England Militia left Peek’s Kill, &c., and returned home without giving me the least notice of it, though I be- lieve they had the consent of the Committee of Congress, who expected in the new levies from West-Chester and Dutchess: Counties to supply their place. They did not arrive. ‘The shore, of course, was unguarded, and the very same evening the enemy came up the river in their barges, above six miles from where their shipping lay, went upwards of a mile in the country and took off a yoke of oxen, a steer, a cow, and ten sheep, from the farm of one Bazly, a noted Tory, who, itis said, is on board the Phenix, and I suppose was their guide. On receiving this account, I thought it was my duty to send a part of our men to protect that shore, until the new levies in those Counties can be raised to relieve them, and have done so accordingly, though contrary to the resolves of the Provincial Congress, which fixes their station on this side the river; but trust the necessity of the case will justify my conduct in this; for to leave that side without protection would in a great degree render our care on this useless and idle. I have taken possession of the hill mentioned in m last, and the proper works are laid out there by Mr. Machin, and which shall be executed with the greatest despatch and economy. , The fire-rafts are not yet completed. The difficulty of procuring the necessary materials has occasioned much de- lay. ‘They are, however, in such forwardness as to be used to some advantage, should the shipping attempt passing us. The gentleman from Philadelphia to assist our Secret Committee, was here yesterday, and is gone forward to Poughkeepsie. ‘Think it not best to proceed on the rafts until he returns here, as he don’t altogether approve the method we have taken of fixing the combustible matter in them. The mode directed by your Excellency for drawing the Artificers’ pay, &c., (with which I was entirely unac- quainted,) will prevent any future uneasiness on their ac- count, and answer better than money here. 1 am, with the highest esteem, your most obedient servant, Geo. Cuinton. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. COLONEL HAY TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Haverstraw, August 2, 1776. Sir: I find my own apprehensions that the banks of Hudson’s River would become the chief theatre of the war, confirmed by the opinion of the Congress; and I feel there- fore vast satisfaction in the provision they are making for a proper defence on this great line of communication, as well as in the report that your Excellency is at the same time concerting measures totally to obstruct the navigation below the capital. The vessels under Captain Parker’s command, on their departure from our Bay, brought to in an hour after my last letter was despatched, between Tellers’s Point and the Werdlinge Hook, where they still continue, and have, since they changed their ground, received some supplies from the 729 West-Chester shore. On this side our watch is so strictly kept up that they have had nothing from us since the day on which they destroyed Halsted’s house. By the late act of our Congress for establishing river guards, I observe that the appointment of the Deputy Com- missaries is left to your Excellency; and if the burden of the service will not fall too heavily upon the undertaker, I stand ready to perform it on this side of the river; and being con- veniently situated, and having an extensive acquaintance in the surrounding country for the facilitating the necessary supplies, I now offer myself for that trust, with hopes of your favour and approbation. ‘The bearer will wait for your Ex- cellency’s answer; for I propose, upon his return, and your acceptance of my services, instantly to wait upon you for your further commands. The obstruction of all intercourse by water between the Highland forts and Head-Quarters, renders it so difficult to give and procure intelligence which may be of the utmost moment to the inhabitants on the bor- ders of the river, that I beg leave, in compliance with their wishes, to entreat your E:xcellency’s attention to the proposal of setting up a post to ride once or twice in a week between these stages. I think I could procure a rider at thirty or forty shillings a trip, and that the letters and carriage of small articles wanted from the capital, all along the road, and now not to be obtained by water, would pay, if not overbalance the expense. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant, iil Tefen sal asi P. VAN CORTLANDT AND Z, PLATT TO NEW-YORK CONVEN- TION. Head-Quarters, mouth of Croton, August 2, 1776. GentLemen: The enemy’s ships lie off here, and their barges row up and down the river o’nights; and notwithstand- ing our utmost exertions, some infamous rascal must have given them information that the New-England troops went off on Saturday last; and not-a sufficient number coming in to guard the shore, they landed at one Bailey’s, on Sunday night, and went back half.a mile and drove off one pair of oxen, two cows, one calf, one heifer, and eleven sheep. No doubt had the assistance of some Tories on shore. We have since got some assistance from General Clinton’s brigade, and several companies have come in, and more are hourly expect- ed, that we are in hopes soon to have such an arrangement as willeffectually cut offall kind ofcommunication. Hope there may be soon some discreet smart officer appointed to take the command, and a proper Commissary, that the business may be conducted with spirit and regularity. We must confess, gentlemen, that as yet things have not been so well regulated as we should have been glad to have seen; but the many difficulties and disadvantages we had to en- counter only must apologize. We considered our appoint- ment as only pro tempore, and, cautious of assuming too much authority to ourselves lest it might give disquiet to some of the military corps, and having such an extensive shore and frequent movements, were obliged to deal out pro- visions in different places; and not being able to give any man assurance that he should continue any considerable time in office, has made it difficult to get proper persons to act in different departments. Added to this, having to deal with new raw troops every few days, by reason of their frequent changes, (and sorry to see many of them very refractory,) that on the whole our station has not been the most desirable ; however, are willing to serve in any department that may be for the good of our country. Remain, gentlemen, your very humble servants, Prerre Van Cortianprt, ZepPua. Puarr. To the Representatives of the Convention of the State of New-York. ISAAC NICOLL TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Haverstraw, August 2, 1776. Str: I am appointed by General Clinton to take the com- mand at this place; we have now three companies, and expect daily a reinforcement of one or two more companies. We are without a Commissary to provide for the troops, and have no store of provisions, powder, and ball. I must, there- fore, request that the Congress will give orders that we may CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 730 be speedily supplied. regiment I have the also appointed. Iam, sir, with great respect, your most obedient, humble servant, It will also be very agreeable to the honour to command if a Surgeon was TouNchacisehelie Isaac Nicout. 0 Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq., President of th : of the State of New- Barker oP he on sent watt WILLIAM BEDLOW TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Fort Constitution, August 2, 1776. Sir: I wrote you last week by Captain Cook, in which I enclosed the accounts of this post, from my last settlement to the time of my dismission as a Commissioner under the Provincial Congress, requesting you would be so kind as to lay them before the Committee of Accounts for their inspec- tion. I have now to desire the favour of the honourable the: Congress of the State of New-York to order the amount of those accounts to be paid to Colonel James Clinton, who will bring it up to this post with him, by which means I shall be enabled to settle with the artificers and others, who are con- tinually pestering me for their money. Tam, sir, with respect, your humble servant, WituM Bepiow. To Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, August 2, 1776. Dear Sr: Your favour of the 29th ultimo was delivered me within this half hour. As I wish that to Congress should reach them the soonest possible, I will not detain an express that 1s already at the door to carry it to Albany any longer than to assure you that I experience the finest feelings from your friendly declaration. You will never, my dear sir, outdo me in acts of friendship. There I will always vie with you. ‘To-morrow I will write you more at large, and enclose you copy of a letter from General Washington, (though I believe you have it before this, for I ordered Cap- tain Varick to send you copies of all letters that concerned our affairs to the northward,) on the same subject with that of his to you, and with copy of my answer, which I wish may meet your approbation. Adieu until then; and believe me, dear sir, your most faithful and obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHuyLer. To Hon. Major-General Gates. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, August 2, 1776. Dear Genera: I received your favour of the 31st ultimo, and your Honour may depend upon my compliance with every order, as far as lies in my power. I have done but very little at the fort as yet, the call has been so great from the car- penters for the men. I have ordered, some part of the time, one gill of rum per man for fatigue-men, but our growing short, I give half a gill. The carpenters will insist upon having their full complement of rum; there are but two and a half barrels, and should be glad your Honour would send me a supply soon. I herewith send some peas, and have sent out after butter, and have encouragement of having some the beginning of the week, which I shall send as soon as I can get; and am, with the greatest esteem, your Honour’s humble servant, Davin Watersury, Jun. To Major-General Gates. SAMUEL SQUIER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Fairfield, August 2, 1776. Sir: According to the request per your letter of the 17th of last month, I have made inquiry, and find I can procure the greater part of the clothing, &c. I have agreed for all the hats and shoes, and I expect I shall be able to procure the shirting; but as our people are but now spinning the wool, I don’t expect it will be ready before the first of Octo- ber; and as to the tow-cloth, | have purchased some and am making it into tents, although at a vastly higher price than last year. I imagine the tents are now wanted, so that I 731 shall get them ready as soon as possible. I hope to get cloth enough for about fifty tents, and could have procured enough for two hundred if I bad had orders but a little sooner. As to the cloth for the coats and waistcoats, I find some difficulty. I shall get a part of homespun cloth, but I suppose not enough, and hope to make up the complement in coarse cloth, which I find to be sold amongst us at a reason- able rate. The blankets I find still more difficult, but have procured some, and shall endeavour to procure the rest, if possible. If the shirts and other clothing are to be made up here, I desire you will let me know it, and I will have it done as fast as I collect the cloth. I find it will be very necessary to have money to pay for those articles whenever they are brought in. You will there- fore please to inform me where I may draw the money for that purpose. Iam your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, SAMUEL SQUIER. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., at Lebanon. CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety of Connecticut, August 1st, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyer, Jz. Huntington, Richard Law, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Nathaniel Wales, Jun., Bery. Huntington, Esquires. Voted, (upon application of the Selectmen of Windham,) That Lieutenant Wales have twelve Guns, and Bayonets and Belts, to be delivered him by Mr. David Trumbull, for the use of Captain Stedman’s company. Sent Circular Letters to all the respective Towns in the Colony, urging the necessity of forwarding the Inlistments, oF Sundry Letters from the Convention of New-York, by Mr. Depuyster, relative to the Prisoners sent from thence to Litchfield Jail, read, taken up, and considered, and there- upon, , Voted, That the Mayor of New-York be brought down to Hartford, and there confined; two of said Prisoners, viz: Gilbert Forbes and William Forbes, to be confined at Litch- field Jail, and the other ten to be brought down to Norwich Jail; and warrants thereon granted, directed to the respective Jailers. Voted, ‘That an order be drawn on the Pay-Table for £600, in favour of Mr. Andrew Huntington, for the pur- chase of Clothing, Tents, &c., for the Continental Army, to be paid out of the money lodged in the Colony Treasury by Mr. Sherman, if lodged for said purpose, otherwise to be out of the proper Treasury of the Colony, and to render his account therefor. Order given Ist August; delivered Colonel Huntington. Adjourned till to-morrow morning. Friday, August 2, 1776. Met according to adjournment. Present : His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyer, Jz. Huntington, Richard Law, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Nathl. Wales, Bery. Huntington, Esquires. Colonel Pettibone applied to this Board for direction and instruction relative to bringing down the Cannon, &c., from Salisbury Furnace. Voted, ‘That an order be given to Colonel Pettibone, on Colonel J. Porter, to deliver to him, for the use of this Colony, forty tons of pig Iron, also one or two tons of nine- pound Shot, to be by him transported to Connecticut River. Order given, &c. Whereas the Continental Congress did order Clothing to be provided in this State for the use of the Continental Army, and proper persons are employed for that purpose; and whereas this Board have been advised of the great and pressing necessity of the Army at Crown-Point and Ticon- deroga, for an immediate supply of the Clothing, which will admit no delay: Resolved, 'That the necessity of the Northern Army for an immediate supply of Clothing is so great, that such part of what articles is procured in this State, in pursuance of such order of Congress, ought to be forwarded to said Army, with- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 732 out waiting for particular orders to that purpose. And his Honour the Governour is desired to give orders to have the same forwarded to said Army accordingly. Resolved and Ordered, That Captain John Deshon and Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., be, and they are, instructed to purchase the New-Providence Sloop belonging to Mr. Charles Walker, now lying at New-London, for the use of this Go- vernment, to be fitted as an armed vessel, at the easiest and cheapest rate in their power, and to execute proper contracts on the part of this Colony for that purpose, and receive suit- able writings of conveyance to pass the property of the same to this State; and that thereupon Captain Seth Harding do immediately proceed to alter and fit up said Sloop as an armed Brigantine, with the greatest despatch; and that he make use of the masts, sails, rigging, guns, and other implements of furniture of the Brigantine Defence, now under his com- mand, for that purpose, and that he employ the officers, sailors, and marines, of said Brigantine Defence, in fitting said Sloop as aforesaid. And said Mr. Shaw is directed to furnish Captain Harding with what shall be necessary for that purpose. Resolved and Ordered, That the Hon. Eliphalet Dyer and Richard Law, Esqs., immediately repair to New-York, and there confer with his Excellency General Washington upon further measures proper and necessary to be pursued by this State, for the defence and security of this and the rest of the United States, and to frustrate the designs of our enemies against them. Voted, To draw an order on the Pay-Table for £200, in favour of Dr. Joshua Elderkin, to enable him to purchase Tents and Clothing for the Continental Army, to be paid out of the money lodged by Mr, Sherman in the Treasury, if lodged there for that purpose, otherwise to be paid out of the proper Treasury of this Colony, and to render his account. Order drawn this day; delivered W. Wales, Jun., Esq. August 5, 1776. The Governour drew an Order on the Pay-Table for £1000, in favour of Mr. Chauncey Whittlesey, to enable him to go on in purchasing Tents and Clothing for the Con- tinental Army, to be paid out of the money Jodged in the Treasury by Mr. Sherman, if sent for that purpose, other- wise out of the proper Treasury of this State; and said *Whattlesey to render his accounts. The above order was approved by a vote of the Governour and Council of Safety, at their meeting, dugust 15, 1776. Attest: Bensamin Huntineron, Clerk, P.T. MIDDLETOWN (CONNECTICUT) COMMITTEE. In Committee of Inspection, Middletown, August 2, 1776. It was resolved by this Committee that no Sheep be killed in this town; that is to say, Ewes under five, nor other Sheep under four years old. Mr. John Birdsey was cited before this Committee on a charge of depreciating the Continental Paper Currency, and also Mr. Gershom Birdsey was cited to appear for the same offence; but the said Gershom showed contempt in refusing to appear, and the charge appearing very probable, it was resolved by this Committee that the said John and Gershom Birdsey are guilty of a breach of a late Jaw of the honour- alle Continental Congress. ‘Therefore, Resolved, That they be advertised in the Hartford Cou- rant, as enemies to their country, and excluded from all trade and intercourse with the inhabitants of the United States of America. Mr. Elijah Burr was brought before this Committee upon a charge of selling Bohea Tea for more than three-fourths of a dollar per pound; which he confessed, and offered the following confession, viz: “‘ Whereas I, the subscriber, was brought before the Com- mittee of Inspection for Middletown, upon a charge of selling Bohea Tea at a higher rate than three-fourths of a dollar per pound, and found guilty: Iam sorry for my offence, and will restore to all persons from whom I have taken more the over- plus, if they will appear to demand the same within one month from this date, and for the future will demean myself 733 in all things, agreeable to the resolutions of the honourable the Continental Congress. Witness my hand in Middle- town, the 2d day of August, 1776. “ Exizau Burr.” Which was voted satisfactory, and the said Burr recom- mended to the favour of the publick. Extract from the Minutes of the Committee. Test: Bensamin Hensuaw, Clerk. PITTSFIELD (MASSACHUSETTS) COMMITTEE, As it appears in the present struggle between Great Britain and America that every man is by this time fixed and acts from principle, so it becomes every true friend to his country to discover himself on the side of liberty, not only in opposing the Britzsh Administration, but also in opposing internal enemies among ourselves. From these principles the Committee of the Town of Pittsfield, in the County of Berkshire, have acted, in setting forth to publick view the conduct of Captain Charles Good- rich, of said Pittsfield. Said Goodrich, in the beginning of our contest with Great Britain, appeared friendly, and spoke highly in favour of Committees; but as soon as an opportu- nity presented, he procured to himself a commission in the King’s name to exercise authority over the people as a Jus- tice of the Peace; and because the people were not willing to submit to British authority, said Goodrich rose up in a rage, plead the legality of his commission, threatened the Town and County to bring the Militia upon them. He op- posed the Committee, saying “he would as soon be judged by a pack of Pirates,” refusing to comply with any of their orders. He violated his former contracts by force and arms, and horsewhipped a man for not tamely submitting to the wanton exercise of his power. He has fully joined himself with the most ancient Tories and implacable enemies among us, taking their counsel and advice, and with all his power set himself against the ‘Town and County, and the cause of his country; and in the prosecution of his infernal designs, remonstrated to the General Court against the Town, Coun- ty, and Committee, but missed his aim, the Court paying no regard to his remonstrance. Moreover, when the General Court, in July last, ordered the raising two regiments for the Canada service by a bounty and draught on the Train Band and Alarm List, said Goodrich, being draughted, re- fused to comply with the order of Court in any way or manner, showing his most implacable hatred and envy to the union of the people and defence of the country. The Committee of Safety, therefore, after much labour and great patience, Resolved, ‘That it is the opinion of this Committee, that said Charles Goodrich is an enemy to his country, and that he, with his conduct, be published as such in the publick newspapers, and that all connexions and com- mercial intercourse be withdrawn from said Goodrich till he give satisfaction for his unfriendly conduct. Signed by order of the Committee: VavLenTINE Rarusoun, Chairman. Pittsfield, August 2, 1776. RICHARD DERBY, JUN., TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Council Chamber, Watertown, August 2, 1776. Sir: The enclosed letter I have this day laid béfore the Council of this State; who have directed me to enclose it to your Excellency, desiring, (if you think proper,) when a convenient opportunity offers, it may be forwarded agreeable to its directions. I have the honour to be your Honour’s most obedient humble servant : Ricuarp Drersy, Jun. . COUNCIL OF MASSACHUSETTS TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS, In Committee of Council, Watertown, August 2, 1776. ; Gentiemen: The bearer hereof, Captain Jonathan Edy, has brought us a Petition from the town of Onslow, in Nova- S@tia, representing their distressed situation, and praying relief, either by sending them forces, or vessels to bring them away. Weare truly concerned for their unhappy condition, and should be glad to afford them assistance were it in our power; but as the General Court is not sitting, we conceive that we are not authorized to. do anything in the matter; CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 734 we must therefore refer Captain Edy to you. He will give you a particular account of the circumstances of that Pro- vince, and what he thinks may be done for their relief and the service of the es cause. We leave it with you, e gentlemen, to tak h steps in the affair as you may judge best. By order of the Committee: Joun Winrnrop, Chairman. To the Hon. Delegates of the State of Massachusetts-Bay, in Congress. S. McCLINTOCK TO WILLIAM WHIPPLE. Greenland, New-Hampshire, August 2, 1776. Sir: The only consideration which has restrained me from writing you before now, is the weighty and important business in which you are engaged. Perhaps no body of men, in any period of time, ever had objects of greater magnitude, or more various and complicated, to engage their attention than the grand American Congress have at the present day; and I believe I speak the sentiments of people in general, when Ladd, never did men act with more wisdom, prudence, and fidelity, than they have hitherto done in the discharge of the great trust committed to them by their country. I rejoice that we have such able politicians and true patriots at the helm in this convulsed, critical, alarming state of our publick affairs. The wisdom, the justice, and publick spirit discovered in all their resolves and proceedings, have acquired them the entire confidence of the people, excepting a few restless, disappointed, malignant Tories, or venal wretches, bought with British gold, or the hope of making themselves great on the ruin of their country, who are not inactive in propagating falsehoods and slanders to discourage people and prejudice the common cause. But I believe they are so few that their influence is like the drop of the bucket to the ocean. I will not say what a gentle- man in conversation with me the other day said, with some warmth, that people have a greater veneration for the resolves of the Congress than for the laws of the Almighty; but I will say, from my observation, that their resolves are observed by people in general with as much reverence as ever were the laws of Solon and Lycurgus by the Athenians and Spartans, and much better than laws enforced by Royal authority. People in general will be quiet and obedient so long as they see that their Rulers are pursuing the true end of Government, the good of the governed. While some few among us are showing their enmity to the country in every way they dare, it is merry to observe the conduct of some others who seem to be in a state of sus- pense, waiting to see which side is like to prevail—are half Whigs one day and half Tories the next, according as the events that turn up are for or against us. ‘They are not governed by a regard to the justice of the cause, but by a regard to consequences—in other words, by selfishness. Their conduct puts me in mind of the old Scotchwoman in the time of a competition between a Popish and Protestant Prince for the Throne, who used to say her prayers both in Latin and Scotch; being asked the reason, she answered, “‘T dinna ken which side [ shall gang to at last, and let the Lord tak which he wull.” Sorry I am that there are any among us, who drew their vital breath in America, and have all their connexions here, so totally void of that noble and divine virtue, the love of their country, as to be unfriendly to the common cause. But I promise myself that the wis- dom, justice, moderation, and firmness of the honourable Congress in their proceedings, will finally silence all opposi- tion. The eyes of all America are looking up to them, under God, as the guardians of the Commonwealth, and reposing the greatest confidence in them that they will frame such regulations as effectually to secure her liberties against the future encroachment of tyrants, and place them on a permanent basis. f ' It is said virtue is the basis of a Republick, and some express their fears that there is not publick virtue enough in the country for such a form of Government; or if there is at present, it will not long be the case—that we shall soon become so corrupt that anarchy and confusion will take place, and we shall be in a worse state than if we had re- mained as we were, or submitted to absolute power. I hope not; as the abilities, virtue, and publick spirit of the gentle- men who compose our Congress are unquestionable, so they 739 have the advantage in framing a Constitution for America of the experience of past ages. They know the rocks on which other States have been shipwrecked, and I trust, like good pilots, will steer clear of them. Gan no regulation be made to guard more effectually against Mat corruption which has proved the ruin of all States that ever have existed, and to counteract the tendency of vice, andin some measure to supply the want of publick virtue? To oblige people to preserve and retain their liberties ? What do you think of the Agrarian law to prevent subjects from engrossing too much property, and of consequence acquiring too much power and influence, dangerous to the liberties of the people? What of a Rotation act, to oblige those who make laws, in their turn to experience the opera- tion of them? Would it be a wise measure to oblige the elected to clear themselves by a solemn oath when chosen, from having, directly or indirectly, used any influence to ob- tain their election, and to make outlawry and an incapacity ever to serve their country afterwards in any publick post,’ the punishment of perjury in such cases? Would it prevent the abuse of that power by which the Britzsh Parliament made themselves Septennial to make it an express rule of the Constitutions, that Representatives shall be considered as reduced to private station at the expiration of the term for which they shall be chosen; and that if they should presume to make any laws after the constitutional term of their exist- ence, such laws shall have no binding force on the people in any case whatsoever, and that such an attempt shall dis- qualify them for being reélected? Can no method be found out to restrain and counteract that spirit of domination, which in all ages has spread desolation and misery in the Kast, and drenched it in human blood? Above all, I trust that Spiritual tyranny, the worst sort of tyranny, will be guarded against. Civil power in the hands of domineering Priests, of every denomination, ever hath been, and while human nature re- mains what it is, ever will be a source of infinite mischief. In my apprehension, it is clearly inconsistent with the nature of Christ’s Kingdom for his Ministers to have any share in the civil power, and with the idea of religious liberty, the natural nghts of mankind, and the design of Government, for the civil power to be employed to propagate or establish any particular persuasion in opposition to others. As all men have an equal right to think and judge for themselves in matters of religion, and to worship G'od in that way that is agreeable to their own consciences, and cannot be amena- ble for their religious opinions to any earthly tribunal, I could heartily wish, that in framing a Constitution for America, care might be taken to secure these rights inviolate to all, without exception, and to lay an effectual bar against perse- cution for conscience sake; that there might be no civil establishment of any particular persuasion, but that all de- nominations might enjoy equal liberty and protection so long as they behave in a manner becoming good and loyal sub- jects, and that the line between civil and religious power drawn by that wise, judicious, and upright Magistrate, Galio, might be carefully observed» But perhaps | have need to ask pardon for offering these hints on a subject which I con- fess does not belong to my province. However, I persuade myself your candour and friendship will not impute it to a conceit of my ability to afford you any assistance, but rather to a warm and honest zeal for the common cause. That you and the respectable gentlemen, whom I regard with veneration and gratitude, as, under God, the guardians of our inestimable privileges and the saviours of their coun- try, may have a double portion of the Spirit of Wisdom to guide you in your deliberations, and may enjoy the reward of your fidelity and patriotism in the applause of your grate- ful country, the approbation of your own conscience, and of your Supreme Judge, is the ardent wish of, sir, your most obedient servant, SuMeChinaoce sf ? NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. North-Carolina, in the Council of Safety, August 3, 1776. , Whereas this Board, anxious to detect all persons con- cerned in counterfeiting the Currency of this State, and influenced by reports injurious to Mr. Wilham Edwards’s character, and, by misinformation, ordered Mr. Edwards to be brought before us for examination, and he was brought and examined accordingly: We, in justice to injured inno- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 736 cence, and to prevent that imputation of guilt which might arise from the circumstance of apprehending Mr. Edwards, do, with infinite pleasure, declare, that, after the strictest scrutiny into his conduct, the charge was found totally groundless, and he was most honourably acquitted. By, order Corneuius Harnert, President. James Green, Secretary. . JOHN PAGE TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 12, 1776.] Williamsburgh, in Council, August 3, 1776. Sir: We have your letter of the 22d ultimo before us, written to his Excellency the Governour, informing him of a resolution of Congress directing General Lewis to order two battalions from Virginia to join the Flying-Camp under Brigadier Mercer, in New-Jersey, and that the Congress had resolved to take an equal number of Minute-men, or Militia, on Continental pay, should an invasion be apprehended. We must observe, sir, that from the dispersed situation of our troops, the number of navigable rivers, exposing our country to the ravages of the enemy’s fleet, the great de- mand of men and arms on our frontiers, on account of the Indian war, and from the present state of General Clinton’s Army near Charlestown, which we conceive might be em- ployed to greater advantage here, we have reason to appre- hend an invasion, and have therefore ordered a number of Minute-men and Militia into duty, to supply the want of our two regiments ordered to the Jerseys. We look upon them, however, as very inadequate to that purpose, and beg leave to refer you to a Jetter written on this subject to our Dele- gates. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Joun Page, President. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. GENERAL LEWIS TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 12, 1776.] Williamsburgh, August 3, 1776. Sir: By yesterday’s post I was honoured with the order of Congress, by which I ain to send to the Flying-Camp in New-Jersey two battalions of the Continental troops in this State. This shall be done as expeditiously as in my power, though, from the dispersed condition of the troops in affording a general protection, it cannot be so soon as I could wish. Should this State be attacked by a large body of the enemy in the absence of those two battalions, I shall not be able to give them the reception I could wish. With our whole force, (as it now stands,) it would be difficult, considering the many rivers that give them entrance to any or as many parts of this country as they could wish. Another circum- stance, too, will (I doubt) weaken us: the First and Second Battalions were inlisted for no more than twelye months, which is nearly expired, and they have as yet refused to inlist for a longer time. I shall use my best endeavours to have them inlisted on Continental establishment. I shall do myself the honour to write you more fully the next post. I am, honourable sir, your most obedient and very hum- ble servant : ‘ ? Anpw. Lewis, Bricadier-General. ? oO To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., &c. COURT-MARTIAL ON LIEUTENANT JONES. At a General Court-Martial held at Camp at Springfield, the 3d day of August, 1776, by order of the Honourable Brigadier-General Lewis, for the trial of Lieutenant Peter Jones, of the Sixth Regiment, arrested by Colonel Buckner for neglect of duty and insolent behaviour : Major Hennricxs, President. Members: Captain Davis, Captain Towles, Captain Fox, Captain Johnson, Captain Crochan, Lieutenant Pettus, Lieu- tenant Curd, Lieutenant Crump, Lieutenant Clayton, Lieu- tenant Murray, Ensign Burnet, Ensign Smith. " The Court being duly sworn, Lieutenant Jones appeared, and was made acquainted with the charge. Colonel Buck- ner also appeared, and said, that between nine and ten o’clock in the evening of Saturday last, he was going home to his tent; that he was stopped by a sentinel who had the ———— 737 wrong countersign; that he sent for Lieutenant Jones, who was officer of the Guard, and inquired of him the reason of it, who said, that he had given the sentinel the countersign himself, which was of his own make; that he asked the said Lieutenant why he did not wait on the commanding officer for the countersign, and was answered that he did not know it was his duty to do so, as the officer he had relieved had given a countersign, and he thought he might do it as well as other officers. Colonel Buckner told the Lieutenant that it was owing either to neglect or contempt, and was answered it was intended as neither. Lieutenant Rose was sworn a witness; said, that when he was officer of the Guard, he had no countersign given him, but made one himself; that he was applied to by Lieutenant Jones to know how he (Jones) could get the countersign, and that he informed him that when he was on guard, he made the countersign himself. Lieutenant Jones, in his defence, says that he received no countersign from the officer of the day, and did not know it to be his duty to wait on the commanding officer for it, as he had been informed by the officer whom he relieved, that the officer had made the countersign; that he did not intend the least insult or insolence to Colonel Buckner in what he said to him on Saturday evening. The Court having considered the case, are of opinion, that Lieutenant Jones is not guilty either of neglect of duty or insolent behaviour, and that he be therefore released from bis anea Major Henpricks, President. Brigadier-General Lewis agrees with the Court so far as to release Lieutenant Peter Jones, but begs Lieutenant Jones to make himself more acquainted with his duty as an officer, that in future he may not be guilty of such mistakes. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO THOMAS SMYTH AND THOMAS RINGGOLD. {No. 109.] Annapolis, August 3, 1776. Gentiemen: We have received your separate favours of the Ist instant, by Captain Smyth, and transmit by him, for the Committee, the sum of £500, for the. purchase of blankets and arms. The Continental money which Mr. Ringgold has, we would have sent to us by the first safe conveyance. We should be fond of permitting Captain Smyth to go beyond £4 10s. for extraordinary guns, was it not that we are apprehensive of dangerous consequences from such license. As soon as a price is offered for any- thing above what is customarily given, there is no purchasing at the price which was before usually allowed, though the particular article bought in reality was worth considerably more; and therefore we cannot accord to his request, but hope, as the number of arms which are wanting are very few, that they may be collected at not more than £4 10s., by the time other necessaries can be procured for their marching. Rifles we will allow £5 for. We shall give orders to the Colonel of the Eastern-Shore Battalion of Flying-Camp Militia to march his men in com- panies to the northward, when they are ready. As soon, therefore, as Captains Smyth and Perkins are prepared, they will apply to him for orders; but we shall be obliged to you if you will procure proper carriages for their baggage, and afford them other assistance which may be wanting. We have sent by Captain Smyth twenty pieces of cruder, and request you will engage proper persons to make them into tents immediately. A sample shall be furnished from Baltimore. Your Committee will be pleased to have five hundred wooden bottles made as soon as possible for the use of the Province, agreeable to the sample delivered Captain Sinyth. We also send to your Committee thirty camp-kettles for the use of the Flying-Camp. Knapsacks with haversacks are already contracted for, and we expect will be completed in a very little time. Captain Smyth has our orders to take with him from Baltimore four hundred cartouch-boxes and slings, six hundred and eighty-eight bayonet-belts, and six hundred and eighty-eight gun-slings, which are to be lodged with your Committee. We request they may be delivered by them, with the wooden bottles, to the Flying-Camp Militia on the Eastern--Shore, when armed. The Council are very glad to hear Mr. Smyth’s business is so circumstanced as to admit his coming over; the earlier Firtu Serizs.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 738 in the week the better, as we are much thronged with busi- ness, and some of our Board are anxious to see their families before the meeting of Convention. We are, &c. To Thomas Smyth and Thomas Ringgold, Esqs. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO GEORGE scorr. [No. 110.] Annapolis, August 3, 1776. Sir: Linen fit for shirting or tents is wanted—seven or eight hundred—and tow linen. You have not informed us of either the quality or price of yours. Our manufacturers bring us in linen of the first kind at 3s, 6d., and of the latter at 2s. 3d. If you can let yours go at that rate, and it is good in quality, you may send it down to this place. We are, &c. To Mr. George Scott. RICHARD THOMPSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Georgetown, August 3, 1776. May iT PLease your Honours: Not having known of my appointment by the honourable Convention as Quarter- master to the regiment now raising in Frederick County for the Flying-Camp before the Ist of this instant, renders it impossible for me to enter on that service on so short a notice, although my inclination leads me to it. I know not who can, or whether any one ought to be blamed, for ne- glecting to afford me timely intelligence, but I can assure your Honours it will always give me the highest pleasure to act in any situation wherein my poor, though willing, ser- vices can be of use in the common cause of the United States of America. I have only to lament its being out of my power, for the reasons afore-mentioned, to accept the appointment allotted me, and to request you will tender my acknowledgments to the Convention, in any manner the most acceptable, for the honour intended me. I am, may it please your Honours, with great respect and esteem, your most obedient and humble servant, Ricuarp Tompson. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. JOS. EARLE TO J. NICHOLSON. August 3, 1776. Sir: I yesterday received a commission from the honour- able the Council of Safety contrary to my expectation. I had repeatedly said I had resigned my commission, and was determined not to accept it, as I was solicited by many respectable people in this County to resign, and offer myself as a candidate, for the reasons set forth in the application. I am truly sensible of the honour intended by the Conven- tion ; and am, with the greatest respect to your honourable Board, sir, your most obedient servant, To the Hon. J. Nicholson, Esq. Jos. Earue. MEMORIAL OF WILLIAM STONE. To the Honourable Council of Safety of the State of MaryLanp: The Memorial of Wii1am Stone, of Bavrimore-Town, humbly showeth : That your memorialist, some time in the month of Janu- ary last past, requested Mr. Hercules Courtenay to endea- vour to obtain license of the honourable Council of Safety to load your memorialist’s brigantine with Indian com, to be exported for the purpose of importing salt; but the said Mr. Hercules Courtenay not being able to procure such license, did charter the said vessel to the Council on account of the said State; that the said vessel was valued at £1,000, when in truth she cost your memorialist £1,500; that your memorialist left instructions with Mr. Courtenay to have the further sum of £500 insured on the said vessel at Phila- delphia, to indemnify your memorialist in case of loss. Your memorialist further showeth, that after the delivery of your cargo, Captain Martin proceeded in the said brig to St. Eustatza, in order to receive the net proceeds of two cargoes shipped by your memorialist last October, when she was attached by Mr. Richard Jennings for a debt of £300, or thereabouts, due from your memorialist to him; that the 47 739 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 740 said Richard Jennings rendered your memorialist no account of the sale of the brig, and retained the sum of £450 in his own hands; that Mr. Harrison loaded the said vessel, and called on Mr. Jennings for a bill of sale, who refused to give one; that Captain Martin (who was not authorized by me to make any sale or transfer of said vessel) was induced and prevailed on to give a bill of sale for said vessel to Mr. Harrison, in consideration of the sum of £900, and to accept an order drawn by Mr. Harrison on the honourable Council of Safety for the sum of £450; that the vessel was sold for much less than her real value, she being worth £1,500. Your memorialist further showeth, that at the time his vessel was attached, he was possessed of property in S¢. Eustatia and St. Kitts sufficient to discharge the debt due to the said Mr. Jennings ; that the said Mr. Jennings, being displeased with your memorialist for not consigning the vessel to him last October, acted in the manner above shown, to injure and oppress your memorialist. Your memorialist, esteeming the actings and doings of the said Mr. Richard Jennings and Captain Martin unjust, illegal, and oppressive, beg your Honours will take his case into consideration, and not suffer any advantage to be taken of him by the sale of the said vessel to Mr. Harrison, your agent, but allow your memorialist to have the vessel, on paying the money advanced by your agent to Richard Jen- ning’. And your memorialist will ever pray, &c. WiLiaM STONE. August 3, 1776. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO OFFICER COMMANDING COL. HASLETT’S BATTALION. Philadelphia, August 3, 1776. Sir: You are hereby directed to order the company of your battalion posted at Lew?s-Town as soon as possible to march to Philadelphia and join their battalion now stationed at the barracks in this city. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Officer commanding the Battalion of Continental Troops now in this city, Colonel Has/lett’s Battalion. JOHN ADAMS TO GENERAL HEATH. Philadelphia, August 3, 1776. Dear Sir: Yours of the 20th ultimo is before me. I am much obliged to you for it, and most heartily wish for a more free and intimate communication of sentiments upon the state both of our Councils and arms. I should be happy in a few hours’ conversation; but as this cannot be, I must be content with a letter. We have now a nation to protect and defend; and I can easily see the propriety of the observations you quote from the Prussian Hero, that the prosperity of a State depends upon the discipline of its Army. ‘This discipline reared the Roman empire and the British; and the American will stand or fall, in my opinion, as it adheres to or deviates from the same discipline. If there is not wisdom and vigour enough in the civil Government to support the military offi- cers in introducing and establishing such a discipline, it must be owing to the advantages of soil and climate and our ex- treme distance from our enemies, not to our own strength, virtue, or wisdom, if we do not fail. The Army must be well officered, armed, disciplined, fed, clothed, covered, and paid; in these respects, we do as well as we can. ‘Time, I hope, will assist us; and every officer of the Army would do well to suggest to his friends and correspondents in Congress and in the Legislatures of the several States every defect and every improvement in those particulars which occurs to him. I am in more anxiety for clothes and tents than anything, because the health as well as the discipline of the Army depends much upon them. We shall never do well until we get a regular Army; and this will never be until men are inlisted for a longer dura- tion; and that will never be effected until we are more generous in our encouragement to men. But I am con- vinced that time alone will persuade us to this measure ; and in the mean time, we shall very indiscreetly waste a much greater expense than would be necessary for this great pur- pose, in temporary calls upon Militia, besides risking the loss of many lives and much reputation. Congress has not determined to have no regard to the line of succession in, promotions, but only that this line shall not be an invariable rule; ceteris paribus, the line will be pursued ; but they mean to reserve a right of distinguishing extraordinary merit or demerit. ‘This rule may be abused ; but is it not necessary? All good things are liable to abuse, I am afraid, nay, I know it will be abused in’ particular instances ; but if we make the succession an invariable rule, will not the abuse be greater? Is it not common in the British Army to promote junior officers over the heads of their superiors—nay, even officers in the same regiment, and on the same command? I have been told of several instances; this, however, is wrong. Your opinions of men and things I wish I knew in more detail, because I have a good opinion of your judgment of both; and I fear, situated as I am, many things relating to both may not have come to my knowledge that I ought to know. As the first officer in the Massachusetts service, you have in some sort the patronage of all the officers. I hope you will recommend the best men for promotion. I confess myself very ignorant of the military characters from that State. By some expressions in the clause of your letter, I con- clude you were not perfectly satisfied with a late promotion. Be assured, sir, if that was raising an inferior officer over the head of any superior, it was not considered in that light by the gentlemen who did it; the person promoted was thought to be the ablest Brigadier, and intituled to advancement by the line of succession ; and it is my opinion he would have been made a Major-General much sooner, if his experience had not been thought indispensable in the Adjutant-Gene- ral’s department. I am, sir, with great respect, your affectionate servant, Joun Apams. To General Heath. CESAR RODNEY TO THOMAS RODNEY. Philadelphia, August 3, 1776. Str: I received yours of the 30th July, and shall endea- vour to answer it. Captain Gordon might have had the place you mentioned, but, on talking with me, he very prudently declined it. ‘The history of your mancuvres, procession, &c., pleased me, and the more so, as I heard of the choice, without knowing the principle on which it was made. With respect to the return made me by the Field-Officers, they have neglected to send me the dates of their commis- sions or appointments in the Militia; I have therefore written to them to return me dates, before commissions can be made out. As to the subalterns, their being placed with an older or younger Captain does not affect their rank, as that will be preserved by the commission made out for them; and as that will be the case, it is better that they should be fixed in such companies as best please them. 1 showed Captain Gordon the return made me by the Field-Officers, showing the order in which they choose to be placed with respect to the companies, which Mr. Gordon said was agreeable to their desire, so far as he had knowledge in it; that he was sure it was right as to Caldwell’s company. With respect to the choice of a Convention, I would leave it to you and your friends, whether, when you have fixed on such ticket as meets your approbation, it would not be better to pursue, and endeavour to impress the utility of such choice being made by the people, (especially at a time when the establishing their rights and privileges as freemen depends on such choice,) upon your former plan, I mean of true Whigism—true patriotism. This plan, if pursued with diligence, and such cool argument and reasoning as the case will point out and justify, I think must carry with it per- suasion and conviction. It certainly will with all such as are not governed by a party spirit. If any person or persons be proposed in opposition to your ticket, who have hereto- fore been unfriendly to the cause, point out to the people their former conduct, and submit to them the propriety of trusting to such men at such an important crisis. Your scheme ought to hold out more of the patriot than party- man. I will again submit, as before, whether the inquiry and examination proposed to be had before the Committee will not tend so to irritate, as to occasion many people, by taking sides in that matter, to lose sight of the cause—their true interest; for jf they are led to believe that you and your 7Al friends are governed more by a party spirit than by the true interests of America, they will hold you in the light of all other party men, and deal with you accordingly. You say the Committee are about to make this inquiry: Are there a sufficient number of patriots in that Committee to answer your expectation? i them that’wish the inquiry should be had? Will they, if matters turn out as you expect, publish their opinions to the County, so that the friends of liberty may benefit by it? It is an inquiry that ought to have been made; but it is an inquiry that ought to be made by men of understanding only. Do such make a majority of the Committee—the good men? By what authority do they take it up? Are not many of the members principals in the matter of inquiry? All these things I submit to the prudence and good sense of you and your friends, though you seem to have deter- mined on the measure, by your letter, before my opinion was asked. In short, it is difficult to give an opinion in this case, as | am a stranger to the present complexion of the Committee. However, as this Convention is undoubtedly the most important Assembly that ever was chosen in that Government, would advise the avoiding every kind of vio- lence; and, on the other hand, the utmost diligence and persuasion, to procure as many friends to liberty on the return as possible. By this means, men who have heretofore been unfriendly to liberty, if properly pointed out, cannot prevail. The people, when uninitiated, generally hearken to reason, and make prudent choices. But you may be able to let me know about these things by the next post. Yesterday came to town a ship belonging to the Congress, from France, with ten drums of powder, about forty drums of lead, one thousand stand of arms, &c., &c., and the same day an armed vessel taken by Captain Barry at sea. I have put your thread in the hands of a weaver. I am, with love to all, yours, &c., Casar Ropney. To Captain Thomas Rodney, Dover. CHSAR RODNEY TO THOMAS RODNEY. Philadelphia, August 3, 1776. Str: Since I finished my other letter, have been up at Congress, where we received intelligence, by letter from Captain Wickes, in the Congress ship the Reprisal, that he has, at sea, on the 13th of July, taken two prizes, a ship and a’schooner, bound for Liverpool, loaded with cotton, sugar, rum, &c. ‘The letters came by the prize schooner, which arrived in an inlet near Keg-Harbour; and the ship prize has been seen off the Cape of Delaware, and supposed by this time got in. This day’s post is not yet come in from New-York. It is past its usual time of coming, and therefore imagine there will be something important, which delayed him. I wish it may be good. ‘The Delaware battalion came to town this morning, and there passed an order of Congress yesterday morning for Captain Darby and his company, now at Lewvs, to come up and join the battalion, or at least to follow them; for as the Congress has now got arms, I imagine they will not stay long here. Let not the contents of my other letter be seen by any, unless a friend in whom you can confide. I believe I shall never be able to get that scoundrel to make Betsey’s and \Sally’s shoes. I have not time to say anything about my plantation affairs; but hope you will have an eye to them, that they may not suffer. Without the least expectation of being gratified, I have a strong desire to be at home once more. I am yours, &c., Cxsar Ropney. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM PHILADELPHIA, DATED AUGUST 3, 1776. Since my last we have arrived a sloop from North-Caro- lina, with naval stores, and a sloop of eight four-pounders. She belongs to the Goodriches, of Virginia, and was com- manded by one of them; was out three days from Bermuda, when he discovered and gave chase to the brig Lexington, Captain Barry; but finding his mistake, put back too late; for in about an hour and a half, Barry run alongside, when she struck. She had eight negroes on board. All, or most of the men, to the amount of twenty-five, entered on board of Barry. Goodrich is a prisoner on board of the brig. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. Are there a considerable majority of’ 742 This morning we have an express from a schooner taken by Captain Wickes, in the Continental ship Reprisal. She was bound from St. Vincent’s to Liverpool, with upwards of one hundred hogsheads of rum, and is safe in _Absecomb- Inlet. They bring an account of his having taken a ship of four or five hundred tons burden, from Grenada for Lon- don. She was quite full, and by the captors said to be worth £35,000. A ship was seen last Wednesday, to the southward of our Cape, by the North-Carolina man, which we hope is the prize. Captain Fowler, in a sloop belonging to your city, is arrived at Eeg-Harbour, with £4,000 worth of indigo, in twelve or thirteen days from Charlestown. She passed the fleet in a thunder-storm. By him we learn, that two desert- ers from the fleet confirm the account which General Lee received from the five deserters already published here, and further add, that the brig that had the Captain of the Com- modore on board for London, had returned off Spencer’s Inlet. 'The said Captain soon died after he got on board, and was buried on Long-Island, the 3d of July; that the men began to grow sickly, and they are dissatisfied with General Clinton’s conduct; they suspect he keeps a private correspondence with General Lee; that there was some talk of his being under an arrest; that the last rumour among them was, of their embarkation for Long-Island, in New- York Government. ‘The Commodore’s ship is much shat- tered; it will take them some time to refit. ‘The 4th of July, he hoisted his pendant on board the Experiment. One shot from the fort took off three Midshipmen’s heads, who happened to stand in a range, one of whom isa nobleman’s son. A few days before Captain Fowler sailed, the whole fleet was in mourning, supposed for the death of Sir Peter Parker, who was wounded, and lost part of his breeches in the late engagement. Captain Fowler thinks the two large ships will not be able to go over the bar so as to get out. NEW-JERSEY CONVENTION TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS. In Convention of the State of New-Jersey, New-Brunswick, August 3, 1776. : Gentiemen: As it is of great importance that the com- munication between New- York, this, and the Southern Colo- nies, be preserved, and no adequate provision, that we know of, having been made to keep open the ferries over Passaick and Hackensack Rivers, between Newark and Powles Hook, which, in their present situation, may not only be easily obstructed by a single armed vessel of the enemy lying near them, but the ferry boats may be seized, and the passing and repassing of our troops on emergent occasions thereby for a considerable time impeded; and as, from the exposed and unguarded situation of the settlements up said rivers, the creeks, and country adjacent to Newark Bay, the enemy may receive supplies of provisions either by plunder or from disaffected persons; and the making provision for the above purposes (as they intimately concern all the United States) belonging to your honourable House, we must desire you to propose at first opportunity in Congress, that the most speedy and effectual measures may be adopted to obtain these salutary ends. We conceive there are but two practicable methods, viz: by batteries at the several ferries, or by armed vessels. The ground on each side of the ferries, being low salt marsh, will not, without very great expenses, admit of being fortified ; but if this had not been the case, a larger number of heavy cannon would be necessary to answer our purposes than perhaps can be procured, or if procurable, than would be necessary, if employed on board one or more vessels of the row-galley or gondola construction. Protection by armed vessels have a further advantage over fortifications at the ferries: the fortifications must have great strength, a conside- rable number of cannon, and a large body of men stationed there, or a descent of the enemy might take cannon and men together, as the cannon could not be retreated with, and the distance of the ferries from succour too great to expect sup- plies in time. On the contrary, an armed vessel stationed at or near each ferry of the row-galley or gondola kind, carry- ing only an eighteen-pounder each, with swivels, cohorns or blunderbusses, may be sufficient, and their forces may be occasionally united ; for, being so contiguous, they may readily act in concert, and, by being made to draw but little water and to row swiltly, may, if they find the forces attacking 743 them too powerful, secure a safe retreat where the enemy’s tenders cannot pursue them. But perhaps heavy cannon may be spared for one gondola, and not more; in such case a vessel of the cat-schooner kind might be usefully employed for the other vessel. We are informed there are two in Passaick River, well built and almost new, and that either of them may be hired for a small consideration, provided the owners are assured of their being returned in as good order as when delivered, or of being paid the value in case they should be irreparably damaged. ‘Their dimensions are about forty-five feet in length, fourteen feet breadth, four-and-a- half feet depth, draw but little water, and one of them sails remarkably swift. Although gondolas may not so advantageously attack ships of war, yet their tenders, or vessels of such size as can approach the ferries, will not choose to come in the way of an eighteen or twenty-four-pounder. If not a single cannon of this weight can be spared, per- haps both of the above-mentioned cat-schooners may be usefully employed in this service. ‘They will probably carry either two six-pounders on each side, and a six or nine- pounder in the bow, or three four-pounders on each side, and a six-pounder in the bow, besides swivels, cohorns, and blunderbusses, (as they may be procurable,) spears, and small-arms. We were so perfectly convinced of the importance and utility of making provision for the above purposes, that had the state of our funds permitted it, as much depends on despatch, we might probably have gone into the measures necessary to that end, not doubting but Congress, when convinced of their general utility to the United States, would have ordered a reimbursement of the expenses, &c. Two other armed vessels might be advantageously sta- tioned at proper places between the ferries above-mentioned and the mouth of Rariton River. 'They might codperate occasionally either for the purposes aforesaid or for annoying the enemy, or be employed to protect the ferry from South to Perth-Amboy and the navigation of Rariton River, which protection would be a great saving either in troops crossing the ferry to Amboy, or in transporting provisions, baggage, &c., from Brunswick, by water, to the camp at Amboy. As it is important that no time be lost in making the afore- said provision, and as, from the multiplicity of interesting business before Congress, this may be delayed,—if Congress will provide for the expense, and request it, we shall be wil- ling to give a helping hand towards carrying their resolutions on this subject into effect. We are, gentlemen, your very humble servants. By order of the Convention: Joun Covennoven, Vice-President. To the Delegates representing the State of New-Jersey in Continental Congress. RESOLVES OF NEW-JERSEY CONVENTION, In Convention of the State of New-Jersey, Brunswick, August 3, 1776. Whereas, by the arrival of the enemy in the neighbourhood of this State, the burden is become much greater to the Militia thereof, numbers being obliged to leave their families, and to march to the defence of their country, so that former Ordi- nances for regulating the Militia are become inadequate, it being highly just and equitable, proportionally to increase the sums formerly directed to be paid by those who refuse to bear arms for the protection of the State; and also to inflict greater punishments on those who, although they have associated, or been directed to be enrolled for the defence of their country, yet neglect to attend on days appointed for mustering, and are unwilling, at this time of great danger, to step forth with their countrymen to oppose the enemies of freedom: It is, therefore, Resolved and Ordained, That all able-bodied persons, between the ages of sixteen and fifty years, who, on any ac- count, refuse to bear arms, do pay, as an equivalent for their actual service, the sum of 20s. Proclamation money, monthly, and every month, during the present alarming time, and until proper measures shali be taken by the future Legislature to render the burden and expense equal to the inhabitants of this State; and that all persons directed to be enrolled by CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST;(1776. 744 former Ordinances, both Officers and Privates, who neglect to attend on days of muster, do pay double the sums directed by an Ordinance of the late Congress, bearing date the 28th day of October, 1775; all which sums shall be recovered and applied by the Officers of the Militia, in such manner as ‘ the aforesaid Ordinance directs with respect to the fines in- flicted on Officers and Privates of the Militia, without regard to religious denominations, anything in said Ordinance to the contrary notwithstanding. Resolved further, That all persons between the ages of sixteen and fifty years, directed to be enrolled as aforesaid, who shall neglect to attend when called upon at the time of an alarm, or, when ordered to meet, in consequence of a requisition of the Deputies, Commander-in-Chief, or any of the Brigadier-Generals of this State, for the purpose of rais- ing levies for the Army, or detaching part of the Militia for the defence of the States, or who shall refuse to march when detached in their proper turn, or to provide persons to march in their stead, do pay, if a Colonel, £20, a Lieutenant- Colonel £15, a Major £12, a Captain £8, a Lieutenant and Ensign £6, Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates £3, for every such neglect, to be recovered in manner afore- said, and to be applied as follows: The fines of Field-Offi- cers to be equally divided among the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates of the detachment which marches from the Battalion, and the fines of Captains, Subalterns, Non- Commissioned Officers and Privates, to be equally divided among the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates of the detachment which marches from the Company to which the delinquents respectively belong. Extract from the Minutes: Wm. Paterson, Secretary. GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Woodbridge, August 3, 1776. Sir: The account you gave me of the disposition of Battalion hath appeared, the more I think of it, the more alarming. ‘That no inconsiderate step may be taken, I have had the opinion of the Field-Officers, and others here, on the occasion; they join unanimously in opinion with me that the orders issued last week relative to such of the Associa- tors as should presume to desert the service of their country at this critical time, ought to be enforced. yy Mone To Col. John Dickinson, commanding at Elizabeth-Town. RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, August 3, 1776. May iT PLEASE Your Excenuency: Agreeable to Gen- eral Schuyler’s orders, I do myself the honour to enclose you three lists of articles wanted for the publick service on Lake- Champlain, contained in the paper marked A; and do also enclose your Excellency another paper, marked B, contain- ing a true account of such articles of these lists as cannot possibly be procured at this place. An express is sent from this place to Connecticut, with instructions to purchase the sailcloth and cordage, which General Arnold says is to be had in that Colony; and an express is also sent to the forges and furnaces at Livingston’s Manor and Salisbury, to procure the swivels and grape, double-headed and chain shot, if to be had there. None of the other articles are to be had nearer than New-York. And I am directed by the General to request your Excel- lency, in his name, to order the several articles which are wanting to be sent up with all possible despatch to this place. With the assistance of the publick Store-Keeper, I have procured from the proprietors of vessels, and the mer- chants of this place and Schenectady, all the anchors, cables, and cordage, that was to be had from them, for which I have made a full allowance. I am, with respect and esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servant, Ricup. VaRIck, Secretary to Major-General Schuyler. To His Excellency General Washington, &c. &c. P.S. The articles in B, marked with the letter C, are sent for to Connecticut, but not certain of being procured there. Rev; 745 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 746 A, No. 1. List of Articles wanted for the Gondolas, armed Vessels, Fotere) hm phe te te OD DD Le a ° and Batteaus, viz: 30 Anchors for Gondolas, 200 a 300 pounds. 40 Anchors, 100 a 150 pounds. 30 Hawsers, 4} a 54 inches, 50 a 60 fathoms. 40 Hawsers, 4 a 4} inches, 50 a 100 fathoms. 1 coil, 6-inch Rope, 60 fathoms. do. 5-inch do. 60 do. do. 4-inch do. 60 do. do. 34-inch do. 60 do. do. 3-inch do. 60 do. . 2t-inch do. 120 do. do, 2-inch do. 120 do. do. 13-inch do. 120 do. do. 1f-inch do. 120 do. do. Ratlin, stiff. 4 sets Tackle Blocks. 200 double Blocks, 54 to 8 inches. 300 single Blocks, 43 a 9 inches. 4 Coils Spun Yarn, 2 and 3 threads. 10 dozen Hamline. 10 dozen Marline. 50 Half-hour Glasses. 10 Spyglasses. 200 Buckets. 40 small Colours, (Continental, ) some red, blue, for signals. 60 Iron Pots, 4 a 6 gallons. + dozen Lead Lines. 1 dozen Lines for Pennant and Ensign Halliards. 6 dozen deep Wooden Bowls. Pistols and Cutlasses. Small Tacks and Pump Nails. Linseed Oil, Blacking, and White Lead. 1 dozen Hand Speaking Trumpets. 6 dozen Sail Needles. 4 dozen Bolt-Rope Needles. + dozen Marline Needles. 1 side Pump Leather. 60 coils Slow Match, for the Artillery. 6 Fishing Nets with Ropes. A true copy: Ricup. Varicx. A, No. 2. Articles wanted immediately for the Vessels and Gondolas on Laxe Cuampcain, July 20, 1776. 20 Hawsers, 5 a 53 inches, 40 to 120 fathoms long. 20 Anchors, 100 a 250 pounds weight. 40 small Graplins, about 20 to 40 weight. 5 coils Cordage, 4 inches, 120 fathoms. 5 do. do. do. 120 do. 5 do. do. 23 do. 120 do. 10 do. doe 00.0120 m0. 10 do. dove U2) 00. 120) Go: 10 do. do. 1% do. 120 do. 5 do. 12-thread Ratlin. 5 do. 9-thread Ratlin. 10 pounds 2 and 3-thread Spun Yarn. 200 double Blocks, 5 to 7 inches. 400 single Blocks, 4 to 7 inches, sorted. 100 single Blocks, 7 to 12 inches, sorted. 3 dozen Lanterns, horn or tin. 2 dozen Dark Lanterns. 1 barrel Brimstone. 500 pounds Chalk. 2,000 Pump Nails. 4 sides Sole Leather. ‘ 2 dozen Frying Pans. 4 dozen small Lines for Halliards. 20 Speaking Trumpets. 10 dozen Sail Needles. 2 dozen Bolt-Rope Needles. 10 Spyglasses. 20 pounds Sewing Twine. 2 Fish Nets, large. 10 sets Colours. Ticonperoaa, July 20, 1776. A true copy. B. Arnon. Ricup. Varicx. A, No. 3. List of Articles wanted for the Vessels on the Lake Cuampcain, July 24, 1776, viz: 70 bolts thick Sailcloth. 30 bolts light Sail Towcloth, or Osnaburghs. 20 cwt. Spun Yarn. 20 cwt. 24-inch Rope. 20 ewt. 5-inch Shroud Hawsers. 100 pounds Sewing Twine. 6 dozen Sail, Bolt-Rope, and Marline Needles. 1 dozen Palms. 1 barrel Linseed Oil. 4 cwt. Chalk. 2 cwt. White Lead. } cwt. Red Lead. Sheet Lead for Aprons of Guns. 1 dozen kegs Lampblack. 6 dozen Powderhorns. Quick Match and Port Fire. 4 dozen Paint and Tar Brushes, assorted. 3 barrels Tar. 4 dozen Cod Lines. 10 dozen small Lines, sorted. Colours for the Vessels, Galleys, and Gondoloes. (Hughes only says Colours.) One White Flag. 10 sides Sole Leather. * ‘i Pune Nails, different sizes. in Tubes. : Stow Match. Very little here. 200 Swivel Guns, (wrote for before.) A few sheets of Copper for Gun Ladles. 5 dozen Sheepskins for Spunges. Grape, Canister, Double-headed and Chain Shot, for 9, 12, 18, and 24-Pounders. Very few here. 1 dozen Half-hour Glasses. Cartridge Paper. Flannel Cartridges. A true copy. B. ARNOLD. Ricup. Varick. B, No. 1. Return of Articles wanted for the Publick Service on Laxr Cuamp.ain, which cannot be procured at ALBANY, or at any place between this and New-York, except as per N. B. at the bottom. 15 Anchors for Gondolas, 200 a 300 pounds. 10 Anchors, 100 a 150 pounds. 15 Hawsers, 44 and 53 inches, 50 a 60 fathoms. 10 Hawsers, 4 and 44 inches, 50 a 100 fathoms. 1 coil, 6-inch Rope, 60 fathoms. 1 do. 5-inch do. 60 do. do. 4-inch do. 60 do. do. 34-inch do. 60 do. do. 3-inch do. 60 do. do. 2t-inch do. 120 do. . 2-inch do. 120. do. do. 18-inch do. 120 do. do. 14-inch do. 120. do. do. Ratlin, stiff. do. Spun Yarn, 2 and 3 threads. 40 small Colours, (Continental,) some red, blue, for Signals. Pistols and Cutlasses. Axsany, August 3, 1776. A true extract. AAAQANAAAGLAALA tet He He DD He et 0 WD 59 Ricup. Varick. B, No. 2. General Arnoup’s first Requisition. Articles wanted immediately for the Vessels and Gondolas on Lake Cuampcain, July 20, 1776. C. 20 Hawsers, 5 and 53 inches, 40 to 120 fathoms long. 20 Anchors, 100 to 250 weight. 40 Graplins, about 20 to 40 weight. C.5 coils Cordage, 4 inches, 120 fathoms. ; do. 3 C.5 do. dO 20 Os €.5 do. dO.) 22 d0s0n 20 1 do: C.10do. do. 2 dos 120 ‘de: C.10 do. do. 12 do. 120 do. C. 10 do. do. 13 do. 120 do. G.5 do. do. 12-thread Ratlin. Cr arido, do. 9-thread Ratlin. 2 dozen Dark Lanterns. 200 pounds Brimstone. 20 Speaking Trumpets. 6 Spyglasses. 2 Fish Nets, large, with Ropes. 10 sets Colours. N. B. Expresses are sent to Connecticut for the sailcloth and cordage, and to Livingston’s Manor and Salisbury Forges and Furnaces for the anchors, graplins, grape, double-headed and chain shot, mentioned in the preceding requisition. Ricup. Varick. B, No. 3. General Arnoun’s second Requisition. A list of Articles wanted for the Vessels on Laxe Cuam- PLAIN, July 24, 1776. C. 50 bolts thick Sailcloth. C. 20 bolts light Towcloth or Osnaburghs. C. 20 cwt. Spun Yarn. C. 16 cwt. 2;-inch Rope. C. 20 ewt. 5-inch Shroud Hawser. 6 dozen Sail, Bolt-Rope, and Marline Needles. Sheet Lead for Aprons of Guns. Quick Match and Port Fire. Colours for the Vessels, Galleys, and Gondolas. One White Flag. Tin Tubes. 200 Swivel Guns.—Written for before. A few sheets Copper for Gun Ladles. Grape, Canister, Double-headed and Chain Shot, for 9, 12, 18, and 24-Pounders. (Very few here.) 1 dozen Half-hour Glasses. Flannel Cartridges. A true extract. Ricup. Varick. TAT GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. German-Flats, August 3, 1776. Dear Sir: Agreeable to my promise of yesterday, I now enclose you an extract of General Washington’s letter to me on the subject of removing the Army from Crown-Point, with an extract of so much of my letter as contained an answer to that part of his. If gentlemen knew with how much reluctance I quitted the serene pleasures of a rural life, if they knew how con- scious | am of the mediocrity of my talents, and how far I believe myself from being equal to the task which my coun- try has imposed upon me, they would not envy me. ‘They would know that I am not dazzled with the honour of office; that I never wished to be—what every man in publick life must be—the object of envy, and exposed to the insults occa- sioned by both the weakness and wickedness of men. Sick, heartily sick of command at the conclusion of last campaign, I begged leave of Congress to retire; and in confidence com- municated to General Washington my more immediate rea- sons for it. ‘Time and experience have convinced me (and I believe General Washington too) that my reasons were too well founded; but both Congress and he urged my contin- uance in the command, in such a manner that I suffered myself to be prevailed on to remain in it. The implication contained in General Washington’s letter of the 19th ultimo to you, is so very disadvantageous to us, that I very sincerely repent having deviated from my resolution to retire. But the opinion of his Council that we had acted reprehensibly, without being informed what were the reasons on which we had founded our opinion of the propriety of the measure in question, is so insulting that I cannot sit patiently under it; and I therefore not only reflect with pleasure on the spirited and proper manner in which you have resented it to Con- gress and General Washington, but shall give to both my sentiments on the impropriety and injustice of convening one council of officers to determine on the measures of another, at the distance of near three hundred miles, without calling for such information as we could have given them. It is incumbent on us, my dear sir, to do justice to our in- jured reputations; and as it is our duty to go hand in hand in opposing the enemies of the publick, so we ought heartily to join in defeating the insidious foes who so basely aim at the destruction of our character. We shall discover who he or they are, and [I trust will be able to cover them with confusion. I am extremely happy that General Arnold has under- taken to command the fleet. It has relieved me from very great anxiety under which I laboured on that account. I have written to Captain Varick to lose not a moment’s time in forwarding whatever he can procure to you, and I am in hopes we shall be able to give a tolerable good account of Carleton whenever he shall venture an attempt to cross the Lakes. Yesterday I received information that the enemy intend- ed to possess themselves of Oswego, and to march a body of troops to destroy the settlements on this river. I can hardly imagine that they will venture to leave Fort Stanwix in the rear, which is already in such a condition as to be tenable against small-arms, and even light artillery. Adieu, and be assured that I shall omit nothing in my power to cultivate mutual harmony, good understanding, and friendship. . I am, my dear sir, your most sincere and obedient humble servant, To Hon. Major-General Gates. Pu. Scnuuyer. COLONEL BEDEL TO GENERAL GATES. August 3, 1776. Sir: This being my twelfth campaign, in which I always had the esteem of my superiors, I was the first who turned out with my regiment last year from New-Hampshire for Canada, where I arrived, in eight days after my departure, on the north of St, John’s, having a small skirmish with the enemy. ‘The command of that post was delivered to me by General Montgomery, which I kept until the surrender of that fort, and had always his esteem in regard to my pro- ceedings, so that he gave me the command of a party to go down the river St. Lawrence to seize and take the vessels there, which order I complied with, and took eleven sail. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 748 His orders for that purpose I have now with me, but being now led into difficulty by not understanding the meaning of General Arnold’s instructions, or they being otherwise un- derstood by other gentlemen, | am broke and ordered home. Shall take it as a favour if your Honour would let me have the liberty of three or four men to assist me on the road, as itis bad. This affair being laid to my charge, I hope your Honour will not look upon it as wilful, the fault being in my head, and not my heart; and while I live under the protec- tion of the United States, 1 hope I shall ever have the esteem of my countrymen, as this was the first crime I was ever charged with. 7 I wish the whole Army good success, and beg leave to subscribe myself, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Timo. Bepet. To General Gates. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED TICONDEROGA, AUGUST 3, 1776. , Colonel Bedel and Major Butterfield, for their bad con- duct, are cashiered, and rendered incapable of bearing a commission in the Army of the United States. Captain Wentworth is cashiered for disobedience of orders. We came from Crown-Point the 17th of July; left one regiment there. ‘Three brigades are encamped on a hill southeast from Ticonderoga Fort, called Mount Indepen- dence, where we are raising some batteries to great advan- tage. One brigade is encamped on the hill near the old French lines, where they have fortified very strong. We have now on the Lake two schooners which mount twelve guns each, two sloops and five gondolas ; the gondo- las mount four guns each; and five gondolas more are almost finished. I hope we shall be able to give our enemies a warm reception if they should dare to come. LETTER FROM AARON HOBART. Abington, August 3, 1776. Sir: [have no time to come myself to see your Honour. I want you to get me all the broken cannon and pig iron you can, and I will send for them. Iam disappointed by . the brown six-pounders for pig iron, and the pig the Pro- vince got for me will not do for cannon, but is very good for the forge, and I want it for that use. 1 have cast eight cannon for the brig of Dartmouth, for Thomas Durfee, and have two six-pounders for the ships at Swansey, and hope to get them ready inamonth. As to the Province guns, I hope they will be ready before there is a call for them. I want fifty weight of steel, of the best quality, to use in drill- ing and boring out cannon. I have one bar left at the Long Wharf; please to send it and them to Weymouth, by the first opportunity, or by land. As to cash, I have wanted it very: much for the shot and’ pots, but cannot come if the small- pox prevents. Sir, I have got some shot made, but you must not expect them all very soon. I remain your humble servant, &c., Aaron Hosart. COLONEL HURD TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Haverhill, August 3, 1776. Sir: Since I wrote last, Captain Lames has been with us, and proceeded to Upper Cohos, with about thirty men, not doubting he should be able soon to make up his whole number. The Committee have written to Captain Woodard, de- siring he would come to Haverhill, to consult with us respecting the scouts. Captain Payne, of Lebanon, who went on a scout, a volunteer, is just now returned. He tells he has been to Ticonderoga, where he waited on General Gates. Found the principal part of the Army there, having quitted Crown- Point, as too infectious a place for the reinforcements, till it can be thoroughly cleansed. ‘That a large number of car- penters were employed in building batteaus, with a design, as supposed, to go over the Lakeagain. From Ticonderoga he went to Crown-Point, where was only one regiment; made a short tarry there, and then down the Lake to Onion River; he saw Colonel Wait there, took his advice, and proceeded to the river a Moelle, and so back to Cohos, striking the new road. Metno enemy on the way. Brought 749 the same report as mentioned by the Frenchman, that a fleet was in the river St. Lawrence, supposed to be French, and the Regulars retreating from St. John’s to Sorel. I have a letter from the Committee, of the 25th July, forwarded by Mr. Joseph Whipple, desiring me to send two several guns to Upper Cohos, for the use of Captain Eames’s party, which shall be done as soon as we receive the others from Canterbury, but we have only two yet come to hand. _ Colonel Bayley has not yet been able to embody his working party of men into a regular company, under the orders of us, as a Committee, agreeable to your directions; and unless they will consent to form themselves as such, the Committee will proceed to inlist others for the purpose. We defer this a few days till we see how they agree among themselves, when I shall advise you further. In the mean time remain, with my best respects to you and the gentle- men of the Committee, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, To the Hon. Meshech Weare, Esq. Joun Hurp. COLONEL A, WILLIAMSON TO GOVERNOUR RUTLEDGE. Camp two miles below Keowee, August 4, 1776. Sir: I received your Excellency’s favours of the 26th and 27th ultimo, by express. In my last letter to your Excellency, of the 31st ultimo, I informed you of my spies being returned with two white prisoners, who gave an account of Cameron’s being arrived from over the hills with > twelve white men, and that he, with the Seneca and other Indians, was encamped at Ocnore Creek, about thirty miles distant from Twenty-three Mile Creek, where I then lay encamped. ‘This intelligence induced me to march imme- diately to attack their camp before they could receive any information of my being so far advanced. [ accordingly marched, about six o’clock in the evening, with three hundred and thirty men on horseback, (taking the two prisoners with me to show where the enemy were encamped, and told them, before I set out, if I found they deceived me I would order them instantly to be put to death,) intending to surround their camp by daybreak, and to leave our horses about two miles behind, with a party of men to guard them. The river Keowee lying in our route, and only passable at a ford at Seneca, obliged me (though much against my inclination) to take that road. The enemy, either having discovered my march or laid themselves in ambush with a design to cut off any spies or party I had sent out, had taken possession of the first house in Seneca, and posted themselves behind a long fence, on an eminence close to the road where we were to march, and to prevent being discovered, had filled up the openings betwixt the rails with twigs of trees and corn-blades. ‘Chey suffered the guides and advanced guard to pass, when a gun from the house was, discharged, meant, as I suppose, for a signal for those placed behind the fence, who a few seconds after poured in a heavy fire upon my men, which, being unexpected, stagger- ed my advanced party. Here Mr. Salvador received three wounds, and fell by my side. My horse was shot down under me, but I received no hurt. Lieutenant Farar, of Captain Prince’s company, immediately supplied me with his horse. I desired him to take care of Mr. Salvador, but before he could find him in the dark the enemy unfortunately got his scalp, which was the only one taken. Captain Smith, son of the late Captain Aaron Smith, saw the Indian, but thought it was his servant taking care of his master, or could have prevented it. He died about half after two o'clock in the morning, forty-five minutes after he received the wound, sensible to the last. When | came up to him, after dislodging the enemy, and speaking to him, he asked whether | had beat the enemy. I told him yes. He said he was glad of it, and shook me by the hand, and bade me farewell, and said he would die in a few minutes. [women died in the morning, and six more who were badly wounded I have since sent down to the settlements, and given direc- tions to Doctors Delahowe and Russell to attend them. I remained on the ground till daybreak, and burnt the houses on this side the river, and afterwards crossed the river, the same day, and reduced Seneca entirely to ashes. Know- ing that the Indians would carry immediate intelligence of my strength to the place where Cameron lay encamped, who would directly move from thence; and having ordered the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 750 detachment from Colonels Neel and Thomas’s regiments to attack and destroy Estatoe, Qualhatchie, and Toxaway, and join me this day at Sugar-Town, obliged me to march that way; which, this day, a strong detachment, consisting of four hundred men, has totally reduced to ashes. An old Indian was found there, who said the enemy had deserted the town four days ago, on hearing, by a white man, that an army was advancing against them. Lam, respectfully, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, A. Wituiamson. “To His Excellency John Rutledge, President of South- Carolina, Charlestown. GENERAL MERCER TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 6, 1776.] Perth-Amboy, August 4, 1776. Sir: Your favour of July 31st, enclosing resolves of Congress, I had the honour to receive yesterday, and shall pay all possible attention to. Some of the Militia from Pennsylvania, not duly informed of the length of time their services here might be required, have become much dissatisfied. It is with difficulty the officers in some of the battalions prevent a desertion, not of men singly, but by companies. Some speedy and effectual measures will be necessary, that the quotas for the Flying- Camp be made up, to relieve the Associators as soon as possible. 1 enclose such a return as is in my power to make out. By this it appears that only two hundred and seventy-four, rank and file, properly belonging to the Flying-Camp, have yet joined. Colonel Smallwood’s battalion, from Maryland, remains at Elizabeth-Town, but expect daily to have orders to proceed to New- York. Last night thirteen sail of ships arrived at Sandy-Hook; these, together with what have come in since Thursday last, make upwards of sixty sail. On Staten-Island we discover no late movements of the enemy. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, August 4, 1776. Sir: I received your favour of 31st ultimo, last night, on my return from Perth-Amboy, from whence I wrote you. I observe your directions therein for supplying any number of Militia the State of Massachusetts-Bay may direct to be called into service, with provisions. I will give the neces- sary orders therein to Mr. Charles Miller, my issuing store- keeper in Boston, by the post to-morrow morning, and you may rely on it that your directions shall be fully complied with. Lam, sir, with respect and esteem, your most humble servant, JoseEPH TRUMBULL. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Congress of Delegates from the United States of America, at Philadelphia. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, August 4, 1776. Dear Sir: Colonel Hand reports twenty-one sail seen off last evening, eight arrived at the Hook this morning, and thirteen coming in. ; The enemy’s guard-boats patrolled much higher up the bay than usual last night. [I apprehend a couple of guard-boats are necessary to patrol from Red to Yellow Hook, across the Bay, leading to Rapalye’s Mills, provided there are boats to spare. Enclosed is a return of the officers of Colonel Hand’s Rifle regiment. As the return made me by Colonel Hand is not as intelligible as I could wish, I shall send and get another as soon as may be. I must beg your Excellency’s pardon for suffering the return to escape my memory, and neglecting making it agreeable to your orders some days past. I shall send in a list of the names, in a few hours, of the persons proper to be taken up on this Island. _ Lam, with respect, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, NatHu. GREENE. 751 New-York, Thursday, August 8, 1776. The Phenix, of forty-four guns, Captain Parker, and the Rose, of twenty guns, Capt. Wallace, two notorious Pirates belonging to Great Britain, having, for some time past, infested the North River, to the great interruption of our trade and navigation thereon, last Friday six of our row- galleys, hastily collected, though of force greatly inferior to these ships, went up the river to find them out, and annoy them in their station. Next day the galleys proceeded to Tarrytown, where the two Pirate sbips lay, attacked and engaged them for two hours. the morning after by a gentleman who was a volunteer on board one of the galleys, gives the most particular account of the engagement that has as yet come to hand, viz: “Tarrytown, (Sunday Morning,) August 4. “Sir: I have just opportunity to inform you that yester- day at one o’clock, P. M., the galleys attacked the Phenix and the Rose off Tarrytown. 'The Lady Washington fired the first gun on our side, in answer to one received from the Phenix ; this first shot from us entered the Phenix. ‘The Washington galley, on board of which the Commodore’s flac was hoisted, then came up within grape-shot of the ships, and singly sustained their whole fire for above a quar- ter of an hour before any other of our vessels took a shot from her, (the tide wasting them more than the pilots ex- pected to the eastern shore, and the Lady Washington fall- ing back to take her station in the line, according to orders.) The Spitfire advanced in a line with the Washington, and with her behaved well. We had as hot a fire as perhaps was ever known for an hour anda half. The Washington, which I was on board during the whole engagement, had the ledgings of her bow guns knocked away, which pre- vented our working them, and was otherwise considerably damaged, being thirteen times hulled, had three shot in the waist, many of her oars carried away, &c. The Lady Washington, after hulling the Phenzz six times, had her bow, and only gun, a thirty-two pounder, on which we placed much dependance, split seven inches, and her gun tackles and breechings carried away. The Spitfire was hulled seve- ral times, and received one shot between wind and water, which, not being quickly discovered, occasioned her making much water. ‘The rest of the galleys received conside- rable damage in their rigging, sails, and oars. Under these circumstances, our Commodore, Colonel Tupper, thought it prudent to give the signal for our little fleet to withdraw, after manfully fighting a much superior force for two hours. Never did men behave with more firm, determined spirits, than our little crews; one of our tars, being mortally wound- ed, cried to his messmate, ‘I am a dying man; revenge my blood, my boys, and carry me alongside my gun, that I may die there.’ We were so preserved by a gracious Providence, that in all our gaileys (which consisted of six) we had but two men killed and fourteen wounded, two of which are thought dangerous. We hope to have another touch at these Pirates before they leave our river, which God pros- er. «P.S. The following are the particulars of the galleys, with their killed and wounded, viz: the Washington, Capt. Fill, four wounded; Whiting, McClave, one killed, four wounded; Spitfire, Grimes, one killed, three wounded; Crane, Tincker, one wounded; on board a whaleboat, two wounded.” EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEW-YORK, DATED August 4, 1776. Friday, the 2d instant, the ships that passed up North River were, from eleven o’clock to one, engaged by six of our row-galleys, who sustained the fire of the Phenix, of forty-four guns, and the Rose, of twenty-eight guns. For two hours, their broadsides poured in as fast as they could discharge them. Finally, for want of a proper tide or from prudence, Colonel Tupper, who commanded the galleys, threw out a signal for the galleys to retire. The Lady Washington is returned to the city; she alone commenced the attack against both the ships, who were previously pre- pared, and had got springs on their cables, and sustained for more than a quarter of an hour the fire of both those ships ; she received thirteen shot in her hull, and one of her two- and-thirty pounders cracked for a considerable length. They have, however, handled the ships very roughly. Colonel CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. The following letter, written’ 752 Tupper writes the General that a great many splinters and pieces of the ship, soon after the action, passed by the gal- leys, who are preparing for a second attack. Last night four ships, chained and boomed, with a number of amazing large chevaux-de-frise, were sunk close by the fort, under the command of General Mifflin, which fort mounts thirty pieces of heavy cannon. We are thoroughly sanguine that they never will be able to join the British fleet, nor assistance from the fleet be afforded to them; so that we set them down as our own. The British Army ‘still remain at Staten-Island and the fleet at the Narrows. Last Thursday forty sail of ships arrived to the British fleet, and yesterday twenty more, and forty more were in sight, supposed to be foreign troops. This day we have a report circulating that the foreign troops refuse fighting, unless a cartel for the exchange of prisoners is previously settled. Mr. Tracy, who went with the flag to Lord Howe, was treated with great politeness; by all accounts, his Lordship is as good a man for the errand on which he is sent as the British nation could possibly fix upon; he is a gentleman of very great abilities, master of chicanery and deception, and believes it is in his power, either by persuasion or threats, to bring about a reconciliation. The event of things will prove how greatly he is mistaken. I congratulate you on the capture made by one of the armed vessels in the service of the United American States, on board of which, I understand, is that infamous villain, Ben. Davis; I hope you will hang him. In the late ‘engagement between the galleys and the enemy’s ships, there were on board the galleys three killed, two mortally wounded, and fourteen others slightly wounded ; what loss the enemy sustained, we are not yet able to ascertain. We expect, as the enemy have received a considerable rein- forcement, that they will soon make an attack. From the amazing spirit of the Army, which, from the best informa- tion I can get, amounts to at least forty thousand men, we shall give them such a reception as will oblige them, in spite of their prejudice to the contrary, to acknowledge the Ame- ricans to be the bravest people they ever contended with. RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, August 4, 1776, six o’clock, A. M. Dear Generax: I do myself the honour of informing you that, exclusive of the quantity of rope mentioned in the invoice already sent you, I have procured about twenty-five hundred weight, from two-and-a-half-inch downwards, &c., which was, in a great measure, sent up two days since from Schenectady. I have also procured four new cables of four inch by sixty fathoms, at that place; and we have still here seven or eight good anchors and cables, to be forwarded as soon as wagons can be procured; the owners of which, for want of ready cash, cannot be enticed to leave their harvest. I hope to have no reason to complain of this in future. The sail cloth and cordage is sent for to Connecticut ; and an invoice of such other articles as are not to be had here, is sent to his Excellency General Washington, with a request to send them with all possible despatch. The blocks will be finished in about ten days. By the General’s orders I have sent an officer with two batteaus to Poughkeepsie for such of them as are finished, and for sixty coils of slow match, and one hundred pounds of twine, which are to be had there. An express is sent to Governour Trumbull and the Salis- bury lron-Works for the swivels, and to Colonel Robert Livingston for the different kinds of cannon and grape-shot, as also for the anchors and cabels which are wanting. A skipper is sent down the river to purchase all the anchors, cables, sails, and rigging, that are to be procured from the proprietors of vessels between this pec and Pough- keepsie. ‘The six anchors and cables lately sent from New- York, I hope, will arrive by the first southerly wind, As soon as any of these articles arrive, I shall forward them to Tyonderoga without delay, as far as lies in my power. I am directed by General Schuyler to procure three tar- burners, and send them to Fort George. As soon as I can procure persons that understand it, I shall send them to Fort George, with the proper orders to the commanding officer. All the articles mentioned in Colonel Trumbull’s requisi- tion of the 29th, with an additional quantity of blacking, are purchased, and shall be sent as soon as possible. 753 I think that in my letter of the 31st, I informed you that I could not furnish Captain Bacon with money, for want of that article in the Paymaster’s hands. If I have not, I am directed by the General to do it now. I am, dear sir, with every sentiment of respect, your most obedient, humble servant, einen Vanice To the Hon. Major-General Gates. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES, Skenesborough, August 4, 1776. Dear Generav: I received your Honour’s favour of the Ist instant, and, according to order, I immediately sent off two messengers from this place to go on the most publick roads to New-England, to hasten the troops according to your Honour’s orders, and sent such men as I think will be faithful in the execution of the same. I must acquaint your Honour that I fear, do the best I can, that the carpenters will wait for plank, as the water fails at this place much. The carpenters want plank to- morrow. I am going to set the saw-mill at Cheshire’s to sawing oak plank, as the carpenters must want, so I can fetch them down by water. I am very anxious to get the galleys forward, as we can well, with the rest of our shipping, command the Lake, being well manned and conducted. If it is disagreeable to your Honour’s mind for the mill at Cheshire’s to saw plank, 1 should be glad to be informed, as I would not act anything disagreeable to your Honour’s mind. I have this day sent an express to Albany, to General Schuyler, desiring him to forward iron and other necessaries for building the shipping. The troops come entirely destitute of ammunition, and should be glad your Honour would send us a supply of bullets; and am, with the greatest esteem, your Honour’s humble servant, Davin Wartersury, Jun. P.S. This moment arrived a company of Boston troops, which I shall forward immediately. GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, August 4, 1776. Sir: I have the honour of your letter of the 29th July. IT am much surprised to hear that the carbines are not all yet arrived at New-York. 1 forwarded them all agreeable to your directions, and the last two hundred went from this place the 4th of July, for Norwich, to the care of Mr. Hun- tington, to whom I wrote, every time I sent arms or other articles which were ordered to New-York, to forward them with the greatest expedition. With regard to the arms taken in the Scotch ships, [ wrote your Excellency the 11th and 29th of July, and it has not yet been in my power to send any more than those I have forwarded. Agreeable to your directions of the 7th of July, to forward from three to four hundred barrels of powder to Norwich, I sent off four hundred barrels the 13th of July, to the care of Mr. Huntington, to be stored there in some safe place until he should receive your orders respecting thesame. It would have been sent sooner, had not the interruption of business by the small-pox prevented. I shall forward as soon as possible one hundred barrels of powder more to Norwich, to complete the five hundred, agreeable to your directions of the 19th of July. This letter I did not receive until the 31st of July. The Deputy-Commissary, Mr. Miller, informs me he has articular directions from the Commissary-General to secure all the salt provisions he can for the use of the Army; and I have given him directions respecting the pork brought in here from Ireland, agreeable to your orders. Your Excellency mentions your want of more Artillery- men, and that Captain Burbeck, with his company, must be sent to New- York, if we could, by any means, spare him. I do not, at present, conceive how he can be spared, as the Continental armed vessels depend on his company to pre- pare and fix ammunition for them—new supplies of which they frequently want. ‘They are also wanted to prepare ammunition for the forts, and for many other important pur- poses. But if your Excellency should judge the want of Firrn Serres.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 48 754 Artillerymen at New-York is so great as to outweigh these considerations, I will send the company forward as soon as your pleasure shall be known. The two regiments here are generally recovered of the small-pox. I shall take the utmost care to have them thoroughly cleansed, and agreeable to your orders of the 19th of July, shall order them to march this week for Ticon- deroga. I am informed by the Council of this State, that they are bringing in between two and three thousand men to defend these lines, in the room of the Continental regiments ordered from hence. ‘The Council expect, agreeable to the resolve of Congress, that these troops will be supplied with provisions and ammunition, and paid by the Continent; but there being no Continental officer when I retire (which I intend to do very soon) to take the direction and oversight of these and many other matters interesting to the United States, such as commanding the men in Continental pay, giving orders to the Assistant Quartermaster-General, Deputy-Commissary of Artillery, and Commissary of Provisions, making returns of the stores and men in the Continental pay, and giving warrants for the payment of the men in the service of the United States, supplying the armed vessels, &c., I con- ceive the publick must greatly suffer, unless these matters are committed to the care and direction of some person who is well acquainted with them. Iam your Excellency’s obedient and very humble ser- vant, Artemas Warp. To General Washington. P. S. I have sent for Captain Eayrs, who has the care of the company of Artificers, and acquainted him with your Excellency’s orders respecting his company. He informs me that his men cannot go to New-York, unless their pay is increased to six pounds per month, and that he informed your Excellency of this before the Army left Cambridge last spring, and that he expected their pay would have been thus established before he was sent for; that he is willing to march immediately, but as his men are not engaged for any particular time, he cannot induce them to march until the establishment is made. If your Excellency should think proper to make such an establishment, and order them to New-York, Captain Eayrs desires that he may receive directions whether he is to carry his tools with him. ‘The company in the mean time will be fully employed in making carriages and other necessary work; and if they were not wanted at New-York, they might be still employed here to great advantage. I am your Excellency’s obedient, humble servant, Artemas Warp. London, August 5, 1776. To tue Lorp Mayor. My Lorn: I was last week on board the American pri- vateer called the Yankee, commanded by Captain Johnson, and lately brought into this port by Captain Ross, who com- manded one of the West-India sugar ships, taken by the privateer in July last; and, as an Englishman, I wish your Lordship, who is so happily placed at the head of this great city, (justly famed for its great humanity even to its enemies,) would be pleased to go likewise, or send proper persons, to see the truly shocking, and, I may say, barbarous and mise- rable condition of the unfortunate American prisoners, who, however criminal they may be thought to have been, are deserving of pity, and entitled to common humanity. They are twenty-five in number, and all inhumanly shut close down, like wild beasts, in a small stinking apartment in the hold of a sloop, about seventy tons burden, without a breath of air, in this sultry season, but what they receive through a small grating over head, the openings in which are not more than two inches square in any part, and through which the sun beats intensely hot all day; only two or three being permitted to come on deck at a time; and then they are exposed in the open sun, which is reflected from the decks and water like a burning glass. I do not at all exaggerate, my Lord: I speak the truth; and the resemblance that this barbarity bears to the memo- rable black-hole, at Calcutta, as a gentleman present on Saturday observed, strikes every one at the sight. All England ought to know that the same game is now acting upon the Thames on board this privateer, that all the world 750 cried out against and shuddered at the mention of in India, some years ago, as practised on Captain Hallowell and other of the King’s good subjects. The putrid streams Issuing from the hole are so hot and offensive, that one cannot, without the utmost danger, breathe over it; and I should not be at all surprised if it should cause a plague to spread. The miserable wretches below look like persons in a hot bath, panting, sweating, and faint- ing for want of air; and the Surgeon declares that they must all soon perish in that situation, especially as they are almost all in a sickly state with bilious disorders. The Captain and Surgeon, it is true, have the liberty of the cabin, (if it deserves the name of a cabin,) and make no complaints on their own account; they are both sensible, well-behaved young men, and can give a very good account of themselves, having no signs of fear, and being supported by a consciousness of the justice of their cause. ‘They are men of character, of good families in New-England, and highly respected in their different occupations; but being stripped of their all by the burning of towns and other de- structive measures of the present unnatural war, were forced to take the disagreeable method of making reprisals, to main- tain themselves and their children, rather than starve. Numbers of gentlemen, and friends of Government, who were on board at the same time, will confirm the truth of this my representation, being very sensibly touched them- selves at the horrid sight. English prisoners taken by the Americans have been treated with the most remarkable tenderness and generosity, as numbers who are safely returned to England most freely confess, to the honour of our brethren in the Colonies. And it is a fact, which can be well attested in London, that this very Surgeon on board the privateer, after the battle of Lev- mgton, April 10,1775, for many days voluntarily and gen- erously, without fee or reward, employed himself in dressing the King’s wounded soldiers, (who but an hour before would have shot him, if they could have come at him,) and in making a collection for their refreshment, of wine, linen, money, &c., in the town where he lived. This is a real fact, of which the most ample testimony may be had. The capture of the privateer was solely owing to the ill- judged Jenity and brotherly kindness of Captain Johnson, who, not considering his English prisoners in the same light that he would Frenchmen or Spaniards, put them under no sort of confinement, but permitted them to walk the decks as freely as his own people, at all times.* Taking advantage of this indulgence, the prisoners one day, watching their opportunity when most of the privateer’s people were below and asleep, shut down the hatches, and making all fast, had immediate possession of the vessel without using any force. I shall conclude with saying, that though this letter is addressed to your Lordship, I hope that all who may read it, and have any influence, will do all in their power to gain the necessary relief; and it is humbly apprehended that the * Lonpon, August 6, 1776.—Captain Johnson, of the Yankee privateer, and Ross and Hodges, (Captains of the two West-Indiamen taken by the above privateer,) were sitting together in Johnson’s cabin, a few days after they were taken, when Johnson having inadvertently laid down his cutlass, Ross and Hodges took advantage of it, by throwing him on his back, and seized the cutlass. The guard stationed on the quarter-deck having also laid down his cutlass, in order to go forward, one of Ross or Hodge’s people, who had been let into the secret, immediately seized it, and gave the alarm; on which the men belonging to the Yankee, and those of the merchantmen (who ought to have been confined) ran up, and one of the Americans having caught up a scrubbing brush, and advancing in a threatening posture, was told by the man who held the cutlass, that if he advanced a step further he would take his head off, and ordered him and the rest of the men belonging to the privateer, to go forward; Ross and Hodges in the mean time having broken open the arm chest. Captain Johnson and his crew were removed from the Yankee about two o’clock on Sunday morning, and it is said are now on board the Conquestadore man-of-war. Captain Johnson complains of Captain Ross’s illiberal behaviour, in suffering several people to come on board since he arrived, and insult him in the most cruel and gross terms, though a prisoner; and when his brother came to see him, after three years absence, Captain Ross would not permit them to talk a moment in private. If Captain Ross has secreted his prisoners, is it not worthy the inter- position of the civil power to compel him to produce them, that no foul play may be offered them, till they have taken their trials? Captain Johnson, of the Yankee privateer, lately taken and brought into the river, is a native of New-England. Previous to the present unhappy differences between this country and America, he lived as a merchant in great repute, at Portsmouth, in New-Hampshire. Last winter he had the misfortune to have his house burnt down at the time when the » greatest part of Portsmouth was destroyed by the Swan, and other ships of war, at which time he lost the whole of his property. The Restrain- ing Act taking place, and depriving him from carrying on his trade, he CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 756 well disposed, who are blessed with affluence, could not better bestow their bounty than upon those poor objects. Vegetables and ripe fruits of all kinds, with porter, &c., must be very useful, as well as the means to procure other necessaries.» ‘The privateer lies opposite to Ratcliffe- Cross, a mile and a half below the Tower, and by asking for Cap- tain Johnson admittance may be obtained. Homaniras. We have been informed, since the receipt of the above letter, that the crew of the American privateer the Yankee, were yesterday morning, at half-past three o’clock, conveyed on board a vessel, and carried down the river, to be secured in Dover Castle. We hear that a petition will be presented to the Secretary of State for the American Department, by the merchants, to cause the Captain of the Yankee privateer to be kept in custody to answer to them for the property he has illegally taken, he being the sole owner of the privateer, and the prizes of course will be sold in America for his account and emolument. By His Excellency Joun Rutiever, Esq., President and Commander-in- Chief of Souru-Carouina: A Prociamation. Whereas it appears to me necessary for the publick service . to call the General Assembly and Legislative Council before the time to which they stand adjourned: I have therefore thought fit to issue this Proclamation, requiring them, and they are hereby required, to meet at Charlestown, on Tuesday, the 17th day of September next, then and there to sit for the despatch of divers weighty and important affairs. Given under my hand and the seal of South-Carolina, at Charlestown, this 5th day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six. Joun Ruriepee. By His Excellency’s command: Joun Hucer, Secretary. Williamsburgh, Virginia, August 10, 1776. On Monday last, the 5th instant, being Court day, the Declaration of Independence was publickly proclaimed in the Town of Rzchmond, before a large concourse of respect- able freeholders of Henrico County, and upwards of two hun- dred of the Militia who assembled on that grand occasion. It was received with universal shouts of joy, and reéchoed by three volleys of small-arms. ‘The same evening the town was illuminated, and the members of the Committee held a club, when many patriotick toasts were drunk. Although there were near one thousand people present, the whole was conducted with the utmost decorum; and the satisfaction visible in every countenance sufficiently evinces their deter- mination to support it with their lives and fortunes. resolved to go to sea in a privateer, and accordingly hired the Yankee for that purpose. Lonvon, August 10, 1776.—The method by which the Yankee priva- teer was taken was as follows: Captain Johnson, (of the Yankee,) Hodges and Ross, were sitting together in the cabin, when Johnson having inad- vertently laid down his cutlass, Ross and Hodges took the advantage of it, and one coming behind Captain Johnson, seized and threw him down, while the other got possession of the cutlass. The guard stationed on the quarter-deck having at the same time laid down his cutlass to go forward, one of Ross’s or Hodges’s people, who had been let into the conspiracy, immediately seized it, and gave the alarm; on which either Ross or Hodges ran upon the quarter-deck, and got possession of the arm- chest before the privateer’s men and those of the merchantmen, who were at large and unconfined, though then down in the hold, could get upon the main deck. One of the .4mericans took up a scrubbing-brush, and advanced to the quarter-deck; he was told by the man possessed of the cutlass, that if he came a step farther, his head should be cut off. The privateer’s men thus finding the quarter-deck and their arms all in possession of their adversaries, and their Captain a prisoner in the cabin, submitted without further resistance, being promised good treatment, and to be landed as soon as possible in some part of America, and then be at liberty to go where they pleased. So far from this promise being complied with, the men were put in irons, and closely confined in the hold of the privateer, and all of them brought into the river Thames. Since which they were, in the night of Saturday last, hurried into a man of war’s tender, and smuggled to some place of confinement, but where, is not yet certainly known. ‘yf Captain Johnson complained heavily of the illiberal behaviour and cruel usage he suffered, by being insulted frequently at sea, calling him by the most opprobrious names, and threatening him with the cruelest and most savage punishments, and also for suffering many people to come on board after they arrived in the river, to insult him in nies basest and grossest terms, though he was then a prisoner; and when his brother came to see him after a three years’ absence, they would not permit them to talk together one minute in private. s 757 GENERAL DENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Charles County, August 5, 1776. Gentiemen: Your favour of the 2d instant I have received, wherein you not only account for ordering me to St. George’s Island, (whither I should most undoubtedly have gone with- out orders, so soon as I was apprized of the arrival of the enemy,) but also for. sending Major Price to take the com- mand. I never entertained the most distant thought that you had any intention of giving me offence, and am happy to find you have had no insinuations to my prejudice. What I complain of is, your very concise order, whereby I was super- seded, without a line from your Honours signifying what part I was to act, or whether I was to remain there a cipher, where I stayed with impatience twenty-four hours, expect- ing further orders. I never attended to the rank between officers of the Militia and Regulars, as adjusted by the Con- vention, or should not have accepted of the commission I held; for that, and the reason already given, did enclose you my commission for the Flying-Camp. Having tendered my service to the publick in a different line of duty, (viz: the civil department,) which, requiring my presence till my offer is accepted or rejected, prevents my complying with your repeated request of giving you a personal conference until Monday next, when I have reason to believe I shall have the pleasure of conferring with your Honours on the subject. 1 am, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, Jno. Denr. To the Honourable the Council of Safety. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN TOOTELL. {No. 113.] Annapolis, August 5, 1776. Sir: The Guard at the Magazine complain of not having a sufficient quantity of provision delivered them for three meals per day. We think it is necessary they should have it, and that it may be furnished for 103 per week, and there- fore desire it may be allowed. We are, &c. To Captain James Tootell. CAPTAIN BROOKE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Calvert County, August 5, 1776. Honourasite Gentiemen: Agreeable to your orders I marched such of my men as were raised to Drum Point, and there continued until yesterday, when Captain Beall’s men returned. As there was no conveniency for myself and company to stay there any longer, I thought it proper to move up the country as far as Hunting- Town, (about twenty miles,) at which place we are now stationed and waiting for further orders. I am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Joun Brooke, Jun. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. JOHN HANSON, JUN., TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Frederick-Town, August 5, 1776. Sir: The money sent to purchase arms, &c., is nearly expended. Many receipts for guns and blankets are yet to come in. The two German companies and the Rifle com- pany are, I believe, altogether unprovided. It will be, therefore, necessary to send us more cash, and the present will be a good opportunity. I am, very respectfully, sir, your most obedient servant, Joun Hanson, Jun. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety. COLONEL EWING TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, August 5, 1776. Honovuren Sirs: I have this day delivered your order to the Committee of Observation for this County, for eighty- four guns; they have returned me for answer, that they have not as many, but expect soon to let me have that quantity. I have sent off a gentleman to F’rederick-Town, who is like- wise to go to Shepherd’s Town, in Virginia, where I ain in hopes he will be able to procure a quantity of guns and rifles. If agreeable to you, J propose making one of my * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 758 companies a Rifle company, as a Light-Infantry company to the battalion. I shall be much obliged to you for an order on the Committee here for a quantity of blankets for my soldiers, which are to be embarked on Thursday or Friday next. As there is a quantity of arms arrived at Philadel- phia since I had the pleasure of seeing you, and as they are indebted to you some arms, I shall be much obliged by your giving me an order on them for some guns, and allow- ing me to march some of my soldiers to Philadelphia with- out guns. You know I am very desirous of getting to station; therefore, shall esteem it a particular favour and indulgence. Upon inquiry, Mr. Hopkins has about four hundred hunting-shirts, which I would be glad you would allow me to take for the use of the troops, and for which they shall pay. As I purpose sending off more than two companies, I shall be obliged to you for an order for more guns when received, for camp-kettles, canteens or wooden bottles, cartouch-boxes and belts, bayonet scabbards and belts, with gun slings. If your Honours thought proper to give me an unlimited order for completing my battalion with such, I shall take nothing but what the Captains shall give a receipt for, and shall observe to them that they are account- able for everything. I shall be much obliged for your answer; and am, with due respect, honoured sirs, your most obedient servant, Tuos. Ewrna. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland, now at Annapolis. DOCTOR WEISENTHALL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore-Town, August 5, 1776. Gentiemen: [ take the liberty to inform you of my return from the camp, where I went, according to my promise to you, in order to see the regiment properly taken care of. Doctor Shippen is appointed Surgeon-General to the Flying- Camp, with whom I had a conference, and received a letter from him to General Mercer, as Commander-in-Chief of the Flying-Camp, in order to concert measures for the forming proper hospitals, which was done. I left our Maryland troops in a good condition at Ehzabeth-Town, and shall take an opportunity of giving a fuller account when I arrive at Annapolis. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant ? C. WEISENTHALL. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. BALTIMORE COUNTY COMMITTEE. At a meeting of the Committee August 5, 1776: Present : Samuel Purviance, Chairman; William Lux, Vice Chairman; W. Buchanan, B. Griffith, A. Britain, T. Sollers, J. Smith, J. Griest, T. Gist, J. Boyd. The following persons, viz: Thomas Harriman, Josias Harriman, Chas. Harriman, John Cotterell, Thos. Graves, and John Graves, having enrolled in Captain Mercer’s Com- pany, their fines, as Non-Enrollers, are remitted. Captain Richard Owings is summoned to attend this Committee, on Monday next, to answer a charge exhibited against him by Mr. John Messver. Captain Gist Vaughan returned his Enrolment. Richard Taylor (of Baltimore West) produced a Certifi- cate of his having enrolled in Captain William Richardson’s Company; on which his fine was remitted. Ordered, That the Chairman advertise for those who have Arms to dispose of to bring them to the Committee, who will pay for the same. Attest: Geo. Lux, Secretary. JOSIAH BARTLETT TO JOHN LANGDON. Philadelphia, August 5, 1776. Sir: Since my last, a vessel, fitted out by the Secret Committee, has arrived here from Marseilles, in France, which place she left the 8th of June. She has brought, for the use of the American States, one thousand good muskets, about ten tons of powder, and about forty tons of lead, &c. A small privateer from this city, called the Congress, has taken a vessel bound. from the West-Indies to Halifax, and sent her safe into port; besides a cargo of West-India goods, 759 there was found on board her one thousand and seventy- eight joes, six hundred and seventy-two guineas, and some other gold coin. Captain Barry, in the Lexington, one of the Continental vessels, has taken and sent in here a priva- teer of six carriage-guns, commanded by another of those infamous Goodriches, of Virginia. Captain Wickes, in the Reprisal, another Continental vessel, has taken and sent in a sloop bound from the West-Indies to Liverpool; he has also taken a ship from Grenada to London, which is not yet arrived—both loaded with West-India goods. Since the Declaration of Independence, your friend John Alsop has written to the Convention of New-York to resign his seat in Congress, and made some reflections on the Con- vention for their agreeing so unanimously to that Declara- tion. The Convention, in return, voted cheerfully and unanimously to accept of his resignation, with some severe and cutting reflections on him for his conduct; which were all sent to Congress. I believe his boarding with our friend Wharton has been no advantage to him; possibly, he was obliged to resign his seat as a previous condition to his taking full possession of the lady. As [had no letter from you last post, (for I look on the cover to Colonel Whipple’s letters to be nothing,) I hope you will consider this as bringing you one letter in debt, or at least that it be put to my credit, to make up former defi- ciencies; which will be but justice to your most obedient, JosiaH Barrier. P. S. August 6.—Yesterday arrived here two prizes, taken by Captain Wickes—one, the ship before mentioned, having on board, it is said, five hundred hogsheads of sugar, the other a brig, bound from the West-Indies to Ireland, taken since the ship and sloop; the particulars of her cargo I have not heard. ‘This is the best way of supplying our- selves with necessaries, since Britain will not suffer us to procure them by trade; and I expect another year we shall be well supplied this way. Yours, &c., AG LANCASTER (P ENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. Ata meeting of the Committee of Observation, Inspec- tion, and Correspondence, at the house of Adam Reigart, the 5th August, 1776: Present: Edward Shippen, Mathias Slough, William Atlee, Adam Rei- gart, Jacob Krug, Christopher Crawford, William Bowsman, Michael Musser, Henry Dehuff, John Miller, Casper Shaffner. William Atlee in the chair. On Saturday, the 3d instant, a report being circulated through this town, that a company intended for the Camp in the Jerseys, from Cumberland County, had, in their pas- sage through Carlisle, wantonly fired upon and wounded some of the prisoners of war there, and had particularly at- tacked the house wherein Lieutenant Andre resided, fired several shot through his windows, and had wounded him, and had otherwise behaved to the officers, prisoners there, in a cruel and ungenerous manner, and that the said com- pany might be expected in Lancaster that evening,—the Committee recollecting that many of those persons who were lately so barbarously butchered and ill-treated after their surrender to Captain Forster, of the British troops, in Canada, had been inhabitants of Cumberland County, and much respected there, and not knowing the officer who commanded this company, nor the character of himself and men, were induced to give some credit to the report, and therefore gave directions that the prisoners of war here should confine themselves to their rooms, or at least to the walls of their barracks, from the hour of five in the afternoon until the next morning, and that they should before five o’clock aforesaid, bring into the barracks water and other necessa- ries to Jast them that time, being determined to draw out the town companies and defend them from any attack which might be made on them to the utmost of their power. Orders of this kind alarmed the prisoners at the barracks; they had, by some means or other, found out the reason of them, and were arming themselves with clubs from the cordwood. In- telligence of this being brought to the Committee, a member was sent up to inform them that every method should be used for their safety, and to desire they would keep them- selves quiet. About eight o’clock in the evening, the Com- mittee had notice that the company was in the woods near the town, and immediately sent out two officers to meet CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 760 them, with directions to inform the commander of the party of the report, and to request that no injury might be offered to the prisoners here. In about half an hour the officers returned, with an account that the officers and men of the company were very uneasy at the charge against them, and assured them it was false. This answer was directly circu- lated to quiet the minds of the inhabitants; and about nine o'clock the company marched in under command of Captain Thomas Clark, of the Fourth Battalion of Associators in Cumberland County, in great good order, without offering injury to any one, and quietly retired with their billets to the places assigned them. Upon Captain Clark’s request, the person who had propagated a report so injurious to himself and company, was sought for and placed in the guard-house for examination, where he was continued until this morning, that, by the delay, we might have an opportunity of hearing from Carlisle. Agreeable to expectation, Captain George Hubley (a gentleman who is a native of this place, and well known to the Committee) arrived here yesterday evening, and now being introduced to the Committee, declares, upon oath, that he left Carlisle yesterday morning ; that he arrived there from the westward on Saturday morning last about ten o'clock, and staid there the remainder of the day. That he saw the officers prisoners of war there, very cheerful at din- ner, at Mr. Polk’s, with their servants attending them; that some of them spoke to him ; that he was in conversation with different companies in the town that day; that he heard Captain Clark, with his Company, had passed through the town the day before, and heard not a word of any disturb- ance or ill-treatment to any of the prisoners. And the said informant (George Huber) being also brought into Commit- tee, saith, that at Carlisle, on Wednesday evening last, he did see two men discharge their pieces down the street, but whether they belonged to Captain Clark’s Company or not, or whether they intended injury to any one, he don’t know; and that as to the remainder of the report, he had it from a woman who washed in the house occupied by the officers’ servants, and others. The Committee, therefore, do now, in justice to Captain Clark, and at the request of himself, his officers, and Com- pany, (who have been basely charged with an action which, if true, must have reflected great dishonour upon them,) with great cheerfulness certify the foregoing narrative to be true ; that the said charge against the said Captain Clark and his Company, upon the evidence adduced to them, is false and groundless, and that the behaviour of his Company, during their stay in Lancaster, and on leaving it, hath been remark- ably decent and orderly. Doctor John Sensinney having certified to this Committee that John Freeser, of Captain Andrew Bare’s Company of Associators in Lancaster County, is unfit for service as a soldier, and Captain Bare being satisfied that the Committee shall direct him to continue at home with his family, the Committee do therefore agree that the said John Freeser continue at home with his family, he here in Committee engaging to afford to the families of such Associators as are gone into service from his neighbourhood every assistance in his power. Ordered, That the Chairman write to Captain Harris informing him that it is the sentiments of the Committee that Jonas Keeler, an apprentice of Isaac Hains, be kept at the Gunsmith’s business with his master, and be not obliged to do duty as a soldier. Ordered, That Peter Dillen, an apprentice to Isaac Hains, Gunsmith, now an Associator, and doing duty in Captain Hoofnagle’s Company, go home with his said master, and continue at that work with him. John Okely, of the Twenty-Sixth Regiment, is permitted to work with Christean Bough, Tailor, he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him, agreeable to the resolves of the Committee. Richard Savory, of the Seventh Regiment, is permitted to work with Casper Singer, Farmer, he here in Committee engaging to be answerable for him agreeable to the resolves of the Committee. Examination of PETER Suecxer, on oath. In Committee, August 2, 1776. Says that he and Joseph Jones, John Musser, and some others, hearing that a prisoner was at Mr. Holmes’s, who 761 before had been sent to Lancaster, went to Mr. Holmes’s, and told Mr. Holmes that they would be much obliged to him if he would send the prisoner back again. 'That he understood Mr. Holmes, that he said he had bailed him for £500; after that, he told him then he was there; he would not send him off; and that they might do what they pleased. And further saith not. Sunday morning, August 4, 1776. Sir: My negro boy is confined in jail through the ambition of one of our neighbours; and as all the men are marched to the camp, belonging to my family, and my sons and com- panies of men must be entertained in publick houses, we are in a great need of the negro if he could be released and sent home. I would be willing to go under any obligations that could in justice be required for his good behaviour. But the bearer, Mr. Douglass, one of our Committee, will inform you of the matter more fully. I am, with respect, sir, your humble servant, Saran Hopkins. To William Atlee, Esq., Chairman of the Committee. Sir: Will your Honour be so kind as to permit me to go to the Upper Barracks to day? ANTHONY SHADFORD. Committee Gentiemen: I earnestly beg and do desire, gentlemen, that your Honours would be so kind as to permit me to go up to the Barracks, and there remain. My reason for going up is because I have a comrade there, and I have a desire to be with him. I hope, gentlemen, you will not think it too much to do that for me. Pardon me, gentle- men, for making so bold. I remain, gentlemen, yours, &c., Lancaster, August 5, 1776. JONATHAN PILLING. LIEUTENANT BARRINGTON (PRISONER) TO THE LANCASTER COMMITTEE. Lancaster Jail, August 5, 1776. Sir: L applied to the President of the Committee some time ago that my baggage might be allowed me, to which I received no answer, but received some wearing apparel. I understand that by my baggage being hurried away from Lebanon, and not being allowed either to bring it with me or pack it properly up. As I suppose the Commit- tee can have no claim or reason for keeping my own private goods, whatever right they may allege for keeping those of the officers who are escaped, I, therefore, would be obliged to the Committee if they would order it to be restored me. As I am in want of a bed, bedstead, and curtains, should be glad if the Committee would allow me the use of one of those which are in jail, belonging to the other officers. There are also amongst those goods a small trunk full of books and a case of liquors, and a few other things which belong to me, among the things below in this place—the Committee will oblige me by allowing me to have them. I beg also to mention my parole to the Committee. Should be glad to have an answer, whether or not I am to be obliged so far as to be allowed to go out on that condition, (as the Committee have had full time to have an answer from Con- gress,) or be obliged to remain locked up in a jail for the remainder of the war. I am, sir, with due respect, yours and the Committee’s humble servant, W. Barrineton, Lieut. in Royal Fusileers. To Wm. Atlee, President of the Committee of Lancaster. P. S.. If the Committee have received an answer from Congress, refusing to allow me my parole, I think it might be allowed me to have the liberty to walk at large about the jail. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Elizabeth-Town, August 5, 1776. Sm: In consequence of your letter of the Ist instant, : which [ did not receive till the evening of the 3d, I came here yesterday to have an interview with General Living- ston and Colonel Dickinson. By the return of the troops on duty here, your Excel- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 762 lency will see that the whole force of the Flying-Camp is as yet only two hundred and seventy-four rank and file. I understood that the Pennsylvania Militia were to remain on duty here until troops had assembled to form the Flying- Camp, but of late they have become (many of them) cla- morous to return home. Colonel Matlack is gone to Philadelphia, to represent the temper of the Associators to the Convention, that some speedy method, by bounty or otherwise, may be adopted, to facilitate the recruiting business. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant ’ Hueu Mercer. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 6, 1776.] New-York, August 5, 1776. Sir: I was honoured with your favour of the 31st ultimo on Friday, with its several enclosures, and return you my thanks for the agreeable intelligence you were pleased to communicate, of the arrival of one of our ships with such valuable articles as arms and ammunition; also of the cap- ture made by a privateer. _ The mode for the exchange of prisoners resolved on by Congress, is acceded to by General Howe, so far as it comes within his command. aves + cise 6 1 Tete ieee G6) -5( ste Tete SSP Gale oby 86} 9) 36] - 393) = =) | Ae Laem | tm] eas Colonel Parsons’s..... Abaonica ges PUT ee SST Sve LT) il) MSOePG sie 265 e951. Giel 1G 7, 589} - | - See | dake | Colonel Hitchcock’s...0.cssesee-] 1} 1) 1) 7 7 TF 7-| U1) hy 1 21) 15] 239) 53) 6 83) - 381) - | -| 259. -|1/2)1 Colonel Little’s....escseeesesees yy 5 FF SF YUU Yds 2} 14} 290) 62 9 103) - 464) - | -| 176) -| -|- | - Colonel Read’s....ceesscecceress lily 8 6 4.8 -] 1 1y-f 1) 29:] 16) 251 | 131) 10; 128) - 520} 2) -| 120) -|1]2/2 Colonel Sergeant’sS......+s0++e0s -| 1) 1) 7 3} 6 4)-| -]-}-] 20] 7] 331 | 23/187) 17) 1 559} \=11 P= 81} -| -4 -] - Colonel Huntington’s......++++-| 1] 1}-| 8 7 6 8) 1)-/ 1) 1) 1) 31) 16} 214] 184) 1) 133) 1 533} 1} - | 107) -|1}|3] - Colonel Webb’s.... . . Ty Vpd) 4h 2) SSP Th eT) Abbie y 2245) AIS! Li 193ia 3 549} - | 2 91) -|; 1] 2] - Colonel Arnold’s.....ee+.++---+-f-| I] 1} 8 8} 7 8 -| 11 1} 30/15] 268 | 126) 6 133) - 533} - | 1 | 107) -| - | -] - Colonel Ward’s...... tele seeecees 1}-} 1) 4 8 8 6 1) 1) 1 -| 1) 27] 12) 91] 157) 1 161; 2 12 = SATB 22) Pe Colonel Wyllys’s....sesseeeeee-) 1)-| 1) 7 4) 6 8) 1) 1) 1) 4) 1) 25) 14] 264) 117) 5) 158) - 544) 1 | - 96, -| -| 2] 1 Colonel Bailey’s......scececoces -| 1; 1) 6 6 6 4-} 1) 1) 1) 1} 22] 8] 234) 148) 8 141) - 531} - | - | 109) -| 7] - |] - Colonel Baldwin’s......... eooeel/-{| 1} 1 5} 5) 6 4) 1) 1 1) 1) 1) 23] 138} 283) 110) 10); 81) - 484) -| 1| 156 -|-| 2/1 Colonel Hutchingon’s........... Yij-] 5} 4 5) 6 -]-} 1)-|-| 16] 14] 342| 20; 38) 102) 2 504, -| 1] 136) -| -] -] - Colonel McDougall’s.....-2.....| 1}-{| 1) 4) 4) 6 4) 1) 1/1) 1) 1) 29 16} 253} 81) 3] 114 - 451) 2} 2] 269 3}-/1/18 Colonel Ritzema’s.....eseeeeees Iji-| 6 SF 5 3 1y-] Ud 19) 10} 243 | 127) 12) 72) 1 455) - | 1} 185) 3} -| 21/5 Colonel Magaw’s...+.eeeeescee of 1 1 8 TF 8 TI i i-7 1) 32) 11) 391 | 56) 32) 1 3 493) -| 5] 147) -| 1/1] - Colonel Shee’s.......00+> do cccee yy 8 6 YF S-;} U1 11 32) 12; 424] 62 10 2, 5 503, - | 4] 1373] -1 -} - Colonel Holman’s..... ee ecerces | 1 1 1 yy Fy W-}1 d- | -| 28 | 14 | 526 3/122) - - 651] - | - -|-|-]-|- pal i EDA LONER DTA ER ae [ee ns PE ERC ee aS S| THA esky st sodte ad RAN Sue 18 201191145 13711481140/12119121!17 19| 567 '307 |6,486 |20951537/2,200| 39 |11,357116 l24 |3,45431 19 | Q0l18 Return of General Scort’s Brigade ; sixty-seven rank and file to a Company. Colonel Lasher’s.......... eevee 1) 1 1 10 10) 10) - |-| 1) 1) t)-| 30) 17) 399] 53) 16, 56) 8) 532) -| 3) 138] 1] - j1L {13 Colonel Malcom’s .....--seeese- Ti 2) Bs Dien 9) 29) eet! 281 17 i. 198) LS eo Ooh OO tl eas esl eae tee Colonel Drake’s....-....s-+e --| 1} 1; 1) 10; 10) 9) - |-| 1) 11) 1) 28) 18} 307] 86 21; 49) 18|; 481} 1) 1] 199 -| -}| -|2 5 Comp. of Lt. Col. Hardenburgh’s} -| 1}-| 5) 5) 5) -j}-| 1) 1) 1-| I} 8] 183] 55) - 15} 4] 257] -| - 78} 4, -| -j}1 ms | ffs | ce | | | cs ee ge ee ee ct | ee | ce ee | cere | cae | ee | ee | eee | ae — 3 8 Companies of Colonel Forman’s| 1j 1, 1} 4| 6 6| 7-j| 1) 1) 1) 1) 28{ 14{ 312] 34 25) -| 11 | 382) 2|2) 176 4/1) -| - 7 Companies of Col. Hunt’s......)-|-| 1) 7 ; 5} 6F-| I lj aj-| 25) 12) 255) 22 - -| 4] 281} 3)2) 223) -| 1) 5 {14 8 Companies of Col. Martin’s....| 1) 1) 1) 7 5) 6 6 1) 1) 1) 1)-| 26) 12) 258) 88 7 9} 5 | 367 | 6] 4 | 209) 23) - |} - {12 6 Companies of Col. Newcomb’s.} 1} 1) 1} 6 3; 4) 5) 1) 1) 1) 1) 1) 23] 6 | 193} 23) 4 4, - | 224/116) 208126 -|1| - 5 Comp. of Col. Van Cortlandt’s.| 1} 1} 1} 5} 5) 4) 4)-| 1) 1} 1} 1) 18} 6 | 71 | 21) - 6} 6} 204/214) 156 4) -| -] - Total..ssesseeeesseeseeee 4| 4l 5] 29] 25) 251 28] 21 5| 5l 5/31 120 | 50 [1,189 | 188] 36 19] 26 [1,458 ‘14 18 | g72l57l 2 | 6 be a Return of General Wapswortu’s Brigade ; eighty-three rank and file to a Company. Glodel Sillmman'a CIGGIC Gale A PIP 1S BI TO) ASDITOLIMIAT) 31 af, 45250 VBL Si Sidi = de 400 dda ae SSRIs Chlouel. Geyi'ale -iMiwhd Gass cow's iii sl 7s} ai ilidalal 28/16] 194} 134 1 911 - | 42014] -| 244! del -| 11 - Golonel Saze's.s cs... ce cA A at dl 7 el S| " 2 S 2 ~ | = , a Piet tela | 2 lo ie a le Le slsle|el& mite . eee ait’ js | SiS.) S| et Sot. Sel Seles eee 2s lors So ies | al a] SS | & |: etl dive cl RO Recraie entire see ee eee 8 Ci Seeu sales ALS | So) aor eS | RRO eee Se om | momheo mime lls ° ed fe 1 OM OD 1d | cad On ft cee le | coal tO eee ey | |) Et Present, dit ford UCY ow prices a -cra9 «ciple ein viele 1 1 Dre flue Sats 5 9 1 ] tk 1 1 1119 | 47):27 ) 307 15 | 160)" 300 NICK, PLCSEN Us asiocctelociclectccts tot etee onteias - - - Di aie - 3 ee - - - - - TE ge Ans) = pas sat Dick" AUHENT RES Soe et aceice Cotes Sere = co ial oo aaa hae - Pea Aliera dh) wile te yee aime | L |. 7 9 Onieommandss .20s6. tece abaieicn ble) oh. ct tee - - Wa PSU 6.7 NB ee - = - - 1|13|)16/] 30; 30} 8] 115) 236 On FUMIOU CHE A eisleae s seials ee ee ee ed = - = = air =, -. < - - - - = - wed i = = 9 4 Totals. cnsvht a aGteurcsackions ails 1/1! 1/10! 10111! 901 11 1! a! 11 11 2133133 | 62 | 641 23 | 3091 585 New-York, August 3, 1776. 765 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 766 A Return of the Regiment under the command of Colonel Jonaruan Brewer, Lieutenant-Colonel Joun Parke, and Major Wu L1aM Bacon, (ordered, in case of alarm, to join Lord Srrauine’s Brigade. ) | Captains’ Names, or Military Com- | War- eee No. of | Subalterns pro- | Rank in | Second Lieuten- | Rank in Master Workmen. When engaged. missions. rants. Occupation. Men. | posed Ist Liewts. | the Army. ants proposed, | the Army. Benjamin Pollard ....} 28 April, 1775 |.....2+seeees W.C. | Carpenter Samuel Kenney..} Adjutant. \James Hitchings.|/Sergeant. Phinehas Ford.......| 2 May, 1775 |......++ eooeee| W.C., | Carpenter Loved Eddy.....| Sergeant. |Abraham Howe. .|Ensign. ohn Chedwick......| 19 May, 1775 | 2d and Ist Lt. | W. C. | Carpenter Oliver Dewey....| Sergeant. |Pelatiah Russell.. Sergeant. Job Bryant.......0.- May, 1775 | Serg. and Ens.|........ Carpenter Joel Smith......| Sergeant. |J. Chamberlain. .|Sergeant. Winthrop Sargent....| 14 May, 1775 | Ord. Sergeant | W. Lt.| Smith.... John Mutter.....|..-.seeee- Jonathan Brown.|Ist Lt. Mil. Eli Gaile. s:2chise ----| 23 April, 1776 | Ist Lieutenant|........ Biitiversres Moses Hoit Sergeant. |Amos Hitchings..|Sergeant. ohn Herd. «sansa 1 March, 1776 | Private... 04. .0see0. Smith.... John Whitney. .:|-.--sccccs Robert Carter. Caleb Bruin........--| 17 Mar., 1776 | Captain.....-.J....0. ..| Carpenter Jeremiah) PritiNielct|sie disse « ois Robert Nichols. Anthony Piostinteti cis stabs ON. or L 0a Or REEL VAte,.cle.s.0\0 W.C. | Carpenter Jacob Brown....!.. PO AP HenryN. Carmer. Benjamin Eayrs..... May, 1776 |0. . oe cece senee W.C. | Sh. Carp’r And. Donaldson..|.....+.... Abijah Rogers. Prince Studson ...... 14 June, 1776 | Ist Lieutenant}........ Carpenter Jonathan Vernum) Ord. Serg. |Enos Smith......|Sergeant. Samuel Kenney....... + «Adjutant. Phineas Ward.........-Sergeant-Major. STAFF. Joseph Beaman. ... + - Quartermaster. Quartermaster Sergeant. Surgeon. The Companies in the Regiment of Artificers are to be arranged, and the Officers posted to them, in the following order, viz: A Return of the Officers of the Regiment of Artificers, and of the Companies, as they are to be posted till further order, commanded by Colonel Jonasruan Brewer, Lieutenant-Colonel Joun Parke, and Major Wiuttam Bacon. Companies. Captains’ Names. First Lieutenants. Second Lieutenants. No. of Men. Woirath, cn nae eaten aisle acaba Benjamin Pollard.............. ‘Samuel Kenny........++0:-0s00| James Hitchings. 0... asec, see 54 Second......- eprelefecueale Sie.'e.6 Anthony Post... .0..cscecces Jacob Brown....... Sele pe cisies esi Hensy) Ny Carther divs. sedebyie 53 RUD Heind cle) avai stechelatolelele, obs wie nei @alehs Brainiac cieiadeli-l «satel io) PeremiahpPrultise sferatelelectesianseusisl| EUODGLNINICDOIS, vais claim on e1s)0< 5,010 40 Lm Noe aoe PEP ant een ee OF AT eC HG 39 Seomenie er 46 REE IWEO SES ETO lire ane oie vote oieteuseis’s|e.e%s PATON MERIC IITO'N er etelelaistreistcctesic 55 PTs cisiecsie.eleree'sisie'e meres VV IRtNrOp. Saxena cee sce cis ols S| VONTICIN Ute ris: qalmerstere vicotite clstarels Jonathan Brown.....esesecees 55 Se HICSS AD OASIS See ens Pohn eiilliard ).-c'ed's- lee aA John Whitney. .. 2.0. cere cscs Ro berteGarter: seclteremtcts sie Teistele 55 Seventh...... \coodobpuocode Benjamin Eayrs....-ee.see.00- Andrew Donaldson........++++ Abijah Rogers. . «..6 +s. Sistile 59 Eighth .....-eseceececves -| Phinehas Ford. ........0 -e-+| Loved Eddy. ...2.-00- er once «{ EDPANAM TLOWE.. 66 sce a0 one.c ee 45 Ninth ...cecrcccccrccceess John Chedwick.........+s.00. Oliver Dewey... ocsssecseseee Pelatiah Russell...... ore neceee 43 "Perithss siete acters ON i das cat Job Bryant......... NS. 5 Joel Smith...... on Nav ouapeug atelier .-| Joshua Chamberlain... .....<. 61 Eleventh. ..0.cccccessccece ACI CPB LUCSOD saccseieio sin) «chasse eloue Jonathan Vernum........:.eees HMOS CmLtheaieeieieerai sc clatrerecie's 26 Twelfth......c.e aoteteleielaiele James Cleveland........ sielata' oi totale sie leelelotalelsiceieteleisle s slajoeiela miatoldcveleielerseletots '¢ eactsinteract./ ele reisisn ayes 38 ELOtal eters ete ececes 584 Samuel Kenny, Adjutant; Joseph Beaman, Quartermaster; Phinehas Ward, Sergeant-Major. The officers thus posted are to understand, that the rank here assigned to them is merely Regimental, and is not to affect the rank or pay that any of them hold or enjoy in the Army. Such of the officers and privates as belong to any other corps in the Army, are to continue to receive their pay in their respective Regiments as usual, and all the others are to receive their pay as heretofore. [A copy of this was given in to the Officers. Go. Wasuineron.] Head-Quarters, New-York, July 30, 1776. Sir: Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson, Adjutant-General of the Army under your command, at the interview between us, having proposed an exchange of Mr. Lovell for Govern- our Skene, { am authorized to inform you that the Congress have not only approved of this proposition, but, judging that a general exchange of prisoners will be attended with mutual convenience and pleasure to both parties, have empowered their Commanders in each department to negotiate one, in the following manner: “Continental officers for those of equal rank either in the land or sea service, soldier for soldier, sailor for sailor, and citizen for citizen.” ‘They have also particularly mentioned the exchange of Colonel Ethan Allen for any officer of the same or inferior rank. : You will be pleased to signify the time and place for that of Mr. Lovell and Governour Skene, that I may give direc- tion for the latter to be ready, who is now at Hartford, about one hundred and twenty miles from hence ; also, to favour me with your sentiments as well on the proposition respecting Colonel Allen, as on the subject of a general exchange. { have the honour to be, with due respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHInGTON. To His Excellency General Howe. Head-Quarters, Staten-Island, August 1, 1776. Sir: I have received the favour of your letter of the 30th July, and shall accordingly direct that Mr. Lovell, who is now at Halifax, be brought to this post, of which I shall have the honour of advising you, that the proposed exchange between him and Governour Skene may take place. The extent of my command having no relation to Canada, it is not in my power to give you the satisfaction I could wish respecting the enlargement of Colonel Allen; it must, therefore, depend upon General Carleton’s determination. But wishing sincerely to give relief to the distresses of all prisoners, I shall readily consent to the mode of exchange you are pleased to propose, viz: officers for those of equal rank, soldier for soldier, citizen for citizen; the choice to be made by the respective commanders for their own officers and men. You must be sensible deserters cannot be inclu- ded in this arrangement. And for the mode of exchange in the naval line, I beg leave to refer you to the Admiral. I cannot close this letter without expressing the deepest concern that the unhappy state of the Colonies, so different from what I had the honour of experiencing in the course of the last war, deprives me of the pleasure I should otherwise have had in a more personal communication. I am, with due respect, sir, your most obedient servant, W. Howe. To General Washington, &c., &c. Dobbs’s Ferry, August 3, 1776, five afternoon. I am now to inform your Excellency that, my flag being hoisted on board of the Washington, I came up with the ships, and attacked them at a quarter past one this after- noon. The Phenix fired the first gun, which was returned by the Lady Washington, whose shot went through the Phenix. Upon my orders, the Lady Washington put about to form a line; the tide was such that the Washington and Spitfire were exposed to the broadsides of the ships for half an hour, without suffering much damage. We engaged them an hour and a half, and then we thought to retreat to Dobbs’s Ferry, about four miles below the ships. The damages we sustained are as follows, viz: Washington, four slightly wounded, sail and rigging much damaged, thirteen shot in her hull. Lady Washington cracked her thirty-two- pounder; no other damage. Spitfire, one killed, two badly 7167 wounded, hull and rigging much damaged. Shark, none killed or wounded, hulled four times. The Whiting, one man lost both legs, and four more wounded, rigging much damaged, two men wounded, one of them mortally. It is thought of, but not yet determined, whether we shall retreat to Spiten Devil, or not. We wish to give them another drubbing. We saw many splinters drifting down. I am your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Bens. Tuprer, Lieutenant-Colonel and Commander. To His Excellency General Washington. Providence, July 29, 1776. Sir: [have the honour to acquaint your Excellency that last evening Captain Bucklin, in a privateer from this place, returned from a successful cruise, in which he took five valu- able prizes, bound from the British Islands in the West- Indies to Great Britain. He informs me that on the 25th instant, in latitude 40° 20', S.S.E. from Nantucket Shoals, upon the clearing up of a fog, he found himself in the midst of twenty-six sail of ships, two of which appeared very large, and were all standing about west. He also tells me, that on the 27th of June, in latitude 35° longitude 52°, he spoke with the ship Morris, in the Continental service, Captain Thomas Bell, from Havre-de-Grace for Philadelphia, with a lading of duck, powder, lead, &c. Captain Bell informed him that the Portuguese had seized all the American vessels in their ports. A prize which arrived here this day, on Thursday last spoke with two schooners from the eastward, bound on a cruise, who the day before had taken a large ship laden with provisions for the enemy’s Army at New-York. I am, with great esteem and respect, sir, your Excel- lency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Nicu. Cooxe. To His Excellency General Washington. Thirteen Tory gentlemen and ladies were taken in the ship Peggy, James Kennedy Master, and carried into Mar- blenead. Report: That the 2d of July, a transport, with a number of Hesszans, put into Halifax ; that three transports, with Hessians, sailed in company with them for New-York; and that the day they left Halifax, they saw about forty sail, supposed to be transports with Hesszans. GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 1, 1776. (Countersign, Reading.) It is with great concern the General understands that jealousies, &c., are arisen among the troops from the dif- ferent Provinces, out of reflections‘ frequently thrown out, which can only tend to irritate each other, and injure the noble cause in which we are engaged, and which we ought to support with one hand and one heart. ‘The General most earnestly entreats the officers and soldiers to consider the consequences—that they can no way assist our cruel ene- mies more effectually than making division among ourselves; that the honour and success of the Army and the safety of our bleeding country, depend upon harmony and good agreement with each other; that the Provinces are all united to oppose the common enemy, and all distinctions sunk in the name of an American. ‘To make this honourable, and preserve the liberty of our country, ought to be our only emulation; and he will be the best soldier and the best patriot who contributes most to this glorious work, whatever his station, or from whatever part of the Continent he may come. Let all distinctions of nations, countries, and Pro- vinces, therefore, be lost in the generous contest—who shall behave with the most courage against the enemy, and the most kindness and good humour to each other. If there are any officers or soldiers so lost to virtue and a love of their country as to continue in such practices after this order, the General assures them, and is directed by Congress to de- clare to the whole Army, that such persons shall be severely punished and dismissed the service with disgrace. (Parole, Paris.) Head-Quarters, New-York, August 2, 1776. (Countersign, Taunton.) The Colonels of the several Regiments are to be parti- cularly careful that the damaged Cartridges are preserved, (Parole, Salem.) CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 768 and sent in to Commissary Cheever, at the Laboratory, as it will be a great publick saving. The Court-Martials are often detained by non-attendance of witnesses. All officers and soldiers notified to attend as witnesses on any Court-Martial, are to be punctual; and in future any neglect of this kind will be punished as disobe- dience of orders. Notwithstanding the great abuses of Regimental Hospitals last year, the General has, out of indulgence and kindness to the troops who seem to like them, permitted them to be again opened, with a full persuasion that the Regimental Surgeons will fully conform to the rules and orders which have been made, and particularly that they act with the strictest honour and candour in their drafts upon the several stores, and accounting with the Director-General of the Hospital when required, making him regular reports of the sick, and applying what they receive to the patients only. The Colonels and Field-Officers of the several Regiments would do well to visit their Regimental Hospitals frequently, and see these regulations observed; and in all cases, except slight or putrid disorders, have the sick removed to the General Hospital, near the Brigade; or the General must, in justice to the publick, break them up again. Richard Lawrence, of Captain Gilbert’s Company and Colonel Prescott’s Regiment, having been tried by a Gene- ral Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Webb was President, and convicted of “ desertion,’ was sentenced to receive thirty-nine lashes. ‘The General approves the sentence, and orders it to be executed at the usual time and place. The new Troops coming in are upon their arrival to apply to Captain Tilton, at the Quartermaster-General’s store in the Broadway, who will give them all necessary directions. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 3, 1776. (Countersign, Virginia.) That the troops may have an opportunity of attending publick worship as well as take some rest after the great fatigue they have gone through, the General in future ex- cuses, them from fatigue duty on Sundays (except at the ship yards, or special occasions) until further orders. The General is sorry to be informed that the foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing (a vice heretofore little known in an American Army) is growing into fashion; he hopes the officers will, by example as well as influence, endeavour to check it, and that both they and the men will reflect that we can have little hopes of the bless- ing of Heaven on our arms, if we insult it by our impiety and folly; added to this, it is a vice so mean and low, without any temptation, that every man of sense and character detests and despises it. Clarkson and Chace, under confinement for desertion and reinlistment into the Artillery from another corps, to return to Captain Bauman’s Company, until Colonel Elmore’s Re- giment, which claims them, comes into camp. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 4, 1776. (Countersign, Yarmouth.) (Parole, Uxbridge.) (Parole, Weston.) Passes signed by the Quartermaster-General, or his Assist- ant, Mr. Hughes, for persons in that department, to cross the Ferries, to be admitted as sufficient. Thomas Herbert, of Captain Wyllys’s Company, Colonel Sargent’s Regiment, tried by a Regimental Court-Martial, and convicted of theft, was sentenced to receive thirty-nine lashes; but having appealed to a General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Webb was President, the sentence-of the Regimental Court was revised, and the prisoner acquitted. ‘The General approves the acquittal, and orders him to be discharged. Daniel McGuire, of Captain Scott’s Company, Colonel Sargent’s Regiment; Samuel Weaver, of Captain Farring- ton’s Company, same Regiment, both tried by the same Court-Martial, and convicteda—McGuire of desertion and inlisting into another Company, taking a second bounty, sentenced to receive thirty-nine lashes; Weaver of desertion only, sentenced to receive thirty lashes. : William Mellvaine, of Captain Wyllys’s Company, and the above Regiment, tried by the same Court-Martial, and convicted of desertion, and sentenced to receive thirty lashes. William Diggs, of Captain Wood’s Company, Colonel Baldwin’s Regiment, tried by the same Court-Martial, and convicted of desertion, sentenced to receive twenty lashes. 769 The General approves each of the above sentences, and orders them to be put in execution at the usual time and place. _ The Court-Martial to sit to-morrow for the trial of Lieu- tenant Hobby, of Colonel McDougall’s Regiment, now under arrest for ‘Misconduct in leaving the vessels under his care on the East River on Friday evening.” Witnesses to attend. All persons are strictly forbid meddling with the flat-bot- tomed boats without leave from General Putnam, or unless sent upon some special service; and those parties who have any of them, are to be careful in returning them safely. ‘The Guards at the wharves to attend to this order. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 5, 1776. (Parole, Amboy.) (Countersign, Bradford.) The General has nothing more at heart than the health of the Troops, and as the change of encampment has been found very salutary by such Regiments as have shifted their ground, it is recommended to the several Brigadier-Generals to have it more generally adopted. And the General once more calls upon the officers and men who are quartered in houses, to have them kept clean and wholesome. Brigadier-General Scott having informed the General that some dissatisfaction has arisen in his Brigade on account of the First Battalion, who had received some assurances from the Committee of the Convention of this State, that they should not be removed out of town unless the Army moved generally, the General at the same time being of opinion that, from their knowledge of the city, they can be more service- able than any other equal number of men who are strangers, orders that on Wednesday General Scott’s Brigade move into the city, and General Fellows, with his Brigade, take their places. He also directs that no officers or soldiers of General Fellows’s Brigade take up their quarters in the dwelling-houses in or near their encampment, except they are placed there by the Quartermaster-General. The General cannot dismiss this matter without assuring the First Battalion of General Scott’s Brigade, that he will have the grounds of their claim particularly inquired into of the Provincial Congress of the State of New-York, as well because they may rest assured that at the same time publick faith is preserved with them, he expects, and will require, that they observe their engagement to the publick. The arrival of new Troops requiring some change in the arrangement, and particularly with respect to the Alarm Posts, Major-General Putnam, with the several Brigadiers, are desired to meet to-morrow, at ten o’clock, at the City Hall, to consider thereof, and make report to the General. The Adjutant-General will attend at the same time. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR COOKE. New-York, August 5, 1776. Sir: I have been duly honoured with your two favours of the 20th and 29th ultyno, and wish your acceptance of my thanks for your kind and ready compliance with my requisition for the galleys, and the matters of intelligence transmitted in the last. The account given Captain Bucklin (on whose success I congratulate you) by Captain Bell, of the Portuguese seizing our vessels, I fear is too true; their dependance on the British Crown for protection and aid against their Spa- nish neighbours, obliges them to comply with everything required of them. Captain Bucklin’s information of the fleet he saw, I dare say is not to be doubted. It is proba- ble they arrived yesterday, for twenty-five ships then came into the Hook ; these make from ninety to one hundred that have come in since Thursday se’nnight. Our galleys on Saturday evening had a smart engagement with the ships up the river. ‘The enclosed copy of a letter from Colonel Tupper, under whose general command they were, will give you the particulars. ‘Though they did not take the ships, nor is it certain what damage they sustained, I have the pleasure to inform you our officers and men behaved with the greatest spirit and resolution. The injury their little fleet sustained testifies their courage. It is said the ships were several times hulled by our shot. They still remain up the river. The galleys must be a little repaired before anything further can be attempted, provided it should be thought advisable. Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 770 By a letter from Colonel Hancock, of the 31st ultimo, I am authorized to say that a Continental ship had arrived at Chester, not far below Philadelphia, with three hundred and sixty-six pigs of lead, fifty-four boxes of musket-ball, one thousand stand of arms with bayonets, one barrel flints, and one hundred and ninety-three whole barrels of gun- powder. He also adds, that a privateer had sent in a West- Indiaman, having on board, besides produce, eleven hundred johannes and seven hundred guineas. I wish the ship Cap- tain Bucklin saw may get in safe, I have the honour to be, &c., Go. WasuHIneTon. To the Honourable Governour Cooke. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO NATHANIEL SHAW, JUN. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 5, 1776. Sir: This will be accompanied by four French gentle- men from the Island of Guadaloupe, who arrived from thence at Newburyport, with a view of engaging in the Continental service. ‘hey came to this place about six weeks since, and delivered me a letter from General Ward at Boston, which I enclosed to the President of the Congress, intending to forward it by them, that it might serve as some sort of introduction; but it seems that, for want of proper creden- tials, added to the unsuccessfulness of some of their coun- trymen on that same account, they declined applying to Congress; and as it appears they are quite destitute of money, I am obliged to pay their expenses here, and to send them to New-London, to enable them to procure a passage home. I have therefore addressed them to your care, re- questing you will assist in providing them a passage as soon as possible. I suppose it will not be long before an oppor- tunity offers, as 1 understand there are vessels with you bound to the West-Indies. You will please to furnish them with convenient and cheap lodgings when they get to New- London, and I will reimburse you what you may be in advance therefor. You are to observe, though, that I do not mean to be at the expense of supporting them in your place more than eight or ten days at farthest; neither do I mean to be at the expense of their passages home. ‘They must make the best terms for themselves they can with the master of the vessel, as I don’t determine to burden the Continent any more on their account, or any of their coun- trymen. I am, with due regard, sir, your very humble servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., Esq., New-London. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO JOHN BRADFORD. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 5, 1776. Sir: Yours of the 29th ultimo is duly received. For the future, I must desire all warlike stores and necessaries for an army, taken by the armed vessels in publick service, may be safely stored under care of the different agents till they receive orders from proper authority. You will please to enjoin it upon the different Commanders of the Conti- nental cruisers, to be particularly careful no embezzlement is made by their crews or others. I am, sir, yours, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Mr. John Bradford, one of the Continental Agents at Boston. GENERAL SULLIVAN TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, August 5, 1776. Mucn estEeEeMep Sir: My sincere regard to my country will, I hope, apologize for my troubling Congress with an account of our situation at New-York. We have at this place, Long-Island, Grovernour’s Island, and King’s Bridge, (including the lame, the halt, and blind,) between sixteen and seventeen thousand men; on the New-Jersey shore they have between three and four thousand. Within two or three days have arrived about one hundred of the enemy’s ships with troops, which we have seen march up and en- camp on Staten-Island. Doubtless the remainder will be here in a few days, when, I suppose, they will have at least twenty thousand, perhaps twenty-five. ‘Two thousand of Horse, with some of their shipping, will be sufficient to guard their baggage, and with eighteen thousand they may make 49 771 an attack: if on Long-Island, we have only six broken regiments to oppose them; if at King’s Bridge, a much less ‘ number; if they attempt the city, we can meet them with little more than one-third of their number, as our Army is very sickly, which must reduce our numbers some thousands, at least two or three. Those of Governour’s Island and Long- Island can’t leave their post to come to our assistance ; and should Long-Island be attacked, (which, indeed, I think most probable,) there will be much difficulty and delay in affording them seasonable relief, on account of our great want of proper boats and the time which will be taken up in embarking and disembarking such a number of troops as may be found necessary. The troops at King’s Bridge will be at fourteen miles distance from the place of action, and cannot possibly be at either of those posts till the action is over; and from New-Jersey no relief can be expected, as boats are wanting to transport their men across the water; and even if they had boats, the ships will doubtless be posted in such a manner as to intercept their passage; and even if that was not the case, most of those troops are nearly a day’s march from us, and cannot possibly be here in season to give us any assistance. From this state of the matter, it must appear that we can at no point meet them with much more than a third of their numbers—too great a disparity of numbers to risk the fate of America upon. I am far from being anxious for my own safety; I well know that numbers will be no protection to my person; but numbers may save the country. I know Congress has ordered men, but they are not arrived, or likely to arrive; I therefore most heartily recommend to Congress to fall upon some method of sending a number of men immediately to this place, sufficient to meet the enemy upon more equal terms, and give at once the decisive blow. This, I apprehend, will be a means of short- ening the war in every success, and will doubtless prove cheapest inthe end. I have not yet any post assigned me or brigade to command; the General says he will do it as soon as possible. I hope Congress will excuse this freedom, as I think it necessary to give them every informatign that appears of importance; and did not this appear to me in that light, I should not have given them the trouble. Dear sir, believe me to be, with the most unfeigned re- respect, your most obedient servant, Joun SuLLivan. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. P.S. I know Congress are not pleased with complaining letters, and I am far from being pleased with writing them; but when our all is at stake, I think it will admit of some excuse, if nothing more is done than barely to give a true state of facts, in order that they may provide in season a remedy for each defect. It must be allowed that nothing is more true than that he who would make a good defence must provide himself in season with every necessary for that purpose. Mr. Livingston has just informed us of the death of the Prussian General Woedtke. Our six galleys have made an attack upon the Phenix and Rose. The engagement lasted near two hours. The batteries having fired away their ammunition, returned to King’s Bridge. We have about four killed and some few wounded. We can’t learn what damage the ships sustained; several shots went through them. One of our batteries was hulled thirteen times; another five or six. The damage is inconsiderable. Yours, as above, J.S. JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO THE BOARD OF WAR. New-York, August 5, 1776. Gentiemen: Mr. Carpenter Wharton, of Philadelphia, who was appointed by Congress to supply the Pennsylvania Militia with provisions, &c., has joined with the gentlemen of New-Jersey, Messrs. Ogden, Lowrey, and Dunham, in supplying the Continental troops in Pennsylvania and New- Jersey with provisions, agreeable to the resolves of Congress, and under my care and direction. There have been some great complaints, by Colonel Smallwood’s battalion and some others, against a person appointed to issue provisions in Philadelphia, that he has not done them justice; and it has even been laid to Mr. Wharton’s charge, supposing that person acting under him; CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 772 which Mr. W. tells me was not the case. But as complaints have arisen, and as it is best that all these matters should be under some one direction and governance, I hope you will support Mr. Wharton, who I have desired to look after the matter and set the complaints right, and continue the person under due regulation for the future, or appoint another, as may best serve the general cause. I am, gentlemen, with esteem and respect, your most humble servant ? Jos. TRuMBULL. To the Hon. John Adams, Esq., Member of Congress, Philadelphia, Committee of the War Office. New-York, August 5, 1776. The publick are desired to take notice that no person whatever, either male or female, above the age of fourteen years, will be permitted to pass any of the Ferries in the State of New-Jersey, without a proper Pass from the place they leave. COLONEL DUBOIS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Poughkeepsie, August 5, 1776. May ir PLease your Exceniency: Weare as industri- ous as possible recruiting men for my regiment, but we find it very difficult inlisting men now, as the one-fourth part of the Militia is to turn out, and such large bounty given for about four or five months, though we come as good speed as I could expect. I would have sent a return of the men already inlisted by my brother, only I have been very un- well for some time, but am now getting better, and as soon as Iam able to ride I intend going down to New-York, when I shall bring a return of them with me. We are purchasing arms for those we inlist, and would be glad to know where to send them as fast as we raise them. As my regiment is to be inlisted during the war, perhaps your Excellency may allow me to raise men out of the Militia ; if so, I think I could soon fill my regiment, and go into immediate service, which would be very agreeable to me. I would be glad if your Excellency would send by my brother, the bearer, some money for recruiting, as with- out that we can do but little. Your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Lewis Dusoys, Colonel. RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Albany, August 5, 1776. Sir: I have directions from General Schuyler, in order to prevent delays in forwarding the stores and other necessaries for the Army, in his absence to open any letters that shall be directed to him from the General Officers and command- ers of posts in this department, and to comply with their requisitions, in procuring and forwarding such articles as may be wanted and can be procured by me, and to send for such articles as cannot be had at this place, to New- York, or such other place as they may be had in, without waiting his orders at the great distance he is from this place. I therefore do myself the honour to enclose your Excellency copy of a letter from General Arnold to General Schuyler, received this day, with the copy of a return of ordnance and ordnance stores wanted for the publick service. Of the many articles wanted, handspikes, round shot, rammers, spunges, worms, priming-horns, priming-wires, and tube-boxes, are the only ones that can possibly be procured or made at or near this place; and no copper, lead, or tin, is to be had between this place and New-York. I must there- fore request your Excellency, in General Schuyler’s name, to order the several articles which are wanted and not to be procured here to be sent to this place without the least delay. In mine of the 3d, by the express, I forgot to inform your Excellency that I had sent for the anchors to Colonel Robert Livingston. I am your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, Ricu. Varick, Secretary to Major-General Schuyler. To His Excellency General Washington, &c., &c. 773 RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, August 5, 1776. Dear Genera: I was just this moment honoured with your favour of the 29th ultimo. You may be assured, my dear sir, that I shall give all as- sistance in my power to forward the chain to Poughkeepste, as soon as it arriveshere. Ido myself the honour to enclose you, per favour of Major Sherburne, a letter from General Schuyler, which I received at eleven last night, and some others from New-York, for yourself and the gentlemen of your family, which I received per express this morning. I do also enclose a return of such articles as have been this day forwarded to Fort George, with an invoice of the paints, &c., | have purchased, and also a return of articles forwarded to Cheshire’s for the works at Skenesborough, with a return of such things as are to be sent there to-morrow or next day in consequence of requisitions from that quarter. A large quantity of spikes were sent to Fort George, to be forwarded to Tyonderoga, about fourteen days since, for our works at Skenesborough, which I fear are not arrived there, as General Waterbury, in a letter of the 3d to General Schuyler, which arrived this morning, requests that spikes may be made here. I wish that if they are not forwarded, it may be done, and that I may be informed about the mat- ter; for as I did not dare to rely on the supposition that they were delayed, I have desired Mr. Rensselaer to have them made here immediately. In consequence of General Schuyler’s orders to me, to prevent delay, I shall this day, by post, transmit a copy of the Return of Artillery and Stores, sent down for General Schuyler by General Arnold, to his Excellency General Washington, with an account of such articles as may be had and made here, that those that are wanting may be im- mediately sent up from New- York. Some of the shot, powder, and thread, mentioned in Co- jonel Trumbull’s letter, shall be sent forward to-morrow, if wagons are to be had. ‘I'he wagoners (many of whom are poor and want fodder for their horses) are weary of riding for the publick without cash. The Sutlers have hitherto got them, when the publick officers could not, merely on this account. I have this morning obtained an order from Colonel Van Schack, prohibiting any Sutlers to go up with- out his pass, and have entreated the Storekeeper to borrow money to pay the wagoners for every load they ride. This is a disagreeable expedient, but we are not likely to have any from Congress soon enough to make this unnecessary. [ am, dear sir, yours most respectfully, Ricuarp Varick. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. P.S. More axes, spades, pickaxes, &c., will soon be sent up to Fort George. ‘The anchors and cables sent this day are almost new. COLONEL GANSEVOORT TO GENERAL GATES. Fort George, August 5, 1776. Sir: I received yours of the 3d instant, yesterday, in which you write me that you are informed that there are three thousand barrels of flour at this post. I am apprehensive that your Honour is frequently troubled with false representations of the state of this garrison and our proceedings. By the enclosed return you will see what provision we have in store at this post. My brother writes me from Ticonderoga, that you had received but one week’s return from this post, at which I am much surprised. 1 can prove I have sent a return each week since I received your orders. I am, your humble servant, Prrer Gansevoort, Lieutenant-Colonel. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. GENERAL GATES TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Tyonderoga, August 5, 1776. Sm: Iam honoured with the receipt of your letter by Messieurs Gansevoort and Cuyler, and 1 beg you will assure the gentlemen of the Convention of the State of New-York of my readiness, at all times, to obey their commands. Enclosed I have sent you a general return of the Army in this department, together with a copy of my letter of ‘this CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 774 date to the President of the Continental Congress. 1 have also put into the hands of Messieurs Gansevoort and Cuyler a list of the principal articles wanted for this Army; these, together, will answer almost every question demanded by your Convention. Your Delegates, that they might have every necessary information, took their route hither by Lake George, and return from hence by Skenesborough, and up Wood Creek to Fort Edward. By this sensible tour, they will see every- thing that is done and doing, at every post upon both com- munications, our dock-yard at Skenesborough included. I also enclose you a list of our fleet already built. The bearers will fully inform you of the diligence with which we are endeavouring to increase it. Messieurs Gansevoort and Cuyler have also been at Crown-Point, where they have seen the naval force now on float, and can give you the best intelligence how that most important part of our defence is likely to be conducted. ‘The strength, situation, and works carrying on at this post, will likewise be described to you by those gentlemen; and if I can get a plan there- of finished in time, you shall have it in this packet. As to provisions, the Army is now well supplied. Six days’ fresh meat, and one day’s salt, is the weekly allowance issued by the Commissary. Very extraordinary intelligence was last night received of the enemy’s motions. Your Ambassadors wait until to-mor- row, to have it better confirmed, as we expect this night, or to-morrow morning, to receive further confirmation on that head. I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To the Honourable Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq., President of the Convention of the State of New- York. GENERAL GATES TO COLONELS BAYLEY AND HURD. Tyonderoga, August 5, 1776. Gentiemen: I received your favour by Mr. Atkinson, with two of the Canadian officers mentioned therein. The other two Canadian officers are not yet arrived. Their information may be true; but to put entire confidence in it, before it is better confirmed, would be imprudent. Should the facts be as they relate, it will not be long before we shall have them authenticated in a manner not to be doubted. I am much obliged to you, gentlemen, for your informa- tion, and for the pains you take to serve the publick cause, I am, sirs, your most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gares. To Colonels Bayley and Hurd, of Committee of Newbury and Haverhill. COLONEL PHILIP CORTLANDT TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Ticonderoga, August 5, 1776, GentLEmMEN: This acknowledges the receipt of a letter from Mr. John McKesson, dated New- York, July 14th last, relative to Colonel Wynkoop’s regiment. When I was at Albany, I had not time to procure the dates of all the officers’ warrants; the Committee promised to have the matter settled. I have paid the billet of six companies; the two raised in Tryon County I have not settled with, but borrowed money on account of the Paymaster for them. Shortly after which I was ordered to this place by General Schuyler; since which I have not had it in my power to make a return, the regi- ment being in such a divided state, but shall make out one as soon as possible. I have enclosed your letter to Colonel Wynkoop, who is at Skeensburgh. Permit me, gentlemen, by this opportunity, to transmit to you a few observations on my present situation, being confident that nothing is wanting on your part to promote the welfare of the United States, or to do justice to those who have risked their all for its defence. Many of you, gentlemen, I have the honour to be personally acquainted with, which emboldens me to appeal to you for my character in private life, for my behaviour as an officer. ‘The Gene- rals under whom I served the preceding and present cam- paign, can testify it was not for ease, or to have an exalted commission, that brought me to the field. On the contrary, numbers of you, gentlemen, I flatter myself, know that I 775 lived in affluence at home, and consequently I was not in- duced into the service with a view to the pay, as you must all be satisfied that it is not an object for a gentleman. When that respectable body with which I had the honour of serving in representing this State, offered me a commis- sion from the Continental Congress last summer, I with reluctance accepted, not from a want of zeal to do my injured country all the service I was capable of, but a diffidence in my own mind of my abilities to fill such an important office as that of Lieutenant-Colonel ofa regiment. 1am at present the First Lieutenant-Colonel in this Army, as I am informed, and I believe may safely add, in the service of the United States. Notwithstanding, must do my country justice and not myself, and bear the mortification to see several officers promoted to the command of regiments in the Continental Army, which I commanded last campaign. Justice to those gentlemen of our State who entered into the service and have undergone the fatigue of last winter’s campaign in Canada, superior in rank, and who have been distinguished throughout the Army for their bravery and honour, are also superseded by the late appointments of officers for Colonel Dubois’s regiment, &c. This must be evident when the rank-roll of last year is examined as to the characters of the officers. I cannot conclude without suggesting to you, that I was, by an ill state of health, prevented from going into Canada, and there joining the Army then in that quarter. My honour as a gentleman I conceive hurt and injured by being thus neglected and superseded; and lest you might think that I was ignorant thereof, I have taken this method of informing you of it. But the same principle of honour which tells me I am disregarded, assures me also that it would be most shameful for me to resign at present, when the enemy of the States have attacked the State of which Tam a citizen, at both extremities. I must, however, ob- serve to you, that I shall be obliged, in justice to myself, to resign my commission after the cloud which now hangs over us in this part is dispelled; and I shall do it with the more cheerfulness, as. I conceive it will be agreeable to those from whom I have received it, or they would not have given me the private intimation by superseding. Be assured, gentlemen, however, that if ever it lies in my power to render any service to my country, or to the cause of liberty and mankind, no man will be more ready in doing it. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, with respect, your most obedient and very humble servant, Puitie Cortuanpt. To the President and Gentlemen convened, representing the State of New- York. COLONEL STARK TO GENERAL GATES, August 5, 1776. Honourep Sir: The Field-Officers in the Continental Army at this place have met with Mr. Commissary Jauncey, to consult with him upon the value of the rations due to the officers whilst in the Northern Army; and upon an exact and careful calculation made by the Commissary, it was found that the ration could not be purchased at this place under one shilling, lawful money of New-England, per day; which sum, they hope your Honour will order them to be paid by the Commissary for each ration due to them. In behalf of the whole of the Field-Officers: Joun Srarx, Colonel. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM TICONDEROGA, DATED AUGUST 5, 1776. I came over here from Royalton to conduct a Canadian from St. Francois to Head-Quarters. He assures me that the Indians in general have resolved not to join in the war. Things here begin to wear a different face. The greatest harmony reigns among the General Officers. Order is taking place in the Army, and the men are in high spirits. Great numbers are coming in from New-England to Skenesbo- rough. It is reported that General Carleton has used the Canadians who favoured us very barbarously, which has provoked them very much. Some deserters are come over, and some of the foreign troops are said to be desirous of deserting. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 776 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM TICONDEROGA, DATED AUGUST 5, 1776. I have the pleasure to inform you that the greatest har- mony subsists between the General Officers in this depart- ment, as well as the Field-Officers in general. We have three thousand five hundred effective men here, and the Militia coming in fast, all under pretty good discipline. The sick, about one thousand five hundred, are at Fort George, and recruiting fast; near two months’ salt provisions, and fresh arrives in great plenty. Our naval force consists of two vessels, carrying twelve carriage and as many swivel guns each, two schooners, eight carriage and eight swivels each, a row-galley, six carriage and ten swivels, five gondolas, carrying three nine and twelve-pounders and eight swivels each; five other gondolas will be completed in ten days, and four row-galleys in two or three weeks, each of the latter to carry four eighteen and twenty four-pounders. ‘The fleet when completed will be superior to anything the enemy can bring againt us. T'wo days since, two French Captains of Colonel Livingston’s regiment arived here, by the way of Cohos, in sixteen days from St. John’s, who say that a French fleet is arrived before Quebeck ; and that General Carleton, with all the troops, except two hundred left at St. John’s, are gone to Quebeck. We expect soon to know the certainty of the matter by our reconnoitring parties, who are daily expected in. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Lebanon, August 5, 1776. Sir: I have received your two favours of the 24th and 25th of July last. Have put Colonel Ward’s regiment under marching orders to proceed without loss of time what- ever way Congress shall direct. The troops from this State destined to the northward, are marched to Bennington, and from thence to Skenesborough. At the request of General Schuyler for one thousand felling axes, have sent eight hun- dred, ground and with helves, to go the same route. They went from hence the 29th last. The residue will go, with clothing preparing for that Army, next Monday. ‘Thought it not best to wait for orders, as we were very well assured of their necessity. ‘ Notwithstanding our enemies are so numerous and power- ful, and have hired mercenaries into their service, yet know- ing our cause righteous, and trusting Heaven will support and defend us, I do not greatly dread what they can do against us. Our internal malignants may be permitted to do many injurious and insidious things. ‘They are therefore to be watched with care and diligence, to prevent such hypo- critical and designing men carrying on and perpetrating their wicked purposes. No doubt there are many such, the per- sons and characters unknown to me, and not convenient to mention in a letter the notices given me of any. Last week I sent circular letters addressed to the Civil Authority, Selectmen, Committees of Inspection, and mili- tary officers, in all the towns in this State, to promote and facilitate the filling the several battalions ordered to be raised here, and to send them forward to the places of their desti- nation. Recruiting officers for the companies not filled are necessary, and conclude are left for the purpose. The peo- ple have in some measure got through the hurry of harvest, &c. Hope that they will cheerfully inlist and go on. Colonel Eliphalet Dyer and Richard Law, Esquires, are directed to repair to New-York, to confer with your Excel- lency on every subject needful for our direction and for your information; you know our readiness to afford every assist- ance for our common defence. I am, with great esteem and regard, sir, your most obe- dient, humble servant, Jona. TRUMBULL. To His Excellency George Washington, Esq., General and Commander-in-Chief of the Army of the United States of America, at New-York. Six o'clock, A. M.—P.S. Just received your two favours of the Ist instant. Orders are gone to Colonel Elmore, and express to carry those to Colonel Ward expected in soon. The orders are ready. WILLIAM PITKIN TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Hartford, August 5, 1776. Honovurep Sir: In consequence of your Honour’s cir- cular of the Ist instant, the Civil Authority, &c., convened 777 this day. ‘They view it of the utmost importance to encour- age the inlistments within our respective spheres and in- fluence of connexion, and to forward the same with all pos- sible expedition. It appears, upon the strictest scrutiny, that the proportion of men due from this town to the several officers appointed to the service here, are very nearly, if not quite furnished and completed. ‘The gentlemen of the town have exerted themselves much upon this occasion, and also very generously contributed towards increasing the encour- agements; which had its effect. We have no doubt what has been done here will meet your Honour’s approbation, and in some degree be thought anticipating your Honour’s requisition. We shall, however, continue our exertions, and lend every aid in our power to ease your Honour’s burden, and furnish the numbers so much called for from this State. With great regard, we are your Honour’s most obedient, humble servants. Per order: Wie Percne To the Hon. Governour Trumbull. SELECTMEN OF FAIRFIELD TO CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Fairfield, August 5, 1776. GentLemEN: We the subscribers, Selectmen of the town of Fairfield, pray that you would please to give orders for the delivery of the cannon and ball allotted to the town of Fairfield, for the Battery at Black Rock, commanded by Lieutenant Mills, and you will greatly oblige your very humble servants ? Joun ALLEN, Esenezer Banks, JosepH WakeEMAN, Danie, ANDREws, To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Governour of the Colony of Connecticut, and the Council of Safety. Selectmen. N. B. Lieutenant Mills could not be spared to be sent to New-York, although he was very forward with his party to proceed. As danger of the enemy is attending, he is much wanted for the defence of this town. We desire Lieutenant Mills would speak to his Honour about the cost of transport- ing the cannon and ball. Lieutenant Mills has paid some sick bills, and is in want of money for his party; and further- more, if his Honour will please to grant, twelve men more. MAJOR FRENCH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Hartford, August 5, 1776. Sir: Notwithstanding I claimed my release, in a letter I did myself the honour to write you a fortnight past, as con- sonant with the tenour of my parole, yet I shall waive the pretensions arising from that circumstance in favour of Major Meigs, who, I am informed, is desirous to be exchanged for me. As it will mutually serve us, 1 hope you will have no objection, should General Howe, on his part, agree, since in restoring him to his family, it would also procure me the satisfaction to see my son. Colonel Allen is also mentioned in the papers to be designed for exchange for any Colonel or officer of inferior rank; should, therefore, the proposed one with Major Meigs prove abortive, I flatter myself you will not object to my being exchanged for him, as I have been longer a prisoner ‘than any of his Majesty’s officers of my rank; so that I think I stand in priority of claim. But should not either of these take place, from any unforeseen circum- stances, I assure myself you will grant me the same indul- gence given by General Carleton to Major Meigs, when I shall readily sign a parole similar to his. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Curis. Frencu. JOHN AVERY TO COLONEL WILLARD. Council Chamber, August 5, 1776. Sir: I am directed by the honourable Committee of Council to request that you give them information what Counties and ‘Towns are included to make up eight com- panies in your regiment, and how far eastward they will extend, and to make a return thereof as soon as possible. In the name and by order of the Committee of Council, Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. To Colonel Aaron Willard. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 778 JOHN AVERY TO SHERIFF GREENLEAF. Council Chamber, August 5, 1776. Str: I am directed by the honourable Committee of Council to acquaint you that the printed Declarations of Independency are on their table, and they expect that you will take proper care that they be distributed through this State as soon as may be, that every town may have them publickly read in each religious assembly. In the name and by order of the Committee of Council. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Joun Avery, Deputy Secretary. To Sheriff Greenleaf. CAPTAIN CLARK TO JAMES WARREN. Chelsea, August 5, 1776. Honourep Sir: I received your commands of July 25, to have the Militia in this town at a minute’s notice, &c., and should have obeyed them with the greatest cheerfulness had it been in my power ; but for the want of your commis- sions, we are quite unable to do anything in the military way; and since unwearied pains have hitherto been unsuccessful, I must beg your Honour’s influence to procure a settlement of our Militia. The town instructed their Representative to make it the first object of his endeavour in the late session of our Assembly. I much solicited one of the Field Officers of the Boston regiment, to which we formerly belonged, to pre- side at the meeting when officers were chosen, but could not prevail with one to do it; the town therefore chose a Justice of the Peace for their Moderator, and were unanimous in their choice, since which repeated applications have been made to the honourable Council, but we are refused commissions, because a Field Officer did not preside at the meeting, and it was quite out of our power to obtain one. It seems as if some strange fatality attended the thing. Your Honour, I trust, will procure our settlement, when you will ever find me most obedient to yourcommands. Upon this representa- tion of facts, [ doubt not you will excuse my utter incapacity to obey. Permit me to add, the company is far from being inconsiderable, and desirous of being on a footing with their neighbours. A regard to the publick safety, I doubt not, will induce your Honour to procure for us a speedy settlement and our commissions, when your Honour’s commands shall be obeyed with the greatest precision and alacrity, by, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, To the Hon. James Warren, Esq. P.S. The town unanimously chose, at a very full meeting, Samuel Clark Captain, Jonathan Williams Lieutenant, James Storer Ensign. SamuenL Cuark. TIMOTHY PICKERING, JUN., TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Salem, August 5, 1776. May iT PLEASE your Honours: I have acquainted the Captains of the Salem Militia with the Brigadier’s orders to raise every twenty-fifth man to march to Dorchester-Heights, and considered of the means of raising them; but it is their opinion, that the execution of those orders here will be im- practicable. * There are so few men left in town (and there is a demand of such numbers to man the four or five priva- teers, besides the brig belonging to this State now fitting) that we are sure no volunteers will present. Even our own sea-coast company remains incomplete, the vacancies made by inlistments into the sea service of this and the United States not being supplied; and many others of that com- pany are daily pressing to be discharged, that they may obtain more lucrative employments which court their accept- ance. And should the orders be strictly pursued, and every twenty-fifth man draughted, the Captains, who know the sentiments of their towns, say they are certain the men so draughted would not go, and that the effect will be a publick open contempt of authority, (there being no penalty in case of disobedience); and this they apprehend would do more hurt to Government than the proposed levy, were it to be made, would do good. ‘They therefore request me to lay the matter before your Honours, and pray that they may be excused furnishing their quota to this levy; at the same time desiring me to assure your Honours that they stand ready to march, in case of need, to the assistance of the capital with much greater numbers than the present levy would 779 amount to. If, notwithstanding, the attempt must be made, I shall begin it as soon as | am made acquainted with your Honours’ determination. I am, with due respect, your Honours’ most obedient ser- ant Tim. Picxertne, Jun. To the Hon. the Council of the Massachusetts-Bay. MAJOR HAWLEY TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Northampton, August 5, 1776. May ir pease your Honours: As the major part of the Committee for the raising seven hundred and fifty-four men in the County of Hampshire, as its part of the three thousand destined to the northward, are now together, they conceive it to be their duty to acquaint your Honours with the success they have had in the execution of their commis- sion. And to be brief, two companies, consisting of ninety- seven men each, inclusive of their officers, marched on the 24th of July last, the one by the way of No. 4, and the other by Bennington; a third company, of eighty-five, marched on the 29th of the same July, by the way of Bennington; a fourth company, of ninety-two, began their march on the 30th; and all the companies marched from Northfield on the Ist of August by the way of No. 4. Another company of eighty-three, begin their march this day, by the way of Bennington. Some disappointment has taken place with regard to Murraysfield quota, too long to relate, which has occasioned a defect in the last-mentioned company. We are informed that the Lieutenent-Colonel has ordered the three other companies to march next Friday, by the way of Bennington. Two of the three companies will be very full, the other very deficient by reason that the Granville men and the Blanford men who have inlisted, are, without any orders, gone into inoculation. Lieutenant-Colonel Leonard and Major Stacy have been out of inoculation about a week, who have applied themselves faithfully to their duty since their return. Colonel Woodbridge, who has had a severe drench of it, is expected home this day. Your Committee are not furnished with any blankets for the Staff Officers, and pray your Honours to furnish them by Major Pyncheon. As to the Hampshire quota of the fifteen hundred to go to the northward, we have attempted nothing, by reason of a misapprehension concerning the inclination of your Honours; but as the matter is this day explained to us by Colonel Brewer, we shall enter upon the business as soon as Major Pyncheon shall return with the money and blankets. The service has not suffered by the Committee not having entered on the business sooner, for the attempt to have raised these men would have retarded the completing and marching of others; and now we have but little prospect of success till after the harvest. As to the penalties in the resolve, they are well calculated for this meridian, but we have hopes to inlist them all as volunteers. We have the honour to be, with great respect, your Honours’ most obedient servants, Per order of Committee. Josepu Haw ey. To the Honourable the Council of Massachusetts-Bay. e FRANCIS ABBOTT TO RICHARD DEVENS. Charlestown, No. 4, August 5, 1776. Dear Sir: I came to town after more trouble than is possible to express. This day the teams arrived, and de- livered their loads in good order, for which I have given a receipt, and hope justice will be done them, for they have had a troublesome voyage from Winchendon to this place. I could not get the teams I have with the utmost trouble ob- tained round this woody place, at 28s. per day. They stood strong for 30s.. Was obliged to press them, Iam told it is impossible to get to Ticonderoga, the roads are so bad; but have obtained four hundred men to mend the way, after finding them rum and axes and shovels, which the Committee must pay, or ought to. pay, or the men would perish. The expense is more than you or all the Court did think, or the teams would not have come this way. I have got twelve teams, which will come to more than £15 a team, and have promised them pay at Ticonderoga, if they stop there: but am afraid the troops, before I can get to them, will be gone to Crown-Point. We have an express from General Gates, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 780 for the troops to march with all speed. We have three thou- sand men in town. You must send by the post five hundred dollars, or I shall not be able to complete the business. ‘The credit of the Colony will not do. , I had all the assistance of the gentlemen in town, and tried to obtain the teams cheaper, but could not. We can’t get hardly anything to -eat: have no pork, and many of the troops sick on the march; rum 12s. per gallon, New-England. When I shall be at home, God only can tell; but I wish [had never come out. If I had had orders to buy teams, the Colony would have saved half the expense; but I will do the best, and through the tents shall go if I have my life spared. Your compliance and further orders will much oblige your dis- tressed friend, and much worn-out humble servant, Francis Apporrt. Richard Devens Esq., Commissary-General. P.S. Ihave had hardly any pens or paper, and am in haste. Give my love to Nat and all friends. Send to me at Captain Walker’s. I must tarry in town till the money comes. Boston, August 5, 1776. By an express from Falmouth, we are informed that Cap- tain White the day before, in a privateer, had arrived there, having forty men on board, with the particulars of the fol- lowing prizes he had taken, viz: the brig Fanny, 130 hogs- heads rum from Antigua; sloop Betsey, 150 hogsheads rum, and a brig from Antigua, for Liverpool, with 230 hogsheads rum; brig Harlequin, from Nevis for London, 273 hogsheads sugar and 63 hogsheads rum; ship Polly, from Antigua, 450 hogsheads rum, 12 hogsheads sugar; ship Anna Maria, 495 hogsheads sugar, and 52 pipes wine, and some bales of cotton, carried into Falmouth. ‘The Captain also took a seventh vessel, which he gave the prisoners. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE CAMP TWO MILES. BELOW KEOWEE, IN THE CHEROKEE COUNTRY, DATED avueustT 6, 1776. On the 31st of July, some of Colonel Williamson’s scouts took two white men prisoners, who had been sent to get cattle for the enemy. They informed the Colonel that Cameron had come over the Hills a few days before with twelve white men; and that he, with the Seneca and some other Indians, in all about one hundred and fifty, were then encamped at Cowanaross, about twenty miles from Twenty- three Mile Creek, where our Army then lay encamped ; and that their women and children had all retired from the towns to the neighbourhood of the same place. This intel- ligence determined the Colonel to march that evening at the head of three hundred and thirty horsemen, taking the two prisoners with him. His intention was to leave the horses two miles behind, with a party to guard them, and- surround the enemy’s camp by daybreak. ‘The river Keowee lying in his route, and being only passable at a ford at Seneca, obliged him to take that road. About one o’clock in the morning, he arrived at the outskirts of that town, which he had received accounts of being entirely abandoned, and therefore little expected to meet with any opposition there. ‘The enemy, however, having received some intima- tion of his march, had taken possession of the first houses, and posted themselves behind a long fence, stuffed with twigs and corn blades, on an eminence close to the road where the party was to pass. ‘They allowed the guides and ad- vanced guard to come almost up to the houses, when they fired five or six guns, but without doing any other damage than killing one of the guide’s horses. ‘They immediately afterwards began a very heavy fire on our advanced guard and main body, by which Mr. Francis Salvador was shot in three different places, Colonel Williamson had his horse shot under him, and eight men were badly wounded, and two slightly. Mr. Salvador falling among the bushes, it being dark, and both parties mixed, they unluckily got his scalp. The Indian was seen by Captain Smith, who would have prevented his accomplishing his cruel purpose, had he not thought it was Mr. Salvador’s servant taking care of his master. He died about three-quarters of an hour after. The whole Army regretted his Joss, as he was universally beloved and esteemed by them. ‘Two of the wounded died next morning. 781 Our party soon recovering from their surprise, kept up a brisk fire on the places where the flashes of the enemy’s guns were seen, and soon drove them from their fences and houses. Their loss is not known; but from the number of blankets, shirts, tomahawks, &c., left besmeared with blood, and the bloody tracks which marked their retreat, it is sup- posed to be considerable. Colonel Williamson remained on the ground till daybreak, and burnt all the houses on both sides of the river, and destroyed their corn, &c. Judging that the party he had defeated would immediately proceed to their camp and apprize them of his approach, and having made an appointment to meet Colonels Need and Thomas at Sugar-T'own, the Colonel, after leaving a party to bury the dead and take care of the wounded, returned to his camp. Next day, in consequence of this appointment, the whole Army proceeded to the neighbourhood of Keowee, where they encamped ; and on the 4th, a party of four hun- dred men was sent to burn that town and Sugar-Town, which they effected. They found only an old lame Indzan, who informed them that the others had left the towns four days before, on a white man’s telling them a large Army was at Paris’s, which probably may be the Colonels Neel and Thomas’s party. He would not tell where the Indians were gone to. On the 6th, the Colonel marched at the head of six hun- dred and fifty men after the enemy, being fully determined to carry fire and sword throughout their country. FRANCIS SANDERSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. August 6, 1776. GenTLemEN: The time I made application to furnish you with camp-kettles, | only agreed with the Council for three hundred—one hundred and fifty against the Ist of August, and one hundred and fifty against the Ist of September. » I have these contracts ready. Should be glad to furnish the Council with more if they want. I have employed more hands for that purpose, as I furnished them with only half the number they wanted to contract with me for. I am, gentlemen, the Council’s most obedient humble servant, Francis SANDERSON. To the Right Hon. the Council of Safety, sitting at the City of Annapolis. JOHN VEAZEY, JUN., TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Committee, Cecil County, August 6, 1776. GentLemeN: We received, by the hands of Captain Alexander, £500 from your Board, for the purchasing arms, &c., for the use of the troops raised in our County. We find it will be in our power very speedily to collect a sufii- cient number of blankets for the use of those men raised here, and perhaps more than what they want. We will also do everything we can for procuring muskets; but are very doubtful whether we shall be able to procure enough of them. There is a gunsmith here that will undertake to repair any number of guns that we may get. Steel ramrods can be had here. We cannot as yet find that there are more than three or four publick arms in this County, and we have not received any guns worth anything from the Non-Asso- ciates or Non-Enrollers. We beg leave, gentlemen, to inform you, that the com- panies here are completed, and that the men, from being thrown out of all kind of employment, express great un- easiness at their situation, especially as many of them are daily at expense for their support, and are to receive no pay until they march. ‘To mitigate their uneasiness, and pre- vent their deserting the service, we have ordered the Cap- tains to call all their men together, and then to quarter them at the expense of the Continent, until we can have your advice how to proceed ; and for their support, we have been obliged to advance part of the money sent us by your Board to the officers. We have been very sorry to take this step without your orders; but in our opinion the publick service must have greatly suffered unless something of the kind had been done; indeed, the men think they ought to be under immediate pay. We request, gentlemen, that you will, as soon as possible, inform us whether it is agreeable to you to keep these troops in quarters, and whether we may assure them that they shall be under pay from the time they in- listed into the service. Should this be refused, we fear the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 782 service will be discouraged, and that it will be very difficult to recruit men in future. We have procured thirty camp kettles. The money we have will not be sufficient to answer all the purposes. If you think proper to send us any more, we shall take care to dispose of it to the best advantage for the publick service. As ‘cartouch boxes, belts and slings, knapsacks with haversacks, priming-wires and brushes, are not to be had here, the sending them by the first opportunity will expedite the company’s marching. I am, in behalf of the Committee, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant, Joun Veazey, Jun., Chairman. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH. [No. 111.] Annapolis, August 6, 1776. Sir: You are requested by the Council of Safety to pur- chase, for the use of the publick, one good scow, proper for transporting heavy cannon; also, let us know whether you can purchase any flat-bottomed boats, with eight or ten oars, that would carry fifty men each, or any barges or whale- boats. Please to let us hear from you, and the price at which they may be got; if there be none to be had, whether you would undertake to have some built this fall. We are, &c. To Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO MESSRS. VANBIBBER AND HARRISON. [No. 112.] Annapolis, August 6, 1776. GrentLtemeNn: We have received by Captain Martin all the goods you sent us, according to invoice and bill of lading, except ten barrels of gunpowder, which he says is @ mis- take, and that they were never put on board. If there be any mistake, you must rectify it; if no mistake, charge the Captain with the powder. Captain Stone has presented us a memorial, claiming the brig Friendship as his property, copy of which we send you enclosed, and to which we shall be glad hereafter of having your answer. We shall endeavour to make you remittances by every opportunity. We do not know the cargo of the brig Friendship. Colonel Hooe is down at Chingoteague, and will write you fally of the cargo put on board—some tobacco, bread, and flour, are the chief articles. You will do the best you can for us, and send by first good opportu- nity the following articles, viz: guns with bayonets, coarse woollens, coarse linens, gun-flints, lead, powder, and salt- petre. We have heretofore written you by Captain Handy, a duplicate whereof is now enclosed. When the fall and winter comes on, we shall do better, we hope. Dunmore’s fleet is gone off from the mouth of Potomack, very sickly and in great distress. Perhaps our Bay will be clearer of ships of war than it has been; if so, we shall remit you fully; in the mean time, draw on us, if you are in want of cash, payable either in Maryland or Pennsylvania, and we shall pay due honour to your drafts. Captain Conway is safe arrived in Great Wicomico, in Virgima. We shall get his cargo up soon, and despatch him as quick as possible. We are, with due regard, yours, &c. To Messrs. Vanbibber and Harrison. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO EDWARD PARKER. [No. 114.] Annapolis, August 6, 1776. Sir: Please to send us by the first opportunity ten pounds of coarse sewing-thread. We wrote you some time ago that we had a demand for linen for the Flying-Camp; we are very desirous you would let us have what you can get with all expedition. We are, Xc. To Mr. Edward Parker. SAFETY TO MESSRS. HARRIS AND ARCHER, [No. 115.] Annapolis, August 6, 1776. Gentiemen: We hear you have got a quantity of linen ready for us, which we wait with impatience to receive, for the use of this Province. We should be obliged to you if MARYLAND COUNCIL OF 783 you would send it down immediately, and five pounds of coarse osnaburgh thread therewith. We are, &c. To Messrs. Harris & Archer. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COLONEL EWING. [No. 116.] Annapolis, August 6, 1776. Str: We have ordered Captain Young’s company up to Baltimore County, to be subject to your command, and we have advanced him the sum of one hundred and twenty-five pounds currency, to purchase necessaries. You'll be pleased to apply to the Committee for blankets, with the enclosed order. Were you to march one of your companies unarmed to Philadelphia, we doubt no arms can be got; we have not more due to us than will arm one company; we have applied several times by our Deputies, and cannot get them. If you can satisfy us that we stand any chance of succeed- ing in our application, we will cheerfully give an order. ‘To do it would only expose you and ourselves. ‘The hunting- shirts you cannot have; we want them for that part of the Flying-Camp that is to supply the place of Colonel Small- wood’s battalion. As your companies march forward, they shall be supplied with everything we can spare; but an un- limited order cannot be given. We are, &c. To Colonel Thomas Ewing. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO ISAAC GRIEST. [No. 117.] Annapolis, August 6, 1776. Sir: Two tent-makers are engaged to make tents at Baltimore, to wit, Jacobs and Johnson; one is employed in Kent, and one in this County; if any others are at Baltimore willing to engage in that way, you'll inform us of it, and we will give you directions toemploy them. ‘Tent-poles are necessary to be made. We suppose the tent-makers procure them; if not, you must get them made. As soon as you inform us another tent-maker can be found, we will order him the cloth necessary. We are, &c. To Mr. Isaac Griest. R. POTTS TO LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. Frederick-Town, August 6, 1776. GrentLemeN: I am directed by the Committee of this town to inform you that the several officers sent to this place have subscribed the parole pointed out by the Congress, and that they have given security for the good behaviour and appearances of their servants. This Committee, under an expectation that their servants will be ordered here by your body after this notice of their having complied with the terms directed by the Congress, have encouraged the officers to send to your town for them. A list of the servants for whom security is given is herewith enclosed. I am, on behalf of the Committee, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, R. Ports, Clerk. To the Committee of Lancaster. OFFICERS WHO HAVE SUBSCRIBED THEIR PAROLE, AND THEIR SERVANTS. Major Sroprorn’s: John Smith, Ed. Nankirritt; Royal Fusileers.—Pass granted 17 August, 1776. Major Dunsar: John Pilling; Royal Fusileers.—Pass granted 17 August, 1776. Captain Stewart: Thos. Battersby; Twenty-Sixth Regi- ment.—Pass granted 17 August, 1776. Captain CamppeLL: William Ennis; Royal Emigrants.— Pass granted 16 August, 1776. Lieutenant Harrison: either Wm. Evidert or John Row- land; Royal Fusileers—Pass granted to Rowland 16 August, 1776. Lieutenant SHurrLewortH: John Smith; Royal Fusileers. Pass granted 17 August, 1776. Lieutenant Leste: Sylvester Conlaer; Twenty-Sixtli Re- giment.—Pass granted 17 August, 1776. Captain Atere: Edward Forrestall; Navy.—Pass grant- ed 17 August, 1776. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO THE OFFICER COMMANDING COL. HASLETT’S BATTALION. Philadelphia, August 6, 1776. _ Sir: The Congress having instructed their Committee immediately to deliver as many arms as are necessary for CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 784 your battalion, Robert Morris, Esq., will give the orders for the delivery. And & have it in charge from the Congress to direct, that as soon as the arms are received, you do, with- out loss of time, march your battalion to Amboy, New-Jer- sey, and acquaint General Washington of your arrival there, and follow such orders as you shall receive from him. I am, sir, your very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To the Officer commanding the Battalion of Continental Troops at the Barracks, Philadelphia, Colonel Haslett’s Battalion. RICHARD PETERS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. {Circular Letter. ] War Office, Philadelphia, August 6, 1776. GrnTLEMEN: By a resolve of Congress on the subject of Prisoners, it is determined “that a list of the prisoners in each Colony be made out by the Committees of the Coun- ties, Towns, or Districts, where they reside, and transmitted to the Assembly, Convention, or Council or Committee of Safety of such Colony respectively.” The Board of War, who have, by direction of Congress, the care of all prisoners, are much obstructed in that business by the resolution before quoted not having been complied with. I am therefore to press you by all means to prevail on the several Committees in your State to enable you immediately to transmit an accu- rate list of all prisoners of war now in your State to the Board, that this matter, which has heretofore been in confu- sion, may be reduced to proper order. I have the honour to be your most obedient humble ser- vant “ Ricwarp Perers, Secretary. To the Honourable Convention or Committee of Safety of Maryland. P. S. Please to send also a list of all officers, their ranks, and dates of commissions of any Continental troops raised in your Staté, and the time for which they were inlisted. MARINE COMMITTEE TO CAPTAIN JONES. In Marine Committee, Philadelphia, August 6, 1776. Sir: We have ordered the provisions and stores you requested, to be sent on board the sloop Providence, which you command under authority of the United States of Ame- rica; so that the said sloop being now ready for sea, you are to proceed immediately on a cruise against our enemies; and we think in or about the latitude of Bermuda may prove the most favourable ground for your purpose. Herewith we deliver you an extract from the Journals of Congress respecting the Navy prizes, &c., by which you will know with precision what vessels can be made prizes and which not. You have also herewith a list of the Continen- tal Agents in each State, and to some of them your prizes must be addressed according to the port they arrive in. Your cruise may be for six weeks, two or three months, just as provisions, water, and other circumstances point out to be best. If you gain any material intelligence, you must put into the nearest port of the Continent, and despatch an express to us with the same. You must, by all opportunities, transmit us an account of your proceedings and of such occurrences as you meet with. You are to be particularly attentive to protect, aid, and assist all vessels and property belonging to these States or the subjects thereof. It is equally your duty to seize, take, sink, burn, or destroy that of our enemies. Be careful of the sloop, her stores and materials; use your people well, thereby recommending the American naval service to all who engage in it. And we also recommend humane, kind treatment of your prisoners. These things, duly observed, will recommend you to the attention and regard of this Committee. We are, sir, your humble servants, Joun Hancock, Grorce Reap, Francis Hopkinson, Gero. Watton, Wituiam Wuirete, Arruur Mippieton, Rost. Morris, Francis Lewis. JosepH Hewes, To John Paul Jones, Esq., Commander of the Sloop Pro- vidence. 785 ABRAM CLARK TO COLONEL DAYTON. Philadelphia, August 6, 1776. My pear Frrenn: Your favour of the 25th of Ju/y, and Mr. Caldwell’s of the 26th, from the German-Flats, I re- ceived a few days ago, which I answered in a letter to Mr. Caldwell, having the day before written to you by a Doctor going through Albany to the Army at Ticonderoga. Yours of the 20th July, from Fort Stanwix, I received yesterday. I have frequently informed you of the situation of our Army in the Jerseys, watching that under General Howe on Staten- Island. Could I believe any letters would come safe to you, my pleasure in writing would be equal to that you express in receiving them. The King’s Army remain on the Island, fortifying every pass; their numbers unknown, but we with reason believe they are daily receiving reinforcements. Forty vessels, great and small, arrived a few days ago. The number of our forces in Jersey, I am not able to inform you of; they are to consist of at least sixteen thousand when completed. ‘The greater part of the Militia of Pennsylvania Colony are either there or going, who are to stay till the Army is completed. They form a chain from Amboy to Elizabeth-Town Point, where strong works are erected at an amazing expense of labour, chiefly effected by our Militia, before the Pennsyl- vanians arrived to their assistance. The Jersey Militia, upon the arrival of other forces, returned home to get in their harvest; since which, they are again taking the field. What works are thrown up at Amboy, Blazing- Star, &c., I am not able to say. I know nothing of any design to attack the King’s forces on the Island; it rather seems an attack from them is waited for; and it is said such an attack is soon expected to be made above New-York, near King’s Bridge, to which place the ships that went up the river, I hear, are returned. Elzabeth-Town was in great conster- nation upon General Howe’s taking possession of the Island; but at present I believe they are very easy. 1 formerly informed you that Mrs. Dayton had sent the chief of her goods into Springfield. Many that moved away from Elizabeth-Town have since returned. You have no doubt been informed by the papers of the flags sent by Lord Howe to General Washington, with let- ters. He refused to receive them, as they were only directed “To George Washington, &c.” You have also, | suppose, seen the printed Narrative of what passed in conversation between General Washington and Colonel Patterson, who came with a flag from Lord Howe. We lately sent a flag to his Lordship to settle an exchange of prisoners. He received the officer with great politeness; manifested a deep concern that he had not arrived before Independency was declared; professed a great regard for America, especially the Massachusetts-Bay, that had so signally honoured his family. He gave General Washington the title of General, and called us The United States. He consented to the exchange of prisoners; proposed immediately to set all his prisoners at liberty, relying upon the honour of the American States to return him an equal number when in their power. By a flag to General Howe an exchange of prisoners was also agreed upon, so faras fell within his department, Canada being, he said, out of it. An Indian war hath broken out to the southward. The Overhill Cherokees have commenced hostilities in the back part of Carolina, killed thirty or forty in one settlement, and had about one hundred and twenty besieged in a fortress, which it is thought must surrender before succours could arrive. Forces were marching against the Indzans. Gene- ral Clinton’s fleet remain inactive below Charlestown since his defeat: his forces sickly. No news from Lord Dunmore since he left Gwin’s Island and went up Potomack River. Last Saturday our gondolas attacked the King’s ships near Dobbs’s Ferry; they fought about an hour and a half, hulled the men-of-war several times, and were served in the same manner themselves. ‘They lost but four men, several wound- ed, and, I believe, came off the second best, though the Commander writes that he hopes soon to give the King’s ships another drubbing. This day’s post, since I begun this letter, brings accounts of more of the enemy arriving in the Narrows—an addition to what I have mentioned of at least twenty transports. And by the last accounts brought this day, I find our forces in the Jerseys are by no means equal to what I supposed from former information as above mentioned. Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 50 786 I spoke to our President for the commissions you desire may be sent. He tells me you must apply to General Schuyler, who hath got spare commissions, and can supply your regiment. I dare say you have a good regiment, and hear their commendation with pleasure; but had you seen a regiment, that went near two weeks ago to New-York, raised in Maryland, and another paraded this day in the State-House yard, from the Delaware Government, you would have altered your opinion; they were all shirtmen, mostly of an age and size. ‘The two battalions above men- tioned were the finest I ever saw. [lately mentioned to you that a ship belonging to Congress arrived at this town from France, with one thousand stand of arms, ten tons of powder, and blankets; since which, I find she brought thirty or forty tons of lead or more, salt- petre, &c., &c. Several valuable prizes, this day’s post advises, were lately brought in to the eastward. Weare also informed that the Portuguese have declared war against us by seizing our vessels in their ports. Our election for Council and Assembly, Sheriffs, &c., comes on next Tuesday in all the Counties of New-Jersey. I now feel the want of you in Elizabeth-Town. I sat down to consider to whom I might venture to write on politicks, and have none that I dare speak plainly to. Had you, or my much esteemed friend Mr. Caldwell, been there, I should have been at no loss. I have none like-minded. I have friends, it is true, but none there now that I dare speak with freedom to. I have written to several, and desire they will not keep my letters secret, so that I hope I shall not be charged with secret practices. As to my title, | know not yet whether it will be honour- able or dishonourable: the issue of the war must settle it. Perhaps our Congress will be exalted on a high gallows. We were truly brought to the case of the three lepers: If we continued in the state we were in, it was evident we must perish; if we declared Independence, we might be saved,—we could but perish. I assure you, sir, | see—I feel, the danger we are in. I am far from exulting in our imaginary happiness; nothing short of the almighty power of God can save us. It is not in our numbers, our union, our valour, I dare trust. I think an interposing Providence hath been evident in all the events that necessarily led us to what we are—I mean independent States; but for what purpose, whether to make us a great empire, or to make our ruin more complete, the issue only can determine. You and Mr. Caldwell, it seems, diverted yourselves with the power given in his commission. I find it was useful, however; for in his last he informs me of his commanding a garrison. General Schuyler makes the same complaint as you do for want of cash. His letter came to Congress the same day with yours and Mr. Caldwell’s from the German-Flats. Two hundred thousand dollars were immediately sent to the Paymaster-General, being part of five hundred thousand dollars ordered to be sent. ‘The Congress, or rather some of the Members, tell me, that if your regiment is near three months in arrear of pay, it is not a neglect of Congress, but a neglect somewhere else, as they have sent seasonable supplies. I am glad to hear a person so high in my esteem as Mr. Barber, so honourably spoken of by you. I never doubted but he would do honour to his appointment. He is young, and in the bloom of life, and a large field for promotion is open before him; and I can’t help but look upon him as designed in Providence for some important station. I most gratefully accept your congratulation on account of my appointment. Believe me, my dear friend, I am not in a place of my own choosing. I had much rather take an active part in our own State; I think I could have been more useful to my country there, where I had a sufficient share of influence, and where I could have served my friends much better than here. Besides, I have found my health much interrupted, pent up in a close town, deprived of air and exercise, and excessive heat from the reflection of the sun on the buildings and pavements. Excepting my health, I am as agreeably situated as I could expect. Dr. Wither- spoon, Mr. Hart, and myself, quarter together, and endeavour to make our lives as agreeable as possible. What you say respecting your regiment returning in the fall, will be attended to in a proper time. Remember, sir, (what I frequently mention,) that when I 787 write to you or Mr. Caldwell, 1 mean always to address you both; but, with regard to your families, | can say no more than that I have not heard of their being unwell. I am, my dear friend, your sincere and humble servant, Apram CuiarK. P. S. You'll please to accept this on plain paper; our dignity don’t afford gilt, and our pay scarcely any. Richard Lawrence, on Staten-Island, is Colonel of a regiment under the Crown, and commands the forces there, joined with some Regulars. In Council of Safety, Philadelphia, August 6, 1776. In consequence of a request of this Board to the Com- mittees of Inspection and Observation of the different Coun- ties, to appoint suitable persons to hear the complaints of the families of those Associators that have gone to camp, and to supply them with such necessaries as they may stand in need of, the Committee of Inspection and Observation of this City and Liberties have recommended the following gentlemen for that purpose, viz: For the First Battalion: Isaac Coates, William Moulder, Jacob Schreiner. For the Second Battalion: Moses Bartram, Gasper Guyer, Ephraim Bonham. For the Third Battalion: George Meade, Richard Den- nis, Robert Barly. For the Fourth Battalion: George Graeme, Frederick Dushon, Peter Knight. For the Fifth Battalion: John Hart, John Tittamary, Wiliam Drury. Resolved, therefore, ‘That they be and are hereby appoint- ed accordingly. Extract from the Minutes : Jacos S. Howe xt, Secretary. PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE. In Committee Chamber, Philadelphia, August 6, 1776. Resolved unanimously, That the following Resolve of the Provincial Conference be published in all the Newspapers in English and German. ‘*Tn Provincial Conference, June 25. “Resolved, 'That it be recommended to every County and District Committee in this Province, to pay the strictest attention to the examination of all strangers or persons travelling through the City or Counties, and permit no per- sons travelling through the City or Counties to remain therein, unless they produce a pass or certificate from the City, County, or District Committee from whence they last came; and it is further recommended to all Committees, to furnish proper passes to all friends to American liberty upon their application therefor.” NatHanieL Donne.x, Secretary pro tem. A General Muster-Roll of five Artillery Companies under the command of Colonel Mirrxin, now lying at the Ar- tellery Park, near Ampoy, &c., &c., in East-Jersey. ARTILLERY PARK FRONTING CONGRESS STREET, NEAR AMBOY. Muster-Roll of the First Company of Artillery Associators of PHILADELPHIA, commanded by Major Bensamin Lox.ey. 1 Colonel, a 1 Major, 1 Captain-Lieutenant, 1 First Lieutenant, 1 Second Lieutenant, 1 Ensign, 3 Lieutenant Fire-Workers, one of which on furlough, one stopped by Council of Safety. ; Cuan ; Warrant Officers. 4 Sergeants. 4 Corporals, one sick, one lame left behind. 8 Bombardiers, one on furlough, one lame left behind. 18 Gunners. 11 Matrosses. 1 Drum. 1 Fife. 11 Wagon-Drivers, including the Wagonmaster. Colonel’s servants: 2 Negroes, who do duty without pay. Major’s servant: 1 Negro, who does duty without pay. N. B. Twenty-six Privates of this Company at sea or at publick work. Commissioned Officers. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 788 Muster- Roll of Capt. Huge’s First Company of Artillery of West-Jensey. 1 abs 1 Captain-Lieutenant, sie 1 Finest Lieutenant, (lle ea Officers. 1 Second Lieutenant, J 1 Lieutenant Fire-Worker. 4 Sergeants. 4 Corporals. 1 Bombardier. 48 Matrosses. 1 Drum. 1 Fife. Muster- Roll of the Third Company of Artillery Associators of PamapE.- PHIA, commanded by Captain Joseru STILes. 1 Captain, 1 Captain-Lieutenant, 1 First Lieutenant, 1 Second Lieutenant, 1 Ensign, 2 Lieutenant Fire-Workers. : Co note Warrant Officers. 4 Sergeants. 4 Corporals. 6 Bombardiers. 24 Matrosses. 1 Drum. 1 Fife. 11 Wagon-Drivers, including the Wagonmaster. N. B. Eight of the above Matrosses at publick work. Commissioned Officers. Muster-Roll of the Second Company of Artillery Associators of PamavEL- PHIA, commanded by Captain Josu. Mou.per. 1 Captain, 1 Captain-Lieutenant, 1 First Lieutenant, 1 Second Lieutenant, 3 Sergeants. 3 Corporals. 3 Bombardiers. 5 Gunners. 38 Privates. 1 Drum. 7 Wagoners. Commissioned Officers. Muster-Roll of Captain Neau’s Company of Artillery. 1 Captain, 1 Captain-Lieutenant, 1 First Lieutenant, 1 Second Lieutenant, 1 Third Lieutenant, 4 Sergeants. 4 Corporals. 4 Bombardiers. 45 Matrosses. 1 Drum. 1 Fife. Samuet Mirruin, Colonel of Artillery. Amboy, August 6, 1776. Commissioned Officers. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM GEN. HOWE TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE, DATED HEAD-QUARTERS, STATEN-ISLAND, AU- cust 6, 1776. Judging your Lordship will be anxious for information, and having two packets on this side, I despatch the Sand- wich, without waiting for further tidings of Commodore Hotham and the part of his fleet not yet arrived, but which, from late reports, may with reason be hourly expected. The troops that have arrived to this day are expressed in my returns to the Secretary at War and Adjutant-General, whereby your Lordship will observe that we are in force sufficient to enter upon offensive operations; but I am de- tained by the want of camp-equipage, particularly kettles and canteens, so essential in the field, and without which too much is to be apprehended on the score of health, at a time when sickness among the British troops was never more to be dreaded, from a due consideration of their im- portance in the prosecution of this distant war, and esteeming the Army present as the stock upon which the national force in America must in future be grafted. However, if the camp- equipage should not arrive with Commodore Hotham, we must use every means to provide against those wants, and the Army will immediately begin to act. Your Lordship’s despatches of the 3d, 12th, and 13th of May, with the duplicates of others since the 22d October, 1775, were received by the Sandwich packet, on the 27th, and by Lord Hyde on the 29th July. His Majesty’s most gracious approbation of my withdrawing the troops from Boston, under the circumstances, as described in my de- spatch of 2lst of March, and the flattering terms wherein it was conveyed by your Lordship, does me the highest honour, 789 Having communicated my reasons, in a former letter, for ordering the Guards and Hessians to this post, previous to any attempts upon Rhode-Island, 1 am since confirmed in the propriety of such measure, by finding, as I expected, the principal force of the Rebels assembled at New-York, from whence to dislodge them, it will require our collected strength, before any other operation can take place. In this I shall now be most essentially assisted by Lieutenant- General Clinton and Lord Cornwallis, who arrived here from South-Carolina on the Ist instant. The Southern transactions have been sent to your Lordship by General Clinton; and duplicates of his letters going by this opportu- nity, I need not touch upon that subject. The Phenix, of forty guns, and the Rose, of twenty, passed the enemy’s batteries up the North River, on the 12th of July, in mid-day. We have not received any direct intelligence from them since they went upon this service, but by private means I learn they did not suffer the least damage from the enemy’s batteries, and that they were in safety, at the upper end of the Tappan Sea, a few days past. The Commander-in-Chief of the Rebel Armies sent me the enclosed letter and narrative of some past transactions in Canada, which I thought proper to answer in general terms, directed “To George Washington, Esq., &c., &c.,” as the most unexceptionable mode of address. ‘The officer sent to meet the flag would not receive my letter, as it did not express his general titles; in consequence of which, I sent Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson, Adjutant-General, a few days afterwards, to remonstrate upon this, and other circumstances, relative to the usage of General Prescott and several officers in the enemy’s possession, and to mention an exchange of prisoners. ‘This interview was more polite than interesting; however, it induced me to change my super- scription for the attainment of an end so desirable; and in this view, I flatter myself it will not be disapproved. ‘The letters, though unimportant, are all enclosed for your Lord- ship’s satisfaction. The report concerning the Seventy-First Regiment, as mentioned in my last, proves to be true by later accounts, directly from Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell; who is a prison- er at Boston, and it is confirmed that Major Menzzes was killed in the action. This unfortunate accident makes a considerable addition to their number of prisoners, and in- creases my anxiety for their relief; for which end I shall use every means in my power to improve and avail myself of this agreement for the exchange of prisoners. Major Rogers, having escaped to us from Philadelphia, is empowered to raise a battalion of Rangers, which, I hope, may be useful in the course of the campaign. it is with much satisfaction I am to inform your Lordship that the troops which came with me, and those since arrived, are in perfect good health. COLONEL DRAKE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp at Greenwich, New-York, August 6, 1776. May tr PLease your Excettency: It is with reluctance we presume to approach your Excellency with complaints, at this critical period; nevertheless, our duty to the men under our care and command compels us to that measure. We observe with much concern the order of yesterday for the march of our Brigade into the city; but we have much reason to believe that misinformation, as well as misrepre- sentations made to your Excellency, have occasioned that order; which order (if consistent with the good of the ser- vice) we would wish to have suspended—at the same time we assure your Excellency that we always mean to obey your orders with cheerfulness—from a tender regard to the health of the troops under our command, and the inconve- nience it will subject them to, by being again crowded into houses in town, which we are sensible has been very preju- dicial to their health. Your Excellency must be sensible that when we marched to this encampment we found it in exceeding bad order, but, by the industry of the men, they have now provided comfortable quarters for the season, are satisfied with their situation, and the sick are daily turning out from the Hospital, for duty. However, as they have entirely devoted themselves to the cause of their country, they are resolved to submit, unless your Excellency shall think proper to suspend the order with regard to the two * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 790 regiments, (which are entirely composed of people from the country,) if it be consistent, that we may be continued on the ground, and our places supplied by some other regi- ments, now in quarters in town; which we shall ever esteem a favour conferred on your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble servants, (in behalf of the officers,) Samu. Drake, Colonel. Jous. Harpensuren, Lit. Col. COLONEL DRAKE TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. New-Rochelle, August 6, 1776. Sr: When I some time ago delivered in to General Morris a resignation of my military appointment, I had not time to commit to writing my reasons for so doing, and there- fore beg leave now to offer them. On the 19th ultimo I received General Morris’s orders to call together the regiment under my command, in order to draught one-fourth of the men for immediate service. The General at the same time requested me to meet him at the White-Plains, previous to the calling together the regiment. I accordingly waited on him at the Plains, and was much surprised to find that I was not to have the command of the new levies, (which, as first Colonel I considered my right,) but that the command was given to the second Colo- nel in the County. I expressed to the General my disincli- nation to continue in the service, as I considered myself aggrieved by such a preference given to my inferior officer. But he, notwithstanding, prevailed on me to call out and meet the regiment for the aforesaid purpose, which I accord- ingly did, and solicited the officers to turn out voluntarily in order to encourage the private men; but they excused themselves unless they were commanded by me. I told them the command was already given to the second Colonel. To him they particularly objected, and positively refused going. After this, [informed the General of the steps I had taken, and the result, and told him, that should I a second time be ordered to call out the regiment for the purpose of draught- ing, I had so little prospect of success that I begged leave to resign my commission. Upon this declaration, the Gene- ral signified to me that he would procure an order of the Convention to leave my regiment as it was at present, but that they should be held in readiness to march at the short- est notice on anemergency. With this I was well satisfied. But on the 31st of last month I again received orders to call them out, for the purpose of raising every fourth man to go under the command of Colonel Thomas, whereupon I took the liberty to deliver up my commission. I hope the above reasons will prove satisfactory to you, and dare say you will do me the justice to believe that | had no other motive for resigning, I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most humble servant, To the Hon. Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq. JoserpH Drake. GENERAL MIFFLIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Mount Washington, August 6, 1776. My pear Generac: Agreeable to your order by Colonel Reed’s letter, I have directed Colonel Holden to march with his three companies, this evening, to King’s Bridge. I shall, in consequence of that order, be under the neces- sity of totally neglecting the Point battery until men are sent up to work on it; our two battalions being employed in raising part of our parapet, covering the large magazine, cutting and forming the abatis, digging wells, &c. That magazine will be prepared to receive the powder this eve- ning. The magazine within the fort will be completed in twodays. We have so many sick and on guard, that I have been obliged to give up the outworks for the present. As I had no orders respecting the chevaux-de-frise, and as the artists appeared willing to take their own way, I did not presume to interfere. In future I will watch and direct their movements. But as Colonel Putnam is absent with the soundings, and as the vessels are sent up without persons who are acquainted with the depth of water for which they were calculated, I shall be at a loss to sink them. The sloops which came up this morning being small, must, in my opinion, be sunk to the westward of the brigs. If Colonel 791 Putnam had another destination for them, I beg to be favour- ed with directions where to place them. In future it will be best to send up single vessels, it being the most abstruse problem in hydraulics to determine of what size the several ports or holes should be in vessels of differ- ent tonnage and construction, in order to their sinking at the same time. If one sinks before the other, we risk as yes- terday. I believe that vessels above ninety tons, without frise-work, will answer very well. No ship will attempt to pass over them, even if they were eighteen feet below the surface. If five or six vessels of one hundred tons each could be sent up, I shall apprehend no danger of the ships of war passing them. It will be the most expeditious and most frugal scheme. The Colossus is now at anchor a little to the westward of her post. The buoy fixed by Colonel Putnam appears to be too distant from the shore; possibly it may have been carried there by the wind and current. She shall be re- moved this night if possible, the brigs this afternoon. The enemy may probably attempt to weigh some of the vessels; it will therefore be necessary to fix some guns on the battery. If I can obtain no heavy, I will send down our four twelve-pounders and the howitzer, and fight them en barbette. I am, with zeal and attachment, your Excellency’s obe- dient servant, Tro. Mirruiin. To His Excellency General Washington. P. S. Detachments do us no service—I cannot manage them. Those sent up formerly I was obliged to chase from tree to tree to prevent their lounging. COLONEL THOMAS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Tarrytown, August 6, 1776. May rr PLEASE your Excetuency: From the situation of the men-of-war and tenders, now opposite this place in Hudson’s River, think it my duty, as commanding officer here, to inform your Excellency of the advantageous situation of the ground here for placing some cannon to play upon the shipping whilst attacked by our galleys. ‘The cannon may be placed upon an eminence within near half a mile of the shipping; and if your Excellency should think the above plan expedient, an Engineer might be necessary to form a breastwork for three or four pieces of cannon, which I beg your Excellency in that case will order up, with the neces- sary apparatus and intrenching tools. I conceive shall be able to collect a sufficient number of men, with those already under my command here, to throw up a breastwork in a very short time in an evening after planned by an Engineer. Should your Excellency think this advisable, it may be necessary to order the Commodore of the galleys to post- pone an attack upon the shipping until a proper breastwork is thrown up, in case his orders should oblige an attack sooner. I don’t pretend to dictate to your Excellency, but only take the liberty of stating the above for your Excel- lency’s consideration, with which I would wish your Excel- lency’s indulgence. Captain Townsend, who brings this, will be able to inform you of the true state of the ground, from a view thereof. I shall wait orders; and am your Excellency’s most obe- dient humble servant , Tuomas THoMas. ULSTER COUNTY COMMITTEE TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. In Committee for the County of Ulster, New-Paltz, August 6,.1776. GentLemen: This day Mr. Colden made application to the Committee for his enlargement. 'The Committee, out of compassion to his son, Cadwalader, (who appears to be a decent young man,) consented to liberate him to the bounds of his own farm, on his giving sureties and obligation for £2,000 that he would not depart the same until he received full liberty from the honourable Convention of this State. This being done, he desired a copy of the Minutes of this Committee the time he was committed. ‘The Committee, thinking they were under no obligations to gratify Mr. Colden in this particular, informed him they would transmit a copy of them to the honourable Convention, which would answer the necessary purpose for him, which, gentlemen, this Com- mittee gives you preceding this, and beg leave to inform CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 792 the honourable Convention of the motives that influenced their conduct toward Mr. Colden, which he so loudly com- plains of as arbitrary and cruel. Some of the members of the Newburgh and New-Windsor Committees being present at the time Mr. Colden was tried and committed, did then inform this Committee that the reasons why they took notice of Mr. Colden (he being some distance without the bounds of their districts, although more contiguous to them than he is to the greater part of the Pre- cinct where he lives) were that the times grew very alarming; Tories were extremely impudent; a most infernal plot just discovered in New-York, which was supposed to extend to most parts of the Province; several persons in this country strongly suspected as being concerned therein, and some of them sent for to New-York. They further knew that orders had been issued by this Committee to every Precinet Com- mittee in this County for disarming all suspected persons, of whom they freely thought Mr. Colden one. After waiting some time, they perceived that the Committee of the Precinct of Hanover, in which Mr. Colden lives, took no notice of him, agreeable to the aforesaid order; from which they were induced to believe the common report to be too true, 2. e. that the Committee of the Precinct of Hanover were afraid to treat Mr. Colden as he deserved, for there was a general report in the country, which they believed could be fully proved, that, after Mr. Colden had signed the General Asso- ciation, he broke the same, by either giving or selling a book or books to a certain person in this County, which contained poisonous doctrines, directly opposite to the efforts which the United Colonies are making for the preservation of their invaded rights. This the aforesaid Committee passed over without doing anything material in it. They, considering these things, concluded themselves under obligations to act for the publick safety, being equally concerned in the con- sequences with their neighbours, whom they could not avoid thinking rather remiss in their duty in this particular, because nothing could be inferred or learned from Mr. Colden’s whole conduct that would serve for a sufficient reason why he might not be engaged in plots and conspiracies against the liberties of his country; for although Mr. Colden did sign the General Association, it is*evident he only meant it as a sanctuary for his person and property, never having acted in the smallest degree agreeable to the spirit of it, or in his heart bid it God speed. A few considerations will clearly demonstrate the truth of this. At the very juncture of time the Association made its appearance Mr. Colden was intently engaged in procuring subscribers to his favourite Protest, (a copy of which we here enclose the honourable Convention for their perusal,) which he alludes to in his letter directed to the Joint Committees of Ulster County, where he says: “I said that I had made no secret of my principles and opinions on these matters, while I thought they might in the least contribute to ward off those calamities I foresaw must attend the publick measures then adopted, and which is now too unhappily come to pass. ‘hat when I found I could do no good in that way, I had entirely avoided interfering in any shape in publick affairs.” And nothing appears as yet, either from Mr. Colden’s actions, words, or writing, by which it can be fairly construed that his political principles are one jot altered from what is expressed in the Protest, so that it will not re- quire a spirit of divination to disclose the principle on which Mr. Colden signed the Association. These gentlemen further informed this Committee that they considered this Protest as the evil seed sown in this County, from which the whole of the fruits of Toryism sprung; for, to their knowledge, upwards of sixty persons in the Precinct of Newburgh had subscribed it, numbers of whom indeed were rather to be ranked among the lower class of mankind, but appeared to be possessed of more common honesty than Mr. Colden, for, after they had signed the Protest, they stoutly defended their conduct, by refusing to sign the Association; which caused great expense and trouble to the good people of this County, every shilling of which is justly chargeable to Mr. Colden’s account, who retracted and left them in the lurch. Further, they conceived that the end and design of the Association was not to be a state of neutrality, (Mr. Colden freely con- fesses he had observed,) but a firm bond of union for mutual defence, which required activity; also an obligation to obey the rules and resolutions of the Congresses. How far Mr. Colden hath obeyed relative to the disposition of the Militia is easily known, by the enclosed depositions of Messrs. Pal- 793 mer and Logan, one broken gun in his house, which, (to use his own words,) “in these times, he did not think worth while to have it mended.” ' It would be trespassing on the time and patience of this honourable Convention to enumerate every minute circum- stance relative to this man’s conduct. Therefore, will only add, that, after considering the reasons given by the gentle- men of the Newburgh and New-Windsor Committees for dealing with Mr. Colden, this Committee was of opinion they did no more than what was right at this critical period. Also, that Mr. Colden appeared (all things considered) to be a person dangerous to the welfare of the United States of America, at this alarming crisis; therefore committed him to jail, and have since given him the privilege of his own farm, as before recited, until fully discharged by the honourable Convention of this State. We have the honour, gentlemen, to be, with the highest esteem, your most obedient, humble servants. By order of the Committee : Rosert Boyp, Jun., Chairman: To the Honourable the Representatives in Convention of the State of New-York. P. S. The honourable Convention will please to note the great difference between Mr. Colden’s representation of matters and the Minutes of the Committee.- Also this Com- mittee would inform the honourable Convention of the mo- tive that induced them to propose the addition Mr. Colden so much complains of, although no more in fact than what is contained in the Association. Mr, Colden being upwards of fifty years old, of course an exempt by the Militia laws, and found destitute of arms, the Committee was of opinion Mr. Colden should be somewhat explicit on that particular. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. German-Flats, August 6, 1776. Dear Sir: Your Excellency’s favour of the 31st of July I had the pleasure to receive this morning. I am well aware that every person in the Commissary- General’s department should strictly abide by and obey his orders; and that more than one head to any department must be introductory to confusion. ‘This sentiment I have strongly held up to Congress in some of my letters in the course of last campaign; and as soon as Mr. Trumbull arrived in the Northern Department, I conceived that he became the principal of the Commissary Department, and have accordingly always directed Mr. Livingston to obey his orders, in terms which, I trust, will do me honour as a soldier and a citizen, whose first wish is the the weal of the cause he is engaged in. Nor do I know of an instance in which Mr. Trumbull’s appointments have not been regarded. The case of Mr. Avery is surely not one; he was particu- larly appointed for Canada, soon after that country was put into a separate military department, and his appointment, therefore, did no more extend to this department than it did to South-Carolina. But as the Army was returned from Canada, and as more Commissaries were wanted than what were then employed, I made a temporary appointment of Mr. Avery to superintend the issues, for which business he was designed in Canada, as your Excellency will perceive by calling for the orders Mr. Trumbull gave him. Our emissaries amongst the Indians all agree that it would be extremely imprudent to request the Indians to take an active part with us, as they think it would effectually mili- tate the contrary way. ‘he conferences begin to-morrow. From their answer to our first speech, we shall, I hope, be able to discover their temper and intentions; and should we have a prospect of engaging them in our favour, we will improve it in the best manner we can. ‘Their number now here, including their women and children, is seventeen hun- dred and eighteen. As your Excellency conceives it will be proper, and even necessary, to request General Burgoyne to deliver the offi- cers who have slighted their paroles, and are now with him, I will write to General Gates, and desire him to send a flag for the purpose. I have sent to Salisbury Furnace to get swivels cast for the Navy. ‘The difficulty of procuring the articles neces- sary for the Navy are almost insuperable; persons are gone express to every quarter of the country, and some as far as CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 794 New-London, to purchase whatever can be got, but I still fear we shall fall short in many articles. In mine of the 24th, I pointed out the situation of Crown- Point, with respect to the distance from the southern and northern extremes of the Lake. It is evident that it cannot command an inch of country north of the fort further than cannon-shot will reach; and that if a General has a mind to land an army on any part of the banks of Lake Cham- plain north of Crown-Point, nothing but a superior naval force can prevent him—perhaps not even that. If, then, an attempt was made to penetrate into the New-England Colonies from any place between two miles beyond Crown- Point and the north end of the Lake, what will be the differ- ence in bringing our Army to oppose them? Why, fifteen miles, and no more, by land or by water, as we may choose to go; but I really have no idea of the possibility of an Army penetrating into the well-inhabited part of any of the New-England Colonies. If I commanded an army at Crown-Point, and was certain that, by removing it from thence, the enemy would undertake to march across the Green Mountains (for that is the only route when they are not suffered to go by the way of T%conderoga) into the New- England Colonies, [ would immediately remove the obsta- cle; nor would I attempt to follow them until they had got at least twenty-five miles from the Lake—conscious that if, indeed, they were not followed at all, and a body of light troops only sent to harass them on their arrival in the Green Mountains, very few would ever return, and none penetrate. General Arnold, with all his activity, with picked men, with a small body, suffered greatly before he got a hundred miles from his batteaus. What would an army, so numer- ous as to be capable of effecting anything of consequence if they did penetrate, suffer in such a march, and through mountains hardly passable for a carriage with the best of drivers and a good team? How an army at Crown-Point could prevent savages from penetrating into the country east of Lake Champlain, I cannot possibly conceive. Can an army at New-York prevent a man going into a batteau at New-London, crossing the Sound to the east end of Long- Island, or to any other part of it between New-York and the east end, landing there, crossing the Island, and com- mitting a depredation on the south side? Surely not; and yet the case is nearly similar, and would be quite so, if the north side of Long-Island was as thinly inhabited as the east shore of Lake Champlain. Enclose you an extract of a letter dated the 4th instant, from Captain Varick, my Secretary at Albany. You will perceive what difficulties we have to encounter for want of mogey. I can easily foresee, that unless a supply is soon sent, it will be impossible to keep the Army where it is; for without carriages, it cannot be supplied, and your Excel- lency is informed how many are daily wanted for provisions only, when a full number of batteaus are employed, and carriages can no longer be procured without money. Since your Excellency’s arrival in New-York, I have not written to Congress on military affairs, otherwise than in answer to letters received from them, (in some of these, I have urged the necessity of a supply of cash,) supposing that whatever information I might give, and which might be necessary for Congress to know, would be, as I doubt not it has been, communicated to them. I am informed that a Council of Officers, convened at New- York, (whether of their own accord or by your Excellency’s order I am not advised,) had decided that the Council of General Officers lately held at Crown-Point had acted reprehensibly. In justice to myself and the other General Officers who composed that Council, I cannot pass by this extraordinary mode of proceeding without animadverting on it; for although I should grant that every officer that com- posed the Council at New-York had the most perfect know- ledge of the country, that they were separately endowed with abilities vastly superior to those of the Generals in this quar- ter taken in the aggregate, yet to assume a power of cen- suring us, even if we were their inferiors in rank, if convened as a court-martial, for the purpose of trying us, without hear- ing what we could say in support of our decision, is so inju- rious, so unjust, so extra-judicial, that [ have not the least doubt but that every man of candour will join us in depre- cating the outrage. For although every individual in the community has a right to give his opinion on the conduct of the servants of the publick, and although a superior officer 795 has a right, nay, ought to direct a change of measures when he believes those adopted will be attended with dangerous consequences, and although a council may give their opinion on the propriety or impropriety of a measure referred to them for consideration, yet the superior officer, in directing a change of measures, or a council in deciding that a measure was improper, ought not to convey an idea which supposes guilt until guilt is proved, and not even then, unless dey had been constituted a tribunal for the purpose of deciding on the guilt or innocence of the party to be tried, and that the party supposed guilty had had an opportunity given him of being heard in his own defence. This we have not had, and yet our conduct is said to be reprehensible. I feel my- self so deeply chagrined at this conduct, that if my informa- tion is true, (which your Excellency can determine, and which I entreat you to do the soonest possible,) I cannot, consistent with my honour, remain in the Army, unless the Council at New-York are censured for the assertion by Con- gress or by your Excellency, or unless, conscious of the im- propriety of their conduct towards us, they make a candid and full acknowledgment thereof. And permit me to beg you to lay a copy of this letter, with copy of mine of the 24th, before Congress, that they may see on what I founded my opinion for the removal of the Army to Ticonderoga, and what idea I have of the injury the General Officers who composed the Council at Crown-Point have sustained. The account of General Lee’s success reached us a few days ago, as also that of the captures to the eastward. May we soon hear that the enemy meets with other checks so decisive as to cause them to forbear any further attempts this campaign. It has several times been reported by the Indzans, that part of Burgoyne’s Army, jomed by a body of Indians, will attempt to penetrate by the way of Oswego. Should this information be true, as I believe it to be, a greater force will be necessary in this quarter. I think it will be prudent to post Colonel Nicolson’s regiment, which consists, by his own account, of about one hundred and fifty privates, on some part of the Mohawk River ; but if time will permit, I shall wait your Excellency’s order before I make this movement. I am, dear sir, most respectfully, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHUYLER. To His Excellency General Washington, &c., &c. Extract of a Letter from Captain Varicx to General Scnuyier, dated ABany, August 4, 1776. The wagoners will not ride, unless they can have prompt payment. It is shameful that publick officers are obliged to give their notes for money on interest to carry on the ser- vice. A number of wagoners had come down to this place this morning to carry sutlers’ stores. I applied to Colonel Van Schaick for his order to prohibit sutlers’ stores going up without his pass, which | begged him not to give. But the wagoners would sooner return home than ride for the publick. They say the publick is largely indebted to them, and they can get no money. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, August 6, 1776. Dear Generau: We have sent off so many gondolas, and there are none of the oars returned, that we are left almost destitute; and we shall be very much troubled to furnish the boats to forward the troops as they shall arrive; and should be glad your Honour would order some by the return of this boat. I herewith send your Honour a few pounds of butter, which is all I could procure at present. I should be glad to be informed whether I am to forward the Hampshire troops to Ticonderoga, or employ them here to the best advantage. A considerable number arrived last evening, but have not had their returns yet. Our galleys go on extremely fast, but fear we shall have to wait for iron and other articles. I am, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, Davin Watersory, Jun. GENERAL GATES TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Tyonderoga, August 6, 1776. Sir: In this packet, I have the honour to send you the proceedings of the General Court-Martial, held for the trial of Colonel Bedel and Major Butterfield. Immediately CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 796 upon the President’s delivering the proceedings into my hands, I ordered the sentences to be inserted in the General Orders, and hope the disgraceful example made of the offen- ders will deter others from committing so flagrant a crime. Perhaps a little more severity in the Court-Martial would have effected this in a stronger manner; but severity is not the characteristick of our military courts, any more than it is of our military law. I have at last been able to send you something like a general return of this Army. It is also accompanied by the particular return of each corps. These, though as cor- rect as our present circumstances will admit, are not so exactly so as I wish to have them, nor as I am resolved in future to have them; but time works wonders. Gen- eral Waterbury’s return from Skenesborough is also in the packet. I am daily informed of the Militia that crowd the roads, coming from the eastward. When I have a proper authority to say they are arrived, then I shall imme- diately declare it. You will likewise find in the packet a pretty correct return of the ordnance and military stores at this post. As, for want of store-room, we are obliged to place things much confounded, and stores for different purposes and services too much intermixed, it renders it impossible, as yet, to give Congress so distinct an idea of the ordnance branch as I am earnest they should know. Some proper officer ought, without delay, to go and take an exact account of all the New-York reciments. Iam confident, when that affair is properly examined, they will be found scandalously deficient. Regiments should not, without the most urgent necessity, be scattered and broken in bits, as some of those are. ‘The service of the United States demands it, only in a few instances. When that is unavoidably the case, the duty should be done by detach- ment. As far as Il can command it, the error shall be corrected. Enclosed, you will find a list of the fleet upon the Lake, I mean what is actually equipped and sailed for Crown- Point. I hope it will soon be powerfully increased. Four row-galleys and as many gondolas will, I am assured, be added to it in a fortnight. Cannon, rigging, and powder, are, as things stand, more likely to be in request than the vessels to be armed; but General Schuyler wrote long since to New-York, to demand what was wanted, and sent a par- ticular account of the whole. Perhaps it is so busy a time there, it prevents our affairs being attended to. Messrs. Cuyler and Gansevoort have been here some days, deputed by the Congress of the State of New-York to examine our real circumstances, and know our wants. They are fully informed of both; and, no doubt, what that Congress can- not supply, yours will be loudly called upon to furnish. The whole of the field artillery, with all the attirail, being lost in Canada, it is necessary it should be replaced in the best manner possible. Six six-pounders, six twelve, | four eight-inch howitzers, and six cohorn mortars, all brass, should be provided for the Army in this department. Shells for the mortars may be had here and at New-York. There are eight-inch shells here sufficient for the howitzers of that caliber. This Army cannot advance again into Canada without a field train; and I hope our good fortune will one day return. An army should in no circumstance be left without field artillery. When you order the above to be provided, carriages, and everything to complete them, must be provided also. In a week, our fleet will, I am told, be in a condition to make sail down the Lake. General Arnold proposes to post them so as to command some narrow pass, opening into a broad part of the Lake, either near the Spht Rock, or Isle-au-Motte ; but of this you will, in time, be particularly informed. Brigadier-General Baron de Woedtke died at Lake George the beginning of last week. He was buried with the hon- ours due to his rank. Enclosed is the examination of two Canadians, Captains in Colonel Livingston’s regiment, sent here by the Commit- tee of Safety of Newbury, (Cohos.) It may be true; the men seem sincere, and are well known to many officers in this camp. I shall send immediately for the four German deserters at Metcalf’s. The flag of truce sent from hence fourteen days ago by Major Bigelow, has not yet returned. As the reason for his delay can only be founded upon conjecture, I leave the Congress to make theirs. 797 The Militia begin to come up. This moment, about six hundred are arrived from New-Hampshire. I am told a large body will be at Skenesborough this week. Colonel Woodbridge, Lieutenant-Colonel Leonard, and Major Stacy, all from the County of Hampshire, in Massachusetts, left their regiment upon the march, and went home to be ino- culated. An example so shameful in officers of their rank must be taken notice of. I shall bring them to a Court- Martial the instant they arrive in camp. I have added to the packet a plan of the very important post at present occupied by this Army. ‘The works are laid down in it so as to give Congress a general idea of the situa- tion of this Army. Our fleet flourishes amazingly; and by letters this moment received from General Schuyler, I find we shall be very speedily supplied with everything demanded for the rigging, arming, and fitting of the whole for action. I beg, sir, you will assure Congress, that the utmost har- mony prevails between the General Officers in this depart- ment, and that unanimity and good fellowship are taking place with the troops of different States. When the upper officers in an army are industrious to promote friendship, and by their example discountenance and discourage all illiberal animosity, there is no danger can happen from foolish dissensions. With the greatest respect, I request you believe me, dear sir, your much obliged and most faithful humble servant, Horatio Gates. To the Hon. John Hancock. Extract of a Letter from General Warersury, dated SKENESBOROUGH, August 6, 1776. You desired to know of me the names of those who had been inoculated. They are as follows, viz: Colonel Joshua Wingate, Chaplain Porter and Doctor Wigglesworth. The above gentlemen were inoculated at Number-Four last Satur- day se’nnight. Captain Wethersby’s company were quar- tered at Number-Four, and, as I am informed, were to march for this place directly after coming out of the Hospital last Saturday. The names of the three Field-Officers from Massachusetts that were inoculated, I am not able to give. N. B. The Colonel from Massachusetts is Woodbridge, who served at Cambridge, with so much credit the last cam- paign. General Waterbury has sent orders to Captain Wethersbee not to march on any account till he has particular orders. To Major-General Gates. List of Continental Armed Vessels on Lake Cuamp.ain, August 5, 1776. er eee = S |S NAMES OF VESSELS AND (5| & ([é/|5 CAPTAINS. SS Sl] RS) R S| eS s A e!4 Schooner Royal Savage... Wynkoop.|12 4-Ibs.}10} 50) ) Sloop Enterprise........Dickson.../12 4-lbs.|10} 50, \ Sailed. h ee = ae 4 4-lbs Schooner Revenge Seaman...| 8 4 2-Ibs {20} 35) J Schooner Liberty....... Primmer.| 8 33 tlie 8! 35 Almost rigged. e aw lDS Gondola New-Haven....Mansfield,| 3) : ate 8) 45 | Gondola Providence. ....Simmons.| 3) 9-lbs.| 8) 45) ¢ Sailed. Gondola Boston.........Sumner..| 3 i i Aa 8} 45 j ; -lbs Gondola Spitfire........ Ulmer...| 3 9-lbs.| 8) 45 Almost rigged. A Gondola not rigged, A Spanish-built Row-Galley not rigged. Tothlss. sy eee ne rere 5 {70l350 Newbury, Cohos, July 29, 1776. Sir: We had the honour to write you a few days ago by one Monsieur Traverse, a Frenchman from the Parish of St. Frangois, who came this way for protection and a safe conduct to the Army, whom we forwarded along under the care of Mr, Witherspoon, with a guard of four men, via Onion River ; and now trouble you again by the bearers, four Canadian officers of Colonel James Livingston’s regi- ment, as mentioned in Mr. Metcalf’s letter they brought us, copy of which you have enclosed, and to which beg to refer CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 798 for particulars. The purport or true intent of this letter; you will be better able to judge of than we are, being stran- gers to Mr, Metcalf. We trust the Frenchmen will prove to be honest men, as they appear to us by their story, and hope their information of affairs in Canada may be of pub- lick service. We have accordingly showed them all civility in our power, as we shall any others that may come into our part of the country, friends to the American cause, not doubting of your approbation. And, with great respect, remain, sir, your most obedient, humble servants, Jacos Baytey, James Bayuey, Chairmen of the Committees of Newbury and Haverhill. To the Hon. General Gates, or the Commander-in-Chief at Crown-Point. P. 5S. Names of these Frenchmen, viz: Messrs, Loseau, Allin, Basadé, Menarere. We intrust this letter to the care of Mr. S. Atkinson, who engages to see those men along to Head-Quarters; and as he will return directly here, shall be glad of a few lines for our further direction, should any more Frenchmen come across the country. Copy of a Letter from Mr. 8. Mercatr to Colonel Jacos Bayxey, dated PrartspureH, July 21, 1776. Dear Sir: [ am sorry I had not the pleasure of seeing Mr. Witherspoon. 1 make no doubt but you know or have heard of a set of sad dogs that have settled at Onion River, where I imprudently went to purchase some cows, a pair of oxen, and some seed wheat, during which the news of the Army’s leaving St. John’s unexpectedly arrived, which put the whole settlement in a violent commotion. They all determined to abandon the settlement immediately, and took me prisoner, and conveyed me to Crown-Point, after robbing me of my cows, oxen, money, boats, &c., &c., together with my people; but as they could prove no crime against me, I was immediately released. But the rascals made off with all my effects to the amount of upwards of two hundred and what they did with my people, I could never yet learn. My apprentice, Thomas Thompson, went to York and Philadelphia six weeks ago on my business, and has orders to return by Cohos with a quantity of horned cattle and sheep; and as the boy is a stranger in your country, I hope you will be so kind as to assist him, and forward him on his way. I did imagine you would have been out with the road here before this. The bearers hereof are four Canadian officers, late of Colonel James Livingston's regiment, who inform me that the forces in Canada are no ways equal to what they were at first reported, and that General Carleton has miscarried in the plan he had laid to make himself master of this Lake, by drawing three vessels, which had been previously built for the purpose, over land, past the Rapids of Chambly, they being entirely broken to pieces in the attempt, and now totally abandoned; so that General Sudlivan will undoubtedly remain master of this country for this season at least; he having fortified, with an intrenchment and cannon, Point-au- Fer, on the north end of the Lake, where stands a brick house commonly called the White-House. This is a very advan- tageous situation, as it commands the navigation towards St. John’s, and is formed into a kind of an Island by a deep morass that runs behind it from one bay to the other. I having no boat to assist these people with who are on their way to Albany, they were constrained to go this road; and as they speak very little English, you had better give them a pass to Albany. I am desirous of having my boy home, that should you hear of him below, please to write or send him word to return with all possible expedition with the cattle. I am, dear sir, your friend and obedient humble servant, S. Mercatr. > The following particulars were collected from the verbal examination and the conversation of two Canadian Captains (Captain L’ Oiseau and Captain lain) of Colonel James Livingston’s Regiment of Canadians, who, having fled from the neighbourhood of St. John’s, arrived on Sunday morning at Tyonderoga, and, after having been examined by Major-General Gates, were sent to Albany. The enemy did not fortify any of the places we aban- doned ; but they cut a new road, or repaired the old, from 799 Isle-aux-Noix to Chambly. They had two thousand Germans at Isle-aux-Noix, under General Frazer; the like number at St. John’s, under Governour Carleton; and likewise at Montreal, under the command of a General, whose name the Canadian officers did not know, but we suppose it was Burgoyne. No more than two hundred and fifty men were left at Quebeck. No English national regiment had arrived; but it was reported that four thousand English troops, who were intended as a part of that Army, had perished at sea, or fallen into the hands of the American privateers, which gave inexpressible uneasiness to Governour Carleton. ‘The English fleet brought over from Europe, timber, &c., for no more than fifty boats, which they attempted to transport by land, from the mouth of the river Sorel to St. John’s; but the carriages employed on that service having been ruined, Carleton employed Canadians in building others at St. John’s, on the plan of our batteaus. ‘That Governour has, very luckily for us, rendered himself odious to the ‘Tory Canadians themselves, by exacting fifty head of cattle from every Parish, for the payment of which his Commissaries or other agents gave to the owners notes payable to the bearer. He exhibited to his Army a diversion which may cost his master very dear, as it awoke the sensibility of the Cana- dians, without the least necessity. ‘The Militia officers who had served under the Congress were forced to burn their commissions, to the very minutest particle—an operation which, as was expected by the beholders, singed the fingers of such of the criminals who were not very dexterous in dis- appointing that most humane General. ‘The officers who have accepted commissions in the corps raised under the sanction of the Congress underwent the same punishment; but immediately after this farcical execution, were confined on board men-of-war, to be carried to the West-Indies; and his Excellency confiscated the estates of all the Canadians who followed our Army, or who remain concealed in the country. The Indians have refused to fight against the United States. Great numbers of the Germans desert daily, and are very zealously secreted by the inhabitants. Seventy Brunswickers made off together, four of whom are at Mr. Metcalf’s, about twenty miles this side of St. John’s. Their officers are so afraid of bushfight and ambushes, that they durst not head any party to pursue the runaways; but then, the common soldiers being checked by the same fears, deserters were but few to what it might have been, could our fleet have cruised on the Lake, and afforded them protection. Between the 22d and 24th ultimo, Carleton and the other Generals abandoned all their posts on this side of the river Sorel, St. John’s excepted, with the same precipitation that we did. They carried with them their artillery and provi- sions, without paying the inhabitants for the last article. It was reported that this unexpected motion was occasioned by the arrival and mysterious manceuvres of a fleet at Que- beck, supposed to consist of French ships, which now and then puzzled the garrison, by hoisting different flags, and fired at tenders sent from the town to know who were those guests. Two hundred men have been left at the Isle-aux-Noix, to send early intelligence of our operations ; and if we return to Canada, which all the inhabitants seem to wish most devoutly, that garrison will immediately pro- ceed down the river. The Canadian officers who delivered this intelligence last Sunday, the 4th instant, are men of good characters, and well known to several of our principal offi- cers. They likewise say, that some time ago, Carleton, having heard that we were returning with a considerable reinforcement, was so terrified, that he would immediately have retired, had he not been informed by his spies of the deplorable condition to which the small-pox had reduced our Army. The names of the two Canadian Captains are Allain and L’ Oiseau, who, with Captain Mesnard of the same regiment, fled from those parts at the same time. Captain Mesnard is hourly expected to arrive at this camp, where he is held in great estimation. August 7, 1776.—Captain Mesnard arrived yesterday. Says he left Chambly the 14th ultimo, and, on the evening of that day, met with L’ Oiseau and Allain, who told him they had left their homes about eight days before, and, as they were retiring from Canada, proposed to travel in company to the American Army, which was unanimously consented to. Captain Mesnard says there were about four thousand men at Chambly, St. John’s, and on the Sorel, all English ; and CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 800 that the Germans were quartered at La Prairie and Mon- treal, one of whom had deserted, and was harboured in a house near the place, where he (Mesnard) met L’ Oiseau. Told him that sixty of his comrades had deserted together on the same day. ‘That deserter proceeded with them as far as Mr. Metcalf’s, where they left him, he being over-fatigued. There was no other deserter at Metcalf’s. The English Generals ordered artillery to be transported to and from St. John’s, Chambly, &c. Mesnard confirms what L’ Oiseau says respecting the commissions given to the Canadians under the authority of the Congress, and every other par- ticular which is not contradicted by this examination of Mesnard, and therefore now omitted. GENERAL ORDERS. Head Quarters, July 30, 1776. (Countersign, Ooventry.) The General is exceedingly astonished and concerned to find such a supineness and indolence prevailing in the three Brigades stationed upon Mount Independence, as if it was a time of profound peace, and no enemy to contend with. He is therefore obliged to represent to Brigadier- General Arnold, to the Colonels commanding Brigades, and to every Commanding Officer ofa Regiment belonging to those Brigades, how necessary it is, in the present emergency, for them, by their authority and example, to-inspire all under them with a spirit of emulation in forwarding the works, clearing the ground, and preparing to receive the enemy. The Troops upon the Mount should be convinced, by their last year’s campaign at Cambridge, of the utility of good works. ‘The General trusts they will lose no time in raising them. Colonel Baldwin will this day acquaint the Com- manding Officer of each Brigade with the work expected to be done by that Brigade; and the General is confident a spirit of emulation will animate each Brigade to finish the task assigned them. The Commissary having just received a supply of 1,008 pairs of shoes, 177 pairs of moccasins, and 454 shirts, they are ready to be delivered to the order of the Commanding Officers of Corps, in the following proportion, they being exactly calculated according to the number fit for duty reckoned by each Corps: First Brigade— (Parole, Winchester.) Shoes. Moc. Shirts. Shoes. Moc. Shirts. GYreatony Sic aisielecietatsatellerisincsisis Biein5 cil) (BOnd ?airereisiniestete eieletia oreieteistotare’s Dilietel WereeeO Burrellesccsietewieis aslo esntereiores D5 Sesame Portenssiiasicwiectecrc cetsic crete elon: DilipesLUewieG Total first Brigade. ....scssces eee ata 197...35..-90 Second Brigade— tars jc cyeteteioc (co sisttoletectevsle eters > BPE Awelieacn YI SVVINNB’Scs ele crssie ole loloeietalee's llare Gite ase OU Maxwellidiciicwiechecirateieaeinisters 59 Seed dere di POOLS teueteec eee esesie erainietteteleiotate (Mages Oas) Total second Brigade. ......csccccssesce » -230...42..106 Third Brigade— Reedisteers wtslereeds excels stele wore sielsipdUeveete GeremiL ay Patterson’ s:crte seve sfoceieeheves siareieve Hie Big Ce ces Wrynkoop’s..ccceecesseevces 30... 0.2.16 Bedeél’sveet cvte ove ence sist ve elenete Romo venice if Total third Brigade ....000.0.0s00 veo eee 01 48...26...79 Fow'th Brigade— SU WCISIT Wscstcctes cleiersien ieee sce Lorre, De Hlaasiseeste stectanivests sere Sleeps igen) Way Nese lee leicl oats siecle e sloleristels M23 eee Late Irvine?sek sats: ia eles efo e'eleelees LOR elite 42 otal fourth (Brigade. 2. ics. + ose cece ssn cne SHB Io elie ol Lars ATUMCE Ys sui vince oes a sce sera sc ete cecisenias chance sys 40....8...16 EL Otaluirs SMS Vie fas nis SiS ialale Colonel Batiersoniascjinie culoeeteenenne «4 73 | 26 8} - 39 Coloneiburreliisueceressits cost t. 164 | 69 8 2 85 ColonePBond'svecmectcetcre cle 116 | 31 Be he 82 ATUIMEr yee tercrtotererastecetete te teats sehr ere he 56 | 24] - : 32 Colonel: De Elaasias Cost...) a iccevy oats te 118 | 22 1 95 Colonel Bedel’s ...... COSC Ser ee 21 Tein - 950 Colonel Reed's. ca 0 «ecatieee ut ee 127 | 40 BM ce 84 Colonel, Maxwellian issn cee: Le OSH on lie 84 Colonel. Porter’sivi cae sein acta cat ates 13 Jee FP as a ee 47 Colonel Greatonia’.5. ceed. ree tee oe ASN 1S jer= - 28 Colonelswinds's* cones. ce ete ee eee ee 129 | 35 5] - 89 @olone); Stark’s\ <3). ssisiee teheceteetnc ee. 105 CHE ja 96 SBtLGAUMIEN ¢« eis: o = wic.ciayesioie siento GAC Oy = - - p. INTEINCETS sc o'c 0 sso oo cde oc ort ee TTT 12) - - - 12 Colonel Van Schaick’s.. ¢ 0... 0s sde coe: LIS PSS! 1 rorlr 53 Molonelaw ynkoop a. .<\.'> «ads seldarmen 18 ee es * 11 OCIOMGL NV BURG Ho as. Selcic'v« c's ave ne eivadis 6 4] = = 9 Colonel Van Dyke’s aveleet apse atatele wetiints 4 ie = an Poloneleses.Clanis-s esas eis's s see nneen 83 | 13 6 lh 64 Colometalrvaine sited. ccc :«,sc0 v's. aoa sears oe 31 2 ut 1 Q7 CMONOME DOL Reema cass tes. « os ole ese ete 49 | - - - 49 1497 |439 | 51 | 3 {1004 Mens for INUrsedac teste ines ove wcce ace Wh eck ceca! 106 FL GUAL Mais cee tcl eale eT Tees. oc ads See ee a ae 1110 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 858 GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL GATES. Lebanon, August 8, 1776. Sir: Captain Thacher came to me last evening, and showed me his orders. I apprehend the companies ordered to be raised are not filled. Those who are inlisted are marched. I sent out Circular Letters to the Civil Authority, Select- men, Committees of Inspection, and all military officers in the respective towns in this State, to promote and facilitate further inlistments to complete the companies. It will be needful that officers to recruit be here till they find what can be done. The hurry of harvest will be soon over, and trust men will engage for the service. The infection from the small-pox hath been matter of discouragement. It seemed to be removed in good meas- ure on Major Ely’s return. By the practice that is now carrying on by some companies from the Massachusetts and carpenters from Providence, in stopping on the way to inocu- late, I fear a new spread of that infection. Men who have taken it by inoculation can’t be fit for service and fatigue in less than three or four months. They are relaxed, liable to colds, &c.; so that it will be more for the benefit of the Army to have them return back than to join it; yea, they ought to meet some mark of displeasure. 1 wish this may be attended to. I have sent forward felling-axes, which hope are come to hand. Shall send clothing soon, and same route. The matter of Chaplain, I supposed you would advise Colonel Swift of your intentions. Had heard of no mistake on that head till now; have enclosed a blank warrant, to be used as there may be occasion, and prevent uneasiness. No attention of mine shall be wanting to promote the service in your department. Regular returns will be necessary to show your numbers and condition. Shall send a post soon to Skenesborough and Ticonderoga by him. Shall expect all needful intelligence. I am, with esteem and regard, sir, your obedient, humble servant Jona. TRUMBULL. To the Hon. Brigadier-General Waterbury. ANDREW WARD, JUN., TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Guilford, August 8, 1776. Honourep Sir: On receiving your Circular Letter yes- terday afternoon, the Authority, Selectmen, Committee of Inspection, and Militia officers, immediately met, to consult what they could do more than they had already done towards promoting further inlistments, and were of opinion that there were but two methods which would effect their purpose: one by a subscription of money in addition to their premium; the other, if thirty or forty men would appear to join Captain Meigs’s company for a short term of three or four months, on the encouragement the State had offered to others in the same regiment. I told them I did not know but that would procure the men, But Captain Meigs’s orders were to inlist for one or two years; and whether it would be ap- proved of by Governour Trumbull or Congress I know not. They desired I would request your Honour (if you thought it worth taking notice of) to give them your opinion. They further proposed the inlisting an Independent company, to go and join and do duty in any regiment thought best, as matters seemed so pressing at this critical tme. They are warm in the glorious cause of liberty and their country, and will do everything in their power in compliance with your requisition. [ am, with the greatest respect, your Honour’s most obe- i serva dient, humble servant, ANBREW Winn, Jun, To Governour Trumbull. THOMAS MUMFORD TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Groton, August 8, 1776. Honourasce Sir: As one of the Selectmen and Civil Authority of this town, yours of the Ist instant was delivered to me, requesting our influence and exertion in forwarding the inlisting of the troops lately ordered by this Colony. I have shown it to such of the Authority and Selectmen as [ have seen, a number of whom desired I would inform your Honour what methods we had previously taken to encourage and forward the raising said troops. I therefore take the liberty to inform you that a number of us advanced: to the amount of fifteen dollars to each volun- 859 teer that would immediately inlist, besides which, I engaged myself to supply the families of any such needy volunteers with provisions during their absence; and if, when they returned, they were unable to pay, I would freely give what [had so advanced. ‘This is all the encouragement we could think of offering. The number that have inlisted into our fort, and what have gone otherwise into the service, has left us very bare of men. Scarce any are to be hired now for common neces- sary service. I am, with great esteem and respect, your Honour’s most obedient and very humble servant, Tuos. Mumrorp. To the Hon. Jona. Trumbull, Esq. TOWN OF WOODSTOCK TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Woodstock, August 8, 1776. Honovurep Sir: We take the earliest opportunity to in- form your Honour, that in compliance with your Honour’s requisition, in your letter of the Ist instant, we immediately, on receipt thereof, convened together; and having examined the state of our standing Militia, and the numbers gone forth from this town into the publick service, we find that seventy men have inlisted in and are gone from this town into the publick service since the last act of Assembly for raising troops for the three departments, viz: Canada, New- York, and Boston; which is near one-half the Militia in this town, as will appear to your Honour by your inspecting the return lately made to you of the Militia in the Colony, which is a much greater number than our proportion. But, notwith- standing our exertions have already exceeded our proportion, we are still ready, and ever shall be, to do everything in our power to advantage the publick cause at this critical day, as to forwarding inlistments, and every other way; and can assure your Honour that we ever shall be ready to cooperate with your Honour in promoting and encouraging any matter which you shall recommend for the defence of our cause, which your Honour so justly styles the ‘all-important cause;’’ and are, with the utmost respect and esteem, your Honour’s most obedient and very humble servants. Per order of the Civil Authority, Selectmen, Committee of Inspection, and Military Officers of the Town of Wood- stock, Craries Cuurcu CHANDLER. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. WILLIAM WATSON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Plymouth, August 8, 1776. Sir: Captain Martindale, the bearer of this, will inform your Excellency that he, when he was about to sail in the Continental armed brigantine the Washington, was ob- liged to draw on the Agent for sundry articles in the clothing way, (for the use of his people, who were almost naked, and without which they could not go to sea,) amounting to £80, lawful money; which were delivered, and by Captain Mar- tindale charged to such persons as received them. Captain Martindale had taken from him his books and all the papers which related to this matter, and cannot tell to whom, or in what proportion, the said goods were delivered. I have conducted as Agent with integrity, and with a view to the publick good, and flatter myself that my services have been approved, and that your Excellency will not let me suffer by this unexpected event, and that your Excel- lency will please to direct in what manner I shall be reim- bursed. I am, with great respect, your Excellency’s most obedient, uch obliced humble servant Lai an ae , Wivuram Warson, To His Excellency George Washington, Esq. RICHARD DERBY, JUN., TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Watertown, Council Chamber, August 8, 1776. Sir: We are informed that Major-General Ward, having leave from Congress, designs in a few days to retire from his military department. ‘The troops at the lines in and about Boston will therefore soon be destitute of any General Officer. Such an officer is absolutely necessary to take the command of these troops, to. give the necessary orders for “CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 860 their pay and subsistence, as well as their being supplied with what ammunition they stand in need of, and also from time to time to make to the Congress the necessary returns of the state of the Continental Army in these parts. We thought it necessary to acquaint the Congress with this matter, that a General Officer may be directed to take the command of the troops here as soon as possible. In the name and by order of the Committee of Council, I am, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Ricuarp Dersy, Jun., Chairman. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. In Committee of Safety, New-Hampshire, Exeter, August 8, 1776. Sir: Having been encouraged by your honourable House of Representatives to expect the loan of a few large cannon to defend the extensive works at the entrance of our har- bour, (which we cannot possibly obtain elsewhere,) if upon examination you could possibly spare them, we have directed Pierce Long, Esq., one of our body, to wait on you, and if you can do us so great a favour as to part with them, it will be esteemed a very particular kindness to the Colony; in ° whose behalf, as well as this Committee, I subscribe myself your humble servant, Mesnecu Weare, Chairman. To the Chairman of the Committee of War in the Massa- chusetts-Bay. ETHAN ALLEN TO CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY. Halifax, Nova-Scotia, August 8, 1776. Gentuiemen: I have been prohibited from writing to friends during the course of my imprisonment, but hope these lines may find a channel to reach you. If they fall into the enemy’s hand, it can do me no harm, as I ever have talked the same language to the King’s officers. ‘The fear of retaliation has been the sole cause of preserving me from an ignominious death. I have suffered everything short of it. Imagination is insufficient to paint the evils, nor shall [here attempt it. ‘The heavy leg irons and handcuffs so be- numbed my limbs that I expected to have lost their use; but on the 8th of January last, having been released of them, I have recovered my health and suppleness. of limbs, and ardently desire to be with you, as I am fired with adequate in- dignation to revenge both my own and my country’s wrongs. 1 am experimentally certain I have fortitude sufficient to face the invaders of America in the place of danger spread with all the horrors of war. Jam apprehensive that Gov- ernour Tryon and sundry of my old land-jobbing combatants from New-York, exercise their influence to detain me a prisoner, hoping a conquest of America may in future put it into the power of the English Government to proceed against me as a criminal for taking the fortresses on Lake Champlain. You are sensible my confidence in presuming upon those achievements was predicated on the good faith of Connecticut. I have never repented that I did it; and inasmuch as this is the Colony in which I received my first breath, and in which most of my acquaintance and connex- ions are, have addressed these lines to your Honours, and further assure you, provided you can hit upon some mea- sures to procure my liberty, I will appropriate my remaining days, and freely hazard my life, in the service of the Colony and in maintaining the American empire. I thought to have enrolled my name in the list of illustrious American heroes, but was nipped in the bud. News has been kept as close as possible from me. I have nothing more to inform than that the King’s officers express less assurance of the conquest of America than they did some time ago. I have great confidence in the unity, bravery and strength of the Colonies, as everything worth living for is apparently at stake. Never had any people upon earth greater induce- ment to fight, and play the man. You cannot—nay, you must not, give over the cause, though you have to wade through seas of blood. The 5th instant I was landed, and the prisoners that have been with me, and put into the common jail in Halifax. We have the liberty of the yard in the daytime. In this prison I found the wise and patriotick Mr. James Lovell, from Boston, who has greatly contributed to conversable S61 happiness, and supplied me with the comforts of life. Tam out of money, but am well supplied with clothes—a present from some gentleman in Ireland. I know nothing how long my confinement may continue, but if money could be com- municated to me, it would put me out of the sovereignty of imperious officers. I cannot reconcile it to my feelings that the King’s officers taken in America are treated as gentle- men, while I have but little, and, great part of the time, no distinction made between me and illiterate private persons. My compliments to my family and brethren, whom I have not heard from since I was taken, and to all my friends in America. I subscribe myself your Honours’ humble servant, Eruan ALLEN. To the Honourable the General Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut, or to the worthy Council of War, for that Colony. EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN LONDON FROM ‘HIS CORRESPONDENT AT THE HAGUE, DATED AUGUST 9; 1776. The differences between Spain and Portugal become daily of more importance; and we now plainly see that the war between Great Britain and America has a great influ- ence over the above affairs. It is true that the Court of France pretends to be peaceably inclined; the Court of Spain pretends to be of the same inclination; but the whole Spanish nation (most undoubtedly led on by the nobles and grandees) all cry out fora war, insinuating that whilst Great Britain is so deeply engaged in a civil war, it will be impos- sible for her to defend Portugal. The whole Continent of America must then take part with the Spaniards; so that at any rate success is almost sure. The British Minister at Madrid openly declared that his Britannick Majesty would not leave his allies on account of the present civil war, Mi- norca and Gbraltar being well fortified, and battles by land and sea should be fought for the Portuguese, in case Spain insisted upon a war. By the last advices from Madrid, dated the 11th ultimo, they were rather apprehensive that it would end in an open war. According to these advices, an army of forty thousand men were ordered to march towards the Portuguese territo- ries, commanded by Count Aranda, the Duke of Gaillon, and Don Pedro Cevallos ; and that the Portuguese Minister was just preparing to return to Lisbon when these advices came away. About ten thousand men were ordered to embark for Buenos-Ayres, notwithstanding it being almost too late in the season for that undertaking; nay, the intelli- gence from that quarter concerning the insolent behaviour of the Portuguese, is very alarming. On the other hand, we are astonished to find the obstinacy of the Court of Lis- bon. In short, we may assert that several Courts of Europe are concerned in the affair; and though this dispute may appear trifling to many, yet it is the very beginning of a general war, in which many mighty empires may fall, and little ones grow opulent and powerful. TO THE PRINTER OF THE PUBLICK LEDGER. London, August 9, 1776. Sir: The arrival of Mr. St. Paul from the Court of Versailles was unexpected at this critical juncture. You may assure the publick that he is charged with despatches from Lord Stormont, the delivery of which will much em- barrass Administration. Mr. St. Paul is a man of vigilance. He possesses that kind of penetration which renders it a very difficult matter to deceive him. During the absence of Lord Stormont he watched the motions of the Court of France with such suc- cess, that he traced the duplicity of that Court through all its different windings. He perceived that France intended secretly to afford America that assistance which she openly disavowed. He detected the Agents of the Cabinet in the very act of affording succours to the Colonies, and of giving every assurance of protection to the American leaders. Intelligence of this was communicated to Lord Stormont whilst his Lordship was in England. He was despatched in haste to Versazlles, with instructions to remonstrate, in spirited terms, on the insult thus offered to the Court of London. Lord Stormont obeyed his instructions. He CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 862 pressed for a categorical answer. The reply was couched in the most ambiguous terms. The affair was dropped. The Court of Versailles was more narrowly watched than ever. Enough was discovered to convince Lord Stormont of the intentions of that Court. Mr. St. Paul is now sent over to assure our Ministry of the resolution of the Cabinet of Versailles, which is simply this: That if the declaration of the Congress, setting forth the independency of America, shall be generally relished by the people throughout the different Colonies, then France, in conjunction with Spain, will hazard a rupture with Great Britain, by openly assist- ing the Colonists on terms highly advantageous to the com- merce of France and Spain. I do not pretend to specify every particular; but this I will venture to affirm is the substance of that intelligence which Mr. St. Paul is sent over to communicate to Admin- istration. ‘The publick will from hence perceive that it is entire madness to place any reliance on the pacifick assu- rances of France and Spain. They will not wantonly plunge into war; but no person can expect that they will forego national advantages out of compliment to the English Min- istry.. The idea is chimerical. Mr. St. Paul hath by this time told Administration thus much. The publick have only to expect what hath been repeatedly foretold: that the rupture with our Colonies will end in the loss of America, and a war with France and Spain. If these are eligible events, the people are very right in supporting those plans which must produce them. If the loss of America (which implies the total ruin of our commerce) is not a thing to be desired, then are the people blind to their own interests in not ceasing to protect Ministers who have long ceased to pay any regard to the commercial welfare of their country. MartrTer oF Fact. Williamsburgh, August 9, 1776. By advices from Hampton, we learn that last Wednesday morning the Right Honourable the Earl of Dunmore, Vis- count Fincastle, and Baron Murray of Blair, Mouilli and Tilhmet, after dividing his fleet and burning ten or a dozen vessels, took leave of the Capes of Virginia, where he has, for more than a twelvemonth past, perpetrated crimes that would even have disgraced the noted pirate Black Beard. One part of the fleet was seen to stand to the southward, it is imagined for South-Carolina, the other to the northward, supposed for New-York. Their strength, from the informa- tion of two negro deserters who came up to Hampton in the evening, amounts to near four hundred—Regulars, Negroes, and ‘Tories; that they were now tolerably healthy, and had lately got a supply of provisions, which they took from a Rhode-Island vessel. So respectable a band will no doubt be a most valuable acquisition to the Generals Howe and Clinton. We have just got a supply of 290 half-barrels of gunpow- der and 90 stand of arms; and 436 barrels, with 18 chests of arms, arrived safe some little time ago. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEE OF ST. MARY’S COUNTY. [No. 128.] Annapolis, August 9, 1776. GentLemen: Captain Mantz’s company being completely armed, as well as good marksmen, were the causes that in- duced us to send him to occupy Captain T’homas’s station, whom we thought it our duty to order to the Flying-Camp so soon as the enemy left Potomack River. But as you are of opinion that this company will not answer the end for which it was sent, we have ordered Captain Mantz to march immediately to Annapolis, and have sent Captain Barry in a boat to the mouth of Patuxent to take in his baggage. We cannot, without contravening a resolution of the Con- vention, order that part of Captain Beall’s company sta- tioned at Port-Tobacco to Saint Mary’s, but have ordered Captain Forrest to take Captain Thomas’s station, and we must depend upon the Militia lending Captain Forrest's company arms until we can supply them, which will be soon, expecting some arms from Virgina that we have lately imported. We are, &c. To the Committee of Observation for Saint Mary’s County. P.S. We have received information by one of our boats that the enemy’s fleet had anchored in Hampton Roads. 863 MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS. [No. 129.] Grenriemen: We have the pleasure to inform you that the enemy’s fleet left Potomack River on Friday last, and is gone off down the Bay.- They had collected a number of small vessels, which they had dismasted, and left on the point of St. George’s Island, with intention to set fire to them, but a high tide floated them off, and they were driven on shore near our guard, who have taken possession of them, and have found sundry goods and other effects on board to the value of three or four hundred pounds currency. Some of the hulks may be repaired, and made fit for service. They burnt some other small vessels, and from appearances expect they are gone down to the Capes. Our pilot boat is just returned yesterday evening, and says he heard at Pyanketank that the men-of-war had stopped in Hampton Roads and were making demands of fresh provisions and water, and promised, on being supplied, to leave the Bay. The deserters, of whom many have come over to us, inform that the Tory families are going, some to the West-Indies, others to Halifax, and the Roebuck to New-York. : The Flying-Camp are beginning to move. Captain Good’s company from Frederick will be with you by the time this comes to hand, and Colonel Charles Greenbury Griffith, with the battalion, with the remainder of the Frederick battalion, will follow him in a few days. Colo- nel Griffith appears to be active and spirited, and we beg leave to recommend him to your notice. Some little coun- tenance from you might be of service to him. Captain Mantz’s company were ordered to St. Mary’s, but we have this day given an order for their moving to the northward. Captain Thomas is on the way to Philadelphia. Colonel Ewing’s battalion is also under marching orders. ‘Two or three companies of his battalion are nearly ready, and we are doing all we can to forward the others. ‘They want every- thing. We have arms for one-half the battalion we keep, besides two hundred and seventy lately imported, not yet come to hand; these, with what we expect from the manu- facturers, will enable us to complete Colonel Carroll Hall's battalion, which we propose to keep. Colonel Kent has resigned, and so we hear has Colonel Earle, both endea- vouring to obtain a seat in Convention. ‘T'wo or three East- ern-Shore companies will be ready to march next week. Annapolis, August 9, 1776. Two other companies have borrowed arms, and are to sup-: ply the place of Captain Veazey and Captain Hindman; the rest will be very slow we fear in getting arms. Brigadier Dent hath also resigned, and is elected for Charles County. Under all these difficulties, arising from the want of arms and necessaries, and also from resignations, we are exerting ourselves to the utmost. Money has flowed out of the Treasury very freely upon this important occasion. We hope for the approbation of the honourable Congress and Conven- tion. We shall say nothing particular about the elections, more than what relates to yourselves. 4S. Chase is in for Anne Arundel, Wm. P. and Carrollton Carroll for Annapolis. T. J. and S. S.are left out, and there is a very great change in the members in all Counties. According to the intelli- gence we have, Mr. Stone will have a list sent to him of all the Counties that we know, or have heard anything about, to which we refer you. There will be disputed elections we expect, particularly Queen Ann’s, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel. We are, &c. To the Deputies for Maryland in Congress. LIEUTENANT POWNALL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. August 9, 1776. Honourep Sirs: On the appointment of Edward Tillard toa Captaingy in the Flying-Camp from a Captaincy of a company of Militia in the Third Battalion of this Province, the Militia company, on Edward Tillard’s completing his inlisting warrant for the Flying-Camp, wished to have a Captain. Accordingly a majority of the company met, and Mr. Benjamin Galloway was unanimously chosen. I having been appointed to a first Lieutenancy in the third company, and a commission conferred by the honourable Council of Safety at the time being, now beg leave to resign the same, (being enclosed,) having a daily expectation of a Marine commission from the honourable Continental Congress. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776 864 In the interim, am and shall ever remain a strenuous advocate for the welfare of America ; and beg Jeave to sub- scribe myself, honoured sirs, your most obedient and obliged rvant “ humble se ) Tuomas Pownauu. To the Honourable Council of Safety. SAMUEL CHASE TO GENERAL GATES. Philadelphia, August 9, 1776. Dear Str: Mr. S. Adams showed me your letter to him from Tyonderoga, of the 17th of July, wherein you write : “I desire, if Chase is returned to Congress, he may know how much I have been deceived and disappointed in being removed from a place where I might have done the publick service, and fixed in a situation where it is exceedingly doubtful if it will be in my power to be more than the wretched spectator of a ruined army.” “Mr. Chase passed too speedily through this country; he saw superficially, and, like a sanguine man, drew conclusions from the consequence, not the cause. ‘Tell him if he and I meet, he must expect to be called to a serious account upon this matter. I know he is my sincere friend; but I also know he has decewed himself and his friend. Jam not angry: I am only vexed with him.” After this recital of so unkind, so unfriendly, so injurious a letter, permit me to ask you a few serious questions: Why not write to me, if you considered your- self injured or deceived? How have you been deceived and disappointed by your removal from New-York to the com- mand in Canada, in what particular, and by whom? Did I ever make a profession, or communicate an opinion, or relate a fact, in which I was not sincere and faithful? When did I pass too speedily through the country in going or returning from Canada? and to what does this relate? What things did I see superficially? Deal in particulars, and point out when I was mistaken as to men, things, or cir- cumstances. I admit that I am constitutionally warm and sanguine; but be pleased to name the instances in which I drew conclusions from the consequences, and not the cause? If ever you and I should meet, I will, with candour and integrity, and as a friend, answer you in all your inquiries, or I will with pleasure, by letter, give you full satisfaction. I will now only ask you one more question: In what instance have I deceived myself or you? I will not be angry with you; but Iam not only vexed, but mortified, chagrined, and exceedingly hurt by your sus- picious and very unfriendly expressions. You have held up your friend as a man who had deceived and disappointed you, as a superficial observer, and of so warm and weak a constitution as to draw conclusions from the consequence, and not the cause. An imputation on my understanding I can forgive; a charge that I have disappointed and deceived you, from want of knowledge and without design, I can for- get. 1 will add no more, but that I always was, and still am, with sincerity, your affectionate and obedient servant, Samu. CHASE. To General Gates. IN CONVENTION FOR THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA. Friday, August 9, 1776. Whereas the time for which the Committee of Inspection and Observation for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, as well as the times for which the Committees of several Counties of this State were elected into that office, are near expiring; and whereas the Associators of the said City and Counties, who compose a great majority of the electors, are or may be, at such expiration, absent in the service of their country, and it would be highly inexpedient that the said City or Counties should either be without such Committees, or that they should be partially elected : Resolved, therefore, That the present Committees of the said City and Counties respectively shall continue to exe- cute the duty of their said offices, until the Militia of such City and Counties respectively shall return, and other Com- mittees be regularly chosen; excepting from this Resolve the Committees of the Counties of Cumberland, Bedford, Northumberland, and Westmoreland. Resolved, That no Tavern-keepers or others take out any Licenses from the officers of the late Government of this State. 865 On motion, Ordered, That two thousand copies of the particulars of the Rations allowed for the Flying-Camp be printed and distributed among the men. Pay of a Battalion in the Continental service. R7G1ONEl.. ae skis sen Ghee aeaiee .+....50 dollars per calendar month. Lieutenant-Colonel......0e0.eeee0 «oe 640 = a bs MAN.» «0 vaac'cns am naee eae 333 fe iy fs Captain.....sceduns hase bee Mesene tans 263 Li & = Lieutenant.. ods cescesndsdctoavtbeds 18 3 aS ae ENsigiic.s ois ba Ficicclelbins/Wieinelerenets ebie'si6.41= 135 ss os Ht Adjutant .....ccccccceccceccccscceees 18; bh dy és QuartermMaster..s .cicscccisccdcccesss 18g es “6 és Surgeon... ..cccceccracs seco dba dieses 25, raised to 334, June 5, 1776. Mat atc o.cicicn sic oo eaieisien eie:ole wueieinis.es «nie 18 dollars per calendar month. Chaplain. ...csscccscseceses eoeeeeee QU, raised to 334, July 5. Sergeant......-++ Soo bweviense eigiesl ais Bis} % 8 dollars per calendar month. Corporal, Drummer, and Fifer, each..... 74 es ss 6 Private... .ceccecccscceee Sleds Suess 6%. Light-Infantry the same. Artillery. Captain... ..e.eeeereeccceeeeeeeeeees 263 dollars per calendar month. Captain-Lieutenant....s..seeceseseee- 20 ‘ a we First and Second Lieutenant........... 184 < os ce Lieutenant Fireworker..............0. 133 ot x sé SI UMEAT Vatetevelelctaiciaielcvalcie seis! <, siaje'y.e\c\eleve ee 85 ob ce = Corporal ces eciccice « gttectle hed e cle uv ts 74 Oe ss Be PROTMORDEICTS Heleys niccte « Suse nian ¢ clalea ove, ores 7 6s 6 “ UMVRLORS wiotarelaer,cieiereie's esislol's/ shes’ s iste.’ oils 012 65-6 ‘* “ & Dermeant-lVMajOnswasciae ce siaecis sce cee se 9 <4 ss 0, Quartermaster-Sergeant........eeeeee 9 . 4 th BEAL AIOP spce oN ec cnk's ata Sion deade ukviaie Se ee os es PMIEIEOIGEI OSE wu nace aby as a ans ops ante 83 =¢ s ue Regimental Paymaster. ........0sec00. 262 & “6 & The Ration for each man, as copied from the Minutes of the Honourable the Continental Congress, is as follows : One pound of beef, or three-quarters of a pound of pork, or one pound of salt fish, per day. One pound of bread or flour per day. Three pints of peas or beans per week, or vegetables equivalent, at one dollar per bushel for peas or beans. One pint of milk per man per day, or at the rate of 1-72 of a dollar. One half-pint of rice, or one pint of Indian meal per man per week. One quart of spruce beer, or cider, per man per day, or nine gallons of molasses per company of one hundred men per week. Three pounds of candles to one hundred men per week, for guards. Twenty- four pounds of soft, or eight pounds of hard, soap for one hundred men per week. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, August 9, 1776. Sir: In consequence of your Excellency’s letter, Colo- nel Miles will march with all his Riflemen. The two batta- lions will make about seven hundred. As we have numbers of Riflemen lately arrived, it seemed to me more for the service to order the Second Battalion, and it will be more agreeable to the men. I hope they will be in time to ren- der you essential service. A cowardly infamous spirit of desertion prevails here too much. Your letter will be read to each corps, and must have good effects. Some wagons have been discovered going from Billop’s Point to-day, which confirms your former intelligence, and the enemy do not appear so numerous. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obe- dient servant, Hueu Mercer. To His Excellency General Washington, Commander-in- Chief. COLONEL GUY JOHNSON TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE. Staten-Island, August 9, 1776. My Lorn: I have the honour to acquaint your Lordship that I arrived here the 29th ultimo, after a long passage, and much molestation from the Rebel vessels for the last three weeks, one of which attacked us near Bermudas, but was, after a pretty close engagement of an hour and a half, beat off with much loss, though she damaged our masts and rig- ging so much that we could not pursue her. My Surgeon is shot through the leg, and five others slightly wounded—a trifle, considering her great superiority, for she had more than double our complement of men, and carried fourteen six- pounders, and swivels, against our twelve three-pounders. My officers and the Indians behaved very well, and were very useful at small-arms. The General had been arrived here some time with the troops from Halifax, and from him your Lordship will doubt- Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 866 less receive an account of affairs here. I, however, think it necessary to enclose your Lordship a copy of the best and latest intelligence I could procure respecting the back coun- try and the Indians, and I have good hopes that my officers there have discharged their duty, and conducted the Indians agreeable to my instructions and the promises of the latter. At present everything awaits the grand operation, and on its issue our future measures must depend. I think the pros- pect is favourable, and that the declaration for an indepen- dency must totally silence any advocates they had in Eng- land. At all events, I flatter myself I shall discharge my duties as far as time and circumstances will admit; in good hope that I shall soon be enabled to meet our friends to the northward, when I shall endeavour to merit his Majesty’s favour and your Lordship’s patronage, by a zealous atten- tion to the trust reposed in me. ‘This moment an inhabitant of the Mohock River has found means to reach our camp, and informs that he had heard that Sir John Johnson had reached General Burgoyne ; that a Colonel Dayton, with six hundred men, was repairing Fort Stanwix; and that Gene- ral Schuyler had opened a Congress at the German Flats, but that only some of the Oneidas and Oughquagys attend- ed it; and adds, that the Rebels had carried off my negroes, &c., and demolished everything on my estate. The Indians that attended Schuyler have been long under the influence of New-England missionaries, and I found some difficulty with them last year. I beg to be honoured with your Lordshbip’s commands; and Tam, with very great respect, my Lord, your Lordship’s most obedient and most humble servant, G. Jounson. To the Right Honourable Lord George Germazne. Declaration of Mr. Tuomas GumerRsAL1, Deputy Assistant to the Commis- ' sary-General of Stores and Provisions, born at LrEeps, in YoRKSHIRE. That he left the Mohock River about the beginning of June, of the present year, and had been for several weeks in that country, where he was acquainted. ‘That Sir John Johnson, through intelligence he had received, partly by means of Mr. Gumersall, found it necessary to leave his home and withdraw to Canada; to effect which he procured three Indians from the adjacent village, as guides through the woods, and was accompanied by about one hundred and thirty Highlanders, and near one hundred and twenty other inhabitants of the country, attached to Government, with whom he proceeded from the house of Mr. Mc Donnell, called Callaghy, on or about the 13th of May last, for Oswegatchie, in Canada. ‘That the said Mr. Gumersall, who was instru- mental to him on the occasion, accompanied him a few miles further on his route, and then took his leave; after which, with much difficulty, after secreting himself and marching by night about five weeks, he arrived at Staten-Island (where his Majesty’s troops were) on the 19th of July, and was by General Howe’s favour (through the accommodation of John Small, Esq., Major of Brigade) appointed to his present office, in consideration of his sufferings and service, having been obliged to abandon a very advantageous branch of trade in which he was largely concerned. Mr. Gumersall further declares that he was credibly informed that John Butler, Esq., who was left at Niagara by Colonel Johnson Super- intendent of Indian Affairs, with other officers, to encourage the Indians to join his Majesty’s troops, this season received several letters from Mr. Schuyler, a Rebel General, inviting him down, and promising him protection, &c.; but at the same time employed the messenger, (an Indian,) in case he refused, to bring his scalp, for which he was to have a reward of one hundred dollars. That about three days after Sir John’s departure, Lady Johnson received a letter from John Butler, Esq., addressed to Sir John, acquainting him that he had, agreeable to Colonel JoAnson’s instructions, assembled a con- siderable body of Indians ready to go on service, and only waited to receive news from Colonel Johnson, or orders to proceed; and Mr. G'umersall believes, and has heard, that the Indians had proceeded agreeable thereto, and that Lieu- tenant Gray, late of the Forty-Second, and Mr. Gumersall, helped to raise the men who accompanied Sir John, and Mr. Gumersall advanced them money on that occasion. Tos, GuMERSALL. Signed at Staten-Island, the 6th August, 1776, in pre- sence of Joun Dease, Gitsert Tice, Josery, Indian Chief. 55 867 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 868 Copy of a Letter intercepted from 8. Kinxianp, a New-Eneranp Mission- ary among the Onewas, to Mr. Scuuyter, a Rebel General and manager of their affairs. Oneida, May 22, 1776. Broruer Governour: We, the Oneida Chiefs, think proper to acquaint you with the result of the meeting at Niagara with Colonel Butler. This we do at our own option, without being desired by the other parts of the Con- federacy, though it has been reported among them that General Schuyler ought to be informed. We sent two Oneidas to hear what should pass at Niagara. ‘They return- ed the night before last, and bring the following account: The Representatives of the Six Nations delivered the answer to Colonel Butler’s belts, that was formed and agreed upon in full council at Onondaga, of which we suppose you have been made acquainted. The purport of our answer was, that the Six Nations, with the Caughnawagas, and the Seven Tribes in that vicinity, had all united and resolved to maintain peace, both with the King and the Bostonzans, and receive no axe from either. Colonel Butler replies: « Brothers: Lam glad to hear you are all united, but I am sur- prised to find you talk of maintaining peace with the Americans, and at the same time support the King’s peace or Government. “ Brothers, your resolutions are very surprising. Where is there any one or body of men to be compared to the King? As for General Schuyler, (and the other Commissioners,) of whom you boast so much, what is he? He was born but yesterday; just now, as it were, started up out of the ground, and to-morrow will return into the earth whence he came. It will not be the space of a month before you hear him cry. He has no men, guns, cannon and ammunition, or clothing ; and should he survive the summer, he must perish by the cold next winter for want of blankets. But the King wants neither men nor money; there is no computing his numbers. As to the Caughnawagas claiming seven tribes as under their jurisdiction, it is false; they tell a lie. The Caughna- wagas are by themselves alone, and they are become Bos- tontans. But the other six tribes in that vicinity, with all the back nations, are at the King’s command and will take his side. And as for Canada, they are.all (except twelve pérsons) returned to the King’s side. “Brothers, you had better recall your resolutions, and determine to keep the King’s peace, and the King will then be glad to hear from you. What a wretched situation must you be in when the King attacks all the seaports of America, and comes in earnest to sweep off the Americans, if he finds you supporting the Americans!” To this the Sachems made an immediate reply : ‘ Brothers, we will support the King’s peace or Govern- ment, and we now speak from our very inside, and don’t think it proceeds only from our lips.” For this, Colonel Butler returned thanks, and expressed creat joy. Then the commanding officer of Niagara (whom the Indians call Oguhaenjes) addressed the Indians as follows: “ Brothers: The King of England is very great and wise; he was never yet conquered. He has subdued both France and Spain. Pray, what can this handful in America do with sucha King? ‘The King is very subtle, he has deceived the Bostonians with a witness. He ordered his forces to con- tinue at Boston till the Bostonians had collected all the cannon that could be found, from Philadelphia, New-York, and even from Virginia, and brought them to that place. The Bostonians, having all their force and cannon collected, were about to destroy the town; but the King’s officer com- manding there forbade them, telling them he would leave it in a peaceable manner, as the purpose of his coming there was now answered. And now, brothers, you will soon hear that the King’s ships have laid waste all their seaports, as they can make no resistance, having sent all their cannon and stores to Boston. Virginia has had all already. ‘ Brothers: I shall not give up this post (Niagara) to the Bostonians without a strugglé. My men must fall first be- fore the Bostonians shall take possession.” After this Colonel Butler proceeds, addressing himself to the Sachems: ‘‘ Brothers : I propose to your consideration that a number of your warriors should go in quest of Colonel Johnson. Here is a large vessel ready for sailing; let them embark who desire a speedy interview with Colonel Johnson. He must at this time be at Quebeck or in the rivers; and upon my hearing of his actual arrival, I shall immediately pursue, and will certainly see him. If the Bostonians should be betwixt me and Colonel Johnson, I will turn out of the road and pass by them. I have also another vessel prepared for the back nations, as soon as they come.” The Sachems reply : “We shall not consider the matter, for we know it is already settled, and they are now embarking. Did we know that Colonel Johnson was actually arrived at any particular place, we would consider the affair.” Brother General Schuyler: We now inform that Colonel Butler prevailed, and upwards of fifty of the Six Nations have embarked, twelve days ago, in quest of Colonel JoAn- son, and a number of the back nations, the whole amounting to one hundred. Brother, we dread the consequence. We this day send off four of our young men to acquaint you, and then proceed to Caughnawaga to inform them. The one from Oriske is a chief man, and one of the two sent to Niagara, and will give you particulars. ‘The next, called Kanaghwidiga, is a young Sachem of great influence in this nation. ‘The third, Sewajis, is chosen to a Sachemship. We, the Sachems of Oneida, send our love to you, and wish you success. From your faithful Brothers, SUGHNAGEVRAT, JIMMEY, AGHSHINHARE, Tigawl, "'TEKEONGO, K AGHNEGHLORIES. To the Hon. Philip Schuyler, Esq.,. Commissioner, &c. From the Oneida Chiefs. [Enclosed in a letter from Colonel Guy Johnson to Lord George Ger- maine, dated New-York, November 25, 1776.] Intercepted by S. Kirkland, and who hopes to write to his Honour very soon, if a safe conveyance presents. A true copy from the original, compared by Jos. Cuew, Secr’y of Indian Affairs. New-York, November 25, 1776. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL DUBOIS. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 9, 1776. Sr: Your letter of the 5th, by your brother, is received. By him, I forward you eight hundred dollars. Would have you order your regiment to march for this place as fast as an officer’s party are inlisted. You will make a return to me immediately of the number of men already imbodied, and continue to make your returns, by which you may call for money as wanted. I conceive that taking men from the four or five months’ Militia will not answer our present necessity, as it will not add to the number in service; but of the Militia which is only ordered in for a few days or weeks, you have an undoubted right to take such as have a mind to inlist with you. Previous to your men arriving in this city, you will order a Field-Officer here, to take charge of them as they come in. I am, sir, yours, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Colonel Lewis Dubois, Poughkeepsie. COLONEL HARDENBURGH TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. - New-York, August 9, 1776. Sir: As I am at New-York, with four companies of Militia from Ulster County and one company from Liv- ingston’s Manor, and as some of them have not got guns, cartridge-boxes, or any accoutrements of war, I think it very hard that men are taken away from their places and business, and brought down to defend their country without arms. I here enclose you a true state of the deficiencies of the five companies, by which you may see how the matter is. I have done all that lies in my power to get a supply for them while I have been in town, but cannot perform. I there- fore once more, gentlemen, supplicate to your House, whether you cannot put me in some way to get a supply for these men. They are willing to allow for it out of their pay. I am, with regard, sir, your very humble servant, Jous. Harpensureu, Lieut. Col. To Nathaniel Woodhull, President of the Congress of the State of New-York. 869 HUGH WALLACE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-York, August 9, 1776. May ir ptease your Exceniency: Lord Stirling has acquainted the prisoners brought from Long-Island, that they are to attend your Excellency’s orders to-morrow morn- ing, at nine o’clock, and to be then ready to be sent out of the Province. I beg to let your Excellency know the unfortunate situa- tion my brother and partner and I are under. Our books, papers, &c., are at the house at Jamaica chiefly, where they are very unsafe, only women to take care of the house and them; that we have also many valuable papers, &c., here, which we must leave behind. In short, this affair may probably ruin us. Could your Excellency, in compassion to our distress, allow my brother to stay with his: small helpless family, he could take care of our widely-scattered affairs, and he is satisfied to give security to remain on his farm. As for me, though in a very infirm and disagreeable situation, I must be content. If your Excellency cannot indulge us in this request, will you be so good as to allow one of us to go to Jamaica this day, to bring clothes and necessaries for our journey, and to secure our books and papers there in the best way we can, engaging, by all that’s sacred and honourable, to be here by nine o’clock to-morrow, to receive your Excellency’s com- mands. ‘The other gentlemen will also beg to have clothes, &c., sent for. Iam sorry thus to trouble your Excellency ; hope my situation will be my excuse. { am, respectfully, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Hoenn. To His Excellency General Washington. COLONEL McDOUGALL TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Friday, August 9, 1776. Srr: I have seen, in the hands of Mr. Palfrey, a copy of a resolution of the Continental Congress, resolving that a Paymaster be appointed to each regiment. If the appoint- ment is in your Excellency, I should be glad Mr. John Lawrence (a person who has had some trouble with the papers respecting the payment of my regiment) may be appointed. I will engage for his faithful discharge of that duty. 1 am your Excellency’s obedient servant, Avex. McDoveatu. To His Excellency General Washington. EBENEZER HAZARD TO GENERAL GATES. New-York, August 9, 1776. Dear Sir: This is at least the fifth letter I have written you since you left New-York, and I have not yet received one from you. As you remained silent so long, I began to suspect you considered me a troublesome correspondent, and intended to get rid of me by absolute neglect: the natural consequence of this, you know, was a determination not to be troublesome any longer; and I was just about concluding upon it, when our friend Trumbull told me you had com- plained of receiving no letters since you reached Ticonderoga. This absolutely astonished me, as I could not account for it without supposing some person or other guilty of -villanous practices, which I was unwilling to do, but am forced upon the conclusion. ‘The letters must have been stopped some- where between Albany and Ticonderoga. We have very little among us at present that is material. Clinton and Sir Peter Parker have fled from the southward, after being beaten by Lee, and have arrived at Staten-Island with the remnant of their fleet and army. About one thou- sand Hessians have arrived there, too; and in consequence of information received by two persons who left the enemy, and two gentlemen lately from London, by way of Staten- Island, we are in daily expectation of an attack. Howe musters now about thirteen thousand men in all, and affects to hold the “ Rebel Army” in contempt. One would have thought experience had taught him better. The Vicar of Roxbury inquires very often after you, and wishes for a let- ter. Don’t disappoint his wishes and mine. I send you some of the latest newspapers ; and am yours, affectionately, Exsen. Hazarp. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 870 JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, August 9, 1776. Sir: [ am informed that there is a quantity of salt at Norwich, in the Colony of Connecticut, and its neighbour- hood, in care of some person or persons to me unknown: I suppose in the hands of Mr. Shaw or Mr. Stamford, &c., which belongs to the Continent, and has been imported on their account, and has lately been offered for sale. I would humbly suggest to Congress the necessity of a large quantity of that article being secured by the Congress for salting pro- visions for the Army the next season, and wish that orders may be given Congress agents for that purpose. I am, sir, with esteem and respect, your most obedient, humble servant, JosepH TRUMBULL. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., President of the Congress of Delegates from the United States of America, Philadelphia. New-York, August 8, 1776. Yesterday two deserters came from the fleet, who say that Lord Howe is preparing for an attack; that the field-pieces were put on board a vessel, and it was supposed the forces would land on Long-Island, while the ships attacked the city. We hear from Elizabeth-Town that on a late alarm there, when an immediate attack of the regulars was expected, and every man capable of bearing arms was summoned to defend it, there were three or four young men, brothers, going out from one house; when an elderly lady, mother or grand- mother to the young men, (who, without betraying the least signs of timidity, had, with a resolute calmness, encouraged and assisted them to arm,) when they were ready to go, and just setting out, addressed them thus: ‘My children, I have a few words to say to you: you are going out, in a just cause, to fight for the rights and liberties of your country; you have my blessing, and prayers that God will protect and assist you; but if you fall, His will be done. Let me beg of you, my children, that if you fall it may be like men, and that your wounds may not be in your backs.” GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, August 9, 1776. Dear Generau: Colonel Hand reports the three ships mentioned in my last evening’s Report gone down the Nar- rows, are at anchor in and a little below the Narrows. I was at Red Hook this morning about three o’clock, but nothing further had been discovered, neither has there since, that has come to my knowledge. General Heard gives furloughs to the troops of Colonel Foreman’s regiment. I conceive it to be capitally wrong, and very injurious to me and Colonel Foreman both, as neither can know what to depend upon if the troops are furloughed without our knowledge or consent. ‘This is not the only evil; for if the troops are refused the indulgence here they request, and get it elsewhere, it will naturally lead them to form an opinion that we are tyrannical. I must beg your Excellency to put a stop to it immediately. I am, with all due respect, your Excellency’s most obe- dient, humble servant, NY Gaerne To His Excellency General Washington, Esquire, Head- Quarters, New-York. ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Harlem, August 9, 1776. Sir: It is with peculiar pleasure that I acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency’s favour of yesterday, since | cannot but consider it as an additional mark of that confi- dence with which your Excellency has hitherto honoured me. I have made the proper use of it, and imparted it in confidence to those members of the Convention on whose secrecy I thought I could most safely rely, and from whose influence I hoped to draw the most effectual assistance. I early foresaw what has since happened, and therefore made it my endeavour to enforce the drawing out as much of the strength of this State as could possibly be collected. I cannot but hope that the good effect of this measure will very shortly appear. A considerable body of troops will, ¥* 871 as we suppose, begin their march for King’s Bridge to-mor- row, and I flatter myself that in five or six days their number will be increased to sixteen or eighteen hundred men. Such is my idea of the importance of this post that I could wish your Excellency to count as little as possible upon the raw troops we send there, but to send thither all you originally designed for that station. Your Excellency is best able to judge whether it can be rendered tenable without some can- non, gunners, and Matrosses, and how far it is prudent to supply that want under which it now labours, by sending them from some other place. Since I am upon this subject, I will take the liberty to hint what may possibly have escaped your Excellency’s attention in the multiplicity of business in which you are involved; I mean the possibility of the enemy’s destroying the bridge (if their fleet should get above the town) by means of a body of troops sent up the creek in boats, before any assistance could come in, unless some small work was thrown up for its defence, which the situation renders very practicable. The troops raised on Long-Island, and which we have subjected to your Excellency’s command, and ordered to join General Grreene’s brigade, may amount to about eight hundred men; but as part of them are very remote, they may possibly not all arrive at their stations in less than eight days. We shall this morning endeavour to raise some more of our Militia, to occupy the passes in the Highlands, and that of the northern Counties which have hitherto been reserved in case of any misfortunes happening to the Army at ‘Ticon- deroga. I fear they will not come in time to assist your Excellency at New-York, if the enemy should be speedy in their attack, as they are very remote and but ill-armed. Perhaps we may be able to send some of the neighbouring Militia to General Greene, to be dismissed when the Long- Island levies are all come in. Your Excellency may be assured that the little influence I have shall be exerted to forward any operations which your Excellency may form, since I am fully satisfied that they will always be directed by that spirit of patriotism which has so deservedly secured to you the esteem of this Continent, and shall therefore think it a happiness to be honoured with your commands. I have the honour to be, with the greatest esteem and respect, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Rost. R. Livinesron, To His Excellency General Washington, Esquire, Head- Quarters, New-York. JOHN SCHENCK TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. In Committee, Poughkeepsie, August 9, 1776. Sirs: From the present situation of publick affairs, the Committee of Poughkeepsie labour under many difficulties for the want of cash, as well to answer publick accounts already due, which they have become bound for, as to an- swer emergencies of which the following are instances: Colonel Clinton wrote us to send him-a number of boards down to Fort Constitution, to make shelter for the troops then ordered there, which the barracks would not contain. On his request we purchased a quantity of Mr. Child, and sent them down. On return of the sloop, Mr. Child received an order on us for the money, which we could not pay; in consequence of which he returned the order to Colonel Clinton, which we are informed remains yet unpaid. Colo- nel Clinton also drew on us to pay the freight of the above boards. Major-General Schuyler sent down a party of men for stores from the shipyards. ‘These men called upon us to provide them provisions. We have to request the honour- able the Convention of the State of New-York would intrust the Committee of Poughkeepsie with a sum of money as a bank, to answer publick emergencies, for which they will give any security that it shall be expended for the use and to the satisfaction of the State. We have herewith sent in our account against this State, which we request the Con- vention will order paid unto the bearer, Robert North. Signed by order of the Committee, by, gentlemen, your most obedient, Joun Scuenck, Secretary, To the Hon. the Convention of the State of New-York. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 872 RICHARD VARICK TO GENERAL GATES, -Albany, August 9, 1776. Dear Generat: Agreeable to my promise and duty, I do myself the honour to inclose you a return of the stores forwarded for Tyonderoga and Skenesborough. I am sorry to disappoint you in not sending the powder as soon as it might be expected by you; but it is not a neglect in me. I have endeavoured to procure wagons, but cannot get them now, in harvest, even for cash. ‘The farmers complain that their wheat is blasted, and must be attended to. However, I expect that the whole, or at least the greater part, will be moved from hence on Monday. I shall try every means to effect it. Be assured, my dear sir, that I do not withhold either my time or attention from the publick interest. Some of the shot and of the blocks I do expect next week. I shall forward them as fast as possible. Some of the swivels will be sent as soon as Governour T’rumbull’s order can be obtained for sending them from Salisbury to this place. ‘The anchors and cables sent from New-York are not yet arrived. I expect them, with some others, in three days. ‘The handspikes and rammers, with sponges, will be finished next week, and forwarded, as also some powderhorns and _pri- ming-wires. My respects to the gentlemen of your family. I remain, with every good wish, your most obedient and very humble servant ? Ricup. Varick. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. COLONEL DAYTON TO INDIAN CHIEFS. Fort Schuyler, August 9, 1776. Sir: Yours of yesterday was just handed me. I observe the contents. By the bearer I send two barrels of powder. Lead, I have deferred sending any more for the present. As there is a probability of an attack being made here, can- not tell what we may have occasion for, and especially as I have understood our brothers at the Castle are not in much want of that article at present. Three of the Oneida Indians are gone to Oswego for intelligence, which I hope will answer as well as though some of my people had gone with them. As I place the greatest confidence in the Onezdas, shall listen to what they say at all times. I thank the great men very sincerely for their kind wishes respecting my health, and pray that the great and good Spirit may ever continue his protection to us all. I am, sir, your obedient servant DEY : Eras Dayton. P. S. We have a report here that a battle has lately been fought near New-York, and that General Washington has killed a great number of the Regulars; but for the truth of it, cannot positively say. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES, ‘ Skenesborough, August 9, 1776. Dear Genera: I received your Honour’s favour of the Tih instant, by Lieutenant-Colonel Conner, and have com- plied with your Honour’s orders as to forwarding Colonel Wingate’s and Colonel Wyman’s regiments to Ticonderoga. The Militia that are still to come who have tents, shall be sent forward as fast as they shall arrive, by the orders that I shall receive. ‘There are none of the troops who have tents, ex- cept the small parties of the New-York regiments. Davin Warereury, Jun. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. GENERAL GATES TO CAPTAIN RICHARD VARICK. Ticonderoga, August 9, 1776. Dear Sir: This morning I was favoured with yours by Mr. Hughes, with the invoices enclosed. I am much obliged to you for your diligence and attention in forwarding to this post, and with such despatch, the articles of which we stand so much in need. Spades, and cartridge paper for muskets, are the things at present most in request. Flour will become scarce soon. I am told there are three thou- sand barrels at Fort Edward. Surely the harvest is now over, and the teamsters ready to serve the publick. As to money, I can have no idea that that can long be wanted; nor ought fellows who get so much from the United States 873 to hesitate at this time. They know they are sure of their pay. In case the enclosed packet gets early enough to Albany to go by the post on Monday, send it by that con- veyance; if not, you will despatch a special express with it to General Washington. 1 fancy General Schuyler cannot have yet returned to Albany; so defer writing to him until to-morrow or Sunday, when perhaps I may have something material tosay. There is nothing new since Messrs. Cuyler and Gansevoort left us. Yours, To Captain Richard Varick. Horatio Gares. OBADIAH JOHNSON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Canterbury, August 9, 1776. Honovuren Sir: I have concluded to have the Reverend Ephraim Judson, Chaplain to Colonel Ward’s regiment, if agreeable to your Honour, &c. And if your Honour pleases to send warrants for Chaplain and Surgeon’s Mate, or what- ever commands, the bearer will convey them to me. ‘The Surgeon’s Mate agreed upon is Dr. Thomas Shaw. I am, sir, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, OxsapiauH JOHNSON. To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull. COLONEL COOKE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Danbury, August 9, 1776. HonourasLe Sir: Upon receipt of orders from your Honour of the 6th of July last, requiring that upon notice given me by General Washington, or the Commander-in- Chief of the Army of the United Colonies, of the necessity of assistance, I should call forth and march with all expedi- tion so many of the able-bodied effective men of my regi- ment as might be necessary and convenient for the defence of the Colonies,—I immediately sent my orders to the com- manding officers of the several companies in my regiment to have them properly equipped and hold them in readiness to march at the shortest warning; which I trust have been generally executed agreeable to your Honour’s direction. I would now acquaint your Honour that I this day re- ceived a letter from General Washington, dated 7th instant, informing me that General Clinton had brought his whole body of troops from South- Carolina ; that the foreign troops are every day arriving; that he hath the most authentick intelligence that the enemy’s Army in a little time will amount to thirty thousand men; and that a decisive attack will be made upon our Army, which, in its present situation, from sickness, the deficiency of regiments and other causes, is far short of its intended complement. His Excellency therefore requests me to call forth my regiment without delay, and have them equipped with blankets, arms, and ammunition, if possible, and march them immediately to New-York. Which orders I am carrying into execution with the utmost despatch, and expect to march in a very short time. I hope your Honour will order some small supply of money, without which it will be difficult to pro- ceed, as many of the men will probably have none of their own; but I mean not to wait for that. As the General says nothing about the time the Militia may be detained, I would beg leave to observe that the present season of the year is a very important season, espe- cially to this part of the Colony, where large crops of wheat are raised, this being the usual time when the ground is prepared for seed, and about three or four weeks hence will be the proper seed time, upon which the hopes of a future harvest altogether depend ; so that, should the whole Militia be detained much beyond that time, it would present a melancholy prospect for the ensuing year, especially when joined to a very scanty harvest the present year. These, sir, are thoughts which very forcibly strike the minds of people, and would very much damp their zeal upon the present emergency, was it not for the expectation of being soon dismissed. I therefore bope your Honour will represent the matter to the General in such a manner that they may not be detained longer than absolute necessity requires. i am, sir, with all.due respect, your Honour’s most obe- dient and very humble servant, Josern P. Coax To the Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. S74 COLONEL CRAFTS TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Boston, August 9, 1776. Gent_emen: The bearer hereof, Lieutenant Raney, in the battalion under my command, has an inclination to serve his country in the sea department. As I am doubtful of my power to discharge him, have referred him to your Honours. I am, with all due respect, your Honours’. most obedient, humble servant ’ Tos. Crarts. To the Board of Council of the State of Massachusetts- Bay. TIMOTHY LANGDON TO JOHN AVERY. August 9, 1776. Srr: I should take it as a favour if you would look over the records of Council for August and September, 1775, and inform me if Lieutenant Nathan Smith delivered any paper relating to the schooner Susannah, Gammon or Phil- lips Master. If there are any such papers, you will send me a pass from Admiral Graves that is amongst them, or a copy of it; you shall be satisfied for your trouble. I am, sir, your humble servant, Tivo. Lanepon. To Mr. John Avery. COLONEL MITCHELL TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Falmouth, August 9, 1776. May ir PLEASE your Honours: As I have some par- ticular business of a private nature which renders my being personally at Boston about the middle of September, of very great importance to me, I therefore take the liberty to ask your Honours’ permission for leave of absence to go thither at that time, which (should you think proper to grant) I shall esteem a particular favour. I can, with the greater freedom, solicit your indulgence herein, as we shall soon be ina tolerable state of defence at this place, and I hope as well prepared for the reception of the enemy as our number of men and cannon will permit. I wish to tarry no longer time than what is absolutely neces- sary for the accomplishing my business. I am, with profound respect, your Honours’ humble ser- ant es kt Jona. Mircue.u. To the Honourable the Council of the State of the Massa- chusetts-Bay. In Committee of Council, August 14, 1776. Ordered, 'That the prayer of the within Petition be grant- ed, and that he, the said Colonel Mitchell, have a parole of absence to go to Boston and attend his own private busi- ness about the middle of September next, agreeable to his request, and to return to his duty as soon as he can. Jno. Avery, Deputy Secretary. Watertown, August 12, 1776. We hear that on Wednesday last was sent into Ports- mouth, by the Hancock privateer of Philadelphia, a large ship (formerly a twenty-gun ship) now mounting fourteen guns, bound from Jamaica for London, having on board seven hundred hogsheads of sugar, two hundred of rum, besides other valuables; a fine prize. We hear she was taken by the following stratagem, viz: Just before dusk in the evening the Hancock came across her; the Captain of the prize taking the Hancock to be one of the tyrant’s pilferers, was very much rejoiced to fall in with her, and doubtless vice versa; when the Hancock at night threw out a light for a signal as a pilot. At daylight the next morn- ing, the vessels being near together, the Captain of the ship invited the Captain of the Hancock to come on board and take a breakfast; who replied, his hands were so few and sick, that he had not enough to man his boat and work the vessel, and in his turn invited the Captain of the ship to come on board him, which he readily complied with, by ordering his boat out, when he and about a dozen of his hands went on board the Hancock, and were taken as good care of as men in such circumstances could allow. ‘The Hancock then sent an equal number of her own hands on board the ship, when, alas! she fell into the hands of the United States of America. 875 COLONEL GALE TO NEW-HAMPSHIRE COUNCIL OF SAFETY. State of New-Hampshire, East Kingston, ; August 9, 1776. Pursuant to orders from Nathaniel Folsom, Esq., Major General, &c., requiring me forthwith to raise and see equip- ped one hundred and eleven men out of the regiment under my command, to be ready to march and reinforce the North- ern Army, in consequence of which orders, the number of the soldiers raised, equipped, and marched the 20th of July, are as followeth, viz: 1 Captain, 4 Subalterns, 5 Sergeants, 5 Corporals, 1 Drummer, 1 Fifer. - - - - - - - - 90 Privates, 2 privates marched the 25th, - - - 1 Jonathan Carlton inlisted from Newtown under Captain Johnson for the Massachusetts State in the same expedition,- - - - - - - - - 1 MTotalnumberiof mens acu eee-ae deee e LD The above Return from Colonel Jostah Bartlett's regi- ment, exhibited by 17 92 Jacos Gare, Lieutenant- Colonel. To the Honourable Committee of Safety of said State. CHARLES W. F. DUMAS TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET COR- RESPONDENCE, AuGusT 10, 1776. M. A. L., par sa lettre du 11° Juin, m’apprennoit, que “ Story goes from hence directly to America. A French Onn yeti ay =] aome7 : gentleman, named 613. 2. 17. 15. 19. 4. 5. 414. 207. Dy ea Ve see Tes. Sin O00 Oa dal ote oi 494.969.016.014 104-01 109. 16... 13).300 Olo.el. Deer sist eee ep iy On ctowte wa) tye Q7. 238. 34. 50.51.24. 476, 67, 52.. 582 75. 57. 26. {WeoOs aT te tb sae Ae Onn neo TO a le 22. 94.25. Gl. 424, 29. 28. 9. 54. 561. 46. 32. 12. = 3 Z 39. 226, I have given him your address.” La veille de mon départ d’ Utrecht, j’écrivis ce qui suit a la personne que vous savez, Messieurs: 21¢ Juin, “M.: Dans lespérance que vous avez bien voulu me faire concevoir, que je pourrai quelque jour vous étre utile, je crois devoir vous prévenir que je partirai demain de cette ville, pour aller passer l’été a une campagne a moitié chemin dici a J’y recevrai en toute stireté vos ordres, si vous envoyez vos lettres chez, &c. Je me propose d’ailleurs de passer a le plutét que je pourrai, uniquement pour profiter de la permission que vous m’avez donnée de vous rendre mes devoirs de temps en temps. Sans avoir du nouveau a vous faire voir, ’ouvrage ébauché a besoin des vos bonnes directions pour le temps ot vous ne résideriez plus a ; et je serois bien faché de manquer ’honneur de vous entretenir au moins une fois encore avant votre départ, s'il étoit proche.” REPONSE. 23¢ Juin. “M.: J’ai recu la lettre que vous m’avez fait ’honneur de m’écrire le 21° de ce mois. Vous me flattez de l’espé- rance de vous voir a , dont vous rapproche le séjour que vous allez faire pendant l’été a une campagne. Cette proximité vous donnera la facilité de faire des voyages, dont je profiterai avec grand plaisir. Je sens l’estime qui vous est due, et l’avantage de mériter|’amitié d’un homme instruit tel que vous, réunissant la littérature aux devoirs de la so- ciété. Je vous entendrai toujours avec une grande envie de profiter, et cela sur toutes les matieres qui ont intéressé la sagesse de vos réflexions. Je ne sai pas encore le temps que Je resterai a . Peut-étre sera-t-il assez long pour jouir plusieurs fois de ’honneur de vous recevoir; cela dépend des ordres qu’on me donnera de la cour ; et rien ne paroit jusqu’ici devoir les accélérer. Nous sommes dans la saison la moins active, ou la plus dissipée. Les affaires ne reverdissent guére qu’a la chute des feuilles, ou méme ne s’échaufent qu’au retour des glaces. Je parle du vieux monde: car je ne veux pas trop généraliser le tableau. Avez vous, Monsieur, des nouvelles du Docteur et de ses amis? Je vous serois tres obligé de soigner a cet égard mon instruction. Je ferois volontiers les fraix d’un exprés que vous m’enverriez quand vous le jugeriez a-propos; sinon, la poste tout uniment. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 876 S’il m’arrivoit 4 moi-méme de voyager, j’aurois ’honneur de vous marquer mes stations et mon addresse. Je ne saurois trop vous exprimer, Monsieur, le desir que j’ai de vous ser- vir, et de mériter une part dans vos sentiments,” &c. Environ 15 jours apres, j’écrivis ce qui suit au méme: Juillet, 1776. “‘ M.: La lettre dont vous m’avez honoré en date du 23° Juin, m’a donné la sécurité qu’il falloit, pour me consoler des contre-temps qui m’ont retenu ici. Peut-étre serai-je a Lahaie Dimanche matin. Soyez persuade, M., que s’il me parvient quelque chose qui mérite votre attention, vous en serez instruit sur le champ. Je n’ai pas de raison pour m’attendre a recevoir sit6t des nouvelles directement. J’ai écrit deux lettres par deux différents vaisseaux partis d’ Amst. pour St. E.; et yattends qu’un autre vaisseau parte pour leur en dépécher une troisieme. Avant que j’aie réponse, il se passera bien du temps, et dans ce temps bien des choses. Il y a cependant un homme chargé de quelque commission de leur part, a qui l’on a donné a ZL. mon addresse; et j’al recu deux lettres de cette ville, ?une du 21° Mai, l’autre du 11° Juan, ou on me prie de lui rendre service. Voila tout ce que j’en sal; car cet homme n’a pas encore paru. “Plus je suis favorisé de vos lettres, M., et plus j’ambi- tionne de mériter avec le temps que vous ayiez bonne opinion de moi. En attendant je dois me tenir en garde contre trop de présomption, et penser combien il est naturel de faire un accueil gracieux au serviteur pour l’amour du maitre. Je vous avouerai, M., qu’en rendant compte au Docteur et a ses amis de notre correspondance, j’ai cru devoir les prévenir la-dessus, non que je doutasse de leur penetration, mais de peur qu’ils ne soupconnassent le geai de vouloir se parer des plumes du paon. Ils seront instruits de lobligeant intérét avec lequel vous me demandes de leurs nouvelles. J’ espere que le temps viendra ou vous pourrez me permettre de ne plus leur faire un secret de votre nom. “ Apres y avoir longtemps et bien pensé, il me semble que pour répondre complettement a leur intention, je dois meri p rari) CPys erin iti -ematan agro eee 16..'5., 60.9192" 24) 110.713.1415, 26.5 29.419 ooalee. Ce Wet tee bh ba ree ts eure ENT i 8D, 39..16. 69.4. 74. 424. 2. 33. 29. 18. 20. 183. 32. Sorep ink & ins.ear ay. pio (4 vee 44, 172. 75. 104. 27. 35. 207. 185. 9. 10. 46. 40. 6l.F TUE OAC fess: Wal pie. 5 eee 286. 34. 65. 38. 58. 21. 202. 186. 37. 41. 235. 48. Dy Hb uy Cypero: niga Ole Co 20 m m e 51.7.52.)/28.° 50. 542156. 42.49. 67; 287. 871.155. Cluish (Gan Te Reva 115. 613. 85. 78. 238. 77. d'une telle commission, m’ou- vrir par-la les voies de servir mes commettants a l’avenir dans diverses occasions qui peuvent se présenter d’un moment a autre, et ne pas encourir le blame, qui pourroit réjaillir ulin we jusque sur ces messieurs, d’avoir négligé 45. 63. 59. 295. 6). Vite. d ly Al Cishe Fay utiennC e 81:. 58.0874290, 1120,.,.68.2124. 862 = 934 G65q7 1279: gy, Nin gh) Chea ees Sujaiiy, ado wreveeliete 476. 86. 72. 147. 96. 101. 110. 98. 84. 82. 47. 89. Wires Ca oan f i a n c e 106. 91. 186. 94. 100. 22. 108. 155. 128. 181. 108. & r e Cc h e r Cc h e PALO Lv ie 4e4., PLAS L195. 615s Lb: Au reste je ne ferai ni ne dirai rien a cet égard, qu’apres avoir eu ’honneur de vous voir, M.; et je vous supplie de croire, que jobserverai scrupuleusement la conduite et Ja discrétion que vous aurez eu la bonté de me prescrire ]a-dessus.” En conséquence je m’abouchai avec lui; nous convinmes de tout ce que nous dirions chacun; il alla diner a cette méme maison, dit que j’avois été chez lui, et que je lui avois dit que jirois aussi a l'autre maison le lendemain a 11 heures. J’y fus effectivement. On me recut téte-a-téte, en grande cérémonie, dans la salle d’audience. J’exposai brievement mon sujet, et tiral un mémoire pour le lui lire. Il me dit qu’il ne pouvoit pas m’écouter sans ordre de son maitre. Je lus pourtant, et il ne boucha pas ses oreilles, Je le priai de recevoir et garder le mémoire. II refusa, alléguant toujours qu’il ne pouvoit rien sans ordre. Je tirai alors mes originaux, et lui montrai mes trois signatures, qu’il regarda avidement. En vous séparant je le priai de taire mon nom a ; il me dit qu’il le tairoit partout. Il me demanda pourtant si c’étoit mon vrainom, Je l’en assurai. 877 Il me dit quelques gracieus etés personnelles: nous nous quit- tames ; et je sus des le lendemain par un autre canal, qu'il avoit pourtant rendu compte a son maitre de cette visite; ce qui me suffit, car je n’al proprement besoin, pour ce que vous savez, que d’une de ces bonnes maisons. J’y suis tou- jours bien poliment regu, et en ami; c’est tout ce que je demande. Je n’y multiplie pas trop mes apparitions; mais pour les rendre toujours desirables, je n’y parois jamais sans avoir quelque chose d’intéressant a dire; et pour cet effet, les lettres de mon cher et digne correspondant de Londres me sont fort utiles. Ce dernier m’a addressé dernierement quelqu’un, dont la conversation, jointe 4 ce que me disoit la lettre dont il etoit porteur, m’a servi a la composition d’un memoire qu’on a goiute, et j’ai lieu de croire qu’on I’a envoyé. Ce quelqu’un m/a fait vous écrire une lettre, datée du 4° Aovit, par voie de Bourdeaux a St. Domingue, sous envel- oppe de M. Caton, marchand au Port St. Nicholas, dans cette Isle, d’ont voici l’extrait : “A gentleman belonging to Jamaica, a particular friend of Dr. B. Fr., and very well known to him, m’a chargé de lui écrire, pour Passurer de bonne part de l’estime singuliere qu’a pour lui et ses amis ce qu’il y a de plus sensé en Angle- terre; quils ne doivent pas croire, and that he prays him to let them know it, que la voix du Parlement actuel soit la voix du peuple Anglois ; qu'il existe et se renforce a great body, qui, ala vérité, n’est pas le plus fort, mais qui regarde la cause des Américains comme la sienne propre, leur salut et leur liberté comme la sienne, qui préfereroit de les voir indépen- dants plutot que subjugués, et qui fera a la future rentrée du Parlement les plus grands efforts en leur faveur; que la base de ce parti est déja de 40 pairs, et de 160 membres des communes. “Ce gentilhomme m’a avoué qu'il étoit un des plus actifs dans ce parti, qui seroit bien aise qu’il y eat en H. un homme de confiance, un agent de la part du Congres. La lettre que ce gentilhomme m/’avoit apportée débutoit ainsi: “Dear Sir: This will be delivered to you by ,a friend of Dr. F'r., of liberty, and of America. He is a philo- sopher, very well instructed on the subject of America, and * I trust will be both an agreeable and useful acquaintance while he remains near you.” “Cela me rassurant, je lui découvris que j’étois l'homme qu’il cherchoit, muni de créances et ordres suffisants du Con- gres, pour faire passer par mes mains tous les bons offices que voudroient lui rendreses amis. La-dessus je Jui montrai ma créance; il en fut satisfait; nous nous donnames nos addresses; il me promit de m’écrire quand il en seroit temps; et nous nous separames satisfaits ’un de lautre,” &c. Enfin ma dépeche C vous portoit aussi copie de deux lettres d’un officier fort habile dans la petite guerre, et des conditions aux quelles il passeroit au service des Colonies Unies. Un guerrier tres expérimenté me l’avoit recom- mande non seulement comme excellent officier pour le com- mandement en chef, mais aussi comme trés versé dans le génie. Mais lui-méme m’écrit qu’ayant négligé depuis longtemps cette partie de l’art militaire, il ne s’engageroit jamais comme ingenieur, mais pour la conduite d’un corps de troupes en chef, surtout pour la petite guerre, qu’il a étudiée a fond; et que’en cette qualité il consacrera avec plaisir et zele sa capacité et son zele en faveur de peuples qu’il admire, et avec lesquels il voudroit, lui et 6 enfants qu’il a, passer le reste de sa vie, aux conditions suivantes: 1°. Que le Congres lui paiera au moins 1O0Of., (c’est-a- dire, a peu pres 100 livres sterling,) tant pour l’arrangement de ses affaires, que pour se pourvoir des choses nécessaires dans une pareille situation et pour le voyage, sans étre obligé a rembourser cet argent. 2°. Que le Congrés lui donnera des assurances, qu’au cas qu’on ne lui procure pas un établissement solide, et équivalent a son emploi militaire, dans ce pays-la, a la paix, on lui paiera 1000 ducats, (environ 500 livres sterlings,) pour dédommagement de ses peines et risques, et pour s’en retourner dans ses foyers. 3°. Qu’on sera payer par quelque négociant de ce pays-ci, pendant 2 années, a ses enfants, la pension qu’il tire actuelle- ment, et quil perdra, du moment qu’il quittera |’ Europe, savoir, 600f. environ GO livres sterlings par an, de 6 en 6 mois, chaque fois 300f., ou 30 livres sterlings. Cet article il le remboursera s’il reste en vie: mais s’il mouroit en route, ou sil étoit pris par les Anglois, le Congres continueroit cette pension pendant 6 ans. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 878 4°, On lui confiera le commandement d’un corps de troupes légeres, avec un grade proportionné, et la disposition de toutes les places d’ofliciers, et la liberté d’engager ici en Europe de bons sujets, d’une bonne conduite et capacité. Pour cet effet on lui fournira les pouvoirs et les moyens pour leur transport en Amérique. Cet article pourra étre éclairci en son temps. 5°. Ses gages doivent étre au moins de 125 dollars par mois courant. Il est bon d’ajouter a ceci, que M. le Marquis d’ Enge- nelli, en 1756, et apres lui le Général Wunsch en 1758, lui ont offert une compagnie dans leurs régiments ; ce dernier avec la majorité au service du Roi de Prusse. La méme année M. Van Hellen, alors ministre de ce Roi a Lahaie, le fit venir chez lui par M. le Colonnel de Courvoisier, lui offrit le commandement d’une troupe avec 200 ducats pour le voyage, et les postes franches du Roi. Mais n’ayant pu obtenir des stiretés pour sa capitulation, cette raison, et l’instabilité de ce service, l’ont empéché d’accepter ces offres. J’ajouterai, Messieurs, a ce que vous venez de lire, que cet officier, qui est veuf, avec 6 enfants, Suisse, bon républicain, voudroit rester avec eux en Amérique apres l’avoirservie. Sil est vrai ce qu’on dit, et ce que vos amis-mémes me marquent de Londres, que vous n’avez pas assez d’officiers command- ants en chef pour l’etendue vaste de vos operations, je crois qu'il seroit bon que vous prissiez celui-la pour la cam- pagne prochaine; il me semble que ces demandes ne sont pas déraisonnables: et comme il n’est pas apparent que vos enne- mis quittent la partie sitét, je crois qu'il pourra vous étre fort utile. — { Translation. ] CHARLES W. F. DUMAS TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET COR- RESPONDENCE. August 10, 1776. GentLemen: Mr. Arthur Lee, in his letter of the 11th of June, observes, that “ Mr. Story goes from hence directly to America. A French gentleman named Hortalez having something to negotiate for the Congress, I have given him your address.” On the eve of my departure from Utrecht, on the 21st of June, I wrote as follows to the person whom you know: “‘Sir: In the hope that you have consented to make me understand that I shall be one day useful to you, I think it my duty to advise you, that I shall depart to-morrow from this city, to pass the summer at a country house half way from here to . Ishall receive there in all safety your orders, if you send your letters to, &c. “T propose, also, to pass to as soon as I can, merely to profit by the permission you have given me to ren- der you my services from time to time. Without having any new plan to propose, the work already marked out has need of your good directions, for the time which you will no longer reside at ; and I shall be very sorry to fail of the honour of an interview with you at least once more before your departure, if it is near.” To this I received the following answer, dated June 23: “Sir: I have received the letter you did me the honour to write me the 2lst of this month. You flatter me with the hope of seeing you at , to which you are brought near by the residence you intend to make during the sum- mer at a country house. ‘This proximity will afford you opportunity to make journeys, by which I shall profit with much pleasure. I am sensible of the esteem which is your due, and of the advantage of meriting the friendship of an experienced man like yourself, uniting literature to the duties of society. I shall listen to you always with an eager desire of profiting by your counsels, and this on all subjects that have engaged your thoughts. Ido not yet know the time that I shall remain at . Perhaps it will be sufficiently long to enjoy often the honour of receiving you. This depends on the orders of my Court, and nothing has as yet appeared which will hurry them. We are in the least active, or most dissipated season. Business will not flourish much till the fall of the leaves, or even not get warm till the return of snow. I speak of the Old World; for I wish not to extend the picture too much. . «Have you any news of the Doctor and his friends? I shall be obliged to you to follow my instructions in this respect. I will bear willingly the charge of an express, 879 whom you may send to me when you shall judge proper; otherwise write uniformly by the post. Should [I be on a journey, I shall have the honour to inform you of my resi- dence and address. I do not know how to express to you sufficiently, sir, the desire I have to serve you and to deserve a place in your thoughts.” About fifteen days after, I replied to this letter as follows : “Sir: The letter with which you honoured me, dated 23d of June, has given me the assurance which was needed to console me for the disappointments that have detained me here. Perhaps I shall be at the Hague on Sunday morn- ing. Be assured, sir, that if anything comes to my know- ledge worthy of your attention, you shall be informed of it immediately. I have no reason to expect soon to receive news directly. I have written two letters by two’ different vessels, that have sailed from Amsterdam for St. Eustatia ; and I expect, when another vessel departs, to despatch a third. Before I have an answer much time will pass, and in this time many events. There is, however, a man charged with some commission on their part, to whom they have given my address at Leyden; and I have received two letters from that city, the one of the 21st of May, the other of the 11th of June, in which they pray me to render him service. This is all that I know of him, for the man has not yet appeared. “The more I am favoured with your letters, sir, the more I wish to deserve your good opinion. In the meantime, I ought to be on my guard against too much presumption, and to think how natural it is to give a gracious reception to the servant for the love of the master. I own to you, sir, that in giving an account to the Doctor and his friends of our correspondence, I have thought proper to forewarn them thereon; not that I doubt their penetration, but from fear that they might suspect the jay of a desire to appear in the feathers of the peacock. ‘They will be informed of the obliging interest with which you ask news of them. I hope that the time will come when you will be able to permit me to reveal your name to them. “After having thought long and much, it seems to me, that in order to answer completely their intention, I ought to present myself also to the Hotel d’ Espagne, to be known there simply as charged with such a commission, to open to myself thereby ways of serving my constituents on diverse occasions, which may present themselves at one moment or another, and not*incur the blame, which may be reflected even on these gentlemen, of having neglected a power so worthy of their confidence and notice. For the rest, I shall not do or say anything in this respect till I have had the honour of seeing you, sir; and I pray you to believe that I shall observe scrupulously the conduct and the discretion that you have had the goodness to prescribe to me.” In consequence, I have again conferred with this gen- tleman. We agreed upon all that each of us should say. He went to dine at that same house, said that 1 had been with him, and that I told him I would go also to the other house the next day at eleven o’clock. 1 went in fact, and was received téte-d-téte with great ceremony in the hall of audience. I opened briefly my business, and drew out a memoir to read to him. He told me that he could not hear me without the order of his master. I read notwithstanding, and he did not stop his ears. I prayed him to receive and keep the memoir. He refused, alleging continually that he could do nothing without orders. I drew out then my origi- nals, and showed him my three signatures, which he looked at eagerly. In separating, 1 asked him to keep my name concealed at ; he said to me that he would keep it secret everywhere. He asked me, however, if that was my true name. I assured him it was; he paid me some personal compliments, and we parted. I learned on the next day, by another channel, that he had, notwithstanding, given an account to his master of this visit; which suffices me, for I have need, as you know, of only one of these good houses. I am always very politely received, and as a friend. This is all that I ask. I do not multiply too much my visits; but to render them always desirable, I never appear there with- out having something interesting to say; and to this end the letters of my worthy correspondent at London are very useful to me. ‘This last has addressed to me lately a person whose conversation, joined to the contents of the letter of which he was bearer, has served me in the composition of a memoir which they approve, and I have reason to think they CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 880 have sent. This person has induced me to write a letter to you, dated the 4th of August, by way of Bordeaux to St. Domingo, under an envelope of Mr. Caton, merchant at Port St. Nicholas in that Island, of which here is an ex- tract: “ A gentleman belonging to Jamaica, a particular friend of Dr. Franklin, and very well known to him, has charged me to write to him, to assure him, on good authority, of the singular esteem that there is for him and_his friends among the more judicious in England; that they ought not to think, and that he prays him to let them know it, that the present voice of Parliament is the voice of the English people; that there exists, and gathers strength, a great body, which, in truth, is not the strongest, but which regards the cause of the Americans as its own, their safety and liberty as its own, which would prefer to see them independent rather than subjugated, and which will make, at the future meet- ing of Parliament, the greatest efforts in their favour; that the basis of this party is already forty Peers and one hundred and sixty members of the Commons. “'This gentleman owned to me that he was one-of the most active in that party, who would be very glad that there was in H. a man who could be confided in, an agent on the part of Congress. “The letter which this gentleman brought me began thus: ‘This will be delivered to you by Mr. Ellis, a friend of Dr. Franklin, of liberty, and of America. He is a philoso- pher, very well instructed on the subject of America, and, I trust, will be both an agreeable and useful acquaintance while he remains near you.’ This assuring me, I discovered to him that I was the man whom he was seeking, provided with credentials and orders from Congress sufficient to do all the good offices that his friends could wish to render ; there- upon I showed him my credentials; he was satisfied with them, and we exchanged addresses. He promised to write me when he had time; and we separated satisfied with each other,” &c. Finally, my despatch C carried to you also copies of two letters of an able partisan officer, and the conditions upon which he will enter the service of the United Colonies. An experienced soldier had recommended him to me, not only as an excellent superior officer, but also as well versed in engineering. But he has himself written to me that, having for a long time neglected that branch of military science, he would not engage as an Engineer, but as commander of a corps, especially for partisan service, which he has studied thoroughly ; and that in that capacity he will, with plea- sure and zeal, devote his ability and energy, in the service of a people whom he admires, and among whom, with his six children, he would wish to spend the rest of his life, on the following conditions: Ist. That the Congress shall pay him at least one thou- sand francs, (that is, nearly one hundred pounds sterling,) to enable him to arrange his affairs, and procure articles necessary for his situation, and for the voyage, without having to reimburse the money. 2d. That the Congress shall give him assurances that, in case they should not obtain for him a permanent situation, and equivalent to his military rank in this country, on the conclusion of peace, they shall pay him one thousand ducats, (about five hundred pounds sterling,) to remunerate him for his trouble and risk, and to enable him to return home. 3d. That they will pay, through some merchant in this country, for two years, to his children, the pension which he actually draws, and which he will lose the moment he leaves Europe, to wit: six hundred francs (about sixty pounds ster- ling) per year, every six months three hundred francs, or thirty pounds sterling. This he will reimburse if he lives; but if he should die on the way, or be taken by the English, the Congress shall continue the pension six years. 4th. ‘They shall give him command of a corps of light troops, with a proportionate rank, and the arrangement of all the officers, and liberty to engage recruits in Lurope, of good conduct and capacity. For this purpose, they shall furnish him with power and means for their passage to Ame- rica. ‘This article can be explained at a proper time. 5th. His pay shall be at least one hundred and twenty- five dollars per current month. It is well to add to this, that the Marquis d’Engenelli, in 1756, and after him General Wunsch, in 1758, offered him a company in their regiments, the latter with the rank of 881 Major in the service of the King of Prussia, The same year, Mr. Van Hellen, then Minister of that King at the Hague, caused him to be brought to him by Colonel Cour- voisier, and offered him the command of a troop, with two hundred ducats for the journey, and the posts of the King free; but having been unable to obtain sureties for his agree- ment, this reason, and the instability of the service, pre- vented his accepting these offers. I will add, gentlemen, to what you have just read, that this officer, who is a widower, with six children, a Swiss, a good Republican, wishes to remain with them in America, after having served it. If it is true, as has been said, and as your own friends inform me from London, that you have not sufficient commanding officers for the wide extent of your operations, [ think it would be well to engage him for the next campaign. It seems to me his conditions are not unreasonable; and as it does not appear that your enemies will give up the contest soon, I think he could be very useful. I have the honour to be, &c., Dumas ARTHUR LEE TO C. W. F. DUMAS. London, July 6, 1776. Dear Sir: This will be delivered to you by Mr. Elks, a friend of Dr. Franklin, of liberty, and of America. He is a philosopher, very well instructed on the subject of Ame- rica, and I trust will be both an agreeable and useful ac- quaintance while he remains near you. I thank you for your favour of the 21st of last month. By the last advices from America, General Howe was prepared to sail from Halifax, and, it is imagined, to land at New- York, where he will certainly be strongly opposed. He numbers ten thousand regulars, and it will be fortunate for us if he makes attempt before he is joined by the Germans, who sailed the 6th of May. The Americans have taken post upon the river Richelieu and the lakes. General Lee is in Virginia, with ten thousand men, expecting Lord Cornwal- lis and General Clinton. General Washington commands at New-York, and General Ward in Boston. The strange timidity de la Cour Francaise requires great patience and management; but I think it will at last be brought to act an avowed and decided part. When that happens, Angleterre must submit to whatever terms they please to impose, for she is totally incapable of sustaining a war with France. Adieu, Artuour Lex. SILAS DEANE TO C. W. F. DUMAS. Paris, July 26, 1776. Sir: The enclosed letter from Doctor Franklin will hint at my business in this city, where I arrived the 7th instant, and I should have sent forward this earlier had I not had hopes of having the honour of presenting it to you in person. This I now find I cannot expect, without delaying it beyond all bounds. I therefore forward it by the common convey- ance, and inform you that my address in this city is to Messrs. Germany, Guardot, & Co., Bankers ; that I shall tarry here till the last of August, when I propose going to Dunkirk, thence to Amsterdam and Hamburgh, in which journey I hope for the pleasure of seeing you. In the mean time I shall be happy in a correspondence with you on the subject of the dispute between the United Colonies and Great Bri- tain, or any other that shall be agreeable to you; and I wish to be informed if I shall be in danger of any disagreeable treatment in my journey through Holland, in a private capacity, though it should be known that I was in the ser- vice of the United Colonies. It has been suggested to me that I might meet with some interruption or difficulties from the friends of the British Ministry, which occasions my making this inquiry. I have the honour to be, &c., Sivas Deane. P.S. I read and understand the French language tolera- bly well, though I am unable to write it. EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO A GENTLEMAN IN PHILADELPHIA, DATED CAPE FRANCOIS, aucusT 10, 1776. Although our Government appears here in a profound tranquillity, letters of undoubted authority, just arrived from France, inform us that an armament is now fitting out at Firru Serites.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 56 882 Brest, of twenty sail of the line, twelve frigates, and four- teen thousand land forces, whose destination, it is presumed, is for this place. I think this armament will occasion no uneasiness to your Continent, as France has from the begin- ning shown such a partiality in favour of your cause, and now does ina more open manner. You have none but zealous friends in this Island, and if there be any ‘Tories, they are from your parts. The American vessels have our ports open to them, and they will be protected. Savannah, (in Georgia,) August 10, 1776. A Declaration being received from the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., by which it appeared that the Continental Congress, in the name and by the authority of their consti- tuents, had declared that the United Colonies of North America are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, and absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, his Excellency the President, and the honourable the Coun- cil, met in the Council Chamber, and read the Declaration. They then proceeded to the square before the Assembly House, and read it likewise before a great concourse of people, when the Grenadier and Light-Infantry Companies fired a general volley. After this they proceeded, in the following procession, to the Liberty Pole: The Grenadiers in front; the Provost Marshal on horseback, with his sword drawn; the Secretary with the Declaration; his Excellency the Pre- sident ; the honourable the Council and gentlemen attending; then the Light Infantry and the rest of the Militia of the town and district of Savannah. At the Liberty Pole they were met by the Georgia Battalion, who, after reading of the Declaration, discharged their field-pieces and fired in platoons. Upon this they proceeded to the Battery, at the Trustees Gardens, where the Declaration was read for the last time, and cannon of the Battery discharged. His Ex- cellency and Council, Colonel Lachlan McIntosh, and other gentlemen, with the Militia, dined under the Cedar Trees, and cheerfully drank to the United, Free, and Independent States of America. In the evening the town was illumi- nated, and there was exhibited a very solemn funeral pro- cession, attended by the Grenadier and Licht-Infantry Com- panies, and other Militia, with their drums muffled, and fifes, and a greater number of people than ever appeared on any occasion before in this Province, when George the Third was interred before the Court-House, in the following manner : Forasmuch as George the Third, of Great Britain, hath most flagrantly violated his coronation oath, and trampled upon the Constitution of our country, and the sacred rights of mankind, we therefore commit his political existence to the ground, corruption to corruption, tyranny to the grave, and oppression to eternal infamy, in sure and certain hope that he will never obtain a resurrection to rule again over these United States of America. But my friends and fel- low-citizens, let us not be sorry as men without hope for tyrants that thus depart; rather let us remember America is free and independent; that she is, and will be, with the blessing of the Almighty, great among the nations of the earth. Let this encourage us in well-doing, to fight for our rights and privileges, for our wives and children, for all that is near and dear unto us. May God give us his blessing, and let all the people say, Amen. HUGH LYON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Prince George’s County, August 10, 1776. GentLemen: To comply with your request for purchasing arms and blankets, the Committee of Observation for the County aforesaid find it necessary to have a sum of money, not exceeding £50, for that purpose. If you think proper, they would be glad to receive that sum by the first safe hand ; and am, for and on behalf of the Committee, gentlemen, your most humble servant, Hueu Lyon. To the Honourable Council of Safety. ARCHER AND HARRIS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Harford County, August 10, 1776. Gentiemen: Enclosed you have a bill of what the hemp linen delivered to the Commissary of Stores cost us per yard, as near as we can make it out at this time, as we have not got all the materials which we purchased manufactured; when we have, shall cheerfully submit a just and true account 883 thereof to you, agreeable to our proposals. At this time we have as much thread spun as would answer our contract with the Convention, if we could get it wove; but there is great difficulty in procuring weavers, as great numbers in our parts have inlisted in the Flying-Camp, and those that remain have advanced their prices. We have now delivered to the Commissary of Stores two hundred and sixty-nine yards of hemp linen, as per receipt, and hope in a short time to deliver a quantity more. Weare, gentlemen, with great respect, your most obliged and very humble servants y ? Arcuer & Harris. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, August 10, 1776. Str: Conceiving it highly necessary that you should be informed as soon as possible of the promotions the Congress were pleased to make in the Army ofthe American States, I do myself the honour to enclose you a list of the same by express. The Continental battalion commanded by Colonel Haslet will begin their march this day for the Jerseys, where, on their arrival at Amboy, the Colonel has orders to acquaint you of the same. I have the honour to be, with the greatest esteem and respect, sir, your most humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington, New-York. P. S. The enclosed letters please to order to be delivered. The commissions enclosed in each. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL HEATH. Philadelphia, August 10, 1776. Sir: The Congress having yesterday been pleased to appoint you a Major-General in the Army of the American States, | do myself the pleasure to enclose your commission. Confident of your zeal and attachment to the liberties of America, | am persuaded you will do everything to merit the honour your country has now conferred on you. With the warmest wishes for your health and prosperity, I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant : ; Joun Hancock, President. To Major-General William Heath. Same to Major-General Joseph Spencer; to Major-General John Sulli- van; and to Major-General Nathanael Greene. N. B. They are to take rank according to the order in which they stand. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL JAMES READ. Philadelphia, August 10, 1776. Sir: The Congress having yesterday been pleased to promote you to the rank of Brigadier-General in the Army of the American States, I do myself the pleasure to enclose your commission, and wish you happy. I am, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To Brigadier-General James Read. Same to Brigadier-General John Nixon; to Brigadier-General Arthur St. Clair; to Brigadier-General Alexander McDougall; to Brigadier-Ge- neral Samuel Holden Parsons; and to Brigadier-General James Clinton. N.B. The said Brigadier-Generals are to take rank according to the order in which they stand. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO WILLIAM TUDOR. Philadelphia, August 10, 1776. Sir: I have it in charge from Congress to inform you that they have this day been pleased to give you the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in the Army of the American States. It is their order that you repair, as soon as possible, to Head- Quarters, there to attend the execution of your office as Judge-Advocate-General. I have written to General Wash- mgton to acquaint him of your appointment, and that you will set out immediately for New-York. Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To William Tudor, Esq., Judge-Advocate-General. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 884 PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, August 10, 1776, six o’clock, P. M. Str: I am this minute honoured with your favour of the Sth and 9th instant, per post. Having sent off an express this morning, at which time I forwarded commissions for the General Officers appointed yesterday by Congress, I shall not detain the post to send the commissions ordered by the enclosed resolves. In the mean time, you will please to direct the persons to do such duty as you shall think proper. Their commissions shall be transmitted by the first opportu- nity. I will lay your letter before Congress on Monday morning, and immediately inform you of the result. I have the honour to be, with every sentiment of respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Joun Hancock, President. To General Washington, New-York. LETTER FROM WILLIAM FLOYD, OF NEW-YORK. Philadelphia, August 10, 1776. Sir: The situation of our Province or State is truly alarm- ing; and it gives me concern that I cannot hear more par- ticularly what its true state and circumstances are. I beg you would favour me with a few lines on that subject as often as your time will permit. Be pleased to let me know what you hear of the situation of our friends on the eastern part of Long-Island. What is become of General Wood- hull, Mr. Hobart, Tredwell, Mr. Smith, and others? Have you heard anything from my family? Have any of our friends got off the Island with their families, or what must they submit to? Despotism or destruction, I fear, is their fate. We have nothing new here; all important news is with you. Is our Convention sitting? Are they forming Government? Where are the two armies? What are their probable intentions? Is New-York to be evacuated, as well as Long-Island, without fighting? Or will our Army, like the Romans of old, consider the invaluable prize for which they are contending, and, with their fortitude, attack the enemy wherever they can find them, knowing that death is rather to be chosen than life upon the terms our enemies will suffer us to hold it? If our Convention is not sitting, please to inform me who I can draw upon for money to pay my expenses; and you will very much oblige, sir, your very humble servant, Wau. F M. F'Loyp. IN CONVENTION FOR THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA. Saturday, August 10, 1776. Resolved, 1, That the Commanding Officers of the seve- ral Battalions in the respective Counties of this State imme- diately march into Jersey with their whole Battalions. Resolved, 2, That the Associators of the Counties of Bedford, Northumberland, Northampton, and Westmore- land, and the Guards of the City of Phzladelphia retained by the Council of Safety, and two Companies of Colonel Ross’s Battalion, and two Companies of Colonel Slough’s Battalion, of about fifty men each, left to guard the prisoners, and about sixty carpenters and workmen retained by the Committee of Lancaster, be excepted out of the foregoing Resolve. Resolved, 3, That a bounty of £3 be paid to every Associator who. has entered, or will enter, into the service of the Flying-Camp, to continue until the first day of January next, if not sooner discharged, unless such as have already received a bounty. Resolved, 4, ‘That such Battalions as have, or shall fur- nish their quotas for the Flying-Camp, and have been in actual service six weeks, shall be permitted to return home, if the Generals and Field-Officers shall judge it consistent with the publick safety; and where the whole cannot be permitted to return, furloughs are to be granted in cases of particular necessity. Resolved, 5, That three Commissioners be appointed to go to Head-Quarters in Jersey, to form the Flying-Camp. Resolved, 6, That the Commissioners, with the Field-Offi- cers of the Counties respectively, shall nominate the Officers for the Flying-Camp, where they are not already nominated. Resolved, 7, That money be put into the hands of the Commissioners for the purpose of paying the bounty. Extract from the Minutes. Joun Morris, Jun., Secretary. 885 LANCASTER COMMITTEE, _ Ata meeting of the Committee of Observation, Inspec- tion, and Correspondence, at the house of Adam Reigart, the 10th August; 1776: Present: Mathias Slough, William Atlee, William Bowsman, Chris- topher Crawford, Henry Dehuff, Casper Shaftner, Daniel Elliot, Michael Musser, William Bowsman, John Miller., William Atlee in the chair. Resolved, That Englehart Holtzinger, an Associator in Captain Morgan’s Company of Militia, being a Gunstock Smith, now at work with Mr. Jacob Graeff, ought not to be marched to the Camp with the Militia, but be continued at that work. Resolved, That the men in Town of Captains Pedan’s and McKee’s Companies, amounting to about sixty, or be- tween that and seventy men, of Militia of Colonel Galbreath’s Battalion, ought to be marched for the Camp, and not be kept on billets in this Town; and if neither of their Com- panies receive additions by to-morrow at two o’clock suffi- cient to make up a full Company, that they be joined and marched together under the eldest Captain of those two gentlemen ; being first mustered, and their advance paid them on the junction. IN CONVENTION OF THE STATE OF NEW-JERSEY. Brunswick, August 10, 1776. Resolved, ‘That to prevent Desertion, no person or per- sons belonging to, or coming from, the Army in the State of New-Jersey, be permitted to go over any of the Ferries in, or travel through, said State, without a pass, signed either by General Mercer, General Dickerson, General Living- ston, Colonel Griffin, or Colonel Biddle. And all persons in general, and in particular the members of Committees, Militia Officers, and owners or keepers of Ferries, are strictly enjoined to carry this Resolution into effect, by apprehending and securing every person belonging to, or coming from, said Army, who shall not have a pass signed as above directed, until he can be conducted to the Army aforesaid. That no Troops in service of the United States, or of any of them, nor their Baggage, Ammunition, or their other Wagons or Carriages, shall pay for passing any of the Ferries within this State more than one-third part of the ferriage paid by such as are not in said service. And to prevent a misconstruction of this Resolve, it is hereby declared that Commissaries and other persons supplying the Army with Provisions, Stores, &c., are not intended to be included in said Resolve, so as to receive any private benefit from the same. Extract from the Minutes. Wm. Paterson, Secretary. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, August 10, 1776, ten o’clock, A. M. Sr: I received the favour of two letters from your Ex- cellency this forenoon. In consequence of these, I shall push forward to New- York as many of the troops as I can prevail ontomarch. Colonel Atlee’s battalion of Musketry will march this afternoon. Col. Miles’s two battalions of Riflemen set out this morning. A tender, of ten carriage guns, came up this morning to Billop’s Point ; was under sail about an hour ago, seem- ingly with a view to pass up the Sound; the wind failed, and she is come to. ‘The distance is too great to fire on her as yet; we are prepared when she comes near enough. As the enemy probably draw off from this end of Staten-Island, the tender may be sent to prevent our passing over. Your letter [ hoped would have had good effects on the Militia ; but fear nothing will do. None have gone off from hence last night; but some battalions are in very ill-humour, and very abusive to their officers. Colonel Dickinson writes me that thirty of his men have gone off with their arms this morning. I have written to the Congress to take some measures to stop this infamous desertion, and to the Con- vention of New-Jersey to raise their Militia to take up the deserters, and to supply proper guards for these posts. I have ordered one company of General Dickerson’s brigade to be stationed at Trenton, one at Princeton, and one at Brunswick, to stop all deserters. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most obedient servant, Hueu Mercer. To General Washington. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 886 RICHARD H. HARRISON TO GENERAL MIFFLIN. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 10, 1776. Str: [have it in command from his Excellency to request in his name your particular attention to the works erecting on the other side of King’s Bridge. He conceives them to be of great consequence, and therefore is desirous that they should be carried on with every degree of diligence that the situation of affairs will admit of. As they are of such importance, and to make them more tenable against any attempt that may be made by the enemy to possess them, he desires that you will send five or six cannon from your post as can best be spared, and have them mounted imme- diately. Apprehensive that the enemy, if they go up the North River, may attempt to go down the creek in their boats and destroy King’s Bridge, his Excellency judges it necessary that you should direct Colonel Putnam and Monsieur Wiebert to mark out some convenient spot where a small work proper for its defence and security must be thrown up as speedily as may be. His Excellency wishes you to sink as fast as possible the vessels, &c., for obstructing the channel; and should you want more, that you will certify General Putnam of the same. Having set down the things given me in charge, and being in haste, I have only to add, Iam, &c. R. H. Harrison. To General Mifflin. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO COLONEL HAY. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 10, 1776. Sir: Your favours of the 2d and 7th instant, are duly received. ‘I‘he Commissary-General, to whom I had refer- red the matter of your appointment, was to have written and desired you to undertake the business. Since which, it is determined that those troops under General Clinton are to march to King’s Bridge, and of consequence will receive their supplies from the general store there. It cannot be long before matters may take a capital turn this way. The issue will determine whether a post from your part of the country is necessary or otherwise. Any movements of the enemy, which you think may be of consequence, I shall be obliged if you will transmit me. I am, sir, your most humble servant, Go. Wasuineron. To Colonel Ann Hawkes Hay, Haverstraw. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO RICHARD VARICK. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 10, 1776. Sir: Your letter of the 5th instant, with its several enclo- sures, is come safe to hand; and I now enclose you a list from the Colonel of Artillery and Quartermaster-General of what is, and will be, forwarded from this place; which is all that can be procured. ‘There was some duck arrived at Provi- dence, out of which I have requested Governour Cooke to supply the Northern Army, provided it is not otherwise disposed of. ‘The water communication being yet stopped, makes it exceedingly difficult to: transport these articles to Albany. Iam, sir, &c., Go. WasHineTon. To Richard Varick, Esq., Secretary to General Schuyler. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO TIMOTHY EDWARDS. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 10, 1776. Sir: This will be delivered to you by Samuel and John, two of our friends of the Stockbridge Indians, who have been here, and expressed the desire of their people to become part of the Army of the United States. Having written to you fully on the 7th instant, and transmitted a copy of the resolution of Congress upon this subject, (which I presume will have reached you before this comes to hand,) I have referred them to you for information, in the instance of their application, and have only to request the favour of your early attention to what I then recommended to your care and direction. Iam, &c., Go. WasHINGTON. To Timothy Edwards, Esq., Commissioner of Indian Affairs. 887 AARON BURR TO TIMOTHY EDWARDS. New-York, August 10, 1776. Dear Unctie: I have received your letters from Stock- bridge, with my watch, for which I thank you. Our six galleys which went up the North River attacked the British ships. They behaved well, but were driven off with the loss of three killed and twelve or thirteen wounded. A second attack is proposed. Vessels and chevaux-de-frise are sunk in the North River. The channel is said to be effectually stopped. We are endeavouring the same in the East River. The British fleet have been largely reinforced at different times. ‘They are now said to be upwards of two hundred sail within the Narrows. ‘They have drawn up seven of their heaviest ships in a line, nearly two miles ad- vanced of the rest. By two Virginia gentlemen who went to England to take the gown, who returned in a packet and landed on Staten-Island, where they tarried several days, and were permitted to cross to Elizabethtown on Thursday last, we have some intelligence of the enemy. Clinton has arrived with his shattered fleet and about three thousand six hun- dred men. By this it appears that he has either fallen in with part of Dunmore’s fleet, or picked up the remainder of his own, which had been separated, and were not in the action near Charlestown. Of the Hesstans only thirteen or fourteen hundred have arrived. ‘The remainder, about nine thousand, are daily expected. ‘They were left near the Banks of Newfoundland. ‘Those already here are not much esteemed as soldiers. The King’s land Army is at present about fifteen or six- teen thousand strong. ‘They expect very soon to exceed twenty-five thousand. ‘They have taken on board all their heavy cannon from Staten-Island, and have called in several of their outposts. ‘Thirty transports have sailed under con- voy of three frigates. They are to come through the Sound, and thus invest us by the North and East Rivers. They are then to land on both sides of the Island, join their forces, and draw a line across, which will hem us in and totally cut off all communication ; after which they will have their own fun. These Virginia gentlemen lodged in a house with several King’s officers. ‘They hold us in the utmost contempt. Talk of forcing all our lines without firmg a gun. The bayonet is their pride. They have forgot Bunker's Hull. Your nephew, A. Burr. To T. Edwards. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, August 10, 1776. Sir: Colonel Hand reports three ships at the Hook. A large schooner sailed from the watering-place late yesterday in the afternoon. She seems to direct her course towards Amboy this morning. From the firing heard at sea last evening, it is supposed the remainder of the Hessian fleet is at hand. Everything at the watering-place remains quiet. Nothing remarkable has happened in this camp since yesterday’s report. I sent over nine suspected Tories this morning to the City Hall, under the care of Lieutenant Randal. _ I report- ed their names to Colonel Harrison. There is one Ben- jamin Hevlet, that liveson the Northside, who does not appear to be an object worth sending away. There appears several insignificant characters amongst these last. How extensive their influence may be, I can’t pretend to divine; but from their appearance, they don’t look like doing much mischief. Lieutenant Skinner is as industrious as possible in appre- hending the disaffected. By what he writes to me, many have gone off. He says the Tories had an account amongst them that they were to be taken for several days before the attempt was made. I wonder whether anything of this sort has been in contemplation by the Provincial Congress. It is surprising to me how it could be known. ‘They expected it was an order from Congress. I am, dear sir, with the greatest respect, your Excel- lency’s most obedient, humble servant, N. GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New-York. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 888 COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, August 10, 1776, five o’clock P. M. Honovrep Sir: I congratulate you on the safe return of Major Bigelow, though his embassy may have proved abor- tive In some measure. A We hear the disagreeable truth that Captain Wilson and his party of near thirty men of our regiment, are taken prisoners, one killed. We also understand that the Cana- dian Indians are against us, and that sons of Britain will avow that they were present at the cruel murder and scalp- ing at the Isle-aux-Noiz. The fleet, if of any use, ought to be lower down. The enemy might land on the eastern shore, fifteen miles from this, and could make such a lodgment in a short time as might prevent our vessels from going down. We had an instance to-day of a false alarm from the Navy. The Regulars were said to have landed about nine miles off, and were intrenching. Was there a good look- out on the vessels lower down this could not happen. In consequence of your orders to me, on the flag’s going down, I have sent but few parties on the Lake. I fear the orders from General Arnold were so positive that he (Captain Wilson) could not return before he was taken, without an apparent disobedience. Captain Wilson had notice that he was discovered by two scoundrels that went down in a canoe: the one is a step-brother and the other a tenant of Glliland’s. A point of honour, or some- thing else, must have prevented him from returning back as soon as was prudent. You will find that the enemy are coming up the Lake, but not in large bodies. ‘This induced Major Bigelow to advise a party of seven to return from near Gilliland’s, who were going down to Cumberland-Bay on the business I mentioned to you. I have three men down toward St. John’s, who do not appear yet to have been discovered. I have some hopes from them; and had the party not been so great under Cap- tain Wilson, he might have returned, and our regiment not so materially injured. However, the treachery of the two men who were in the canoe ruined the scheme. The important matter submitted by you to me is ad- vancing fast towards maturity. A number of suspected men are hourly waiting onthem. I have given them an additional pass, and all things seem to stand fair on their side. Should they have gone on, it would have been the worst policy in the world. ‘The youth has been watching all our motions to-day. He shows much sagacity. ‘T’o-morrow I shall be able to tell you of some matters of consequence, if I am not much mistaken. I am, honoured sir, with the greatest respect, your most humble servant, Tuos. Hartuey. To the Honourable Major-General Gates. COLONEL RICHMOND TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. . Head-Quarters, Aereate August 10, 1776, en o’clock, evening. Sir: This moment arrived Captain Harris, who brings us the following intelligence: That Thursday last he fell in with a fleet, and distinctly counted one hundred and eight sail, seventeen of which he took to be ships-of-war, the rest transports, about fifteen leagues, S.E. by S. from Nantucket- Shoals, their course W.N.W., close to the wind, about the latitude of Sandy-Hook. The next morning, ten o’clock, saw nine sail, supposed to be part of the same fleet. I thought it to be my indispensable duty to give your Excellency the earliest intelligence, by express, of so impor- tant a piece of news, as without doubt they are destined for New-York. I am, with respect, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Wiuuiram Ricumonp, Col. Commandant. To His Excellency George Washington, Esq. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Lebanon, August 10, 1776. GentLemEN: Enclosed is copy of a letter from the Com- mittee at Albany, by Ensign John Fisk, who escorted under guard, from Albany, twenty-three prisoners, represented. to be inimical to the rights of these States, to be secured and 889 taken care of. The Jails here are so filled that it is difficult to find a proper place of security for this additional number. For the present they are ordered to the Jail in New-London, and shall expect soon a resolution from your Convention In what manner you would have them treated, and how or by what means supported. rye The Mayor of Albany, and five others sent with him by the Committee of that city some time ago, are at Hartford. Those sent by your body under the care of Mr. Depeyster are imprisoned at Hartford, Norwich, and Litchfield. The present necessity, attention to the service of the Inited States, and real affection to our sister State of New- York under the present calamities of a siege and invasion, induce us to receive such troublesome and inimical men into our care and custody. We wish to have them removed, and to be released from the trouble they occasion, as early as is convenient. I am, with great truth and regard, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant, Jona. TRUMBULL. To the Honourable Convention of the State of New- York. Albany Committee, August 2, 1776. Sir: Agreeable to a resolve of this Committee we take the liberty to send to the care of your Honour the persons named on the within list, and have affixed.to their names the crimes which they have committed. We are of opinion that Alexander Campbell, William Pemberton, Henry Van Schaack, Joseph Anderson, and John Munro, and Samuel Anderson, are to be maintained at their own expense; and that Frederick Williams, John Duzenberry, Walter Scott, John Scott, Samuel S. Gardi- nier, Benjamin Greenman, Dugald Campbell, Henry West- ernhouser, Thomas Sword, Jacob Zimmerman, Nicholas Weaver, Owen Conner, Ralph Walton, and William Mc- Mullen, are to be maintained at the expense of the publick. The situation of this County as a frontier induces us to be particularly careful in lessening the number of our inter- nal enemies, besides the great number of disaffected amongst us. Their constant meetings, plots, and conspiracies, oblige us to consult every method for placing them in a situation where they can do no injury to the general cause, by joining with the forces of the British King, assisting his army, or by opposing and preventing the support and preservation of our forces to the northward and westward. The influence of these men, if exerted, would, we conceive from their avowed principles, have been used against the American States. The places of confinement here are full; and since the retreat of our Army from Canada, and the arrival of the regular troops at New-York, disaffected persons, whose principles before were concealed, are daily appearing in every part of the country; and by reason of the great num- bers of men drawn from us for the publick service, we are unable to apprehend and guard with security all such persons as we are convinced, from the fullest proof, are inimical to the rights of America. We would recommend it to your Excellency to separate them as far distant from one another as they conveniently can be, and to prevent any communication between the persons now sent from this County to your Honour’s care and those formerly transmitted, as some of the persons now sent are particularly dangerous, though their abilities, their address and insinuation, may place them in a different point of light. We are your Honour’s most obedient servants. By order of the Committee: Joun Barciay, Chairman pro tem. To His Honour Governour Trumbull. Albany Committee Chamber, August 10, 1776. GentLemeN: In obedience to your resolve of the 26th day of June last, requesting this Committee to lay before your honourable Board the proceedings had against Abra- ham C. Cuyler, Henry Cuyler, Stephen DeLancey, John Duncan, Benjamin Hilton, and John Monier, inhabitants of this City and County, sent to Hartford in the Colony of Connecticut, and the misdemeanors with which they stand charged, this Committee beg leave to acquaint your honour- able Board that the representation respecting Henry Cuyler CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 890 is groundless; and as to the others, we refer you to the mat- ters contained in the paper herewith sent, distinguished by No. 1, which sets forth the conduct of some of them previous to this Committee’s proceedings against them. At a meeting of this Committee on the 9th day of May last, the said Abraham C. Cuyler, Stephen DeLancey, and John Monier, among other persons of this city, were judged to be notoriously disaffected to the American cause ; where- upon it was resolved, that the said disaffected persons should be cited to appear before this Board, and that the Associa- tion made by your honourable Board the 27th day of March last should be tendered to them. ‘They were cited accord- ingly, and appeared before this Committee on the 11th day of May last, which Association they refused to sign; upon which it was resolved that the said persons should be dis- armed, as will appear by a certified copy of the Minutes of this Board, herewith sent, marked No. 2. Respecting Benjamin Hilton, we refer you to Nos. 3 and 1. The morning of the 4th of June was ushered in with the firing of guns, pistols, &c., by boys, negroes, &c., a circum- stance not agreeable to the inhabitants of this city, knowing the scarcity of powder. We were no longer at a loss to guess from whence this untimely liberality proceeded than the evening following, when a number of unfriendly persons assembled at the house of Richard Cartwright in order to celebrate that anniversary. ‘The Mayor was conducted to this noble banquet by Thomas Barret, a cooper, and Charles Folliott, a carpenter, supported by them under each arm. The unusual noise on this occasion alarmed many of the inhabitants of this city, who went to Cartwright’s, to inform themselves of the occasion of this indecent meeting, when, to their astonishment, they found Abraham C. Cuyler, Ste- phen DeLancey, and John Momer, with a number of the lower sort of people, carousing, and singing God save the King, &c. Their former conduct having so exasperated the good people of this city that they could no longer refrain taking notice of this daring insult, upon which they rushed in, seized Stephen DeLancey and John Monier, among others, and committed them to the Tory Jail. The next day the petition No. 4 was presented to this Committee by a number of respectable inhabitants of this city. Shortly after, a verbal request was made to this Board by the said petitioners, praying that the said Abraham C. Cuyler, Henry Cuyler, Stephen DeLancey, John Monier, John Duncan, and Benjamin Hilton, might be removed out of this city. Whereupon this Committee, on the 13th day of June last, on motion, resolved that the said six persons above named, and Lieutenant Angus McDonald, should be removed un- der guard to Hartford in Connecticut. See the Resolve No. 5. During the residence of these men in this place, our ene- mies were daily increasing in number and insolence, boast- ing that they were to make returns of their proceedings to some of the greatest men in the country. We plainly fore- saw that nothing could be done with the rabble who were influenced by them till they were removed; and indeed the conduct of the Committee of Albany was freely and loudly censured by the good people of this County in all parts. Complaints were made that the most atrocious offenders were screened in Albany, while every poor low fellow was immediately prosecuted for only lisping out things which those people uttered daily in the most daring language. Since the removal of those leading enemies to our freedom and repose, this place has enjoyed much more tranquillity than heretofore. Many iniquitous plans have since been discovered, and their execution prevented; for they now, being destitute of council and support, when taken some of them have made full and free confession. We may also observe, that during the stay of these gentlemen in this place complaints have been made by the officers of almost every regiment that passed through here, that the minds of their men were immediately poisoned on their arrival, and many who had marched in the most peaceable manner from Phila- delphia had deserted from here, and others turned almost ungovernable; which complaints have, since their removal, entirely subsided. We are, gentlemen, your most obedient servants. By order of the Committee: Joun Barcuay, Chairman pro tem. To the President of the Convention of the State of New- York. 891 COLONEL FITCH TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-Haven, August 10, 1776. Honovurep Sir: I received a letter from General Wash- ington yesterday in the afternoon, requiring me to call forth and march my regiment forthwith to New-York, to the assistance of the Army there. I have accordingly drawn my orders to each Captain in the regiment. I sent to Colo- nel Thompson to march with the regiment, but he being sick as well as myself, I now hold the orders in my hands, as I cannot inform the Captains who will take the command of them. I desire that your Honour would order some field- officer in the Colony to take the command of the regiment, and let me know who it is, so that I may give out the orders, &c. Isend, with the bearer, General Washington’s letter to me, for your Honour to peruse, &c. I beg leave to subscribe myself your Honour’s most hum- ble servant, JonaTHAN FircH. To His Honour Governour Trumbull. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO MAJOR HAWLEY. In Committee of Council, August 10, 1776. Sir: Your letters of the 31st ultimo and 5th instant are now before us, and we have thought proper to enclose you a copy of a resolve, passed the last session of the General Court, respecting the Test Act; and we apprehend your Honour has seen the last order of this Committee, calling upon all Magistrates, Sheriffs, Committees, &c., to be vigilant in causing the Jaws and orders of this State to be put into exe- cution, to prevent the good people from being exposed by persons inimical; which we think is all that is necessary for us to do in the recess of the Court. As to passing a resolve similar to that passed by the Governour and Committee of Safety of Connecticut, itis not in our power. We have never seen it, and you have not furnished us with a copy of it. We are sorry to hear of the mistake respecting the kettles and canteens; but as there is a Committee appointed by the Court to take particular care of this matter, and we have written to them not long since respecting the same, we can- not but think they will take effectual care about it. We did not expect to raise and march the men without money, but we expected the Committee of Hampshire County would, agreeable to what the rest of the Committees have done, apply to us for a warrant on the ‘Treasurer for the same, which we should readily have granted, it being to be made payable to them only. We should also have sup- plied them with blank commissions. Please to send down one of your Committee for these purposes. We have not the pleasure of knowing Mr. Cranson, whom your Honour mentions, and we are at a loss to know how he could understand that we were not in haste to have the fifteen hundred men raised. We are sure we did not employ him to construe the resolve of the Court. Weare sorry to hear it is so difficult to raise men in your County to support the Northern Army; but we hope it will be otherwise when the harvest is over ; and it gives me some satisfaction that they inlist to support the lines at Boston, notwithstanding you are now in the midst of your harvest. We do not pretend to say that the resolve for raising the men was the best that could have been formed, but look upon it as our duty to comply with every resolve of the Court, so far as it is in our power. We are.concerned to hear of any apprehensions of de- ficiencies of supplies at No. 4, and that you are assured that there will be no mileage paid there. We apprehend you have been misinformed with respect to this matter. Every- thing has been done agreeable to the resolves of Court. Everything in our power has been done to prevent any deficiencies of supplies at No. 4, and Commissary Trumbull has engaged to take proper care respecting the same; in answer to one of theirs upon this subject, he writes the Council the 21st of July, “that a person is at No. 4, and everything in readiness to receive and forward the troops from New- England going to Crown-Point, as fast as they arrive there, agreeable to your expectations and my engagements.” We hope, therefore, the Committee will cause the men to march to Ticonderoga with all possible despatch. In the name and by order of the Committee, I am, with great respect, your most humble servant, Tuos. Cusuina. To Major Hawley. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 892 COLONEL STEPHEN TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA. August 11, 1776. Sir: The bearer is a native of Hesse, has seen a great deal of service, and seems to have a good military turn. He is lately arrived from Eustatia. If he cannot be employed here, I should think it advisable to send him to Congress. He might probably be useful in seducing the Hessians, as he is acquainted with their natural disposition, and seems to have a good deal.of address. Please to introduce him to General Lewis. I have the honour to be, with great esteem, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, To the Honourable John Page. ApamM STEPHEN. COLONEL EWING TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, August 11, 1776. Honourep Sirs: I did myself the pleasure of writing to you the 7th instant per Lieutenant Chew, to which beg leave to refer. Since which have been honoured with yours of the 6th current, accompanied by Captain Young and his company. I observe you have given him £125, which he has laid out in shoes, stockings, hunting and body shirts, for his soldiers; he has laid out more, and has applied to me for. more money. I would be glad if you would send him £60, or allow me to give it to him, as it will be for the good of his company, and of course of the service. ‘The Committee cannot procure the quantity of guns ordered. Mr. John Smith, son of Captain Young’s Lieutenant, tells me the Committee of Harford had thirty stand, and that Mr. Rich- ard Dallam had thirty stand more completed. I shall be much obliged for an order for them to complete Captain Young’s company, so as to send them off. You omitted enclosing me an order for necessaries to complete Captain Young’s company, which please send me with the order you mention for the blankets. You will please likewise give me an order for the tents now made, or what you allow 1 should take with me. With respect to arms, I do not doubt but if I was to march all my battalion without arms to the camp at the Jerseys, there would enough of the gen- tlemen Militia be very glad to lend them arms, on account of being relieved by us. I understand some of the Militia are grumbling very much, and want to be relieved; and I am convinced Generals would rather have those whom they can with more propriety command. The Captains here have come to a resolution of buying linen and having hunt- ing-shirts made for all their soldiers. Captain Posey, with his company, arrived here the 9th, and I expect Captain Forrest this day or to-morrow. You will please send an order for things to equip Captain Forrest out. Capt. Posey will write you for some money, which please send. The gunsmith wraught all night and works all this day. I amas industrious as I can be, but can do but little without your assistance. For God’s sake, if any way possible, let me have some arms. ‘The gentleman I sent to Frederick and Virginia has brought none, which is a great disappointment to me. He tells me they give £4 5s. in Virginia, for muskets, that currency. The present accompanies Captain John Hawkins’s son, who goes down to settle his account. I don’t expect to be able to get his or any of the companies from this before Wednesday next. ‘There will be a quantity of haver and knapsacks made together. You will please send me an order for a sufficiency to supply four companies, and I will not lift the others. I shall esteem it a favour your not de- taining Captain Lowe, as he will be wanted here. I am, with due respect, honoured sirs, your most obedient humble servant, Tuos. Ewrna. To the Hon. Council of Safety of Maryland, Annapolis. CAPTAIN THOMAS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Head of Elk, August 11, 1776. GentLemen: After a tedious passage of almost four days, I arrived here this morning; the other boats are all in sight. On my arrival here I applied to Colonel Hollingsworth for provisions, and was informed by him that he had no orders from you for that purpose. However, I have procured what beef and bread I want for the present, and propose to start from here early on the morrow. Colonel Hollingsworth 893 . informs me that if you would give him a general order to supply the troops that come here with provisions and bag- gage-wagons, he would take care to have all these necessa- ries on the shortest notice; but without such an order, he thinks it would be wrong in him to do it. I have therefore mentioned it to you, submitting whether such an order would not be proper. One thing, also, give me leave to mention: the victualler at Annapolis will find the troops coming by water but little salt provision. I drew two days’ provision, chiefly fresh; all the fresh was totally spoiled on the second day, so that we could not use a morsel of it; it must happen so to others, and I submit it whether it would not be better to direct him to furnish the troops going by water princi- ally with salt provisions while the hot weather continues. For want of salt provisions, I have been obliged to buy on the passage at extravagant prices. I hope the freedom I have taken will be excused, by, gentlemen, your most obe- dient, humble servant, J. A. THomas. To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. JAMES GIBSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. August 11, 1776. GrentLEMEN: Whereas it does appear that Mr. Nicholas Thomas has resigned up his late warrant of Quartermaster in the Fourth Battalion of Militia: We therefore are in hopes this honourable Board will issue their warrant to a worthy gentleman who now applies, and also is recommended by us, the officers of the Wye company, William Perry, Esq., who offers his services as Quartermaster. He is well known by every man in the County. He ever appeared to be hearty ‘in the cause of the liberty of America. He stepped forth early in the present cause, and his integrity seems to be supported with zeal and earnestness to the present cause. Your compliance, I make no doubt, will give great satisfac- tion to the people in general. We are, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servants, Jas. GiBson, Rost. Hat, Rost. Dureers. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland, at An- napolis, now sitting. JOSIAH BARTLETT TO JOHN LANGDON. Philadelphia, August 11, 1776. Dear Sir: Yours of the 28th ultimo is come to hand, and I congratulate you on your late appointment. Colonel Whipple sets off to-morrow morning for Portsmouth, and takes with him your commission as Continental Agent, and will be able to inform you of everything relative to it. He will be likely to make a little stop at New-York, and will go by the way of Providence, and, if possible, procure the guns for your ship, &c., which stops may prevent his being with you as soon as this may reach you, but will no doubt in a few days after. He takes with him $60,000 for the account of New-Hampshire. By the publick prints you will see there is a new emission of Brigadier-Generals, and four of the former Brigadiers pro- moted to Major-Generals. We find some difficulty to give satisfaction in the appointment of officers; and, on the whole, it was thought the appointing the first Continental Colonel in the respective States to the rank of Brigadiers was the least liable to objection. You have no doubt heard that Clinton and Cornwallis, since their defeat at South-Carolina, have joined General Howe. Governour Dunmore and his ragamuffins, it is said, have left Virginia, and are supposed to be going to join General Howe. I think we may expect that some impor- tant event will soon take place at or near New-York. God grant it may be favourable to the United American States. August 13. Colonel Whipple left us for New-Hampshire yesterday at two o'clock. 1 am your most obedient, JostaH Bartuett. STEPHEN PARKER TO JONATHAN SMITH. Philadelphia, Saturday, August 11, 1776. Str: I am about returning to Machias, and your com- mands that way shall be proud to receive. My coming here has not been attended with such success as the deplorable CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 894 circumstances of that people constrain me warmly to wish. Conscious of the extreme disadvantages I labour under, unaided by purse, and unknown in person, I have thereby been prevented from making effectual applications in their behalf. Iam not insensible how much complaints increase, and how indelicate it is to appear on that list, nor uninformed that imposture and knavery patrol this Continent, deceiving the Christian, benevolent, and honest. Since my arrival, I have taken all pains to engage lumber, but find the price here will scarcely more than pay freight, and already anti- cipate the distress our people will be thrown in when on return [ inform them they can obtain no relief from hence. Money the inhabitants have not, what little was among them being sent away for provision long before my coming; and when I left, there were only two hundred bushels of Indian corn, one hundred of rye, a tierce or two of rice, with a small quantity of pork and flour, for one hundred and twelve families, besides a number of single men—families industri- ous, and many of them frugal, but wholly employed in the lumber way, and dependant thereon for support. Every avenue to New-England, the centre of our usual intercourse, is stopped, so that from thence we can receive nothing. Our people, ambitious to pay an implicit obedience to. the resolves of the honourable American Congress, and zealous to enthusiasm of exerting themselves in defence of invaded liberty, by securing Captain Jones, preventing his trade, seizing the tender, and arming a sloop to annoy the trans- ports loading at Nova-Scotia for the use of the Crown Army, have thrown themselves into the arms of immediate want; and, to heighten the distress, a long winter is approaching on us, attended with all the horrors of famine. Oh, sir, though extreme modesty has hitherto prevented my men- tioning these things fully to you, lest I should prove too impertinent by being troublesome, I beg leave to epitomise them here; painful the idea, but how heightened to such as are assured of exchanging sympathy, for suffering sensibility preponderates against the scale of selfishness, and makes our interest one. I find a willingness to sacrifice the trifle | own for their support; but could I negotiate it, it would be but small. Gratitude, powerful gratitude, would constrain all as one every way to exert themselves to make the speediest and justest returns, could they be so happy as to obtain credit, while the most indelible characters of thankfulness imprinted themselves on their hearts. With respect to my- self, [can only say, were I influenced by the most. aban- doned principles that ever stood opposed to truth and justice, a regard for my interest, and a more tender one for my family, would constrain me to do everything for the welfare of that place, which only can thrive on the foundations of honour, honesty, and virtue. Were any gentlemen within the circuity of your acquaintance, in commisseration of our distress, pleased to afford us relief by crediting us with pro- visions, every assurance in my power shall be given them for the speediest payment possible; but can this not be, God only knows what will become of us. May I beg the honour of receiving your advice in these matters, your par- don for the intrusion on your moments, the absolute result of lively distress, and permission to subscribe myself, most re- spectfully, sir, your obedient, humble servant, STEPHEN ParkeER. To Jonathan Smith, Esq., Philadelphia. GENERAL MERCER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Perth-Amboy, August 11, 1776. Sir: About twelve hundred spears are sent off, agreeable to your orders, by Mr. Tilghman. I shall push on as many of the Flying-Camp and volunteers as possible, but cannot, as yet, ascertain the number. Every assistance we can procure will be given to facilitate the passage of the troops at all the ferries. The tender I mentioned yesterday keeps the same station as hitherto. We perceive no remarkable alteration in the numbers of the enemy on Billop’s Point or Staten-Island. The Pennsylvania Associators continue to desert by bodies. Seventeen went off from the Fourth Battalion last night, and am just now informed of another party who have left camp. I hear of several companies about to join, and hope still to keep up a formidable appearance. I have the honour to be, sir, your Excellency’s most humble servant, Hueu Mercer. GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Perth-Amboy, August 11, 1776. Sir: I received your favour by Mr. Brown, and in con- sequence of your intelligence have sent off an express with letters, one to the Convention of New-Jersey, acquainting them of the desertion of numbers of the Pennsylvania Militia, and desiring them to order out their Militia, to guard the ferries and take other effectual steps to secure the desert- ers; the other to Congress, advising them of the unhappy condition of the Militia, and desiring them to take such steps as might seem necessary on the occasion, as these parts were like to be left exposed to the enemy. In conse- quence of a requisition from General Washington, | have ordered a number of troops to New-York. Colonel Miles, with about seven hundred riflemen, marches this day. Colo- nel Atlee, with his battalion, and a number more, will march to-morrow. ‘To facilitate their march, I have thought some might be passed over in boats from Crane’s Ferry to Brown's Ferry, on Hackensack. Therefore, all the boats that can be had up the river should be collected. H. Mercer. To Colonel John Dickinson, commanding at Elizabeth- Town. [Thus endorsed by me: ‘‘ This letter was received on the 10th of August, 1776, therefore dated wrong. Consulted the Committee on the measure proposed, who disapproved it. Acquainted General Mercer JD] with the reasons.”’ GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Perth-Amboy, August 11, 1776. Sir: I had intended to order Colonel Grub’s battalion, of Lancaster County, to New-York ; but I have ordered him to Elizabeth-Town. You will use your utmost address to induce the Militia to perform their duty at this critical time, when the fate of America is so near being deter- mined. Colonel Grub is very willing to go anywhere. I have desired him to consult with you on the defence of the Jersey shore. Be so good as to point out to him the neces- sity of strong guards on Bergen Neck. H. Mercer. To Colonel John Dickinson, commanding at Elizabeth- Town. GENERAL MERCER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Perth-Amboy, August 11, 1776. Sir: I wrote to you a few hours ago that Colonel Grub would march with his battalion for Elizabeth- Town to-morrow morning, which I hope will be time enough to reinforce your post. ‘This morning I wrote to your brother, the General, to take the most effectual measures to codperate with us. H. Mercer. To Colonel John Dickinson, commanding at Elhzabeth- Town. LETTER FROM AN OFFICER TO COLONEL DICKINSON. Str: The company seem determined to go off to- morrow morning. Their going will, in my opinion, be follow- ed by the First Battalion and the rest. ‘The present is a matter of infinite consequence. If Colonel Dickinson will give his sentiments to the battalion this afternoon, I am convinced it would be effectual in quieting the present dis- turbance. VICE ADMIRAL LORD VISCOUNT HOWE TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE. Eagle, off Staten-Island, August 11, 1776. My Lorp: Conceiving it of the utmost importance, in pursuit of the objects of the special commission with which {had the honour to be charged by his Majesty, that the Colonies in rebellion should have the earliest information of his Majesty’s most gracious intentions with respect to the restoration of peace, and the granting of pardons to such of his Majesty’s subjects as, by a speedy return to their alle- giance, might deserve the Royal mercy, I thought proper in the course of my voyage to prepare a Declaration to that CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 896 effect, together with a Circular Letter addressed to the Gov- ernours, or, in their absence, the Lieutenant-Governours or Chief Magistrates of the respective Colonies ; copies of which I have the honour to enclose to your Lordship, No. 1 and 2. [Letter and Declaration, dated June 20, 1776.] I had little expectation that these Letters and Declaration would reach the hands of his Majesty’s Governours. My object was, that they should be circulated as much as possi- ble throughout the Provinces; and I hoped to have found an opportunity of landing them soon after the time of their date by means of some vessel I might meet with upon the coasts; but no opportunity offered tll I arrived off the har- bour of New-York on the 12th of last month, when I de- spatched the First Lieutenant of the Eagle to Amboy, with those intended for the Colonies to the southward of New- York, directing bim to deliver them to any person who might appear in authority, and to desire they might be for- warded by the post. The enclosed printed paper, No. 3, which came acciden- tally to my hands, will inform your Lordship of the resolu- tion of the General Congress, [of July 19, 1776,] upon their receipt of the above-mentioned packets, which it seems were transmitted by Mr. (called General) Mercer, the command- ing officer at Amboy, to Mr. Washington, at New- York, and by him to the Congress. Captain Burnaby, in the Merlin sloop, was charged with the packets for the Colonies of Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode- Island, Connecticut, and New-Hampshire, and directed to land them at Rhode-Island. On the 28th of last month he returned, with a letter to me from Mr. Cooke, acknowledg- ing the receipt of my Letter and Declaration, and acquaint- ing me that he had communicated them to “the General Assembly of that State,” then sitting at Newport, who would transmit copies of them to “the most honourable the General Congress of the United States of America, to whom every application ought to be addressed, and must be referred.” A copy of Mr. Cooke’s letter to me is enclosed, No. 4, [dated Newport, July 21, 1776.] As the issuing the above-mentioned Letters and Declara- tion is the only measure I judged necessary to take before I could have a conference with General Howe, I have nothing further to add in this separate despatch, but my hopes of being informed by your Lordship that my conduct is hon- oured with his Majesty’s approbation. I have the honour to be, &c., Howe. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE COMMITTEE OF QUEEN’S COUNTY, NEW-YORK. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 11, 1776. GentLemen: The publick exigencies having required my apprehending a number of suspected persons in your County, and sending them into another Colony for a short time, they have expressed some apprehensions that, in their absence, their property may be exposed to injury, and their families deprived of the support they would otherwise derive fron it. I therefore beg leave to acquaint you that a temporary re- straint of their. persons is all that is intended by the present measure; and that it would give me much pain if it should be construed to extend to any depredation of property, that matter resting entirely within the jurisdiction of the civil au- thority of the Province. Until, therefore, some orders are received from them to that effect, I shall be happy in be- lieving you will exert your whole power and influence to prevent the mischief which these gentlemen seem to appre- hend. I am, with respect, gentlemen, your most obedient, hum- ble servant z Go. WasHINGTON. To the Committee of Queen’s County, Long-Island. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION. New-York, August 11, 1776. Gentiemen: In answer to your favour of the 9th, with which I have been honoured, I beg leave to inform you that I neither wish nor expect anything more than that the levies raised by you will be in Continental pay from the time they were Called into service. ‘That troops employed in a gene- ral cause should be supported at the general expense, is so evidently just that I cannot see any objection to it. 897 It is trae when the proceedings of your honourable body for raising these levies were first communicated to me, and it was mentioned by the Committee who brought them that it was expected they would be paid by the States, I did not think myself authorized to take into service so large a num- ber of men, and therefore could not say the States would pay them; but the situation of our affairs being much changed, and requiring their service, 1 cannot but consider them as much entitled to Continental pay as any troops in this Army. In this light I am persuaded Congress will view them. It is so obvious and so equitable, that no application from me can be necessary. The bounty, I imagine, as you your- selves do, will be the expense of the State, for which indem- nification will not be made by the publick. My letter of the 8th was not meant to comprehend this subject. It was particularly designed to explain my ideas of the authority from whence General Clinton’s powers were derived. I have requested Mr. Trumbull to take the direction of the Commissaries, and to see that the levies are properly sup- plied with provisions. I am extremely concerned that the quotas of men to be furnished by the neighbouring States have proved so deficient. The busy season and harvest, to which it has been ascribed, being now over in a great degree, I flatter myself, from the zeal they have heretofore manifested, they will afford every possible assistance. ‘They are well apprized of the importance of this State in the pre- sent contest, and the necessity of maintaining it against the attempts of the enemy. In respect to the Militia of Albany County, as you are pleased, in your proceedings of the 10th instant, to submit the propriety of calling them out to my determination, I would advise that they should not, unless the necessity for bringing them here should be extremely great; they other- wise should remain in their County, to afford succour to the frontier parts of the Government, if it should be necessary. I have enclosed a copy of Lieutenant McMichael’s report, transmitted me by General Schuyler, from whence it will appear, if the intelligence contained in it be true, that their aid may be required there. I have desired General Greene, on the application of the Gommittee sent to King’s County, to afford them every assistance he conveniently can, for executing the business they are upon. Before I conclude, I would observe, the letter of the 9th, which I have acknowledged to have received, is without any signature. I presume it has been omitted through the hurry of business. I have the honour to be, with great respect, gentlemen, our most obedient servant y 2 Go. WasHINGTON. To the Hon. Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq., President, &c. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, August 11, 1776. Sir: Necessity obliges me to trouble your Honour with some more suspected persons, whose characters are such as to make it unsafe for them to remain at their usual places of abode on Long-Island; and there is no retreat in this Pro- vince where they may not do some mischief, or be less secure than our safety requires. As they are apprehended merely on suspicion, arising from a general line of conduct unfriendly to the American cause, I have given them reason to expect from you every indulgence which your good judgment will admit you to allow them, consistent with the publick safety. There are few of them who will not defray their own ex- penses, and those few their companions of better circum- stances will assist, if convenience will admit their being together in the same place, which will be a saving to the publick. If there are any quite destitute, I presume they must be put on the footing of other prisoners in like circum- stances. ‘They express a very earnest desire to be permitted to choose their own lodging and accommodations, to which I see no objection. But as I have referred them entirely to you, I do not choose to enter into any engagements on this or any other point, only adding generally, that I could wish they might have every accommodation and indulgence, having a respect to their rank and education, which may be deemed consistent with safety; and they are given to under- stand that your humanity and politeness will most effectually prevent their being liable to any unnecessary hardships. Firra Sertes.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 898 I am, with much respect and esteem, your Honour’s most obedient and humble servant, Go. WAsHINGTON To Governour Trumbull. P.S. 1am just informed that Judge Jones has obtained some letters of recommendation to Connecticut, from which he expects to be permitted to stay at New-Haven. Unless very particular circumstances should require it, I cannot but think you will agree with me that these prisoners should be removed from seaport and post towns, as the intention of removal from hence is not fully answered, while they have opportunities of carrying on correspondence. JEDEDIAH HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Camp, New-York, August 11, 1776. Honovurep Sir: Judge Jones being taken up and ordered to Connecticut, has applied to me for letters to my friends. I am a stranger to any particulars of his political character, except that he lately held a place under the Crown of Eng- land. His character as a gentleman I believe unexception- able. He has shown me some civilities. I think I can assure him that he will be secure from any insult or abuse, and that he will experience from my friends and others every civility compatible with his situation. I am, most affectionately, your son, Jep’u Hontineron. To Governour Trumbull. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp on Long-Island, August 11, 1776. Dear Genera: There is no proper establishment for the supplying the Regimental Hospital with proper utensils for the sick. They suffer, therefore, for want of proper ac- commodation. ‘There is repeated complaint upon this head. The Regimental Hospitals are and ever will be rendered useless, nay, grievous, unless there is some proper fund to provide the necessary conveniences. ‘The General Hospital cannot receive all the sick, and those that are in the Regi- mental Hospitals are in a suffering condition. If this evil continues, it must greatly injure the service, as it will greatly dispirit the well to see the sick suffer, and prevent their engaging again upon any conditions whatever. Great humanity should be exercised towards those indisposed. Kindness on one hand leaves a favourable and lasting im- pression; neglect and suffering on the other, is never for- gotten. I am sensible there has formerly been great abuses in the Regimental Hospitals; but I am in hopes in general men of better principles are elected to those places, and that the. same evils will not happen again. But the Continent had better suffer a little extraordinary expense than the sick should be left to suffer for want of those conveniences that may easily be provided. I would beg leave to propose that the Colonels of regi- ments be allowed to draw moneys to provide the Regimental Hospitals with proper utensils; an account of the disburse- ments weekly or monthly to be rendered. This will pre- vent abuse and remedy the evil. Something is necessary to be done speedily, as many sick are in a suffering condi- tion. I am your Excellency’s most obedient servant, Natu. GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, New-York. N. B. The General Hospital is well provided with every thing, and the sick very comfortable. I wish it was exten- sive enough to receive the whole, but it 1s not. GENERAL GREENE TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, Camp on Long-Island, August 11, 1776, Sunday, 11 o’clock. Dear Sir: Enclosed is a list of the principal Tories in the different towns, given before Mr. Skinner, a young gentleman bred to the practice of the law, and perfectly acquainted with almost all the political characters in the Province. Your Excellency will please to examine it, and if it meets your approbation, signify the time you will have: 57 899 the execution take place, by giving your orders on the back of the list. I have the honour to be your obedient servant, N. GREENE. LIST OF TORIES. William Thorn, Great Neck. Justice Kissam. Benjamin Hewlet. Richard Townsend, (North side.) Justice Clowes, Hempstead, (should be secured.) David Beaty. Doctor Seabury. Benjamin Lester. Samuel Langdon. George Hewlett, Hempstead. Stephen Hewlett. John Miller. James Coggeshall, (should be se- cured.) Richard Hewlett, Rockaway. Doctor Martin. Charles Hicks. Whitehead Cornell. Justice John Hewlett, East Woods. ABR’M SKINNER. Hugh Wallace, Jamaica. Alexander Wallace. Doctor Ardin, Mr. Bethune, (should be secured.) Nathaniel Mills. Jos’h French, (should be secured, ) Capt. Benjamin Whitehead. Richard Betts, John Troup. Van Brunt, (at the Mill.) Robert Ross Waddle. Thomas Willett, Esq., Sheriff of Flushing. Edward Willett. David Colden. Judge Willett. Joseph Field. Charles Willett. Jos. Griswold, (at the Plains.) Justice Isaac Smith. GENERAL GATES TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Tyonderoga, August 11, 1776. Sir: I must entreat your Excellency to pardon my so long delaying to send you a particular state of the Army of the United States in this department. Upon my first joining the troops (or rather the Hospital) at Crown-Point, all was in the utmost disorder—the pes- tilence raging, not a cannon mounted, the vessels lumbered with stores, the men dispirited with defeat and fatigue, and, in short, the whole a scene variegated with every distress and disappointment that could conspire to ruin an army. In this miserable state, the first thing to be done was, if possible, to remove the pestilence. Accordingly the Gene- ral Officers unanimously resolved to send all the sick and infected to the General Hospital at the south end of Lake George ; to remove the main body of the Army to the im- portant pass of T'yonderoga; to send the vessels with the utmost despatch to be refitted at Skenesborough; and to begin to erect strong works upon the ground described in the enclosed plan. ‘These measures—thank the Giver of all victory—the enemy either have not had the means or the wisdom to prevent. Our fleet, since the arrival of the reinforcement of car- penters, grows daily more and more powerful. Enclosed is a list of those manned, armed, and ready for action at Crown- Point. A schooner, a row-galley, and three gondolas, are rigging here, and will this week join those at Crown-Point, when General Arnold will sail with the whole down the Lake. Three fine row-galleys will be finished in a fortnight at Skenesborough, and will directly join the rest of the fleet under General Arnold. This is a naval force, when col- lected, that promises to secure the command of Lake Cham- plain. I ordered Colonel Trumbull to send your Excellency a general return of the Army soon after our return hither, and desired him to write your Excellency an account of the then state of our affairs. Happy am I in saying they are so much altered for the better. In the packet you will find a copy of my last letter to the most honourable the Continental Congress; also the report of Major Bigelow, who returned last night with his flag of truce, which he carried from hence the 23d ultimo with the resolves of Congress relative to the capitulation of the Ce- dars and the exchange of prisoners engaged for by General Arnold. General Carleton’s orders issued in consequence of the despatch sent by the flag of truce, you will find enclosed. They astonish me; for with their prosperity, the Generals of the British Army seem to have lost their good understand- ing. Enclosed is copy of a letter this moment sent off express to Major Hawley at Northampton. 1 must beg your Ex- cellency’s authority may be exerted to bring these delin- quents to justice. If that cannot be had, Jet them feel all the shame and disgrace they so richly deserve from their injured country. _A Captain and thirty-nine carpenters from Rhode-Island, hired by the United States at prodigious wages, General CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 900 Waterbury writes me word, are inoculated at Williamstown. I beg you, sir, to write to Governour Cooke to dismiss them immediately. Pay, they do not deserve a penny; they should on no account be permitted to come to Skenesbo- rough. Lam confidently assured we can do without them. The Massachusetts Militia, | am told by Brigadier-General Brickett, who arrived here last night, are all near at hand, and have all tents and camp equipages with them. Lam sorry to be informed that my respectable friends from Con- necticut are coming without these necessary articles, __New- Hampshire have sent their Militia equally deficient. Colonel Wingate’s and Colonel Wymar’s regiments from that Colony are now in this camp. I am harassed to death with writing. The Congress, General Washington, General Schuyler, I am obliged con- stantly to correspond with; the whole business of this Army to direct, with all the variety of writing demanded thereby; and to make the load the heavier, my principal copyist is sick. Your son, who is very industrious, does all he can to aid me, but his own duty is enough for any one man. ‘This, sir, must be my apology for all imperfections. With the greatest respect, 1 am, sir, your Excellency’s most faithful and most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To Governour Trumbull. P. S. Your Excellency will please to communicate all, or any part of this intelligence, to the President of the Mas- sachusetts-Bay. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL PUTNAM. Tyonderoga, August 11, 1776. Dear Por: Every fond mother dotes upon her booby, be his imperfections ever so glaring, and his good qualities ever so few. Crown-Point was not indeed your own im- mediate offspring, but you had a capital hand in rearing the baby. You cut all the logs, which are now rotten as dirt, and tumbled in the dust. No matter forthat. Why should not you be fond of Crown-Point? If [ live to be as old as you, I shall be as fond of Tyonderoga. I can assure you, I fancy already that my booby is a great deal handsomer than yours, and has a thousand excellences more than yours ever possessed. But don’t be uneasy, the absurdities of your booby time will very soon obliterate; but mine will live for some future great engineer, like myself, to laugh at and despise. Joking apart: Have you blown up Staten Island? Have you burnt the enemy’s fleet? Have you sent the two brothers to Hartford? What have you and what have you not done? Sense, courage, honour, and abilities, you know to be the great.outlines of a General. My friend Tom Mifflin has an uncommon share of all four. Present my affectionate compliments to him. I shall pre- serve your letter for a winter evening’s subject, when we three meet again. Remember me affectionately, as you ought, and believe me, veteran, your sincere well-wisher and most obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To General Putnam. GENERAL GATES TO GENERAL WATERBURY. Tyonderoga, August 11, 1776. Dear Genera: The enclosed letter to Major Hawley, I desire you will forward immediately by express, and order the express to wait for the Major’s answer, and then return immediately to Skenesborough. You will send it directly to me. General Brickett arrived here yesterday evening. He says the whole of the Massachusetts Militia have tents. The carts that carry them he thinks will be obliged to go by Skenesborough. As soon as they arrive there, you will send them under the care of proper ofticers to Tyonderoga. The naval stores wanted at your post shall be sent to Skenesborough as fast as it comes to hand. I would have the whole of the Massachusetts Militia sent here as soon as their tents come forward. If the carts with their tents get here by the road General Brickett came, I will let you know itimmediately. Yours, &c., Horatio Gates. To General Waterbury. 901 GENERAL GATES TO MAJOR HAWLEY. Tyonderoga, August 10, 1776. Dear Sir: A villain of a Surgeon (or what is commonly called a Doctor) is inoculating the Militia as fast as they arrive at Number Four. Such a slave to private gain, who would sacrifice this Army for the sake of obtaining a few dollars to himself, deserves to be immediately brought to condign punishment. Were he within my reach, it would not be many minutes before he should feel the weight of my resentment. ‘That not being the case, I must apply to you, to beg you would write to the Chairman of the Com- mittee of Number Four, directing him to exert his utmost power to stop this most pernicious practice, and, if possible, to send the doctor instantly to jail. As fine an Army as ever marched into Canada has this year been entirely ruined by the small-poxg If the Militia, which ought long ago to have been here, are once infected, this country will infallibly be exposed to the invasion of the enemy. Such officers as have stayed upon the way to be inoculated, shall, they may depend upon it, be brought to a General Court-Martial as soon as they arrive at Skenesborough. ‘The country is at an enormous expense for these troops. Individuals receive vast sums to go as substitutes in the Militia. The provisions and carriages are also provided at an amazing charge; and all this, that these men, rather than march where they are commanded, may get inoculated, by which a month of the short time they are engaged for elapses, and perhaps the health of the whole Army is endangered. Our fleet flourishes to my wish; and all would be well in this quarter could the Militia be marched up immediately, and the pestilence kept from us. Our camp here and at Skenesborough have long been perfectly purged of it. I am, dear sir, your affectionate humble servant, Horatio Gates. To Major Hawley, at Northampton. COLONEL M. OGDEN TO AARON BURR. Ticonderoga, August 11, 1776. Dear Burr: I yesterday received yours of July 29th and August 2d. ‘The others | made mention of in the letter to Mrs. Ogden that I sent to you unsealed. In my Jast, you had a very particular account of the numbers, force, names, &c., of our Navy on the Lake. As to our leaving Crown-Point for this place, the Field-Officers knew nothing of it till it was concluded on by the Generals Schuyler, Gates, and Arnold. General Arnold is taking a very active part—I mean in the command of the fleet. He will sail himself in a few days. He says he will pay a visit to St. John’s. I wish he may be as prudent as he is brave. Well, now have at you for news. Last evening the flag of truce returned, bringing a letter directed to George Washington, Esq., and a truly ridiculous copy of a general order, which you will see at General Washington’s by the time you receive this. But there is one part of it in which I think they in some measure accuse us justly: I mean that of assassinating, as they term it with too much truth, Brigadier-General Gordon. He was shot by the Whitcomb I mentioned in my last, who had been sent there asa spy. The act, though villanous, was brave, and a peculiar kind of bravery that I believe Whitcomb alone is possessed of. He shot Gordon near by their advanced sentinel; and, notwithstanding a most diligent search was made, he avoided them by mere dint of skulking. I shall have the honour to command the New-Jersey redoubt, which am now building, with the Regiment alone. ‘It is situated on the right of the whole, by the water’s edge. It is to mount two eighteen-pounders, two twelve, and four nine-pounders. In this I expect to do honour to New-Jersey. I yesterday received a letter from Colonel Dayton, dated the 28th of July, at the German-Flats. He informs me that he is to take the command at Fort Stanwix. Should there be anything to be had in New-York in the clothing way, I should be glad if you will lay some aside, no matter what—either small-clothes, shirts, stockings, or anything of the kind. My best compliments to General Putnam. If you will let Robert or Sawyer have the peru- sal of this, they would learn the news of this Army. Paper is so scarce, that one letter must serve both, unless some- thing particular. Yours sincerel Marr. Ogpen. E CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 902 COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, August 11, 1776. Honovrep Sir: The young man Thomson, who is clerk to Mr. Midkiff, and the Frenchman, Anthony Gerchard, arrived here the night before last. A canoe was imme- diately provided, and Thomson said they would set off in the morning. I gave him an additional pass, and fixed upon a proper person to seize them as soon as they were on board. Yesterday they staid all day; several suspicious persons were seen with them; and I expected we should have been able to have made some material discoveries. Just at dusk, yesterday, they got in their canoe, when they were seized, stripped, and their clothes and packs examined. We found some private papers, but no letters besides those which I now send by the bearer: they also, it seems, are of a private nature. I fear there must have been a plan laid to have taken in the letters somewhere lower down on the Lake. citecste stele sate 6 einteisioterveiaiatacere cictecan terete tate 4) SMS sa lier teller bee tart edie Ie VM) boa aes < 58 Colonel) Lig WSs vie civ ae icleincig to's viele co olarcle ection: ale oorelelvetele cise ee SD MS ela fa CO NT 9 al ce 4 = AG Nie = 46 Colonel MVGOreics aie loieicoveisheceisesetelslsteaiole vin lecletstelsin sieterccieteatate 13) 1719 See Gule Gla Aad aed oe Lead leat 90 6 191 | 10 9 903 Colonel ROSS crete savas cielselle teste oretotehelstace letelgint a njetovate' one terettenete ref fet Men PTS Pea Es Sp 12 es) 194 | - z 124 Taeutenant-Colonel, Donaldson. swtcre cole cruise. N. B. This was voted at a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, August 20, 1776. Firtu Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1010 Providence, August 17, 1776. The following is alist of the Prizes taken by the Diamond, Captain William Chase, of this port, with their cargoes, viz : Brig Mars, Captain Hammond, from Tortola for Liver- pool, 195 hogsheads and 7 barrels of sugar, 13,000 weight of cotton, and 15 tons of fustick. Ship Jane, Captain Rome, ‘from Dominica for Bristol, 308 hogsheads of sugar, 3,800 gallons of oil. Snow Portland, ‘Captain Bromwell, from Granada for Lancaster, 71 hogsheads, 1 tierce, and 10 barrels of sugar, 7,000 weight of cocoa, 60,000 weight of coffee, 3,110 gallons of rum, 133 weight of indigo, and 1,950 weight of cotton. Ship Star and Garter, Captain Hamson, from St. Kitts for London, 166 hogsheads, 10 tierces, and 16 barrels of sugar, and 4,500 gallons of rum. Ship Friend- ship, Captain Jones, from Granada for London, 283 hogs- heads of sugar, 8,600 weight of cocoa, 1,800 weight of cof- fee, 4,770 gallons of rum, 55 weight of indigo, and 2,100 weight of cotton. Total of the cargoes: 1,023 hogsheads of sugar; 11 tierces and 33 barrels ditto; 15,600 weight of cocoa; 61,900 weight of coffee; 12,380 gallons of rum; 115 weight of indigo; 17,750 weight of cocoa; 25 tons of fustick ; and 8,800 gallons of oil. JAMES BOWDOIN TO MESHECH WEARE. Council Chamber, Watertown, August 17, 1776. HonouraBie Sir: The enclosed letter came this day, under cover from Major Hawley, of Northampton; and as the matter therein alleged, if pursued, will have a tendency entirely to defeat the important purposes for which the North- ern Army is raised, and as Charlestown lies within your State, we have no doubt you will take such speedy and effectual measures for remedying the mischief complained of as your wisdom shall direct. In the name of the Council, I am, with great respect, dear sir, your most obedient, humble servant, James Bownorn, President. To the President of the State of New-Hampshire. ELEAZER RUSSELL TO MESHECH WEARE. Portsmouth, August 17, 1776. HonovraBie Sir: A subject important to me now leads me to address you, for which I beg your indulgence, and that you will please to lay the matter before the honourable Committee of Safety. On the 4th of May last, Colonel Wentworth, of the Com- mittee for the town of Portsmouth, brought me the Associa- tion to subscribe, at a time I was so ill as to be incapable of anything. Upon growing better, I thought largely of the matter, and finding my mind perplexed, wrote to him on the subject ; which letter, at my request, he consented to lay before the Committee of Safety. Till yesterday, I never knew but the Association paper, with my letter, had been in the Committee’s hands for more than two months, and now find myself bound by every prin- ciple of honour, duty, and gratitude, to enlarge upon the affair. It was and is merely to secure the morality of my mind that I was reluctant to put my name to it. Solemnly to bind myself to the performance of what nature and necessity rendered impossible, I started at the thought of. And though my health is mended, so wretched are my nerves that I could not do one hour’s military duty to save my life. ‘The article of shedding human blood, in me is not a humour, but a prin- ciple; not an evasion but a fact. It was received in early life, and has grown with my growth and strengthened with my strength. Not a partiality for British more than savage blood; for, all circumstances considered, I think the latter more innocent than the former. From the first injuries done America by Great Britain, my thoughts took fire on the subject, and have been conceived and uttered in one unvaried strain, to the highest personage and down to the lowest enemy, without hesitation or reserve, so that I can challenge all mankind toimpeach me to my country. To enlarge on the matter in my own favour would be easy, but might appear indelicate, and to be wholly silent in the case would be criminal; therefore, leaving my conduct to be judged of by persons of liberal sentiments and sensibility of mind, I am, with the greatest respect, honourable sir, your obliged and dutiful humble servant, E. Russew. To the Honourable Colonel Weare. 64 1011 ‘Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, August 17, 1776. By Captain Ladd, who arrived here in eighteen days from Cape Nichola Mole, we are informed that the fleet of sugar ships was to sail the 2d of August from Jamaica, under convoy of one twenty-gun ship. ‘That a French ship con- voyed him through the windward passage, and informed him France and Spain had declared war against Portugal. SILAS DEANE TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPOND- ENCE. Paris, August 18, 1776. I wrote you every material occurrence to the time of my leaving Bordeaux, and sent duplicates by Captains Palmer, Bunker, and Seaver, one of which you will undoubtedly have received before this comes to hand. I left that city on the last of June, and arrived here on the Saturday follow- ing, having carefully attended to everything in the manu- facturing or commercial towns in my way, which, indeed, are neither numerous nor of great consequence. I spent at Angouleme a day in viewing what, as to manufactures alone, deserves attention on the journey, the foundry for cannon, where the greatest part of those used in the Kingdom are manufactured. The cannon are cast solid, after which they are put as in a turner’s lathe, and bored out, and the out- side smoothed and turned at pleasure. They can bore and complete a twelve-pounder in one day in each lathe, which takes four men only to work. The workmen freely showed me every part of their furnace and foundry. On Monday after my arrival I waited on my bankers, and found that Mr. Bancroft bad arrived the same day with me, Mr, Thomas Morris and M. Venzonals about ten days be- fore. I waited on M. Dubourg, and delivered him Dr. Franklin’s letter, which gave the good gentleman the most sincere and real pleasure. M. Penet, on his arrival in Paris, waited on M. Dubourg, showed him a copy of his contract with the Committee of Congress, and told him he had letters from Dr. Franklin to him, but had left them on the road, or at Rotterdam, through fear of a search. He told M. Dubourg, to whom he was a perfect stranger, so many particular circumstances, that he could not doubt of his sincerity, and in consequence he em- barked in his affairs to a large amount. Five or six weeks have now passed without the arrival of the letters said to be left on the road. Arms, powder, &c., to a large amount were in readiness, when my arrival gave him confidence that I would take the burden off him, as he doubted not that my credentials would be explicit. I saw immediately the ar- rangement of the whole, and that M. Penet had returned to France (copy of the contract excepted) almost as empty- handed as he came to Philadelphia, yet had found means to collect a very considerable quantity of stores, part of which he had actually shipped. This circumstance gave me hopes; yet I found that it would now be expected I should become responsible for the articles, which embarrassed me much, since to detain them would be quite disagreeable, and to step out of my own line and involve myself with Messrs. Plairne and Penet’s contract would be equally so. M. Penet had somehow got intelligence of my being in France, and that I was expected at Paris; he therefore waited for me, and I saw him the next day at my hotel, when he complained of want of remittances, and desired me to pledge my credit for the stores, which I waived in the best manner I could, for | saw the consequences might involve me in many difficulties, and frustrate my greater designs. I therefore told him I would certify to the merchants, if ne- cessary, that the Congress would pay for whatever stores they would credit them with, and in the mean time advised him to proceed strictly agreeable to the letter of the con- tract, and I was positive that the Congress would fulfil their part of it. I finally satisfied both him and M. Dubourg, and he departed for Nantes, to ship the goods the next day. I must do him the justice that is his due: he has been inde- fatizable in the business, his heart seems to be entirely in it, and I believe him honest; but his connexions, either com- mercial or political, are not, of themselves, equal to such an undertaking, but the cause he was employed in had ina great measure, I found, supplied this deficiency, which was to me a favourable appearance. M. Dubourg told me that the Ministers would not see me, as they meant to be quite secret in any countenance they CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1012 gave the United Colonies, and that my arrival in France was already known in London, in consequence of which Lord Stormont arrived express but a few days before, and had applied to the Court on the subject. I showed him my commission, and told him I was determined to apply, for every circumstance, in my opinion, was favourable instead of otherwise. On this he wrote a letter to Count de Ver- gennes, asking liberty to introduce me the Thursday follow- ing; on which day I went to Versazlles, and though the letter had not been delivered to his Excellency, yet he gave us immediate admission. Fortunately his chief Secretary spoke English well, by which means I had an opportunity of con- versing freely with him on the subject of my commission for two hours, and was attentively and favourably heard by him, and was asked many questions, which shows that the Ame- rican disputes had been, and still were, a principal object of attention. | pursued nearly the line marked out by my instructions, stating the importance of the American com- merce, and the advantages Great Britain had received from a monopoly of it; that all intercourse ceasing between the two countries, the Colonies had considered where they might dispose of that produce which they necessarily had so large a surplus of, and receive for their raw or first materials the various manufactures they wanted; that they first turned their eyes on France, as the best country in Europe for them to be connected with in commerce ; that I was purchasing a large quantity of manufactures for which I expected to pay the money, and that I should want a quantity of military stores, for which remittances would be made; that I doubted not the Colonies had before this declared Independency, and that I should soon receive instructions in consequence more full and explicit; that in the mean time they were very anxious to know how such a declaration would be re- ceived by the Powers in Europe, particularly by France, and whether in such case an Ambassador would be received from them, &c. ‘To which he replied, that the importance of the American commerce was well known, and that no country could so well supply the Colonies, and in return receive their produce, as France; it was, therefore, the inte- rest of both to have the most free and uninterrupted inter- course, for which reason the Court had ordered their ports to be kept open, and equally free to America as to Britain ; that, considering the good understanding between the two Courts of Versailles and London, they could not openly en- courage the shipping of warlike stores, but no obstruction of any kind would be given; if there should, as the custom- houses were not fully in their secrets in this matter, such obstructions should be removed on the first application; that I must consider myself perfectly free to carry on any kind of commerce in the kingdom which any subject of any other State in the world might, as the Court had resolved their ports should be equally free to both parties; that I was under his immediate protection, and should I meet with any difficulty, either from their police, with the rules of which he supposed me unacquainted, or from any other quarter, I had but to apply to him, and everything should be settled ; that as to Independency, it was an event in the womb of time, and it would be highly improper for him to say any- thing on that subject until it had actually taken place; mean- time he informed me that the British Ambassador knew of my arrival, and therefore advised me not to associate with Englishmen more than I was from necessity obliged, as he doubted not I should have many spies on my conduct. I then told him the precautions I had taken and should persevere in, in coming from Bermuda, and that I did not mean in publick to pass for other than a merchant from that Island, on speculation, during the present cessation of com- merce in America; but at the same time I told his Excel- lency that I was weil assured it was known in London that I was coming long before I arrived at Paris, and I doubted not they conjectured my errand, but at the same time I should take every precaution in my power; and most sincerely thanked him for his protection and assistance so generously offered, which he might depend I would never abuse. He was pleased with my having come by Bermuda, and pass- ing as an inhabitant of that Island, and said, if questioned, he should speak of me in that character. He then asked me many questions with respect to the Colonies; but what he seemed most to want to be assured of, was their ability to subsist without their fisheries, and under the interruption of their commerce. ‘To this I replied in this manner: that 1013 the fisheries were never carried on but by a part of the Co- lonies, and by them, not so much as a means of subsistence as of commerce; that the fishery failing, those formerly employed in them turned part to agriculture and part to the army and navy; that our commerce must for some time be in a great measure suspended, but that the greater part of our importations were far from being necessaries of life, consequently we should not suffer under the want of them, whilst it was not wealth or luxuries that we were contend- ing for; that our commerce ceasing, it would be out of the power of our enemies to support themselves on our plunder, and on the other hand, our ships, as privateers, might ha- rass their commerce without a possibility of their retaliating ; that I hoped to see a considerable marine force in the Colonies, and that, joined to the impossibility of Britazn’s guarding so extensive a coast, would preserve some of our commerce, until it should be thought an object deserving the protection of other Powers. After many questions on this subject, he put this, in which I thought he seemed interested,—whether, if the Colonies declare an Independency, they would not differ among them- selves? ‘To this I replied, that the greatest harmony had as yet subsisted, and I had no grounds to doubt it in future ; that the common danger, which first drove them into mea- sures which must end in such a declaration, would subsist, and that alone was sufficient to ensure their union. He then desired me to give his Secretary my address, and said, though he should be glad to see me often, yet, as matters were circumstanced, his house was too publick a place, but that [ might put the same confidence in his Sec- retary as himself, to whom I might apply for advice and direction, but that whenever anything of importance occurred I need but inform him, and he would see me; but on common occasions, I must address the Secretary, which would be every way more convenient, as he understood the English language well, and was a person in whom the greatest con- fidence could be placed. Having settled the mode of intercourse, I expressed the sense I had of his Excellency’s politeness, and the generous protection he had given me; and on parting said, if my com- mission or the mode of introducing the subject were out of the usual course, I must rely on his goodness to make allow- ances for a new-formed people, in circumstances altogether unprecedented, and for their agent wholly unacquainted with Courts. To which he replied, that the people and their cause were very respectable in the eyes of all disinterested persons, and that the interview had been agreeable. After this I returned to Paris with M. Dubourg, whose zeal for the American cause led him to draw the most fa- vourable consequences from this beginning. ‘The next day, while from home, [ was informed that Count Laureguais had inquired out my lodgings, immediately after which he asked leave to go for England, which was refused him by the Court. The same day I was informed that Sir Hans Stanley and Sir Charles Jenkinson, who I knew were at Bordeaux when I left it, were in France for the sole pur- pose of inquiring what agents were here from the Colonies, and what commerce or other negotiation between them and the Colonies were carrying on. This alarmed my friends, and as | had agreed for other lodgings, to which I was next day to remove, M. Dubourg advised me to secrete both my lodgings and name. I told him that the Count Laureguais’s conduct appeared mysterious, yet I could never think of keeping myself secret, for though I should not seek these gentlemen, nor throw myself purposely in their way, yet I must think it an ill compliment to Count Vergennes to sup- pose, after what had passed, that I was not on as good and safe footing in France as they or any other gentleman could be. However, his uneasiness made him write to the Count what he had advised, who returned for answer, that such a step was both unnecessary and impolitick, as it would only strengthen suspicions by giving everything an air of mystery, while there was not the least occasion for it. The next day I had a fresh conference with M. Dubourg, who brought me a number of memorials from officers and engineers offering their services in America; some of whom, I believe, deserve the utmost encouragement; but more of this hereafter. While I was casting in my mind how best to improve the present favourable crisis for supplying the Colonies, M. Beaumarchais made proposals for procuring whatever should be wanted, but in such a manner as was CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1014 understood by M. Dubourg to amount to a monopoly, which indeed was not his only objection, for M. Beawnarchais, though confessedly a man of abilities, had always been a man of pleasure and never of business; but as he was recom- mended by Count Vergennes, M. Dubourg could not avoid noticing him, but immediately expostulated with the Count in a letter, which brought on embarrassments no way favour- able, and I saw that M. Dubourg was so far from seconding the views of his superior in this manceuvre, that he was, with the best intentions in the world, in danger of counteracting his own wishes, the extent of which were, to obtain the sup- plies of merchants and manufacturers on the credit of the Colonies, in which the strictest punctuality and most scru- pulous exactness would be necessary, and which, under the present difficulties of remittance, I feared would not be lived up to. As I had learned that in the late reform of the French Army, they had shifted their arms for those of a lighter kind, the heavy ones, most of which were the same as new, to the amount of seventy or eighty thousand, lay useless in maga- zines, with other military stores, in some such proportion, I apprehended it no way impossible to come at a supply from hence, through the agency of some merchant, without the Ministry being concerned in the matter. In such case the merchant would be accountable to the Ministry, and the Colonies to the merchant, by which means a greater time of payment might be given, and more allowance in case of our being disappointed. With this in view I went to Versailles on Wednesday, the 17th, and waited on M. Gerard, First Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and presented to him the en- closed memorial, which led to a very particular conversation on the affairs of Amertca, and which I turned finally on this subject; to which he would not then give me any immediate answer, but promised me one in a day or two. Returning to town I found Messrs. Dubourg and Beaumarchais had a misunderstanding, the latter giving out that he could effect everything we wished for, and the former, from the known circumstances of M. Beaumarchais, and his known careless- ness in money matters, suspecting he could procure nothing, and the more so as he promised so largely. They parted much displeased with each other, and M. Beaumarchais went directly to Versailles. On M. Dubourg’s coming and informing me what had passed, I immediately wrote to M. Gerard the enclosed letter, and in return was desired to come with M. Dubourg the next morning to Versailles. We went, as desired, and after explaining many things to M. Gerard, had a conference with his Excellency, from whom I had fresh assurances of the utmost freedom and pro- tection in their ports and on their coasts; that, in one word, I might rely on whatever Monsieur Beaumarchais should engage in the commercial way of supplies, which, indeed, was all I wished for, as I was on the safe side of the ques- tion, viz: on the receiving part. I communicated to his Excellency that clause of my instructions for procuring arms, &e., of which he asked a copy. I then informed him, that I considered the present as a most critical juncture of Ame- rican affairs, that the campaign would undoubtedly be car- ried far into the winter, that supplies now shipped might arrive very seasonably in the fall to enable the Colonies to hold out the present campaign. He replied, that no delay should be made by any obstruction of any officer, or others of the customs or police. He then told me that the Count Laureguais was, perhaps, a well meaning man, but not sufficiently discreet for such purposes as this; that Mr. Lee, (meaning Mr. Arthur Lee, of London,) had confided, he feared, too much in him, and wished me to caution him on the subject, and that if I would write to him, he would en- close it in a letter of his, by a courier that evening. I most readily embraced this safe way of corresponding, and sent a letter I had before written, with an addition on this subject, a copy of which is enclosed. I have thus given you the heads of my negotiation to this time, Judy 20th, and will not take up your time in making remarks on it, and the prospects before me, which are obvious; but inform you of the plan I mean to pursue, in the execution of my commission, and hint some methods, by which I think I may be enabled to complete every part of it to your satisfaction, and the relief of my country, which is all my wish, and the extent of my most ambitious hopes. I go on the supposition of an actual uncon- ditional independency, without which little can be effected publickly; with it, almost everything we can wish for. 1015 It is by no means probable that Europe will long remain in a state of peace; the disputes between Portugal and Spain are on the point of producing an open rupture; the former relies on England ; the latter will look to this king- dom, and has already applied to this Court on the subject. Nothing but the division of Poland has taken the King of Prussia’s attention off from the injustice done him by Great Britain at the close of the last war. He has now com- pleted his part of that extraordinary work, and I am well informed, listens with pleasure to the dispute between the United Colonies and Great Britain. He is ambitious of becoming a maritime Power, and is already in possession of the capital ports on the Baltick; but without commerce it is impossible to effect the design, and no commerce can put him so directly in the road as the American, ‘The consump- tion of coffee, sugar, and other West-India productions, in- creases fast in the north of Europe, and it must be his inter- est, at least, to supply his own dominions. In case of a war in Europe, France, Spain and Prussia might be brought into one interest, and the Emperor of Germany is too closely connected with his Majesty of France to take part against them, after which Great Britain, having her whole force employed in America, there could be nothing on the one hand to prevent Spain and France from reducing Portugal to a submission to the former, nor from Prussea and France subduing and incorporating into their own dominions Hano- ver, and the other little mercenary Electorates, which lie between them, and which for several centuries have been one principal cause of every war that has happened in Eu- rope. With respect to Russia, it is as closely allied to Prussia as to Great Britain, and may be expected to be master in the contest. Denmark and Sweden are a balance for each other, and opposites. Not to enlarge on this plan at pre- sent, I have only to suggest, that an application to the King of Prussia will do no harm, and may be attended with good and great consequences; the Prusstan Ambassador at this Court and at that of London may be sounded on the sub- ject. But my powers and instructions are so limited, that I can by no means take such a step; yet when I see Great Britain exerting her whole force, and that of her Allies, and courting every Power in Europe to aid her, I can but wish she may be counteracted in her own system, and by having employ found for her in Europe, bring her to leave America in peace; and I think myself bound in duty to hint at what to me seems the most probable means. Dr. Bancroft was full with me in this opinion. M. Chaumont, a very wealthy person, and Intendant for providing clothes, &c., &c., for the French Army, has offered me a credit on account of the Colonies, to the amount of one million of livres, which I have accepted. I have in treaty another credit, which, joined to this, will purchase the articles directed in my instructions. The credit will be until May next, before which I hope remittances will be made. I have purchased of said M. Chaumont a quantity of saltpetre, at ten sous, or five and one-fourth per cent., in order that Captain Morgan might not return empty. As soon as I have given the orders for despatching him, and settled some other matters here, I design for Dunkirk, to ship the Indian goods, which I hope may arrive in season for the winter supply; though I leave you to consider my situation, with only about six or seven thousand pounds to complete a contract of forty, and the bills for my private expenses being protested, obliged to sup- port myself out of that capital, which I labour to do with all the economy in my power. Dr. Bancroft is returned to London, and by him I wrote to Monsieur Garnier, and agreed on a mode of correspond- ence. I think your remittances in armed vessels will be much the best method; and I have ordered Captain Mor- gan’s sloop to be armed, and should she arrive safe, recom- mend him, as one I am confident will serve the Colonies with great zeal and fidelity; and I have had some expe- rience of the goodness of his temper and his abilities. Mr. Seymour, his mate, is also deserving of encouragement, as a good seaman and of undaunted resolution. I am not without hopes of obtaining liberty for the armed vessels of the United Colonies to dispose of their prizes in the ports of this Kingdom, and also for arming and fitting out vessels of war directly from hence, but I will not venture on this until I see what effect my last memoir may have; the substance of which is, to show the danger to France and CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1016 Spain, if they permit Great Britain to keep so enormous a force in America, and to recover the dominion of the Colo- nies; also how fully it is in their power to prevent it, and by that means deprive Great Britain of the principal source of her wealth and force, even without hazarding a war of any consequence in point of danger. This memoir, which takes several sheets, I am unable to send you a copy of, as I have no one to assist me, and must make out several copies for the persons to whom they are to be delivered. I was directed to apply for arms and clothes for twenty-five thousand men, and for one hundred field-pieces, with ammunition and stores in proportion. This I wished to get of the Ministry direct, but they evaded it, and I am now in treaty for procuring them through the agency of M. Chawmont and M. Beaumarchais, on a credit of eight months, from the time of their delivery. If I effect this, as I undoubtedly shall, I must rely on the remittances being made this fall and winter without fail, or the credit of the Colonies must suffer. If I can get the arms out of the magazines, and the field-pieces here, I hope for a much longer credit; but if we send to Sweden for the brass cannon, the credit will not be lengthened beyond that. Some new improvements have lately been made in this branch, conse- quently the cannon now manufactured will be preferable to those of former constraction. Some Engineers here assert, that iron is preferable to brass, that is, wrought iron, out of which the pieces may be made lighter, and to a better pur- pose. Considering the want of these pieces, and the plenty of iron in America, the experiment might, I think, be made without delay. I am still in hopes of procuring admission of the article of tobacco directly from America, but the Farmers-General will not offer equivalent to the risk. Without intelligence from April to this time, leaves me quite uncertain and extremely anxious about the line of con- duct now pursuing by Congress, and consequently I cannot, without further intelligence and instructions, proceed in my negotiation either with safety or honour. The resolution of Congress of the 15th of May, is not considered by the Ministry as a Declaration of Independence, but only a pre- vious step, and until this decisive step is taken, I can do little more to any purpose. ‘This taken, I dare pledge myself, the United Colonies may obtain all the countenance and assistance they wish for, in the most open and publick manner, and the most unlimited credit with the merchants of this Kingdom; I must therefore urge this measure, if not already taken, and that the Declaration be in the most full and explicit terms. Merchants here would speculate deeply in the American trade, could they be insured at any premium within bounds. I wish to know if offices are already open, and I would suggest that if the Congress would take the insurance under their own direction, it would give it such a proportionably greater credit, that supplies would most certainly be obtained in plenty. I shall be able to procure a private interview with the Spanish Ambassador, and shall present him my memorial, and am in a train which I think will carry it quite to the fountain head. Thus I have in a minute, possibly a tedious, detail, men- tioned everything material on my mind, which has occurred since my arrival, and submit the whole to the wisdom and candour of the honourable Congress, observing that I had gone to the extent of my instructions; and though I have been successful beyond my expectations, yet I have but been labouring principally to set certain great wheels in mo- tion, which still want something more decisive on my part, and Iam confident of all that is wanting to set them so effectually moving as to roll the burden and calamities of war from our doors back with aggravated ruin on its authors, which, if I can be the means of effecting, the world may bestow the rest of its honours on whom it pleases; I shall be contented, the extent of my most ambitious hopes thus accomplished. I have now to urge a survey with respect to the contents of this letter. More that is said in Congress transpires and crosses the Atlantick than you conceive of; more than I can account for, without having uncharitable thoughts of indi- viduals, still without fixing them on any one. | have writ- ten a short letter to Mr. Jay on common affairs, and have enclosed one to M. Longueville, which I pray may be for- warded; the letter is from his friends here, who have heard of his being a prisoner somewhere in America, M. Dubourg 1017 has continued to render me every assistance in his power; to be particular would swell this letter beyond all bounds ; his abilities and connexions are of the first style in this Kingdom, and his zeal for the cause of the United Colonies is to be described only by saying that at times it is in danger of urging him beyond both; in short, lam every way deeply indebted to him: personally, for bringing me acquainted with agreeable persons of rank and character; and on account of my honoured constituents, for assisting me to make such a favourable beginning and progress in my business. I know not how affluent he may be, but as he has really for some time devoted himself to assist in this negotiation, | am con- fident something honourable will be thought of for him. I have complimented him by asking of him his portrait to be sent to his and my friends in America, in my private capa- city, mentioning our mutual friend Dr. Franklin. ‘This I found so agreeable, that I am confident some such distinc- tion would be more acceptable than more lucrative rewards. Dr. B. took pains to collect all the political publications of the last year for me and brought them with him; he was at considerable expense in his journey. I sent him from Bor- deaux a bill of thirty pounds, and paid his expenses in my lodgings here; at parting, I desired him to keep an account, and when the money was expended to inform me. This gentleman is certainly capable of giving as good, if not the best, intelligence of any man in Great Britain, as he is closely connected with the most respectable of the minority in both Houses, not particularly obnoxious to the majority, and for his abilities, they are too well known to Dr. Franklin to need any attempt to do them justice in a letter. I am, with the highest esteem and respect for the Hon- ourable Congress and their Committee of Secret Correspond- ence, &c., Sizas Deane. August 1st.—Since writing the foregoing, I have been at , and am of opinion that a war between Portugal and Spain is at the door; and I have had an interview pro- posed with the Ambassador of Portugal, who resides here, on commercial affairs, which I have most readily embraced, and expect to see him again on Wednesday next, after which I will write you further; his proposals are merely commercial, as is his station, but something else may be investigated. August 2d.—I should have sent this off earlier, but de- layed on account of hearing something more directly, if I might depend on certain articles for which I was in treaty; I am now assured I may, and the whole will be ready to ship in all the month of October. My next labour will be to obtain a convoy, which I do not despair of, though it is a delicate question, and I have only sounded at a distance, yet I have no doubt of obtaining one, at least, off the ccast of Europe, and the articles will be shipped as for the MWest- India Islands. I propose arming and well manning the vessels in which these articles shall be embarked, and I ad- vise again the sending all remittances to Europe in armed vessels; the probability of meeting with English merchants is well worth the risk. I hope that it will be considered that one hundred field-pieces, and arms, clothing, and accoutre- ments, with military stores, for twenty-five thousand men, is a large affair; and that although I am promised any credit, yet as they must be paid for, the sooner the better, if to be done without too great a risk. A considerable part of these articles are now on hand, and orders are issued for the others by the contractors this day. I prefer Bordeaux to any other port for shipping them from ; but the remittances must be made to several, on which I will give you my opinion in my next. A number of gen- tlemen of rank and fortune, who have seen service, and have good characters, are desirous of serving the United Colonies, and have applied. Pray let me have orders on this sub- ject. If it be politick to interest this Kingdom in the present contest, what way so effectual as to get into their debt for supplies, and employ persons of good family and connexions in it, inourservice? I have given encouragement, on which some are prepared to embark. One Mons. C., a celebrated Engineer, who was chief in that way in the Turkish Army, is returned, and is willing to go to America ; but the Ministry cannot as yet spare him, as certain regulations are making elsewhere ; possibly he may go out some time in the winter; he is a first character in his profession and otherwise. In- deed, this contention has set on foot such a spirit of inquiry CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1018 in Europe into the state of America, that I am convinced that at the first close of this war, if, as I trust in God, it will close in our favour, there will be an inundation of inhabitants from this side of the globe. Many persons of capital fortunes have declared to me their resolution of moving to America as soon as the liberties of America shall be established, and that many of their friends will accompany them. August 15th.—I received from a friend at Amsterdam, a letter informing me that he would be with me on the 20th, and as the vessel could not be sooner ready to sail, I deter- mined not to risk this packet by a private hand, or by the publick post; he is now arrived, and takes charge of it in person. Were it possible, 1 would attempt to paint to you the heart-rending anxiety | have suffered in this time, through a total want of intelligence. My arrival here, my name, my lodgings, and many other particulars, have been reported to the British Administration, on which they sent orders to the British Ambassador to remonstrate in high terms, and, to enforce their remonstrances, despatched Wedderburn from London, and Lord Rochford from Holland, as a person of great interest and address, here to counteract me. They have been some time here, and the city swarms with Englishmen; and as money purchases everything in this country, | have had and still have a most difficult task to avoid their machina- tions. Nota coffee-house or theatre, or other place of publick diversion, but swarms with their emissaries ; but knowing the Ministry are my friends, I attend these places as others, but cautiously avoid saying a word on American affairs any- where, except in my own hotel, or those of my intimate friends. I have seen many more of the persons in power in this time, and had long conversations with them. Their inten- tions are good, and they appear convinced; but there is wanting a great and daring genius at their head, which the Count Maurepas is very far from being; he has even im- bibed a notion that no assistance Is necessary, as the Colonies are too powerful for Great Britain. All eyes are turned on the Duc de Choiseul. Iam convinced the moment he comes into office, an active, open, and will be taken. I think he will be Minister very soon; meantime I have nothing to complain of the ; Indeed they will not be altered if he takes the lead. I find M. Beaumarchais, as I before hinted, possesses the entire confidence of the Ministry; he is a man of wit and genius, and a considerable writer on comick and political subjects. All my supplies are to come through his hands, which at first greatly discouraged my friends, knowing him to be a person of no interest with the merchants; but had I been as doubtful as they, I could not have stepped aside from the path so cordially marked out for me by those I depend on. M. Coudray, the Engineer I before hinted at, obtained liberty last week to go for America with as many Engineers as he should choose, and was not only assured of M. Beaumarchats being able to procure the stores he had stipulated for, but received orders for them, and liberty to take two hundred pieces of brass cannon, lest part might be intercepted. M. Coudray has the character of the first Engineer in the King- dom, and his manners and disposition will, I am confident, be highly pleasing to you, as he is a plain, modest, active, sensible man, perfectly averse to frippery and parade. My friends here rejoice at the acquisition; and considering the character of the man, and at whose hands I in effect received him, I must congratulate you on it. Several young gentle- men of fortune, whose families are nearly connected with the Court, are preparing to embark for America, by each of whom I shall, without disguise, write you the characters they sustain here. I have told them that merit is the sole object with the Congress. The bearer can give you some idea of the situation Lam in, should this packet fail; and should he arrive with it, he may explain some part of it. I am confident his attention to the affairs of America here will be considered by the Congress. I have found him in the mercantile way active and intelligent. Mr. Carmichael is now with me from Maryland, and I find him a person of great merit. Respecting the Colonies, he is recommended as such by from whom he -has received a letter, but of no immediate importance; he pro- poses seeing me here this month, M. Dumas has written me two letters from the Hague, but so timid that he has not ventured to sign either, though he speaks in the highest terms of the American cause. ‘The pamphlet called Com- 1019 mon Sense has been translated, and has a greater run, if possible, here than in America. A person of distinction, writing to his noble friend in office, has these words: “Je pense comme vous, mon cher Compte, que le Common Sense est une excellente ouvrage, et que son auteur est un des plus grands legislateurs des millions d’ecrivains, que nous connoissions; il n’est pas douteux, que si les Americains suivent le beau plan, que leur compatriote Jeur a tracé, ils deviendront la nation Ja plus florissante et la plus heureuse, qui ait jamais existé.” Thus freely do men think and write in a country long since deprived of the essentials of liberty. As I was favoured with a sight of the letter, and permitted to make this extract, I thought it worth sending you as a key to the sentiments of some of the leading men. I must again remind you of my situation here; the bills designed for my use are pro- tested, and expenses rising fast in consequence of the busi- ness on my hands, which I may on no account neglect, and a small douceur, (though 1 have been sparing in that way,) is sometimes of the utmost importance. ‘The quantity of stores to be shipped will amount to a large sum, the very charge on them will be great, for which I am the only responsible person. Five vessels arrived from America with fish, which is a prohibited article, and the officers of the customs detained them; on which I was sent to, and informed that if those vessels came from the Congress to me, they should be permitted to unload and sell. Here was a diffi- culty, indeed, for the Captain had not so much as applied to me by letter; however, I assured the that there could be no doubt but they were designed for that use, and that the letters to me must have miscarried; on which orders were issued for unloading and storing those cargoes until further intelligence should arrive. I mention this case in confidence, and pray that in future some regulation may be made on this subject, and that vessels coming out may be directed to apply to me as their agent or owner at least, and I will procure in the different ports houses of known repu- tation to transact their business. This is absolutely neces- sary; for by this means their articles may be admitted. Tobacco may come in this way, and every other article. deeply indebted ostensibly to M. Beaumarchais, he can obtain the liberty for the discharge of their debts. M. Coudray will see that the articles of ammunition, can- non, &c., are provided in the best manner for the Army, and will embark himself by the 1st of October. I wrote you from Bermuda on the subject of seizing and fortifying that Island. I am well informed the Britesh Min- istry have had it in contemplation, and propose doing it next spring. Mr. Warder, of Philadelphia, came a few days since from Bordeaux to Paris, and called on me with some young gentlemen from New-England ; he brought letters from my good friends Messrs. in consequence of Jet- ters to them from Mr. Alsop. I received him, as I do all my countrymen, with real pleasure. A gentleman present warned him against conversing with a particular person in Paris, to which Mr. W. seemed to agree; yet I am told he went directly from my hotel to that person, and informed him of everything he heard mentioned, and of every person he saw visiting me; happily he could inform nothing of any consequence, for my chamber was full of a mixed company, and the conversation was general, and in French and in English. But this conduct of his, with his want of common complaisance in leaving the city without calling on me to receive any letters | might have for London, which he had promised to convey, has given me some uneasiness, and I mention the incident only as a caution how and what per- sons are recommended. ‘The pleasure I feel in seeing one of my countrymen is such, that I may be in as great danger from them as others—possibly much more. I should be unhappy if any suspicion should operate to the prejudice of this person without cause; but my friends here, who are kindly attentive to everything that is said or done which respects America, think very strange of his conduct. I rely on your indulgence for the length and incorrectness of this letter. , I have had much on my hands, and no one to assist me in Copying, &c. Visits from persons to whom I cannot be denied, or visiting them, with constant applica- tions made on various subjects, take up my mornings, and I have had only now and then an evening to write in. I have seen the prime agent, who proposed something in the way of supplying the Colonies with military stores frora CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1020 Prussia. I shall confer further on the subject with him, and write you. I have drawn up a memorial on the com- merce of America and its importance to Europe, and shall present it to-morrow to the different personages concerned. I shall send a copy, if I can get one made, by this convey- ance. The debt of the Colonies in carrying on the war is a common topick for Ministerial writers ; but permit me to assure you at the close of this long letter, that the demand for land in America, if its liberties are established, will more than compensate the whole expense. I will in a future letter be more explicit on this important subject, but am well convinced of the certainty of this fact, “that the advance in the price of lands in America, if the Colonies are victorious, will more than reimburse the expenses of the war.” I have nothing material toadd. Never were a people more anxious for news than the people of this Kingdom are for news from America; and surely you will put me down as one of the first in the roll of American heroes, when you consider my situation, plunging into very important engagements, which I can by no means avoid, yet without funds to sup- port them. But I will not enlarge on this subject, and only say, that I have met with every possible encouragement from every person I have seen, whether in or out of office, and I believe no person in the same space of time ever conferred with more of both. My being known to be an American, and supposed to be one of the Congress, and in business for the United Colonies, has introduced me beyond what almost any other recommendation could have done, which I mention to convince you of the attention paid here to the cause of the United Colonies, and how very popular it has become in this country. I have repeatedly seen Mr. Hopkins, formerly of Mary- land, now advanced to be a Brigadier-General in this ser- vice. He talks of coming out to America. Should the Duc de Choiseul, who is his friend and patron, come into the lead of Administration, he might come out to advantage. Insurance from London to Jamaica is twenty per cent. If a few of our cruisers would venture on this coast, they might do very well, as they would find protection in the harbours of this Kingdom. Coming ostensibly for the purpose only of commerce or otherwise, no questions would be asked, and they might wait until an opportunity offered, (of which they might be minutely informed,) and then strike something to the purpose. I give this hint to individuals rather than to the honourable Congress as a body. The bearer, Mr. Mc- Creary, has obliged me by copying my memoir, which I send herewith. It has had a great run among the Ministers of this and some other Courts in a private way. M. Beau- marchais writes by this opportunity. - He has shown me his” letter, and I have agreed in general to the contents, not understanding any exclusive privilege for his house. Every- thing he says, writes, or does, is in reality the action of the Ministry; for that a man should but a few months since confine himself from his creditors, and now on this occasion be able to advance half a million, is so extraordinary that it ceases to be a mystery. M. Coudray was not in the Turkish service as I was informed; it was a gentleman who proposes accompanying him; but he is an officer of the first eminence, an Adjutant-General in the French service, and his prospects here of rising are exceeding good; but he is dissatisfied with an idle life. His proposals in general have been, that he should be General of the Artillery, and subject only to the orders of Congress or their Committee of War, or of their Commander-in-Chief of the Army where he might be. In the next place, that he should rank as Major-General, and have the same wages, &c., coming in as youngest Major- General for the present, and rising of course. Many other particulars are not yet adjusted; but consi- dering the importance of having two hundred pieces of brass cannon, with every necessary article for twenty-five thou- sand men, provided with an able and experienced General at the head of it, warranted by the Minister of this Court to be an able and faithful man, with a number of fine and spi- rited young officers in his train, and all without advancing one shilling, is too tempting an object for me to hesitate about, though I own there is a silence in my instructions. I therefore honestly declare I am at your mercy in this case, and I have no uneasiness of mind on the occasion; for should I be sacrificed, it will be in that cause to which I have de- voted my life and every init. ‘The terms of M. Coudray may be thought bigh; but consider a person leaving 1021 a certain and permanent service and his native country, to go he hardly knows where, and it must be supposed he will ask at least as good terms as he could have in his own coun- try; but as the terms have not been particularly considered, I must defer anything further on this subject for the present, hourly in hopes of some explicit intelligence from the hon- ourable Congress. You have the good wishes of every one here. Chevalier de Chastellier desires me this instant to write down his compliments to Dr. Franklin; and with pleasure [ say, the being known to be his friend, is one of the best recommendations a man can wish to have in France, and will introduce him when titles fail. S. D. SILAS DEANE TO C, W. F. DUMAS. Paris, August 18, 1776. Str: Your favour of the Sth, and one earlier, but without a date, are before me, and I return you my thanks for the attention paid to mine, and more especially for the good opinion you entertain of my countrymen, and your tenders of service. ‘The business before me is of such a nature, that I must be detained some time in this city. If I take a jour- ney to Holland, it will be my choice to make it as a private gentleman; as such I am in Paris, and that character | shall keep, unless obliged to alter it. Parade and pomp have no charms in the eyes of a patriot, or even a man of common good sense; but at the same time, I can never sub- mit to the changing of my name, unless I am convinced that so humiliating a step will promote the service of my country. I can pass unnoticed under that name, as well as any other, whilst I conduct in every other step as a private gentleman. I have now but little hopes of being in Holland till October, before which, such intelligence may arrive-from America as may alter my present designs. The declaration of Independency made by the United Colonies, is announced in the English papers, but I have received no despatches on the event, though I am in daily expectation of them. You ask me two questions in your first letter; to the former, I answer at once affirmatively, that I have a certain prospect of succeeding in my business ; but as to the latter, or second query, I cannot so readily reply, for I know not how far the knowledge of me and my concerns may have extended. I am here asa private mer- chant, and appear as such, whatever suspicion may circulate. As such, I can travel, I trust, in your country, which I most ardently wish to see, and the more so on account of the kind, simple, and engaging invitation you have given me, It really affected me, and brought instantaneously to view those happy and peaceful scenes of domestick felicity, to which I am at present a stranger. You have all [ can give you, a grateful acknowledgment of your kindness, and depend, that I will in person acknowledge it on my first arrival in Holland. It is the policy of the United Provinces of Holland to be neuter to every attention. ‘The United Colonies only wish them to keep steady to their only true system of policy in the present case; and give me leave to say, that a reflection on their former struggles must show them in what point of light the Americans are to be considered. The United Colonies ask no aid or alliances. Let Britain court every, even the most petty and mercenary Power in Europe, the United Colonies only ask for what nature surely entitles all: men to, a free and uninterrupted commerce and exchange of the superfluities of one country for those of another; and the first Power in Europe, which takes advantage of the present favourable occasion, must exceed every other in commerce. But Lam rambling. I pray to know in your next letter, what sums are due to Holland from the Government of Eng- land. Whether the King of Prussia is wholly inattentive to the present proceedings, and on which side his wishes are. Omnia tentanda, really hope to be at the Hague in Octo- ber, and promise myself great pleasure in seeing you and your lady, to whom, though otherwise unknown, since you have introduced me, you cannot refuse presenting my best respects. I am, with great esteem, &c. Siras Deane, FROM BARON DE BEAUMARCHAIS TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE, [Translation. ] Paris, August 18, 1776. Genriemen: The respectful esteem that I bear towards that brave people, who so well defend their liberty under CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1022 your conduct, has induced me to form a plan concurring in this great work, by establishing an extensive commercial house, solely for the purpose of serving you in Europe, there to supply you witb necessaries of every sort, to furnish you expeditiously and certainly with all articles, clothes, linens, powder, ammunition, muskets, cannon, or even gold for the payment of your troops, and in general everything that can be useful for the honourable war in which you are engaged. Your deputies, gentlemen, will find in me a sure friend, an asylum in my house, money in my coffers, and every means of facilitating their opefations, whether of a publick or secret nature. I will, if possible, remove all obstacles that may oppose your wishes, from the politicks of Europe. At this very time, and without waiting for any answer from you, I have procured for you about two hundred pieces of brass cannon, four pounders, which will be sent to you by the nearest way; two hundred thousand pounds of cannon pow- der, twenty thousand excellent fusils, some brass mortars, bombs, cannon balls, bayonets, platines, clothes, linens, &c., for the clothing of your troops, and lead for musket balls. An oflicer of the greatest merit for artillery and genius, accom- panied by lieutenants, officers, artillerists, cannoniers, &c., whom we think necessary for the service, will go for Phila- delphia, even before you have received my first despatches. This gentleman is one of the greatest presents that my attach- ment can offer you. Your deputy, Mr. Deane agrees with me in the treatment which he thinks suitable to his office, and I have found the power of this deputy sufficient, that I should prevail with this officer to depart, under the sole engagement of the deputy respecting him, the terms of which I have not the least doubt but Congress will comply with. ‘The secrecy necessary in some part of the operation; which I have undertaken for your service, requires also, on your part, a formal resolution, that all the vessels and their demands should be constantly directed to our house alone, in order that there may be no idle chattering or time lost—two things that are the ruin of affairs. You will advise me what the vessels contain, which you shall send into our ports. I shall choose so much of their loading, in return for what I have sent, as shall be suitable to me, when I have not been able beforehand to inform you of the cargoes which I wish. I shall facilitate to you the loading, sale, and disposal of the rest. For instance, five American vessels have just arrived in the port of Bordeaux, laden with salt fish ; though this merchandise coming from strangers is prohibited in our ports, yet as soon as your deputy had told me that these vessels were sent to him by you, to raise money from the sale for aiding him in his purchases in Europe, I took so much care that 1 secretly obtained from the Farmers-General an order for landing it without any notice being taken of it. I could even, if the case had so happened, have taken upon my own account these cargoes of salted fish, though it is not very useful to me, and charged myself with its sale and disposal, to simplify the operation and lessen the embarrassments of the merchants, and of your deputy. I shall have a correspondent in each of our seaport towns, who, on the arrival of your vessels, shall wait on the Captains and offer every service in my power; he will receive their letters, bills of lading, and transmit the whole to me; even things which you may wish to arrive safely in any country in Europe, after having conferred about them with your deputy, I shall cause to be kept in some secure place; even the answers shall go with great punctuality through me, and this way will save much anxiety and many delays. I re- quest of you, gentlemen, to send me next spring, if it is possible for you, ten or twelve thousand hogsheads, or more if you can, of tobacco from Virginia, of the best quality. You very well understand that my commerce with you is carried on in Europe, that it is in the ports of Europe I make and take returns. However well bottomed my house may be, and however I may have appropriated many mil- lions to your trade alone, yet it would be impossible for me to support it, if all the dangers of the sea, of exports and imports, were not entirely at your risk. Whenever you choose to receive my goods in any of our Windward or Lee- ward Islands, you have only to inform me of it, and my cor- respondents shall be there according to your orders, and then you shall have no augmentation of price, but of freight and insurance. But the risk of being taken by your enemies, still remains with you, according to the declaration rendered incontestable by the measures I shall take by your deputy 1023 himself. This deputy should receive, as soon as possible, full power and authority to accept what I shall deliver to him, to receive my accounts, examine them, make payments thereupon, or enter into engagements, which you shall be bound to ratify, as the head of that brave people to whom I am devoted; in short, always to treat about your mterests immediately with me. Notwithstanding the open opposition which the King of France, his Ministers, and the agents of Administration show, and ought to show to everything that carries the least appear- ance of violating foreign treaties and the internal ordinances of the Kingdom, I dare promise to you, gentlemen, that my indefatigable zeal shall never be wanting to clear up difficul- ties, soften prohibitions, and, in short, facilitate all operations of a commerce which my advantage, much less than yours, has made me undertake with you. What I have just informed you of is only a general sketch, subject to all the augmenta- tions and restrictions which events may point out to us. One thing can never vary or diminish: it is the avowed and ardent desire I have of serving you to the utmost of my power. You will recollect my signature, that one of your friends in London some time ago informed you of my favour- able disposition towards you, and my attachment to your interest. Look upon my house, then, gentlemen, from henceforward as the chief of all useful operations to you in Europe, and my person as one of the most zealous partisans of your cause, the soul of your success, and a man most deeply impressed with respectful esteem, with which I have the honour to be, Roperrque Hortatez & Co.* P. S. L add here, to conclude, that every American ves- sel, though not immediately armed or loaded by you, will be entitled to my good offices in this country; but yours, particularly addressed to my house, will receive a particu- Jar preference from me. 1 ought also to inumate to you, gentlemen, that from the nature of my connexion, it'is to be wished you would use discretion, even in the accounts that you give to the General Congress. Taverything that passes in your great assemblies is known, I cannot tell how, at the Court of Great Britain. Some indiscreet or perfidious citizen sends an exact account of your proceedings to the Palace of St. James. In times of great exigency, Rome had a Dictator; and in a state of danger the more the execu- tive power is brought to a point, the more certain will be its effect, and there will be less to fear from indiscretion. It is to your wisdom, gentlemen, that I make this remark; if it seems to you just and well planned, look upon it as a new mark of my ardor for your rising Republic. R.H.& Co. * This signature was assumed by M. Beawmarchais for the purpose of concealment. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE CAMP NEAR SENECA, DATED AuGusT 18, 1776. On the 12th instant Colonel Williamson came to Tomaw- sey, where he saw signs of Indians very fresh; detached Captains Perkins and Anderson, with sixty men, to track them and reconnoitre, and Major Downes went out with twenty men. Captain Anderson, with twenty-five men, parted from Captain Perkins, and crossed a creek; soon after Captain Perkins and his thirty-five men saw two Indians, and fired at them; the Indians set up the war whoop and ran; the party followed, and were quickly met by a party of the enemy, supposed to be between two and three hundred, who engaged them very furiously. Major Downes fortunately came up in the rear, and Captain An- derson falling on the back of the enemy to the right, the firing was heard at the town. Colonel Williamson turned out with one hundred and fifty men, who, coming close on the back of the enemy, made them quickly give way; the most forward of their party, being entirely surrounded, were mostly cut off. Sixteen were found dead in one valley when the battle ended; these our men scalped, but did not look any further, being now near sunset they were called off by beat of drum. We had two killed and sixteen wounded ; three of the latter died next day, among whom was Captain Lacey, a very brave officer and a good man. COLONEL EWING TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, August 18, 1776. Honourep Sirs: I yesterday forwarded three compa- nies—Captains Posey’s, Young’s, and Lowe’s—to Head of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1024 Elk, on their way to Philadelphia, under the command of Major Edin, at which place he is to receive further orders. I have issued orders to Captains Magruder, Hanson, and Brooks, to march with the officers and men under their command here immediately, so as to embark for their sta- tion. You will please give me an order for what things I may want out of the Commissary’s store for sending them off. I mean to march with these three companies myself. I intended ordering Captains Tillard and Bowie to march, but from a letter just now received from Captain Tillard, his and Captain Bowte’s company are stopped. I should be glad to know what companies your Honours intend to give me in place of Captains Forrest, Tillard, and Bowie. I should at the same time esteem it a favour to be permitted to have their companies with me. I have the honour: to be, honoured sirs, your most obe- dient, humble servant ; Tuos. Ewine. To the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland. CAPTAIN BOURK TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Cambridge, August 18, 1776. Sir: I have this morning received your orders, and will obey them with pleasure. I hope to set off for Annapolis on Wednesday or Thurs- | day at farthest, on my way to Philadelphia. 'This I take to be the least expensive mode of travelling. I believe I shall receive fifty guns from the Committee. There are some which want repair. I shall omit having them repaired till I get to Annapolis or Philadelphia. From some disappointments [ met with, the number of blankets is not completed. I wish I may be able to furnish myself in Annapolis; it will give new spirits to the men. I am, sir, with respect, your most obedient, humble ser- ant AALS Tuomas Bourk. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President, &c. MARYLAND CONVENTION TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 22, 1776.] Annapolis, August 18, 1776. Sir: I have it in command from the Convention to apply to Congress through you for the sum of ten thousand dol- Jars, on account of disbursements by this Colony for their quota of the Flying-Camp, and other expenses incurred on account of the Continent, which already amount to near fifteen thousand. It is hoped that Congress will not hesi- tate to comply with this request, when it is considered that this Colony have exerted in the present most critical situ- ation their utmost force in the common defence, having not only ordered the whole of their regular troops to march, but have also directed their Council of Safety to order our full quota of Militia for the Flying-Camp, now nearly ready, and waiting only for arms to repair immediately to the Jerseys. You would not have been troubled on this occasion, but from our apprehensions that none of our members are now attending in Congress. Accounts of these disbursements are making out, and will be speedily transmitted. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant , , Maru. Tineuman, President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress, at Philadelphia. P. S. The Council of Safety, I presume, will send a spe- cial messenger for the money. JOSIAH BARTLETT TO COLONEL WHIPPLE. Philadelphia, August 18, 1776. Sir: Since you left this city, the ship Morris is arrived from France. She has brought for the Congress above one hundred bolts of sail-cloth, which cost above £3,000 sterling. She has also brought for this Colony fifty-three tons of lead and fifteen thousand pounds of powder, &c. A ship has also arrived from Lisbon, which place she left the latter end of June. She has brought some necessaries for the Con- gress. The Master contradicts the report of the Portuguese seizing American vessels, and informs us of several of our vessels being at Lisbon when he left it, and had free liberty 1025 of trading. A French vessel from the West-Indies, and a Dutch vessel from St. Eustatia, have arrived, and have brought about ten thousand pounds of powder. I fear the Confederation will not be finished in time to be laid before our Assembly at their next sitting. Last week passed without looking at it. Other affairs have taken up the whole time. Near two days were taken up about Commo- dore Hopkins; and we had the pleasure to be for the greatest part of that time entertained by the eloquence of some of our Southern brethren, particularly that polite speaker, Middle- ton. The Congress at last found Hopkins guilty of not paying proper attention to his orders, and have ordered him to be censured. ‘Thus stands that affair at present. The report concerning General Wooster is at length agreed to. By General Gates’s letters of the 7th instant, it appears that our affairs in that department wear a much more favour- able aspect than for some time past. Six or seven hundred of our Militia had arrived. Colonel Bedel was cashiered; Butterfield cashiered, and rendered incapable to hold a com- mission under the Congress. I am, sir, your friend and humble servant, Jostau Barter. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM JOHN ADAMS, DATED PHILA- DELPHIA, aucusT 18, 1776. I have seen in this world but a little of that pure flame of patriotism which certainly burns in some breasts. ‘There is much of the ostentation and affectation of it. [have known a few who could not bear to entertain a selfish design, nor to be suspected by others of such a meanness ; but these are not the most respected by the world. A man must be selfish, even to acquire great popularity. He must grasp for himself, under specious pretences for the publick good, and he must attach himself to his relations, connexions, and friends, by becoming a champion for their interests, in order to form a phalanx about him for his own defence, to make them trumpeters of his praise, and sticklers for his fame, fortune, and. honour. : My friend Warren, the late Governour Ward, and Mr. Gadsden, are three characters in which I have seen the most generous disdain of every spice and species of such meanness. The two last had not great abilities, but they had pure hearts. Yet they had Jess influence than many others, who had neither’so considerable parts, nor any share » at all of their purity of intention. Warren has both talents and virtues beyond most men in this world; yet his character has never been in proportion. ‘Thus it always is, and has been, and will be. Nothing has ever given me more mor- tification than a suspicion that has been propagated of me, that I am actuated by private views, and have been aiming at high places. ‘The office of Chief Justice has occasioned this jealousy, and it never will be allayed until I resign it. Let me have my farm, family, and goosequill, and all the honours and offices this world has to bestow, may go to those who deserve them better and desire them more. I court them not. There are very few people in this world with whom I can bear to converse. I can treat all with decency and civility, and converse with them, when it is necessary, on points of business. But I am never happy in their company. This has made me a recluse, and will, one day, make me a her- mit. I had rather build stone wall upon Penn’s hill, than to be the first Prince in Europe, or the first General or first Senator in America. Our expectations are very high of some great affair at New-York. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New-York, August 18, 1776. Sir: I have been honoured with your favour of the 16th, with its enclosure, and am sorry it is not in my power to transmit Congress a copy of the treaty as they require, having sent it away with the other papers that were in my hands. The resolution they have entered into respecting the for- eign troops I am persuaded would produce salutary effects, if it can be properly circulated among them. I fear it will be a matter of difficulty; however, I will take every measure that shall appear probable to facilitate the end. I have the honour to enclose, for the perusal and considera- tion of Congress, sundry papers, marked from No. 1 to No. 7 F'irru Series.—Vot. I, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 65 1026 inclusive, the whole of which, except No. 2 and 7, (my answers to Lord Drummond and General Howe,) I received yesterday evening by a flag, and to which I beg leave to refer Congress. I am exceedingly at a loss to know the motives and causes inducing a proceeding of such a nature at this time, and why Lord Howe has not attempted some plan of negotiation be- fore, as he seems so desirous of it. If I may be allowed to conjecture and guess at the cause, it may be that part of the Hessians have not arrived as mentioned in the examination transmitted yesterday; or, that General Burgoyne has not made such progress as was expected to form a junction of their two armies; or, (what I think equally probable,) they mean to procrastinate their operations for some time, trusting that the Militia who have come to our succour will soon be- come tired and return home, as it is but too usual with them. Congress will make their observations upon these several mat- ters, and favour me with the result as soon as they have done. They will observe my answer to Lord Drummond, who I am pretty confident has not attended to the terms of his parole, but has violated it in several instances. It is with the rest of the papers; but if my memory serves me, he was not to hold any correspondence, directly or indirectly, with those in arms against us, or to go into any port or harbour in America where the enemy themselves were or had a fleet, or to go on board their ships. The treaty with the Indians is in the box which Lieute- nant-Colonel Reed I presume has delivered before this. If Congress are desirous of seeing it, they will be pleased to have the box opened. It contains a variety of. papers, and all the affairs of the Army from my first going to Cambridge till it was sent away. This morning the Phenix and Rose, men-of-war, with two tenders, availing themselves of a favourable and brisk wind, came down the river, and have joined the fleet. Our several batteries fired at them in their passage, but without any good effect that I could perceive. I have the honour to be, with great esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. [No. 1.] Head-Quarters, Staten-Island, August 13, 1776. General Howe desires to know if General Washington has any objection to Mr. Robert Temple’s being landed at New-York, and going from thence to his family in the Gov- ernment of Massachusetts-Bay. [No. 2.] Head-Quarters, New-York, August 17, 1776. General WasutneTon begs leave to acquaint Gen. Howe that he has not the least objection to Mr. Temple’s landing and proceeding to his family in the State of Massachusetts- Bay; on the other hand, he will meet every assistance and convenience for that purpose. To Lieutenant-General Howe. [No. 3.] August 17, 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 invested with, as well as his disposition for establishing an equitable and per- manent peace, are altogether misunderstood by the Colonies ; for, in consequence of a sketch of some propositions being offered for his consideration, he very frankly assured me he was willing to confer upon those grounds with any gentle- men of the greatest influence in this country. As I am at liberty to declare his sentiments, I have the honour to enclose for your Excellency’s information a copy of my cor- respondence 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, &c., Drummonp. To General Washington, &c., &c. 1027 [No. 4.] Sloop Polly, August 12, 1776. My Lorp: I take the liberty of sending enclosed the sketch of propositions referred to in my late conversation with your Lordship, which propositions, I have understood, the Colonies were disposed, not many months ago, to make the basis of a reconciliation with Great Britain. I have, &c., To Lord Howe. DruMMonp. [No. 5.] Sketch of Propositions communicated to Lord Howe the 12th August, 1776. Ist. That it shall be ascertained, as far as can be deter- mined by calculation, what supply towards the general exigency of the State each separate Colony can furnish, consistent with its ability. 2d. When such supply is thus ascertained, that each Colony shall, by acts of its own Assembly, impose such taxes as they shall find expedient for the raising of the said supply. 3d. In consideration of the fluctuating state of all young countries, that such States may not, in their operations, be- come partially or accidentally burdensome on the one hand, nor on the other hand gradually become deficient in produ- cing the aid intended by the Colonies towards the general exigency of the State, such articles shall be chosen as the objects of imposition, as they shall deem the most likely to keep pace with the growth or decline of the said Colonies. Ath. That these taxes, so imposed, shall, as in the cus- toms, be levied by officers of the appointment of the King, and that a perpetual grant of the produce of these taxes shall be made by the respective Assemblies to the Crown of Great Britain. 5th. As the direct means of removing the fatal grounds of this contention, by establishing a security against the apprehended invasion of property by Parliament, a formal relinquishment shall be made, on the part of Great Britain, of all future claim to taxation over these her Colonies. 6th. To remove all future suspicions from the minds of the Colonists, that under the appearance of regulating com- merce duties may be imposed for the further purposes of revenue, an application of the produce of all duties imposed on articles of trade by the Britesh Legislature shall be made towards defraying the expenses of collection, and the sur- plusses in each Colony to be paid into their separate Treasu- ries, and to be subject to the disposal of the respective Houses of Assembly. Drummonp. [No. 6.] Eagle, off Staten-Island, August 15, 1776. My Lorn: I have received the honour of your Lordship’s letter of the 12th, enclosing a sketch of the propositions men- tioned in your late conversation, which | return herewath. As I think they contain matter that, upon a conference and cool discussion, might be wrought into a plan of permanent union, I shall, with great satisfaction, embrace the first op- portunity that may offer upon those grounds to promote so desirable an event. I have, &c., To Right Hon. the Lord Drummond. [No. 7.] New-York, August 17, 1776. Sir: [have your Lordship’s favour of this day, accom- panied by papers on subjects of the greatest moment, and deserving the most deliberate consideration. I can allow much for your Lordship’s well-meant zeal on such an occasion, but [ fear it has transported you beyond that attention to your parole which comprehends the cha- racter of a man of strict honour. How your Lordship can reconcile your past or present conduct with your engage- ment, so as to satisfy your own mind, | must submit to your own feelings; but I find myself under the disagreeable neces- sity of objecting to the mode of negotiation proposed while your Lordship’s conduct appears so exceptionable. I shall, by express, forward to Congress your Lordship’s letter and the papers which accompanied it; the result will be communicated as soon as possible, Howe. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1028 I am sorry to have detained your Lordship so long, but the unavoidable necessity must be my apology. Iam, my Lord, your Lordship’s most obedient and very humble servant, To Lord Drummond. Go. WasHINGTON. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE NEW-YORK CONVENTION, New-York, August 18, 1776. Gentiemen: I have been honoured with your letter of the 17th, with the resolution of your honourable body for obstructing the channel between the Grand Battery and Nutten Island. Having gone into a considerable expense for stopping that of the North River, and such as I am not certain I shall be justified in, and the obstructions there being far from complete, it will not be in my power to engage in the business you propose, or undertake to advance any part of the money which will be necessarily expended in the execution. At the same time, give me leave to assure you, gentlemen, that I shall most readily afford you such assistance as may be derived from the labour of the troops here, and that can be spared from other service, to facilitate the design, which will be of great importance if it can be executed. I have been also honoured with your favour and resolu- tion of the same date, and am exceedingly obliged by the ready attention you have paid to my recommendation for the removal of the women and children and infirm persons from the city. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your most obedient servant, rt AAR ae To the Hon. Abm. Yates, Jun., Esq., President, &c. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, August 18, 1776. Sir: I have been duly honoured with your favour of the 13th instant; and at the same time that I think you and your honourable Council of Safety highly deserving of the thanks of the States for the measures you have adopted in order to give the most early and speedy succour to this Army, give me leave to return you mine in a particular man- ner. When the whole of the reinforcements do arrive, I flatter myself we shall be competent to every exigency; and with the smiles of Providence upon our arms and vigorous exertions, we shall baffle the designs of our inveterate foes, formidable as they are. Our situation was truly alarming a little while since; but, by the kind interposition and aid of our friends, is much better. You may rest assured, sir, that due consideration shall be had to the several Militia regiments that have come, and are marching to our assist- ance, and that they shall be dismissed as soon as circum- stances will admit of it. I trust, as long as there is occasion for their services, that the same spirit and commendable zeal which induced them to come, will influence their continuance. I sincerely wish it was in my power to ascertain the particu- lar period when they would be needed, that they might not be detained one unnecessary moment from their homes and common pursuits; but as this cannot be done, as the ap- proaching contest and trial between the two armies will most unquestionably produce events of the utmost importance to the States, as the issue, if favourable, will put us on such a footing as to bid defiance to the utmost malice of the British nation and those in alliance with her, I have not a doubt but they will most readily consent to stay, and cheerfully undergo every present and temporary inconvenience, so long as they are necessary. I am happy Captain Van Buren has succeeded so well in the business he was upon, it being of great consequence for us to fit out and maintain our vessels on the Lakes. On the night of the 16th, two of our fire-vessels attempted to burn the ships of war up the river. One of these boarded the Phenix, of forty-four guns, and was grappled with her for some minutes, but unluckily she cleared herself. The only damage the enemy sustained was the destruction of one tender. It is agreed on all hands that our people engaged in this affair behaved with great resolution and intrepidity. One of the Captains, (Thomas,) it is to be feared, perished in the attempt, or in making his escape by swimming, as he has not been heard of. His bravery entitled him to a better fate. Though this enterprise did not succeed to our wishes, I 1029 incline to think it alarmed the enemy greatly; for this morn- ing the Phenix and Rose, with their two remaining tenders, taking advantage of a brisk and prosperous gale, with a favourable tide, quitted their stations, and have returned and joined the rest of the fleet. As they passed our several bat- teries they were fired upon, but without any damage that I could perceive. The whole of the British forces in America, except those employed in Canada, are now here, Clinton’s arrival being followed the last week by that of Lord Dunmore, who now forms a part of the Army we are to oppose. His coming has added but little to their strength. I have the honour to be, Xc., (eee tet Ee To Governour Trumbull, Connecticut, WILLIAM BLODGET TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Long-Island, August 18, 1776. Str: Colonel Hand’s report mentions no uncommon movements of the enemy. The General desires me to acquaint your Excellency that he finds himself considerably better this morning than he was yesterday, and is in hopes in a few days to be able to go abroad, though still very weak. I am, with respect, your humble servant, Wm. Bropeer, Ard-de- Camp. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters, New- York. . GENERAL GREENE TO: GENERAL WASHINGTON. Long-Island, August 18, 1776. Sir: I have thought proper to communicate to you cer- tain intelligence which I have received from my brother respecting Captain Grames, whose conduct (if I have been rightly informed) does not entitle him to that place in your esteem which he now holds, nor to that confidence which ou have thought proper to put in him. His leaving the galley at Rhode-Island in the time of the attack, to take con- voy of the prizes; the insult which he afterwards gave said Captain, who has ever been held in the highest esteem, whose character stands fair and unimpeached, and who has given convincing proofs of his courage and conduct, toge- ther with the information that was given me of his refusing to make the attack at the time the fire-ships went up the riyer, and the reluctance that was shown this morning to comply with the orders given him by General Putnam, induce me to think that he is much more fond of parade and show than he is desirous of signalizing himself in any action that may be of service to the country. Ifthe report of his refusal is founded in fact, and General Putnam’s orders were not complied with, I think he ought immediately to be put under an arrest, and instantly removed from his command. I am, your very humble servant, NatTHANAEL GREENE. To His Excellency General Washington, Head-Quarters. GENERAL HEATH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. King’s Bridge, August 18, 1776. Dear Generac: Early this morning the Phenix man-of- war, Rose frigate, and the two tenders, came to sail and stood down the river, keeping close under the east shore, in order to avoid the fire of our cannon; but notwithstanding this precaution, the Phenix was thrice hulled by our shot from Mount Washington, and one of the tenders once. The Rose was hulled once by a shot from Burdett’s Ferry. They kept their men close, otherwise some of them would have been picked down by a party of riflemen who were posted on the bank. ‘They fired grape-shot as they passed, but did no damage save to one tent. We hope to hear that your batteries have done the work for some of them. We shall recover some swivel-guns, gun-barrels, shot, &c., out of the wreck of the tender, which was burnt the other night, the particulars of which shall be transmitted to your Excellency as soon as I can obtain them, General Clinton has about fourteen hundred men already come in, but their quarters are so scattered that it will be almost impossible to collect them suddenly, if occasion should require it. If there’are any spare tents, I earnestly beg for * CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1030 them, if it were but for one regiment. General Clinton has orders from the Convention of the State of New-York to purchase ten thousand feet of boards, for erecting sheds, &c., but it is uncertain when we shall have them. I shall to-morrow send for six or seven hundred of tools, being able to employ that number more than we have at present. The more I view this post, the more I am convinced of its importance. ‘The ships have now tried the practicability of passing our works; they have explored every part of the shore, as far as they have gone up the river, and sounded the river in almost every place. Should the ships rejoin the fleet without receiving much damage, I think Howe will be emboldened to attempt an attack somewhere above this place, thinking that there may be a greater probability of succeeding here than in the face of so many and strong works as have been erected in and around the city. How- ever, should his inclination lead him this way, nature has done much for us, and we shall, as fast as possible, add the strength of art. Our men are in good health and spirits, and I dare say will give them a warm reception. I should be glad to have the carriages for the four-pound- ers sent forward the moment they are done, as we have not as yet a single cannon mounted beyond Mount Washing- ton. I have just now received your Excellency’s commands to inquire into the cause of the inactivity of some of the row- galleys in the late attack on the enemy’s ships; but as the galleys have all left this post and fallen down to the city, I must beg your Excellency to excuse me from that service. I have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most humble servant, W.H . Heatu. To His Excellency General Washington, at New-York. DAVID MATTHEWS TO JOHN McKESSON. White-Plains, August 18, 1776. Sir: [ was in hopes of being called before your Com- mittee when they were last in New-York, in order that I might have an opportunity of acquitting myself of harbour- ing any dangerous designs against the liberties of America. I would now, sir, beg the favour of being heard before the Congress, before they come to any final determination about me. I hope they won’t deny me this favour, as I should be extremely sorry to be sent away without having an oppor- tunity of endeavouring to acquit myself of those heavy charges that have been exhibited against me. I am, sir, with esteem, your very humble servant, D. MarrHews. COLONEL GILBERT DRAKE TO CAPTAIN BROWN. Head-Quarters, Tarrytown, August 18, 1776. GentLemen: You are immediately to take fifty men and proceed to Cortlandt’s Manor, and apprehend all such per- sons as you think are disaffected to the good of the States of America, and bring them immediately to Head-Quarters, in compliance with a resolve of the Convention of the Repre- sentatives of the State of New-York, which is in the words following, viz: “Resolved, That General Morris be ordered immediately to apprehend and secure the persons ordered to be appre- hended by this Convention on yesterday, and that he be furnished with a list of those persons’ names.” You are to act discretionary as to your orders, and the above resolves, and return with all convenient speed. Gitp’t Drake, Lieutenant- Colonel. To Captain Brown and Captain Osborn. ~~ GENERAL SCHUYLER TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 26, 1776.] Albany, August 18, 1776. Sir: As I cannot possibly find time to make two copies of the transactions of the Jate treaty, I have enclosed one to General Washington for his perusal, to be transmitted to Congress. The Commissioners thought it needless to make entries of all the meetings we had with the Indians, on affairs of very little or no moment. Congress will perceive that we have said nothing about engaging them to take up arms for 1031 us, or to offer the reward for prisoners; we were unanimously of opinion, founded on all the information we could procure, that the attempt would have essentially injured us, and perhaps brought them to act against us, as they might, and probably would, have concluded that we were too weak for the enemy. ~ Some of our best, and I believe real friends, the Onetdas and Ochquaques, complained that some Indians had been sent to Maryland, to invite some Nanticokes that live in that Province to remove into the interior part of the country, and that neither those that were sent were suffered to return, or the others who they say incline to leave their present habitations, permitted to do it. We promised to lay the matter before Congress, not doubting but that every cause of complaint would be removed. Please to give us some information on the subject. Part of Livingston’s, Hazen’s, and Duggan’s corps of Canadians are in this town, sent down by General Gates. They are naked, and I have ordered them a month’s pay, and shall employ them in repairing the road to Fort George, which is exceedingly worn, until I receive directions from Congress what to do with them, and whether they are to be paid up and discharged, or what. They have several women and children with them, who draw provisions, having not the means of subsistence without that aid. Several Canadians, not belonging to the above corps, and who have been obliged to quit Canada since our Army left it, are now in this town, naked and destitute of every neces- sary. As their misfortunes are occasioned by their attach- ment to our cause, [ cannot avoid giving them provisions ; and shall order each of them a small matter of money, to purchase such necessaries as may suffice for the present. I wish for the orders of Congress on this subject. The Committee of this place are much at a loss for the papers relative to the taking of Ticonderoga, &c. By the resolution empowering them to liquidate those accounts, they were led to believe that they were in my possession; but I did myself the honour to transmit them to Congress some time last winter. I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient, humble ser- vant, To the Hon. John Hancock. Pu. ScHUYLER. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, August 18, 1776. Dear Sir: Your Excellency’s favour of the 13th instant was delivered me about nine last evening. I am very confident that you have pursued every measure in your power to relieve our wants in this quarter, and to facilitate the works going on to the northward. We have people in every quarter attempting to procure the variety of articles that are wanted; but after all, we shall fall consider- ably short. Nor did I ever doubt but that your Excellency had communicated to Congress the difficulties we laboured under for the want of money. I assure you that I always have and shall continue to advise them in time of the neces- sity of supplies of cash. The resolves you mention have not been sent me, nor any about raising troops for three years, except that the officers are to have the same allowance for recruiting. I cannot, upon recurring to my letter of the 6th instant, perceive that I intimated the least doubt of your Excellen- cy’s not having communicated to Congress such parts of my letters as were necessary for them to know. I shall strictly comply with your order, and advise you of any information which I-at the same time send you and them. If your Excellency will please re-peruse my letter of the 6th instant, I believe you will find that it is in no part sug- gested that a Court of Inquiry or Court-Martial was convened at New-York, upon the subject alluded to. 1 was informed that a Council of Officers had convened at New- York; Iwas advised of what was their decision; I was chagrined; and had the information been true, as I thought it, I believe your Excellency will do me the justice to think that I should have had too much reason to be so. : As the movement of the Army from Crown-Point to Ticonderoga was so generally condemned at New-York, it is more than probable that Congress must have heard it, and I therefore wish that everything I have said on the subject CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1032 should be communicated to them. I frankly confess that I first moved the matter, and that were the question to be again agitated, I should still continue of the same sentiments, unless better reasons could be given against it than those I have adduced in support of my opinion, and then I should have most readily acquiesced ; or if your Excellency, without having given any reasons for it, had ordered me to move the Army back to Crown-Point, I should have obeyed without hesitation or a murmur, well knowing that the orders of my superior officer are on no account to be con- tested. I assure you, my dear sir, that I very reluctantly entered on a command in which I foresaw as many difficulties as I have experienced. I easily conceived, that a people whom it had been necessary to inspire with jealousy of the men in power in Great Britain, and those employed by them in this injured country, would also be easily induced, by artful and designing men, to transfer part of that jealousy to the servants of the publick here. My conjectures were well founded, for suspicion and envy have followed me from the moment I came to the command. .I have experienced the most illiberal abuse in many of the Colonies, and even in the Army I commanded; and if any accident should happen to the northward, the same spirit that has imputed the mis- fortunes in Canada to me, will impute that also to me. I have entreated Congress to cause a minute ‘inquiry to be made into my conduct, and I trust if it is done, that I shall not only be honourably acquitted, but that judicious men will discover in me the honest man and the faithful American. But as envy, even in that case, will not cease, nor male- volence withhold its slander, i am determined to quit the Army as soon as my conduct has been inquired into, and evince myself in private life, what I have strove to do in publick, the friend of my injured country. Soon after Colonel Dayton’s regiment marched to John- son-Hall, some of the officers broke open the doors and car- ried away a very considerable quantity of effects, contrary to mine and Colonel Dayton’s orders. Soon after my arrival at the German-F'lats, | was informed of this by some of the officers, who wished an inquiry, that the innocent might not share the scandal with the guilty. [ordered a Court-Martial on Lieutenant McDonald, witnesses with respect to his con- duct being on the spot. He was tried and broke. In the course of his trial it appeared that a number of others were concerned; and I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel White and Captains Ross and Patterson down from Fort Stanwiz. The two Captains delivered me the paper No. 1, in answer to which I advised them candidly to narrate the whole trans- action. No. 2 is their narrative; and No. 3 contains an account of what they took; No. 4, with the paper enclosed in it, is what Colonel White delivered me. As I was appre- hensive that a publick conviction of so many officers would reflect too much disgrace on our troops, I chose to defer any further proceedings until I should advise with your Excellency. Permit me, therefore, to entreat your opinion, whether it will be prudent for me to accept of the conces- sions they offer to make at the head of the regiment, and thus to bury the affair, or whether I ought to have them tried. Please to return the papers above alluded to, as I have not time to make copies of them. Enclose your Excellency copy of a letter from Colonel Dayton, with copy of a paper enclosed in it. He has changed the name of Fort Stanwiv. The Messesaga In- dians mentioned in the paper, live on the west side of Lake Ontario, and of those the savages who made our people prisoners at the Cedars, were chiefly composed. Only five quires of cartridge-paper could be procured, which I have sent Colonel Dayton. We are greatly in want of that article. Captain Varick informs me that he has written to your Excellency for it. _ It is not to be had any- where nearer than New-York. General Gates also presses. me, in a letter of the 16th instant, for that article. Please to order it to be sent with all expedition. I also enclose a copy of a letter from General Arnold. As I cannot possibly find time to make two copies of the transactions at the late treaty, 1 have mentioned to Congress that I had sent.one to you, to be transmitted, after perusal, to them. Also enclose copy of a letter from General Arnold, which gives me a state of our naval force on Lake Cham- plain. Your Excellency’s letter of the 10th instant to Captain 1033 Varick, has just come to hand, but not any of the articles mentioned in the return are as yet arrived. I am, dear sir, with unfeigned esteem and respect, your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHuyLer. To His Excellency General Washington, &c. Skenesborough, August 8, 1776. © Dear GeneraL: Your favour of the 31st ultimo was delivered to me on the 4th instant. I feel very sensibly for you in your disagreeable situation. I wish the fatigue and anxiety you undergo may not impair your health; and that you may succeed in your expectation with the savages, and soon give us the pleasure of seeing you here. Captain Varick has been very active and industrious in procuring the articles for the Navy. Many are arrived at Ticonderoga, and proper steps taken to procure the others. The carpenters go on with great spirit. Eight gondolas will be completed in a few days. One row-galley is gone to T%- conderoga, and will soon be fitted and armed. Three others will be launched in ten days ora fortnight. Four others will be set up in a few days, great part of the timber being cut. Iron, sails, cordage, and anchors, will be wanted in a few days. About two tons of the former is here, and six tons will be wanted to complete the galleys in hand; twelve or fifteen tons will be necessary for the galleys to be set up. It will expedite the building if six or eight tons can be sent up in spikes, from five to seven inches long, chiefly about six inches. General Gates transmitted you last week the testimony of two French Captains, lately from Canada, which is contra- dicted by a Lieutenant B. Whitcomb, who was lately sent from Crown-Point to St. John’s, which place he left the 31st ultimo. He went down on the east side, as far as Chambly, and returned on the west. Says he observed about forty bat- teaus at St. John’s, and some others building, but no large vessels; believes there were about two thousand men there, and one thousand between St. John’s and Chambly. This afternoon I return to Ticonderoga, and in a few days propose to go down the Lake with the vessels completed, about ten sail. . The Militia come in very slowly: not more than fifteen hundred have arrived. Our work at Ticonderoga goes on briskly; the line will be completed in ten days or a fortnight. I am, with every sentiment of friendship and esteem, dear General, your obedient, humble servant, ear eae To the Hon. Major-General Schuyler. Fort Schuyler, August 15, 1776. Dear Generac: At six o’clock last evening, I received an express from Major Barber, giving me information respect- ing a hellish plan laid by Lieutenant McMichael and others, to go over to the enemy. Upon inquiry, I soon found Lieu- tenant Edward McMichael, one Smith, (who called himself a volunteer in my regiment,) and one Ridley, clerk to Major Fonda, had been gone from our camp about six hours. In a very short time I had two parties marching in quest of them: one took the road to the Oneida Castle, the other to the Oneida Lake. I gave them express orders to take the vil- Jains if possible, dead or alive. ‘The party that went to the Lake, are this moment returned. At one o’clock this after- noon, they saw McMichael and his party just got into the Oneida Lake in an oe canoe. ‘They fired a number of shot after him, some of which went beyond the canoe, but he kept on and never returned their fire. I sent-an express this afternoon to the Oneida Castle, ordering Captain Read- ing, who commanded the party I sent that road, to march his party to the Lake, and, if possible, to get some of the Oneidas to go to the west end of the Lake, in order to in- tercept them there, should they be in time, so that I have yet some hopes they may be taken. Enclosed I send the examination of two of the party that I sent on a scout to Oswego this day se’nnight. By their account, it is probable Sergeant Younglove, Sergeant Ahen, and James McGennis, all of my regiment,-are either ktlled or taken by the Messagauga Indians. The guide says, he is sure, by their language, the Indians were of that nation. Two of the Onandagas are now with me, that brought the two men that escaped from the other side of the Lake. I CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1034 shall pay them to their satisfaction for this friendly act of theirs. McMichael, who is gone to the enemy, knows our situa- tion respecting ammunition, which he will most certainly discover to them. We have now only two thousand one hundred and sixty musket cartridges, and no paper and thread to make any more. I hope cash will very soon be sent to us, as I wish neither officers or soldiers should have any cause to complain, as they both do at present, having near four months’ pay due. If a small matter of hard cash could be spared, so that each officer might have a little, I know it would be very accept- able; and to please them at this time, in my opinion, would not be amiss. I am not sure we have got yet to the bottom of this cursed rebellion against the States. Could wish Captain Bloom- Jield and Dickerson’s companies were ordered here; they have officers I can depend upon. I have not heard anything of Onetda Indians for scouters. Without them, I fear difficulty in getting intelligence from Oswego in future. Iam, dear General, your most humble servant, Exi1as Dayton. To General Schuyler. Information given by Ricuarp Bexy and Samuet FREEMAN, concerning the Scout which went from Forr Scuuyier to OsweGo, consisting of two Sergeants, two men, and a guide. The scout left Fort Schuyler August the 7th, and the 15th instant one man and the guide returned. Nothing material happened on their march, until they arrived at Oswego, when they saw a bark canoe and a small hut, about three hundred yards from the fort; from which hut they saw an Indian run towards the fort, and meet another Indian near the gate. They stood, as the scout imagined, about a minute, when they both ran into the fort, occasioned, as they thought, by the Indian who ran fiom the hut having seen them. The scout discovered no troops nor vessels at Oswego—not even a white person; but seeing the Indians run, imagined they intended hiding themselves; upon which, Sergeant Young- love, who commanded the party, determined to march back as far as the place where they had tarried the night before, (in order to rest themselves and clean their guns, which were much out of order by reason of the rain,) which was about six miles from Oswego. They went on without any kind of molestation, until they came within about half a mile of the place where they intended to halt, when they were fired upon all on a sudden by about ten Indians, as they imagined ; upon which Sergeant Younglove ordered each man to take atree. ‘They quickly obeyed, and made ready to engage; but unluckily their guns were so wet that they could by no means fire them. Sergeant Younglove’s gun burnt priming about ten times; the other guns flashed several times; one of the men’s guns went off, but supposed did no execution, as the powder was much damaged, though the Indian he fired at bawled out. The Indians fired about two rounds, when Sergeant Ahen dropped his gun and cried out that he was a dead man; and at the same time he was heard to say, Do not run boys, but fix your bayonets if they come near you. When he had uttered those words, Mr. Bell, the guide, as he thought, saw him roll down the bank. Upon that, Mr. Bell called to Sergeant Younglove, and Maginnes, a soldier next him, to come down the bank, then they could stand them. Sergeant Younglove made him no answer, but still continued clearing the touchhole, in order to fire his gun. Upon that Mr. Bell went down the bank himself, upon which Freeman, a soldier, immediately followed. When they had got out. of sight, they heard two guns fire; after which they heard nothing more. Then Mr. Bell, and Freeman, the soldier who followed him down the bank, and had received wounds, one in his head and another in his shoulder, imme- diately made off in the woods about six miles, then returned to the river, where they found the enemy’s track still in pursuit of them. ‘They repeated it three times, and every time still found the footsteps of the enemy in the mud and grass. They then left the river and marched about eighteen miles, when they fell in with two friendly Onondaga Indians, who conducted them about twenty miles, where they met with two other Indians of the same nation, who conducted them on until they fell in with another scouting party sent out to meet them; after which they were all safely con- ducted to Fort Schuyler. What became of Sergeant Young- 1035 love, and Maginnes, the soldier who Mr. Bell called to come down the bank with him, he can give no account of, but supposed killed when the two last guns went off. The reader will please to take notice, that the Indians who fired upon this scout were of the nation called the Musasaugans. GENERAL SCHUYLER’S CONFERENCE WITH THE INDIANS OF THE SIX NATIONS, 1776. German-Flats, Thursday, August 8, 1776. Speech of the Commissioners to the Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations. Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations: With this string we open your ears, that you may plainly hear what the Independent States of America have to say to their breth- ren of the Six Nations. With it we wipe away all mists that may interrupt your sight, and let it clear your hearts from every obstruction, and incline them to receive our words with brotherly love. . Brothers: We thank God that he has been pleased to suffer us to meet you in health. May sickness never enter into your country, but may health and happiness dwell in your habitations, and may the Six Nations be a great and happy people.—(A string.) The Council-fire which is now burning at this place, has been kindled by a spark taken from the great Council-fire at Albany. We have brought it here in our bosoms. We have lighted it up here, because we were afraid that the small-pox might infect our brethren of the Stx Nations if they went farther down the river, and that some of them might go home with heavy hearts for the loss of their rela- tions; and we hope this conduct of the Commissioners meets with your approbation.—(A belt.) Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations: The United Colonies have always been in hopes that a reconci- liation would take place between us and the King. To that end they have frequently petitioned the King for redress of the grievances they laboured under; but he would not listen to their petitions. He was deaf, and would not give ear to their complaints; and instigated by his evil counsel- lors, he forgot that we were his children; he wanted to make us his slaves. ‘T’o accomplish this unjust and cruel purpose, he has sent his armies and fleets to try to destroy and dis- tress us; and therefore the United Colonies—when they found that he had become a cruel and oppressive father that hated them, and that he had not only given the hatchet to the English on the other side of the water, but had also sent it to the few friends he had amongst us, ordering them to put it into the hands of our negroes, and whoever would accept it, to strike us—have unanimously left his house, and now no longer consider him as their father and King, and have accordingly proclaimed to all the world that they will never hereafter acknowledge him, or any of his family, to be their King, but that they will always be and remain a free and independent people; and therefore have called themselves the Independent States of America, and solemnly agreed always to remain firmly united. We must, for the future, be called the Commissioners of the United and Independent States of America; and that you may remember this great event, we now deliver you this belt.—(A belt. Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Stix Nations: Now open your ears, and listen attentively to what the Independent States of America have further to say to you, for in their names we speak. Our speech will be plain, as it always has been; for as we have never been, we scorn to be double- minded. It will be the speech of freemen who will candid- ly tell you your faults. You shall know all that is in our hearts. We will hide nothing from you, that you may know our intentions clearly and fully. Brothers: You-will remember, that soon after the King’s warriors had begun to spill the blood of the inhabitants of this great Island, the United Colonies called you together at Albany. They there rekindled the ancient Council-fire, and brightened up the covenant chain that had bound your ancestors and ours together in bands of the purest love and sincerest friendship. It was last summer that we, the Com- missioners, met you there on that pleasing business. We then gave you a full, a fair, and a candid account of the cause of the quarrel between us and the King; we did not do it in a dark corner, as those that mean evil, but in the presence of all that would come to see and hear, that they CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1036 might witness the truth of what we said. When we had related this, we informed you, that as we were unhappily engaged in a family quarrel, in which the Six Nations were not in the least concerned, either one way or the other, we desired and expected that you should not assist the one or the other, but remain quietly and peaceably at home, and mind your own business. We confirmed our words with a large belt. Brothers: The answer you made was delivered by Abra- ham, the Mohawk Sachem, whom you had chosen as your speaker. These were his words: We shall repeat them ex- actly: “ Now, therefore, attend, and apply your ears closely. We have fully considered this matter. The resolutions of the Six Nations are not to be broken or altered. When they resolve, the matter is fixed. ‘This, then, is the determina- tion of the Six Nations: Not to take any part, but, as it is a family quarrel, to sit still and see you fight it out. It isa long time since we came to this resolution. It is the result of mature deliberation. It was our declaration to Colonel Johnson. We told him we would take no part in the quar- rel, and hoped neither side would desire it. _Whoever ap- plies first, we shall think is in the wrong. ‘The resolutions of the Six Natzons are not to be shaken.” Brothers: These words and these resolutions pleased us well, because what you declared was what we requested— that you should take no part in the quarrel, but sit still and see us fight it out; and because we believed that you were sincere, and that you said nothing with your tongue but what you had in your hearts. Your speech was delivered in full Council and in the presence of a number of people. We had therefore the highest reason to expect that you would strictly have abode by your resolutions. But, brothers, we now ask you, whether you have abode by these wise words, and adhered to these prudent resolutions? It grieves us to say that you have not; that you have acted directly con- trary to your solemn engagements, and broken that faith which you plighted and which we depended upon, as we shall now plainly make appear, by repeating a number of facts which are known to you all, and which you cannot contradict or deny. First. When our Army went to St. John’s last year, your people interfered in the quarrel, by joming with our enemies in attacking our warriors; and thus the resolutions of the Six Nations were broken and altered, although you had said they were not to be broken or altered. Secondly. When our Great Council at Philadelphia was informed that Sir John Johnson was inlisting men, and that he and the Highlanders who lived about Johnstown were preparing. to murder our friends, they sent some warriors to disarm them, and then you again interfered in the quarrel. You were very troublesome, and threatened us, although we had sent you word that no harm was intended*you, for that we had no quarrel with the Indzans; and thus the reso- lutions of the Six Nations were again broken and altered. Thirdly. When our Great Council, in the month of May last, had received certain intelligence that Sir John Johnson was inlisting men, and preparing to join the enemy, they ordered up a body of warriors; but lest you should be alarmed, Mr. Douw went up to the east end of the house to inform you that no evil was intended you; yet you never- theless interfered in the quarrel; Mr. Douww was insulted with abusive language, and Mr. Bleecker, the Interpreter, was threatened and seized by the breast, contrary to the custom of all nations, (for the person of an ambassador and a messenger of peace is always held sacred;) and thus the resolutions of the Stx Nations were a third time broken and altered. Fourthly. Although you knew that Sir John Johnson was inlisting men, and preparing to go to the enemy, con- trary to the most solemn agreement with us, yet you not only assisted him in going to the enemy, but even threatened to kill our warriors, and actually appeared in arms for that hostile purpose; and thus you again interfered in the quar- rel, and a fourth time broke and altered your resolutions. Fifthly.. Contrary to your resolutions, you have opened your ears, and given ear to the voice of our enemies, and complied with their desires. Butler has prevailed upon you to go into Canada, and fight against us (at Taghtagh Quin- eagie.) As we had no quarrel with any Indians, as we had even released those that we had taken prisoners in battle, we were surprised to find any Indians fighting against us; 1037 but when we were told that some of the Six Nations were there, and had joined our enemies; that they had struck the axe in our heads, and covered the ground with the bones of our warriors, and defiled the earth with their blood, after having but a little time before promised to remain neutral, we could hardly believe it at first; but upon inquiry, we found it was true: your axe still sticks in our heads; and thus you again interfered in the quarrel, and a fifth time broke and altered your resolutions. Stxthly. You have also lately, upon this river, in the midst of the inhabitants, wickedly and wilfully fired on, attacked, and destroyed a batteau loaded with flour, which was coming up here for the use of our warriors, and to feed you at this treaty; and thereby you have again insulted us, and inter- fered in the quarrel, and a sixth time broken and altered the resolutions of the Six Nations. Thus, brothers, we have mentioned six instances in which the resolutions of the Six Nations have been contravened, although you told us, in full council at Albany, that they were not to be broken or altered, and that when you have resolved, the matter was fixed; and thus, also, instead of sitting still, and seeing us fight it out, as you also told us you would do, you have actually assisted our enemies, and taken an active part in the quarrel against us; thereby opening your ears to, and listening to the advice of our enemies, by complying with their request, although you expressly said that whoever applied first, you should think was in the wrong. Now, brothers, tell us, if you can, when we have asked you to interfere in the quarrel? When and where have we desired your assistance? Have we given you a blood belt? Have we offered you the axe? Have we roasted an English- man, and desired you to drink his blood? You cannot say that we have ever done any of these things, and yet our enemies have done all this. You have told us so yourselves, and you cannot deny it. We have always said that we were not afraid of our enemies; we say so still. We have never asked you to fight for us, and some of you have fought for them. Wasthis well done? God, who knows all things, knows that it was not. You yourselves know that it was not. We know it was not. And although you have thus unjustly taken up arms against us, and although we felt the blows, and although the axe still sticks in our heads, yet we have forborne to take revenge, because your ancestors and ours always had a great affection and friendship for each other, and faithfully kept the covenant they made with each other in such a manner that both were happy, both were pleased, and peace dwelt in their habitations, and because we had resolved to make our complaint in full council, and lay our grievances before the whole Stix Nations, as we now do, expecting that you will speak as plain as we do, and remove all cause of complaint for the future. Brothers: Again attend to the voice of all the white people on this great Island. ‘They say that they have not injured you. ‘They say that they wish to live in friendship with all Indians, and in particular with the Six Nations, who are their near neighbours, and with whom their ancestors have always lived in peace and friendship. ‘They say that you have un- justly injured and insulted them. ‘They say that, as they are freemen, as free as you are, and now fighting to preserve that freedom, they will not suffer themselves to be aftronted, injured, and insulted with impunity by you or any men on earth. ‘They will do as you have formerly done, as you still do, and as you have a right to do, that is, to guard themselves against any enemy whatsoever by any just means in their power. Brothers: We know that many of you are honest men, faithful to your engagements, holding sacred the faith you have plighted, and bearing a brotherly affection to the in- habitants of this great Island. These we love, respect, and honour; and we call God to witness that we will do them every kindness in our power, and never give them the least cause of complaint. We also know who are our enemies,’ although we do not know why; we have given them no cause to be such. Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations: We have spoken plainly ; we will, if possible, speak more plainly ; open, therefore, your ears, that you may clearly hear and understand the declaration of the Independent States of America, It is this: that they mean to live in friendship, and cultivate a good understanding, and maintain a friendly CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1038 intercourse with all Indians; and that, in answer to this, they do require that all Indians should declare their intentions; and therefore ask the Six Nations now convened around this Council-fire of peace, what their intentions are? If they mean to live in friendship, to cultivate a good understand- ing, and maintain a friendly intercourse with us, we require that they take the hatchet out of our heads, and that none of them will again assist our enemies; in which case, we do most solemnly promise that we will love and cherish them, and treat them with the greatest kindness and affection, and that we will forever hereafter rather die than wrong them, or suffer others to do it. But if any amongst you should so far forget their own interest as now to become or continue our enemies, after all the kindness and forbearance we have shown, let them say so, that all the white people of this great Island may know what they have to depend upon. No person shall molest them here or on their way, for it shall never be said we injured or insulted people with whom we were in treaty, although they intended to be our enemies. Brothers: We have done our duty; we have spoken plain- ly; we request you will do the same; we shall become open enemies, or warm and inviolable friends. We wish for your friendship, not out of fear, but out of love, and that a good understanding may prevail between the white inhabitants of this great Island and the Six Nations, until the sun should grow dim with age; and it will be your fault if we do not part as good friends with the Six Nations, and remain so hereafter, as your ancestors and ours were in the time of Queder, when they fought side by side against the common enemy. Brothers: We have now spoken our minds fully; you can- not charge us with deceit. Our conduct has been invariably the same from the time we first met in Albany to this day. We have not said one thing and done another, as our enemies have done; and, as you now know all that is in our hearts, we desire you to think seriously of it, and to speak your thoughts fairly and fully, and not be double-hearted. Do not say one thing and think another, for that is shameful in a private man, and in private affairs; but scandalous in publick bodies, and in publick business. " This belt, on which our wishes are described, and which . denotes what.we hope will take place, that is, a firm union between the Stax Nations and the Thirteen United States of America,—this belt, we say, confirms our words.—(The large belt.) — Friday, August 9, 1776. Present: The Hon. Major-General Schuyler, Timothy Edwards, and Volkert P. Douw, Esquires, Commissioners, &c.; Colonel Van Dyck, Major Barber, and several other officers and gentlemen from the Counties of Albany and Tryon, and the Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations, the Mohegans, and Delawares. Apranam, the Mohawk Sachem, delivered the following Answer to the Commissioner’s Speech: Brothers: We are this day convened at the place ap- pointed for the meeting. You informed us, when you parted, that you had delivered your whole mind to us. We have had your words under consideration. We hope you will excuse us our not answering before, as you desired us to speak our minds fully and freely without dissimulation. We are determined to do it, and you may depend that what the Stax Nations now say does not come only from their lips. Brothers: We hope you will excuse us if, in our reply, we do not mention everything that was delivered to us. We will endeavour only to mention the principal things. You informed us that the Council-fire which you had kindled at this place, was kindled from a spark brought from the Great Council-fire anciently kindled by our ancestors at Albany. You informed us, likewise, that the reason of your kindling it here was, that we might not in our way down be infected with the small-pox ; and that you hoped that, by your kin- dling it here, you and your brethren of the Six Nations might part with your minds at ease, and not grieved for the loss of any of their friends. Brothers: We thank you for your prudence in kindling the Council-fire at this place, and the whole Six Nations return you their thanks.—(A_ belt of seven rows, four dia- gonal bars, and a square.) Brothers: You informed us that since the difficulties had arisen between you and the great King, you had made 1039 frequent applications for redress of your grievances; that the King, instead of complying with your requests, had (as it were) shut his ears to your complaints ; that you had there- fore given up all hopes of redress. You then informed us, that in consequence of that, you had declared yourselves to be free and independent of the great King; that there were thirteen Provinces united in this resolution, and that you had determined to be forever free and independent; and by this belt (holding up the belt we had given them in his hand) you made us acquainted with this determination. Brothers: The whole Stx Nations take this opportunity to thank you that you have acquainted us with your deter- mination in so publick a manner; and we shall for the future consider you as thirteen independent States.—(A white belt, eight rows.) Brothers, the Commissioners of the Independent States, attend: We are this day called together to speak of peace. You see, brothers, that the day is ended. Our ancestors have forbid us from treating of matters of peace in the eve- ning. We would therefore propose it to your considera- tion whether it would not be best to defer it till to-morrow morning ? Deferred till to-morrow. Saturday, August 10, 1776. Present as before. The Oneida Sachem spoke as follows: Brothers, the Commissioners, attend: We have again brought our pipes together at this place of publick meeting. When you spoke to us, you informed us that you spoke to us in the name of the Thirteen United Provinces. We hope you will excuse us if we do not repeat all you have said, as you have it all committed to writing; it is not, indeed, very necessary. You informed us, brethren, in your speech, that when the warriors of the great King had begun to spill the blood of the people on this great Island, that the Thirteen United Colonies then rekindled the ancient Council-fire which was formerly kept burning at Albany. You also informed us that the quarrel between you and the great King was a family quarrel, in which we were not concerned; you there- - fore desired that the Stx Nations would remain quiet at home, and mind nothing but peace. You likewise told us that we had returned this for answer: that we had firmly agreed not to take any part in the quarrel; but that as it was a family quarrel, we would remain at home and mind nothing but peace. ‘These you said were the resolutions we had then taken, and which we delivered in the most publick manner; and that you had all the reason in the world to think us sincere. Brothers: Attend. We take this opportunity to thank you for speaking plainly, and telling us our faults; the whole Six Nations thank you for it. We will, agreeably to your desire, also speak clearly and plainly.—(A belt of nine rows, Jive squares connected with a path.) Asranam, the Mohawk Sachem, then spoke as follows: Brothers, the Commissioners appointed by the Thirteen United Colonies, attend: You have desired us to speak our minds with the greatest plainness, which we will now ac- cordingly do. Brothers: It is your desire that we should speak in par- ticular to every article charged against us. I shall relate how we who live at the east end of the house have been guilty of a fault in this affair. Brothers: At the Council-fire which was rekindled from the ancient Council-fire which had been kindled by our ancestors at Albany, and at which we renewed the former covenant which had been made between our forefathers and the Twelve United Colonies, you opened the path of peace to all the Six Nations to Albany. You had before told us that you would pursue your enemies wherever you could find them, and that you would, if they could not be reclaimed, kill all disaffected persons wherever you could come across them. The Six Nations then thanked you for what you had done; that you had opened the path of peace and renewed the Council-fire at Albany. At the same time, they desired that, as there were many persons along this road who were attached to the King, you would not defile the newly-opened path of peace with their blood, but suffer them to remain in peace. Brothers: You will attend particularly to what I am CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1040 going to relate, as we will speak plain, as you desired us to do. The Six Nations, at the treaty held at Albany last summer, had agreed to be perfectly neutral, and to mind nothing but peace on both sides. Last winter, brothers, you sent up a message to inform us that you were coming up with two thousand men, to inquire of and take care of the people called Tories. You desired us to possess our minds in peace, as no evil was intended us, and desired that your message might be sent forward to this house. We then considered the matter; and as it was represented to us that these men came up only to inquire into the truth of matters, we thought two or three men might have done that business without molestation, as it would be beneath men to injure so small a number sent on such a design. We then sent down to meet the party that was coming up; I myself was one of those who went down on the occasion to desire that the main body might stop, and that a small part might be sent to make the inquiry. ‘The General informed us that the main body could not be stopped; that he had his orders for what he did, and that he was under a necessity of proceed- ing. He likewise told us that no blood would be spilt on the occasion, if the people whom he was sent to would com- ply with certain terms which he had directions to propose. It is not necessary, brothers, to repeat over the whole of this affair very circumstantially; but for the satisfaction of the Council, I will mention the principal transactions. After this interview at Schenectady, you stopped short of Major Fonda’s, where we came over in the evening to see you, but you were not there. Some time late at night, you sent for us to come down to you; accordingly, I and one more went; and in passing by Colonel Claus’s, a gun was dis- charged at us, and there I had almost been killed in pur- suing peace. After we arrived at your lodging, Sir John, it seems, had just left you, and you informed us of the conver- sation that had passed between you, and the proposals you had made to him. You then let us know that we might go to Sir John, and inform ourselves whether such proposals had been made to him; and upon our going out to him, we were convinced of the truth of your information, and we desired Sir John to comply with the proposals that had been made to him, as he could not possibly resist the body of men that were coming out against him. We desired Sir John to go in person to see you. He said he would consider of it; but finally he sent one in his name. At last things were so settled as to prevent the shedding of blood. We were induced to be thus active in the affair from a desire of pre- venting the shedding of blood on both sides; and this, bro- thers, is the conduct which you accuse us for, and which we think excusable on account of our intention. Our cousins of the Upper Castle were with those of the Lower at the time. Brothers: Before the arrival of Colonel Dayton, the whole Stx Nations had a Council at Onondaga, wherein they had agreed that they would mind nothing but peace. Immedi- ately after this Council at Onondaga, a party of the Six Nations went down to Albany, and another to Niagara, as they had agreed to:cultivate peace. The Oequagues and Caughnawagas were at Albany at the time, when they re- peated the agreement which they had made at the Council at Onondaga. ‘They then requested, and you promised, that there should be no fighting near our house, as both par- ties were strong, and they might injure the Indians in the struggle, and that you would confine yourselves to the sea- coasts. When our party that went to Albany returned home, and very soon after they had repeated their transac- tions at Albany, Mr. Douww came up to inform them that there was a party coming up to Sir John’s. Mr. Douw, when he came up, desired us to possess our minds in peace, as the party coming up was not designed against us. You say that Mr. Doww was used in an abusive manner, and _ Bleecker threatened, which we confess; for while they were there, one of our young warriors came in diunk, and used him in the manner you mention. We desired the warriors to remain quiet; but some of them took their arms, and, contrary to the inclinations of the Sachems, went down, while those that were obedient remained with the great men who take care of the news. Upon our arrival at Johns- town, we found a number of our warriors who had had a meeting with Colonel Dayton to inquire his business there. Colonel Dayton told them that he had no designs against the Indians; that though he was not afraid of them, he was 1041 unwilling to shed their blood; and requested that they would be quiet. He spoke much more in a friendly manner, which it is unnecessary to repeat. Our warriors then returned home, and the Sachems reproved them for their conduct. They acknowledged their fault, and promised not to be guilty of the like misconduct for the future, informing them that the person who had been the cause of it was now gone, though he had gone off without their assistance. As I have authority to speak for the warriors, I now declare that they are sorry for their misconduct, and that they will for the future obey their uncles the Sachems, who take care of the news.—(A belt of eleven rows, with four diagonal bars.) SoscoHoLaana, a Sachem of the Mohawks, then delivered the following Speech: One of the articles of accusation is pointed at me. I was conscious of guilt at the time it was mentioned, but sat still, as it was an improper time for me to speak. I waited to confess it in the most publick manner in a meeting of the whole Six Nations. ‘The accusation against me is just. I have destroyed a batteau load of provisions while it was coming up; and I may, perhaps, be the means of the Svx Nations being in want of provisions while at this Council- fire. The warriors are frequently passing and repassing to and from their hunting-ground; and when they return from hunting, it is usual for them to get liquor. I, with a party, was just then returning, and we had procured some liquor, and destroyed the flour as you mention. Some of our people went down the next day and found the flour destroyed, but the persons who had done it were gone again into the woods hunting. The generality of our warriors are now together; and a day or two ago we every one declared our sentiments separately, and all agreed not to be guilty of like excesses for the future, but that they would behave themselves regu- larly and orderly. What I have now said does not come only from my lips, but from my heart.—(A belt of seven rows, with three variegated squares, two in the middle, the other at one of the ends.) Taycuanu. Brothers, the Commissioners, attend: I like- wise desire the attention of the elder part of the Confe- deracy. 1 who now speak am a Sachem. I speak in the name of the Sachems of the Oneida, Tuscarora, and Cayuga Tribes. Our nephews the warriors are not included. You have desired us, in your speech, to speak plainly, whether we are for peace, or for having our minds separated from our brethren of the United Provinces. We, therefore, the Sa- chems of the Oneida and Tuscarora Tribes, declare that we are for peace ; that we have not the least inclination to be divided from our ancient brethren the Dutch. We deter- mine to maintain it forever; and hope that our women, our children, and warriors, may always remain in peace. God, who knows and hears what we say, and who disapproves of those who break their covenants, we hope will enable us to persevere in the resolution which we now make. We now strengthen and renew our former covenant. If, brothers, you are the least apprehensive that there is any deceit in us, we desire that you will declare it; and if it has appeared either in the actions of us the Sachems, or in those of our warriors, we desire that you will tell us. I speak for the Sachems of the whole Tribes of the Onezdas and T'uscaroras, with our nephews the Delawares. 'This is all I have to say.—(Two belts, one of ten rows and three squares on it, the other with six rows, with seven diagonal bars.) Monday, August 12, 1776. Present: The Hon. Major-General Schuyler, Timothy Edwards, Esq., and several officers and gentlemen from the Counties of Albany and Tryon. The Commissioners proceeded to deliver their Reply in answer to the Str Nations, as follows: Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations: Our ears have been open, and we have attentively listened to the answers which you have jointly and severally made to our speech. We have fully considered what you have said. Give ear, and attend to our reply. You began your answer with the belt now in our hands. You declared that you would speak your minds fully and freely, and that the Independent States of America might depend upon what the Six Nations should say. You then approved the reasons we gave for lighting the Council-fire at this place. Brothers: ‘The assurance you give us, that you would be Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 66 1042 sincere in what you said, pleases us well; because both you and we should never dissemble or deceive each other, as such conduct would be unworthy our characters as free nations. Brothers:. With this belt you answered the Declaration of the Thirteen United Colonies, that they had become States independent of the King of Great Britain. You thanked us for having acquainted you with this event, and that you would henceforth consider them as such. Brothers, it is well. Brothers: With this belt you recapitulated the first part of our speech, with the large belt, and you thanked us for reminding you of the promise and resolutions of the Siz Nations at Albany, and for the justness of our observations upon them; and you concluded with declaring that, agree- able to our request, you would speak clearly and plainly. Brothers, we commend that declaration, and we hope both of us will ever hereafter speak plainly, that the sentiments of our hearts may be known to each other, for that will make our friendship lasting. Brothers: The Mohawks then proceeded to answer some of the six particulars in which we had charged you of inter- fering in the quarrel between the King of Great Britain and the white inhabitants of this Island. As the Mohawks spoke first, we shall answer them first, and after them, all the other Nations in the order in which they spoke. Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Mohawk, attend: With the belt now in our hands, you spoke to some of the six charges we have made in our speech to the Six Nations. Your answer to the second charge we are not pleased with. It is not satisfactory, because you did not state the facts truly as they happened. As you related the matter, we should have had no reason to complain. Your memories fail you, as we shall make appear by informing you before the whole Six Nations of what passed on that occasion. It is this: We sent you a message last winter from Albany, advising you that we had intelligence that several persons in and about Johnstown were inlisting men to cut our throats, and were making other hostile preparations against us; that we intended to march our warriors up, to inquire into the trath of the report, and act thereupon as we should judge needful; that no harm was intended you or any In- dians. In your answer to this, you desired that the troops might not come up; “that if they did, it would create un- easiness in your minds, as you and Sir John were of one blood.” You also refused to send our message immediately to the end of the house. We therefore thought it neces- sary to send another message to the Stx Nations, to convince them that we had no intention to break the covenant or defile the path of peace with blood; but that we were resolved to follow our enemies wherever they went. Bro- thers, although Sir John was of your blood, although he had been a Mohawk, we should have been justified in pre- venting him from cutting our throats. His conduct since has sufficiently convinced all the world of his evil intentions, for he has now joined our enemy. Brothers, at Schenectady you told us that Sir John John- son was not making any hostile preparations; that he had no cannon; that you would have known it if he had; and yet we found cannon there, well charged and mounted upon car- riages newly made on purpose for them. This you cannot deny, for you saw us bring them away. Brothers, you also told us if we carried matters to extremity that your war- riors would not be restrained, and you would not be answer- able for their conduct; and as a proof that you knew that your warriors meant to fight, you asked what treatment those that remained at home might expect. In our answer, we told you that we were not going to shut the path of peace, but to open it. We assured you that none of our warriors should set their feet on your lands unless our enemy took shelter there; for that we were resolved to follow them wherever they went, and we desired you to inform your warriors that if they joined our enemies that we would do as we had done at St. John’s, and repel force with force; and this we surely have a right to do, and will always do. Brothers, as to our people’s firing last winter, you ought to be ashamed to mention it. You very well know that a sled full of white people were passing just at the time you did, and that the sentry challenged, and they would not stop, upon which he fired. He did his duty; and you know very well that no harm was intended to you. 1043 Brothers, we might say a great deal more to convince the Six Nations that we had the greatest reason to complain of your conduct; and we could clearly demonstrate that the people who are the cause of your misconduct, have never been your real friends; and neither they nor their ancestors ever consulted your true interest, and this your children will be convinced of. But, brothers, as the hatchet which stuck in our heads is taken out and buried, we will also bury all animosities. But that our friendship may be lasting, it is necessary that your people should strictly abide by the cove- nant you have now made with us, which you say you are empowered to do by all the warriors, as well as the Sa- chems, and that they should know that we have a right to follow our enemies wherever they go; that we will do it; and that we will consider all such as join them to be our enemies, and will treat them as such, and revenge every injury after your own manner. This belt confirms our words.—(A belt.) Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Upper Mohawk Castle : The candid confession you made with this belt of the charge that was particularly pointed at you, we will for this time take as a sufficient satisfaction ; but you must not here- after plead drunkenness as an excuse for such crimes, nor will we be satisfied, if you again so highly injure us, with a few wampum and fair promises. Having told you our minds, we are made perfectly easy by your honest confes- sion. ‘This belt confirms our words.—(A_ belt.) Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Onondaga and Seneca Nations: Our ears have opened to your speech; we have paid due attention to its contents, we have considered it well. We shall make remarks on such parts as more immediately concern the great business which we have con- vened you for. You say your warriors went into Canada by the persuasion of a chief warrior, who is entirely averse to peace. Brothers, we have now made peace together, and we hope everything is amicably settled; but if again broken, you must remember that we will not be put off with barely saying that you are sorry for it, and giving a belt to confirm your words. We shall expect some better satisfac- tion—a satisfaction equal to the injury done; for what would you say if some of our warriors were to go, under a pretence of fetching news and talking of peace, into your country, and when they were there assisted your enemies in destroy- ing you and knocking you on the head? If you complained to us, would you be contented if we said there was a wicked man who was their Captain and who prevailed on them to do it? We know that you would not; you would not even complain; but you would take revenge on the first of us which you met, and even upon our women and children. However, as you are sorry for what is done, we shall bury and forget it. But remember, that as we treat with you as nations, we expect that the treaty shall be fully complied with; for it is your duty to consult the interest of your na- tion, and to punish those that are the cause of a quarrel that may involve you in ruin, by setting you at variance with your best friends; and as this is our resolution, and as we mean to live in peace and friendship with you, we were glad to hear that the sachems and chief warriors of eleven of the Seneca Castles met and resolved for the future to restrain their warriors, and that the Onondagas had done the same, and that they would be at peace with us. These are wise reasons, tending as much to your happiness as to ours. This belt confirms our words.—(A belt. Brothers, Sachems of the Oneida and Tuscarora Nations: The belt now in our hands is that with which you addressed us; with which you declared your friendly intentions; with which you renewed the covenant of peace that has so long existed between our ancestors and yours. ‘The tree of peace which you planted so long ago has greatly flourished of late. It has spread a pleasing shade far and near. Its boughs have grown strong and its leaves broad. It has not been shaken by any of the storms that have lately blown with so much violence. Nota leaf has dropped from it. It is per- fect, and be assured that it will yield fruits which will nourish you and your posterity and make you grow. We are happy, brothers, that your nephews, the Delawares, have taken shelter under its shade. ‘They will also recgive the benefit and the comforts of it. Brothers: We never thought that you made use of any deceit. We have never thought that you intended to break the covenant you have made with us. We heartily join CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1044 with you in hoping that God will enable you to persevere in your good resolutions. We promise on our parts, by the blessing-of that Being, that you shall never have cause to complain of us; that you will find us warm and true friends. This belt confirms our words.—(A belt.) Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Cayuga Nation: In our speech we did not particularly point at the Cayugas. Our speech was general, and calculated for the whole. ‘The method you have taken to answer separately has put it in your power to justify yourselves as far as youcan. We are glad to hear that by your advice the misconduct of the Six Nations is usually rectified. If the people residing in Virginia have at any time injured you, we are sorry for it. If they have done it since the quarrel begun between the King of Great Britain and us, you shall have the fullest satisfaction given you whenever you shall make it appear. If before that time, and you have not had satisfaction, it was the fault of the King of England’s Governours, and_ his Governours are not ours. ‘They generally attended to his interests only. It is not our fault, brothers, that traders have not gone amongst you. We had given leave to traders to go to Niagara, and others were making ready to go amongst the Six Nations; but as soon as we were informed that Butler had prevailed upon some of the Srv Nations to go to Canada, they (the traders) were stopped, and would not go on lest they should be knocked on the head. Brothers: You say that when the covenants made in the time of Queder recurred to your minds, in which it was agreed that if any difference should arise between us and you it should be immediately settled, that this composed your minds. Brothers, that good old custom we wish to abide by, and we now give an instance of it by settling all the differ- ences between us and you; and we hear with great satisfac- tion that both the sachems and the warriors of the Cayugas, and their younger brothers, the Tototoes, are strongly dis- posed to peace, and that it has never entered your minds to separate from us, or break the connexion which has so long bound us together in friendship. Brothers: We are not behindhand with you in these friend- ly sentiments. Brothers, we are glad that you have given charge to the Tajaghguendy to bring away your warriors from Canada. We hope they are by this time returned to their Castles; and we hope, that when you inform them of what has been passed here, they will possess their minds in peace, and remain quietly at home.—(A. belt.) Brothers, Warriors of the Oneidas, Oghquagas, Tusca- roras, and those of Canassadaga: You have heard the declaration we have made to your Sachems. As you have acted upon the same just and peaceable principles, what we said to them is applicable to you too, and we entreat you to consider it as such We are greatly pleased that you avow that what was said in our first speech is true, and that we need not be ashamed of it. We know, brothers, that you are not to blame; but as we were to speak to the Six Na- tions, it was necessary that the charges should be general, leaving it to those who had been in the fault to take it to themselves, and to those who were innocent to say so. This you have done. It rejoices us that you declare, that as we only desire peace and have given no offence, you equally desire peace, and that, as we are born and bred together in this place, we ought to love each other. These are good sentiments. ‘They are sentiments which show wisdom and a friendly disposition. You desire us to tell you if anything grieves us; that you will immediately give satisfaction. We say you have done nothing to grieve us, and we have the fullest confidence in your perseverance. The youngest of your warriors we hope will not go astray, as we imagine they will not act contrary to the advice of the Sachems and the elder warriors. You say, brothers, that if anything fatal should happen, and any one should strike a hatchet into your heads, that you expect it shall immediately be removed. Be assured, brothers, that we shall take care that no injury shall be committed by any of our people. If any should, we will not only immediately punish the offenders, but give you the fullest satisfaction. Ifany one else should injure you, we shall, immediately upon your request, assist you to take revenge, for we are always ready to assist the injured.— (A belt.) Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Stx Nations: With these belts in our hands you have taken hold of the covenant of peace. You have repented of your misconduct 1045 towards us in the articles we havegmentioned. You have told us, that although the hatchet stuck in our heads, it was not in consequence of any resolutions entered into by the Confederacy, but that it was done by those of unsteady minds, and that the Six Nations have taken out the hatchet which they have stuck in our heads. Brothers, with this belt, you say you have so deeply buried the axe that none of your posterity will be able to find it again. Brothers, it gives us pleasure that you have received the covenant of peace with us. It is your duty, as well as ours, that it should be most strictly kept. ‘This cannot be done unless the warriors of all the nations keep fast hold of the tree of peace with our brothers the warriors of Oneida, Oghquaga, Tusca- rora, and Canassadaga. If any of the Six Nations join the enemy and fight against us, the peace will again be broken. It will be foolish again and again to enter into treaty with all of you, for we shall only have the same promises made, and they will be broken in like manner. In short, as we began by speaking plain, we will end so. Should the hatchet of any of the nations who have heretofore broke the covenant, after this solemn treaty, be stuck in our heads, words and wampum only will not be able to remove it. Brothers: As we have, like honest men, disburdened our minds and spoke freely; as you have given us satisfaction for the injuries we have sustained; as you have taken the hatchet out of our heads; as you have buried it deep in the earth; as you have renewed the covenant of peace; and as we now possess our minds in peace, fully relying on every- thing you have said, we shall bury all animosities, we shall forget all injuries, and we shall proclaim that peace and good understanding prevails between the Independent States of America, the Six Nations, their nephews the Delawares, and other their dependants. ‘This belt confirms my words.— (A belt.) Tuesday, August 13, 1776. Perer, the Chief Warrior of the Oneida Nation, made the following Speech in behalf of the Warriors of the Oneida and Tuscarora Nations: Brothers: You will excuse me from making remarks on some passages of your speech in reply to that of the Sux Nations. You told us, brothers, after assuring us of your peaceable intentions, that if any difference should arise be- tween you and us, and we should again strike the hatchet in your heads, you would not again be satisfied with fair promises and a few wampum. This declaration, brothers, is not connected with the covenants of peace anciently made between our ancestors at Albany. When our ancestors first met, they agreed that they should take each other by the hand, and that no storms, nor even thunder, should be able to break their union. By this covenant, our ancestors agreed that no private quarrels should be deemed an infrac- tion of it, but that such disputes should be amicably settled between them. The eyes of all the neighbouring tribes are turned to this Council-fire, and as matters may be repre- sented wrong, it would grieve us if any difference should now arise. He then addressed himself to the elder part of the Con- federacy, recommending moderation, and that they should not suffer little matters to ruffle their minds. The Commissioners then answered: Brothers, Warriors of the Onetda and Tuscarora Nations: We have deliberated coolly; we have spoken plainly to you yesterday. We have no quarrel with the Indians. We would be glad to cultivate peace with the Six Nations, and our conduct shows that we have no evil intentions against them. And we would also be glad to preserve our lives and liberties. You say, when our ancestors first met, they agreed to take each other by the hand so firmly that no storms or even thunder should be able to break their union. Brothers, we mean to abide by the covenant of our ances- cestors. Asranam, the Mohawk Sachem, made the following Speech: Brothers, the Commissioners appointed by the Thirteen United Provinces, attend: The whole Confederacy, consist- ing of the Six Nations, have this day taken hold of the cove- nant of peace. ‘They have repented of their misconduct in the articles with which you have charged them. Our ances- tors, when they settled the Confederacy, ordained that if any CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1046 of their people should, without the consent of the Sachems, stick the hatchet in the heads of any of their neighbours, that those who take care of the news should make up the matter, Brothers: Respecting the injury that the Six Nations have offered you: they have stuck the hatchet into your heads, but, brothers, it was not in consequence of any pub- lick resolution entered into, but it was done by those of unsteady minds. Now, therefore, brothers, we, the Six Nations, take out the hatchet which we have stuck in your heads. —(Two belts, eight rows each, one with thirteen rhombusses, the other five crosses.) Brothers: Our ancestors likewise further directed, in order to bury the hatchet effectually, that a pine tree should be pulled up by the roots and that the hatchet should be flung into the hole. We, therefore, the Six Nations, according to the directions of our ancestors, pull up a pine tree, and drop the hatchet in the hole, under which runs a strong stream of water, which will carry the hatchet forever from the sight of our posterity. Now, therefore, brothers, the whole Six Na- tions, in order to cover the hole, bring a very large rock, which they lay on the mouth of it, to cover it so effectually that posterity will never be able to find the hole in which the hatchet was cast.—(A belt, seven rows, six squares, and one diagonal bar on it.) The Speech of the Onondaga Sachem OnwasewineuTE, on behalf of his and the Seneca Tribe : Brothers, the Commissioners appointed by the Thirteen United Colonies, attend: Our brothers, the Mohawks, have finished what they had to say respecting the articles of ac- cusation which you had against them. I shall begin with what was transacted at the Council at Oswego. After the business was over, Colonel Johnson desired the Six Nations to send a deputation of two or three of each tribe with him to Caughnawaga, where he was to kindle up a Council-fire, that they might hear what he had to deliver, because they might otherwise think that he had delivered a speech differ- ent from the one he had delivered at Oswego. When they had done it he thanked them, but at the same time told them he would rather wish to have twenty of each tribe to attend him. ‘Thus it happened that some of our warriors and some of our uncles, the Sachems, went with him, without inform- ing our people that were left at home of it. After this, brothers, a party of us went down to Albany to inform you, our brethren, of what had been transacted at Oswego. At this place we met Colonel Francis and Mr. Douw, and informed them of it, but told them we were unacquainted with the conduct of our people then in Canada, though we supposed that they only attended the Council-fire of peace. When the Sachems and Warriors who went down to attend at Johnson’s Council-fire returned, the Sachem brought with him the hatchet—a thing entirely unexpected, as we had given him no directions to do so, if Johnson should change his mind and make the offer. We therefore immediately considered the matter, and sent the axe down to Albany. Brothers: When those Sachems and Warriors returned, as we have before related, they left some of their party still in Canada, and those that remained there, brothers, are the persons who have involved us in the difficulty under which we now labour. Brothers: After the affair at Niagara, Colonel Johnson, when he went away, sent Colonel Butler to Niagara, at which place Colonel Butler called us together, and desired some of our people to go in a vessel to Oswegatchie, that they might whenever any intelligence arrived convey it to him; particularly if they should hear of Colonel Johnson’s arrival at Quebeck, which he desired they would acquaint him with as soon as possible. He then treated them very plentifully, and a large number of them went aboard; in which party went a certain Onondaga chief warrior, whose disposition was such that he was entirely averse to anything of a peace- able nature. Upon his arrival at Oswegatchie, he, together with the principal warriors of the Mohawks and Senecas, prevailed on the younger warriors to change their minds, though Colonel Butler had strictly enjoined them on their departure that they should not make him ashamed of their behaviour by any misconduct of theirs, and that they should mind nothing but peace. Joun Darnes. To Wilham Richardson, Esq., Caroline County. ISAAC GRIEST TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore-Town, August 20, 1776, twelve o’clock, P. M. GentLeMEN: I have just delivered the knap and haver- sacks to Mr. Hurtt for the two companies, with one hun- dred and fifty brushes and priming-wires, which is all we have in Baltimore, and these are but this hour made ready. Mr. Hurtt is going off this afternoon. He can get no more brushes till they come from Lancaster. Pray is the Flying- Camp to be furnished with bayonet-belts out of the maga- zine? Colonel Hall wants them slung. Pray let me know by Mr. Johnson. Yours to command, To the Honourable Council of Safety. N. B. I wrote you by Mr. Johnson on yesterday, but he did not get away till this day. J. G. I. Grirst. Philadelphia, August 20, 1776. We are informed by the Captain of a vessel belonging to this city, who escaped a few days ago from Staten-Island, that the German troops lately arrived from Halifax are landed on the Island, where it is said they are to wait the arrival of another reinforcement (which is hourly expected) before the attack will be made on New-York. He adds, that the British troops speak with great contempt of Gene- ral Washington's Army, and are assured that they will have the pleasure of soon meeting and spending the winter with General Burgoyne and his troops in New-York. EXTRACT OF A LETTER RECEIVED IN WILLIAMSBURGH, VIR- GINIA, DATED PHILADELPHIA, AUGUST 20, 1776. We have been in hourly expectation of the great decision at New-York, but it has not yet happened. About three nights ago, an attempt was made to burn the two ships which had gone up the river. One of the two fire-rafts prepared for that purpose grappled the Phenix ten minutes, but was cleared away at last. A tender, however, was burnt. The two ships came down on Sunday evening, and passed all our batteries again with impunity. Lord Dunmore is at Staten-Island; his sick he sent to Halifax; his effective men he carried to Staten-Island; and the blacks he shipped off to the West-Indies, as a recompense for their services. ‘Two gentlemen, who had been taken prisoners by the enemy, have made their escape. They say they are now twenty thousand, and that another division of five thousand foreign- ers is still expected. They think that Lord Howe will not attack these ten days, but that he does not wait for his last division, being confident of victory without. One of these informants was a Captain of a Continental vessel going for ammunition, whose mate and crew rose and took her, and, falling in with the division of the Hessians which accom- panied their General, were brought to. The General, learn- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1078 ing from the dethroned Captain what had happened, im- mediately threw the piratical mate in irons, and had the Captain to dine with him every day till they got to Halifax, where he delivered him, vessel, &c., over to the English. ‘A gentleman who lived some time in this city, but since last winter has become a resident of St. Eustatia, writes, that by a Dutch ship from Amsterdam, they have advice that the States of Eolland had refused to renew the pro- hibition on the exportation of powder to the Colonies, or to cede to the English the Scotch brigade in their service, as also to furnish some men-of-war asked of them by the British Court. ‘This refusal so piqued the Ministry, that they had been induced to take several Dutch ships; amongst them, two that sailed from St. Eustatia, which were carried to London, and another to St. Kitts; in consequence whereof, the Dutch have armed forty ships-of-war, ordered sixty more to be built, and are raising twenty thousand land forces. The Governour-in-chief of the French West-Indies has not only refused to permit the Captain of an English man- of-war to make prize of our vessels in their ports, but forbid him to come within gunshot of them; and the enemy’s armed vessels being withdrawn from our whole coast to New- York, shows us the good effects of their absence, by daily arrivals of ammunition, &c. The Canadians who had been Captains in our Canadian regiment, and whom General Grates writes are known in the Army to be worthy of good credit, made their escape from St. John’s, and came over to our Army from Ticonderoga. They give the following intelligence, viz: ‘That the enemy did not fortify any place we abandoned; that they had two thousand men at Isle-aux-Noix, under General Frazer, two thousand at St. John’s, under Carleton, and some at Montreal—two hundred and fifty only being left at Quebeck. It was re- ported that four thousand English troops, which were to have been a part of that Army, had perished at sea, which gave great uneasiness. ‘The fleet brought over timber, &c., for fifty boats, which they attempted to transport by land from the mouth of the Sorel to St. John’s; but could not for want of carriages, and had therefore been destroyed. Carleton, to make amends for this, had employed Canadians to build batteaus at St. John’s; but he has rendered him- self very odious to those people, by levying contributions on them in general, and confiscating the estates of all those who followed our Army, or who absconded. Great numbers of the Germans desert daily, and are anx- iously concealed by the inhabitants; seventy Brunswickers disappeared in one day. ‘Their officers are so much afraid of bushfighting and ambushes, that they will not head any parties to pursue the runaways. ‘The men have the same fears, which prevent them from deserting in so great num- bers as it is supposed they will, when once our fleet shall appear cruising on the Lake to receive and protect them. Between the 22d and 24th ultimo, Carleton and the other Generals abandoned all their posts on this side the Sorel, except St. John’s, with as great precipitation as our poor sick Army had done, carrying with them their artillery and provisions. ‘This was occasioned by the arrival and mys- terious manceuvres of a fleet at Quebeck, supposed to be French, who hoisted different colours, and fired at tenders sent from the town to inquire who they were. ‘The enemy left at Isle-aux-Noix two hundred men to send intelligence of our operations, and it is said they will go down the river if we return into Canada. For this event, the Canadians are offering up prayers at the shrines of all their saints. Carleton, some time ago, hearing that we were returning with a considerable reinforcement, was so terrified that he would have retired immediately, had not some of his spies come in and informed him of the deplorable situation to which the small-pox had reduced our Army. ‘They are now, however, recovering health and spirits. General Gates writes, that he had accounts of the roads being crowded with Militia coming to his assistance; six hundred from New-Hampshire came in while he was writing his letter, being the first. His fleet had sailed from Ticon- deroga to Crown-Point, consisting of the following vessels, viz: one schooner and a sloop, of twelve four-pounders, ten swivels, and fifty men; one schooner, of four four-pounders, four two-pounders, ten swivels, and thirty-five men; one schooner, of two four-pounders, six two-pounders, eight swivels, and thirty-five men; two galleys, mounting each one twelve and two nine-pounders, eight swivels, and forty- 1079 five men; two galleys, of three nine-pounders each, eight swivels, and forty-five men; besides two others that are not quite rigged. Eight more galleys would be ready to join them in a fortnight, when they were to proceed down the Lake; and General Arnold, who is said to be a good sailor, had undertaken the command. We have two hundred fine ship-carpenters, mostly sent from hence, at work, with whose assistance, I hope, such a fleet will soon be exhibited on that Lake as it never yet bore. The Indians have absolutely refused Carleton in Canada, and Butler at Niagara, to have anything to do in this quarrel, and applaud, in the highest terms, our wisdom and candour for not requiring them to meddle. Some of the most sensible speeches I ever saw of theirs are on this head; not spoken to us, but behind our backs, in the Councils of our enemies. From very good intelligence, the Indians of the Middle Department will be quiet; that treaty is put off till October. SAMUEL GRIFFIN (DEPUTY ADJUTANT-GENERAL) TO THE BOARD OF WAR. Head-Quarters, Perth-Amboy, August 20, 1776. HonouraBce Sir: I have an apology to make to your honourable Board for having delayed transmitting to you a CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1080 general return of the Army (under General Mercer) so long; but have confidence to hope you will readily excuse me when I inform you, that by the General’s orders I was obliged to attend all the last week at Newark and Povwles- Hook, to forward the troops sent to reinforce General Wash- ington. Mr. Peters sent us a copy of a return which he informed was such as you would wish to have. I am sorry he was at that trouble, as we have (exclusive of blanks and lines) a great number of blank returns of that sort by us, which, though very proper for Regular troops, are by no means so for Militia, at least for the Pennsylvania Associa- tors, who have no fixed number of either officers or men for any one battalion. I of course cannot tell what they want to complete the different posts; they have never had any fixed number of men stationed at them, but have been reinforced and reduced twice or thrice a week, as the Gen- eral thought necessary. Whenever a sufficient number shall arrive, the General proposes to fix a certain number of bat- talions at each post, which will enable me to put the Army on a regular footing, and to make the returns regular, and, I hope, agreeable to your honourable Board. I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant, SamMuEL GRIFFIN. To the Hon. the Chairman of the War Committee. A General Return of the Army in New-Jersny, under the command of the Hon. Hucu Mercer, Esq., Brigadier- General, in the service of the American States, Pertu-Ampoy. OFFICERS PRESENT, Commissioned Non- RANK AND FILE. Officers. tag) cers: Com’. B\e at 3 as s/s a eis a REGIMENTS. 3 a a s ; re so ie n WHERE STA- FROM WHAT STATES S 2 s a. s 2 ‘ a & ep So . TIONED. AND WHAT TROOPS. als! | #88! [2/Ziel2l4) |2)s]s élu| lee SIO |4|-8 A SlelelslelS\.-| 3] a|% Ele Os Selo SlelplSerslslElSi8)/S|el2 cls d lek Sierra ala salaslL2ia PD) | o0 > | 6 |.2 |Z 2 \.5(SislarolSizisls BIE |-e |S lelS] 6 loom OIAS1O lin iIlOldie@alnalstialiala lalolale ia Colonel Shipman’s........... | 1} 1) 1) 5) 5] 3) 5) -| 1) 1}-] -|-]| 21) 8] 158) 4)-|-]| 162) 214] South-Amboy..../ Jersey Militia. Colonel Patterson’s........-- 1} 1) 1; 8 8 8 8/1} 1) 1/1) 1)1} 32) 15) 309) 89) -| -; 398} - | Perth-Amboy....| Delaware Flying-Camp. Colonel Deane’s.. ..-scsca0 .-| 1} -| 1} 6) 6} 3} Q)-| 1) 1-7) 1)-| 14) 6) 138) 6] 5) -| 149) - Ditto. Jersey Militia. Colonel Somers’s......++++<- (2) -| 1] 3] 3| 1] 3] - 1 1} -|_1)- | 22 5| 741 6 -}-{ 80] - Ditto. Ditto. Total at Amboy........ 3/1) 3! 17/17/12!13) 1) 3| 3] 1| 3 1| 68) 26, 521/101) 5) - | 627] 799 a Colonel Chambers’s..........| 1/-| 1) 4! 4) af al-[ a] a/-| a)-{ 17] 61 207| 4! 3|-| 214] - | Woodbridge.....| Jersey Militia. Colonel Dick’s......ceesees- La) eS Shot Slot Vi the oie Lies. Od Geol LOG ere Ditto. Ditto. Colonel Seeley’s.....-....00- V1) 1}_&| 6 3] 5) -| 1] 1] -| 1) -} 18] 8} 145) 12] 2 -| 159) - Ditto. Ditto. Total at Woodbridge. ...| 3\ 1] 3| 15)13| 4/14] -| 3| 3 -| 2! - | 52) 19] 446 22] 5] -| 473) 605) Lieut. Colonel Lawrence’s....|-|-|-| 3 3| 3| 2 i PG “ye 9 3 gg ~ |- pe 98) - Elizabeth-Town.. Penn. Flying-Camp. Colonel Thomas’s.....++..-- TD) ed) She See Gi 1) ec tl 1130) "SoG5| 1 ates | 265) = Ditto. Jersey Militia. Colonel Ford’s.........se0e- re fee | ie J fees ey ee -| 1) 1| 25] 19] 978] - |-}\-| 278) - Ditto Ditto. Colonel Beaver’s.-..c%s.cecee Sapa 1 A SS at EE Sy 5) BP DAS) saab = eal L450 = Ditto Ditto. Total at Elizabeth-Town..| 3| 2 3, 22/24) 3,18) 1] 3) 3] - | 3) 2] 79) 30] 786) - | -| -| 786) 982 Colonetiittore’s. onc times 1} 1] 4] 6) 6 6 4/1) 2 a/-| al-| 17 91 157] 26| alae] 209) 264] Newark......... Penn’a. Flying-Camp. Colonel’ Clotzaiis. as ss eee 1} 1) 1} 7 7 7 6|-|-|-|-|-|-] 25} 7] 314) 28) 2] 4] 348) - | Fort Lee........ Ditto. Colonel Swope’s...eesseeees 1} 1) 1) 8 7 7 7 -| 1) 1) -{ 1/1] 29) 13] 310) 47) 1) -| 358) - Ditto. Ditto. Golonel. \Weatts:sme cies scccsescie & 1} 1] 1] 8 8} 8} 8} 1] 1) 1) -| 1/1] 32) 9} 369/101) 2) -| 465). - Ditto. Ditto. Colonel Montgomery’s.... ++. 1] 1} 1| 7 5] 6 4}-| 1] 1|-|-|-| 23] 6} 244] 35|-|-| 279) - Ditto. Ditto. Colonel McAllister’s.........| 1| 1] 1/6] 5| 6| 6|-| 1/ 1/-| 11-| 231 7] 301! 40) 4] 3] 348) - Ditto. Ditto. Colonel Baxter’s.....s.e00. 1}-|-|_ 5) 7) 7] 3/1) 1) 1)-] 1]-| 25! 5} 289) 36) 8/10] 343) - MEL Ditto. Total at Fort Lee.....+.| 6 5| 5, 41/39\41/34)2| 5! 5) - | 4) 2/157) 47/1820 287,17|17/2141 2534 Total of Troops. .!1711!16 106 97|69\88 5 1616 1 13 5 394 139.3888 440,39139| 4398 5398 Total Flying-Camp Militia. N. B. There are four companies of Maryland inlisted Militia just come in that are not in the returns. They are to stay until the first of December. LANCASTER (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. In Committee, August 20, 1776: Present: Wm. Atlee, Chairman; Wm. Bowsman, Lodwick Lowman, Wm. Brown, Casper Shaffner, Henry Dehuff, John McMullen, and Wm. Clark. Ordered, That Jacob Winter, Jacob Winter, Jr., Philip Winter, James McElwain, and Henry Hare, give good free- hold security in £1,000 each, for their good behaviour to all people, particularly to Thomas Smith and his family. Jacob Winter, bond £1,000, and John Messencope, bond £1,000, to the State of Pennsylvania; conditions for the good behaviour of the said Jacob Winter to all the Subjects and Inhabitants of this State, and particularly to and towards the family and estate of Thomas Smith. Acknowledged in Committee, August 20, 1776. Henry Hare, bond £1,000, and John Messencope, bond £1,000, to the State of Pennsylvania; conditions for the good behaviour of Henry Hare towards all the Subjects and Inhabitants of the State, and particularly towards the family and estate of Thomas Smith. Acknowledged in Committee, August 20, 1776. Philip Winter, bond £1,000, and John Hoover, bond £1,000, to the State of Pennsylvania; conditions for the good behaviour of the said Philip Winter towards all the Inhabitants of the State, and particularly towards the family and estate of Thomas Smith. Jacob Winter, Jr., bond £1,000, and Daniel Rinport, bond £1,000, to the State of Pennsylvanza; conditions for the good behaviour of the said Jacob Winter, Jr., towards all the Subjects of the State, and particularly to and towards the family and estate of Thomas Smith. Samuel Elliot, on oath, says, that in mowing-time last, he was in company with Jacob Winter, Jacob Rees, Samuel Winter, and James McElwaine; and speaking of the Militia, 1081 one of them (he thinks McEtwaine) said that if any officer insisted upon his going with the Militia, he would shoot him if ever they came to a battle the first man; and if he insisted hard upon him, he would shoot him before he marched ; that they all (to wit: the said four persons) agreed to the same, and swore they would put their resolves in execution, James Steel, on oath, says, that he was mowing at the same time with Samuel Elliot, and heard the above Jacob Winter, Jacob Rees, Samuel Winter, and James McElwaine, say, if any officer asked or insisted upon their marching with the Militia, they would blow a ball through him, and swore to it most heartily. William Steel, on oath, says, that he was also mowing at the same time with Elliot and Steel, and heard the above four persons say and swear that the first man who insisted upon their going with the Militia should be the first man they would shoot. James Brooks says he was raking at the time of mowing above mentioned, and heard from the same four persons, or some of them, expressions the same as above. Patrick Kelby, on oath, says, that on Sunday was two weeks, he was going from his home to one Mahaffy’s. On the road, he met Jacob Winter, Jr., and Samuel Winter; that they insisted upon his alighting from his horse, which he did, and entered into conversation with them about the present war; and the said Jacob Winter and Samuel Winter both said that if Major Smzth insisted upon their going to the Camp, he would be a dead man; whether he went, or stayed at home, he would be a dead man. ‘The examinant told them it was dangerous for them to destroy him; to which they answered, it was all one; if they went to the war, they might be killed, and they might as well die at home as abroad; that the said Jacob Winter said that the Major had insisted upon his going, and he was determined not to go. Christopher Linn says, that about a week before Major Smith was shot at, he heard Jane Cunningham, the wife of Robert Cunningham, say that she had heard there were three rifles loaded to shoot Major Smith. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. {Read August 22,1776. Referred to the Board of War.] New-York, August 20, 1776. Sir: [ was yesterday morning favoured with yours of the 17th, accompanied by several resolutions of Congress, and commissions for officers appointed to the late vacancies in this Army. I wrote some days ago to General Schuyler, to propose to Generals Carleton and Burgoyne an exchange of prisoners, in consequence of a former resolve of Congress authorizing their commanders in each department to negotiate one. That of Major Meigs for Major French, and Captain Dear- born for any officer of equal rank, I submitted to General Howe’s consideration by letter on the 17th, understanding their paroles had been sent to him by General Carleton ; but have not yet received his answer upon the subject. In respect to the exchange of the prisoners in Canada, if a proposition on that head has not already been made, (and I believe it has not,) the enclosed copy of General Carleton’s orders (transmitted me under seal by Major Bigelow, who was sent with a flag to General Burgoyne from Ticonderoga, with the proceedings of Congress on the breach of capitula- tion at the Cedars, and the inhuman treatment of our people afterwards) will show it is unnecessary, as he has determined to send them to their own Provinces, there to remain as pri- soners; interdicting at the same time all kind of intercourse between us and his Army, except such as may be for the purpose of imploring the King’s mercy. The assassination which he mentions, of Brigadier-General Gordon, is a fact entirely new to me, and what I never heard of before. I shall not trouble Congress with my strictures upon this indecent, illiberal, and scurrilous performance, so highly unbecoming the character of a soldier and a gentleman, only observing that its design is somewhat artful, and that each boatman with Major Bigelow was furnished with a copy. I have also transmitted Congress a copy of the Major’s journal, to which I beg leave to refer them for the intelligence reported by him on his return from the truce. By a letter from General Greene yesterday evening, he informed me that he had received an express from Hog- CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1082 Island Inlet, advising that five of the enemy’s small vessels had appeared at the mouth of the creek with some troops on board; also, that he had heard two pettiaugers were off Oyster Bay, the whole supposed to be after live stock ; and to prevent their getting it, he had detached a party of Horse and two hundred and twenty men, among them twenty Riflemen. I have not received further intelligence upon the it aie am also advised by the examination of a Captain Britton, master of a vessel that had been taken, transmitted me by General Mercer, that the general report among the enemy’s troops was, when he came off, that they were to attack Long-Island, and to secure our works there if possible, at the same time that another part of their Army was to land above this city. This information is corroborated by many other accounts, and is probably true. Nor will it be possible to prevent their landing on the Island, as its great extent affords a variety of places favourable for that purpose, and the whole of our works on it are at the end opposite to the city. How- ever, we shall attempt to harass them as much as possible, which will be all that we can do. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of the greatest respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. Wasuineron. COMMISSARY TRUMBULL TO COLONEL CHESTER. New-York, August 20, 1776. Commissary Trumbull presents his compliments to Colo- nel Chester, and is necessitated to apply to him to release Captain Isham from doing duty in Colonel C.’s regiment, to take Mr. Champion’s place, who supplies the whole Army with fresh beef, and is unhappily taken sick. Captain Isham is acquainted with the business, and no person that I can conceive of can do the business but he, and it is of the last importance that it should be done. also request Colonel C. to recommend, or at least consent, to the Adjutant-General that Captain Isham be excused duty till Champion recovers. Your humble servant, Jos. ‘TRUMBULL. To Colonel Chester. COMMISSARY TRUMBULL TO COLONEL CHESTER. New-York, August 20, 1776. Dear Sir: My beef man is sick; there is not another but Captain Isham within my knowledge who can supply his place. It is of the utmost importance that your regiment, as well as the rest of the Army, should eat, which they cannot do without him. The alternative is put: justly now judge, Whether it is best for one man to fight only, or twenty thou- sand men to starve? Your humble servant, To Colonel Chester. Jos. TRUMBULL. GENERAL HEATH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. King’s Bridge, August 20, 1776. May rr PLease your Excetuency: I have the pleasure to inform you that we have taken out of the wreck of the tender lately burnt up the North River the following cannon, viz : one six-pounder, two three-pounders, one two-pounder, and ten swivels; one caboose and apron, two cutlasses, two gun-barrels, one crow-bar, and four grapplings and chains. Lieutenant Loudon, of Colonel Nicoll’s regiment, with two of the company to which he belongs, went off, and towed the wreck on shore, under the fire of the cannon of the ships, a cannon ball passing within a few inches of his head. He is an undaunted officer, and with great fatigue has taken these cannon out of the water. I therefore beg leave to recommend this service in particular to your Excellency’s notice, and if you should think some reward proper to be given, it will be gratefully received by the adventurers, and perhaps prompt others to daring actions. I have the honour to be, with great respect, your Excel- lency’s most humble servant, W. Hearn. To His Excellency General Washington. COLONEL DUBOIS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. New-Windsor, August 20, 1776. May iT pLease your Excetcency: | received your Ex- cellency’s letter of the 9th of August, and, agreeable to your 1083 order, have procured returns of all the officers of the regiment under my command of the men inlisted by them, except three Captains, who are at present in New-York. The number which, as yet, they have been able to inlist consists of thirty men; twenty-three of whom are well armed, and will be ready to march on Saturday next, agreeable to your Excellency’s order. Ata meeting of the officers this day they requested me to petition your Excellency that you would be pleased to order them into immediate service at New-York, or wherever your Excellency may think fit. As the country is very much drained of men, every man that can any way be spared being already in the service, they think if they were in present service they might not only have an opportunity of exerting themselves to the utmost of their power, but might also complete their companies out of the Militia whenever it is thought expedient to grant them that liberty. They all ex- press the most ardent zeal for the service, and are unwilling to be idle at this important crisis. Iam your Excellency’s most obedient and humble servant, Lewis Dusots. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL GATES. Albany, August 20, 1776. Dear Generat: Your favour of the 18th instant is just now come to hand. A strange infatuation seems to prevail in people. How Wynkoop should imagine that he was not to obey General Arnold’s orders, he being the oldest officer then on the spot, I cannot imagine. As you are on the spot, it is more in your power to judge of the propriety of sending Wynkoop down than in mine. If he comes down, I shall order him to remain here until the pleasure of Con- gress is known, by whom (and not by me) he was appointed, and therefore | cannot venture upon a dismission. I am extremely happy that General Waterbury is to join General Arnold. I know him to be a good man, as well as a good officer. The sail-cloth and good part of the cordage procured in New-England is on the way to Skenesborough, but none of the artillery articles, said to have left New-York on the 10th instant, are yet arrived. It is impossible for me to judge of what provisions, &c., may be wanted with the Army and at the different posts, without returns from the Commissaries, &c. These must come to me through the proper channel. Mr. Livingston is the Deputy Commissary-General in this department; and in the absence of ‘Mr. Trumbull, the Commissary-General, he is to furnish me with a general return, made out of the returns of the Commissaries at the different posts. This he cannot do, unless the Commissaries at those posts send him the returns. Be pleased to order Mr. Avery immediately and weekly to make returns to Mr. Livingston, that 1 may know how the Army is supplied with provisions. If he should refuse this, you will be pleased immediately to advise me thereof, that 1 may take proper steps to enforce a com- pliance with my orders. I wait with impatience for news from New-York. A deserter, it is said, advises that the enemy had ordered three days’ victuals to be dressed. It is certain that an attack is daily expected. I am preparing to remove Elmore and Nicolson’s regi- ments to the westward together; they will not exceed five hundred effectives. I fear to be under the necessity of further reinforcements in that quarter; and where to procure them, unless from the northward, I know not. The enemy will make every push they possibly can; but if we can hold our ground this campaign, all will be well. Adieu. I am, most sincerely, dear General, your obedient, humble servant , Pu. Scuuyuer. To the Honourable General Gates. P. S. August 21.—All the stores are arrived from New- York, and leave this place in teams to-day. But there is not quite a ton of grape-shot, and only one piece of blue bunting for colours. GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Albany, August 20, 1776. Str: I am honoured with your favours of the 12th and 13th instant, and beg leave to return my thanks for the CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1084 advices contained in them. Although I hope soon to be at Ticonderoga, yet as despatches will be constantly going from hence to your Colony, it will be necessary that a post- rider should go from hence and exchange packets with Mr. Brown; but as I do not know what road he rides, will you be so good as to advise the Deputy Paymaster-General of it, and desire Mr. Brown to forward your letters to him by express, with a line from such part of the road as he may find, on inquiry, nearest to this place, signifying on what days it will be proper for the rider from hence to meet him there on his way to and return from Ticonderoga. I returned here on the 15th, at night, from the German- Flats. The Indians have promised to remain neutral ; and as the Onetdas, Tuscaroras, and Ooghquagas, are, I believe, real friends, and the Delawares more immediately dependant upon them, I have great hopes that no depredations will be committed on the frontier inhabitants. I have given Mr. Trumbull the proceedings at the late treaty, to make such extracts as he pleases for your Honour. I have some reason to believe that an attack on Fort Stanwix and the Mohawk River is meditated by the enemy from Oswegatchie. Colonel Dayton’s regiment, two com- panies of Colonel Wynkoop’s, and a company of inlisted Militia, are now in that quarter, and I am preparing to move Colonel Elmore’s and Colonel Nicolson’s to the German- Flats; the latter is very weak, not exceeding one hundred privates. The bounty, premium, and pay, which you have promised the seamen, shall be fully complied with. ‘The terms are more reasonable than we had reason to expect at this time, when seamen are so scarce. I have desired Mr. Trumbull to refund the money you have advanced for axes, &c.; and as his chest is now pretty well stocked, he will pay off what is still due to the troops from your State. We are in daily expectation to hear of a battle at New- York. May the God of armies strengthen and support ours on this very important occasion, and confound our enemies. Tam informed that the forces that went from hence to Con- necticut are doing all in their power to increase the jealousies that so unjustly prevail against me in different parts of the country. Conscious of the rectitude of my conduct, I should pass by in silent contempt every infamous traduction, did I not apprehend that silence would be construed a tacit avowal of my guilt. I have therefore entreated Congress for a mi- nute inquiry into my conduct. If the misfortunes in Canada are occasioned by malconduct in me, or any other charges of a criminal nature can be supported against me, I shall deserve and ought to be held up to publick detestation at least. If not, if I clearly exculpate myself, as I have it in my power to do, the odium ought to be transferred to those who are in fault, and justice done to my much-injured cha- racter. I have sent such orders to General Waterbury as I hope will prevent any evil consequences that might be occasioned by the imprudence of those soldiers who have inoculated for the small-pox on the route from the Eastern Colonies to Skenesborough. I am, with every friendly wish and sincere esteem and regard, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Pu. ScHuyLer. To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. ALBANY COMMITTEE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Albany Committee Chamber, August 20, 1776. Honourep Sir: A representation has been duly laid before this Board, setting forth that Stephen De Lancey, Abraham C. Cuyler, John Monier, Benjamin Hilton, and John Duncan, prisoners formerly sent from this city to Con- necticut, have endeavoured, by false reports, to depreciate the character of his Honour General Schuyler in the opinion of the good people of Connecticut, and by artful insinuations to aggravate and foment jealousies and prejudices, which may tend to injure the general cause; we have therefore thought proper to transmit your Honour an account of the crimes of those gentlemen, that their former and present conduct being considered together, they may be treated in such a manner as the publick safety at this interesting crisis demands. We would, with submission, mention to your Honour that a separation at least would be proper. Your Honour’s wisdom and prudence will dictate such other steps as may be neces- sary. We are also informed, that Lieutenant Angus Mc- 1085 Donald has the privilege of the town of Hartford and six miles around it; and we doubt not that thereby a corre- spondence is carried on between the officers confined at Weathersfield and the prisoners from this city at Hartford, and from thence probably over the whole Continent. We think it would, therefore, be advisable, if your Honour coin- cides in opinion with us, to restrain the liberty now enjoyed by Mr. McDonald, so far as may prevent the possibility of his injuring us. We are, honoured sir, your most obedient servants, Joun Barciay, Chairman pro tem. To the Honourable Governour Trumbull. H. GLEN TO WALTER LIVINGSTON, COMMISSARY-GENERAL. Schenectady, August 20, 1776. Dear Sie: Yours of the 18th and 19th I have now before me, and have noted the contents. I have been with Mr. Ten Eyck, and delivered him his letter, and showed him mine. He tells me he cannot agree to take 16s.; but the flour I can have, on these conditions: that should flour be more between this and the 10th day of September next, at Albany, he will expect to have it; and if it is not more than 16s. at that time, then he will take 16s.; and that is the case with the rest of the gentlemen. I must beg the favour of you to let me know by the bearer, immediately, whether 1 must make the bargain as above, or what I must do in this case. The batteaus are all ready, and the people victualled to go; and Mr. Ten Eyck’s flour I must have, as I cannot load the boats without his, being a large quantity. I am, dear sir, yours, He Grins: To W. Livingston, Esq., Dep. Com. General. COLONELS PETTIBONE AND CHAPMAN TO GOV. TRUMBULL. New-Haven, August 20, 1776. May 1T pLease your Honour: We are here upon our march to New-York, according to orders received. As we had no Chaplain or Surgeon appointed for either of our regiments, and were credibly informed that it was expected we should make this necessary provision at the expense of the publick, we have engaged the Rev. Joseph. Strong, of Simsbury, to go with us as our Chaplain, (who is now with us here,) and Dr. Jonathan Bird, of the same town, to be our Surgeon and Physician. We therefore request, if it be agreeable to your Honour, that these two gentlemen may be favoured with the usual warrants for serving our regi- ments (viz: the Eighteenth and Twenty-Second) in their respective characters, and that the warrants may be for- warded to one of us at New-York. We are, with all respect and duty, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servants, Jona. Perrrpone, Colonel. Samu. Cuapman, Colonel. To the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. DAVID MATTHEWS TO JOHN MCKESSON. Hartford, August 20, 1776. Sir: I have made so many fruitless applications lately that [ am almost discouraged from putting pen to paper again. Is it not very hard, Mr. McKesson, that the Con- vention ‘will not furnish me with some resolve or certificate, in order to enable me to contradict a most hellish report that has been propagated, and is verily believed throughout this Colony, that I was concerned in a plot to assassinate General Washington, and to blow up the Magazine in New-York. The Convention well know that such a report prevails ; they also know that it is as false as hell is false. Solely owing to this report I have been obliged to decamp from Litchfield, where I was stationed, and where the Committee thought my life in imminent danger. I arrived here yesterday, and find that the same infernal report has been industriously propagated here, and that I am shunned as much as Lucifer would be, and am only waiting here for some further directions from Governour Trumbull, to whom a person is gone for that purpose. Surely, my old friend John, if my life was to be made a sacrifice, there was a more gentlemanlike way of doing it than of being sent into a country to be fired at from behind a barn or stone fence. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1086 Could any person that ever knew me suppose that it would fall to my lot to say, that there is not a place for me to rest the sole of my foot on. Hard times; but so it is. I some- times would willingly hope that the letters which I have heretofore written have not come to hand, or something would have been done to contradict this infamous charge. In short, I was fully persuaded that I would have an oppor- tunity of showing to the world that every charge brought against me was false. I am now tossed about to and fro, and no one to deliver me. May this never be the lot of any of my countrymen, I should be glad to hear from you, whether I have any- thing to expect, by which my person may be safe or not. I should not have wasted so much paper and ink were it not that the very existence of a wife and ten children depends on my life, and who are rendered more distressed by such villanous reports as have been propagated. { wish you health and happiness; and am, sir, you hum- ble servant ’ D. Marruews. To John McKesson, Esq., Secretary to the Convention of the State of New- York. P. S. 22d.—I am now on my march back to Litchfield again, as I could not be suffered to remain here unless con- fined in jail. What horrid treatment is this! Governour Trumbull would willingly have done everything to accom- modate me here, but our Convention say I must be confined. It is too much for mortal man to bear. IJ am now to stand fire at Litchfield. May God only spare my life to meet my enemies face to face. JOHN MACKAY TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Greenwich, in the State of Connecticut, August 20, 1776. Sir: The Authority, Selectmen, and Committee of this town, have yesterday received from his Honour the Gover- nour of said State a requisition, dated the 12th instant, to imbody all the householders not obliged to do duty in any training band, in order to march forthwith to New-York, to join the Army under your Excellency’s command. We thereupon warned all the able-bodied men in the town to assemble at six o’clock this morning; but as the Militia is already gone into the service, and this town hath been pretty much drained of men in the progress of the war, we find there are now but few fit to go, and these few badly equip- ped. The householders have been at different times stripped of their fire-arms to supply those who turned out in defence of their country; all which being maturely considered by the said authority, &c., it was judged most proper to advise your Excellency of our difficulties, in order to know from your Excellency whether the service requires the whole of the few men remaining in this town to be raised immediately; and if so, whether they can be supplied with arms on their arrival at New-York. As the bearer, Doctor Mead, a member of the Committee, will deliver this, we think it superfluous to add any more, further than that we are, with the greatest esteem, your Ex- cellency’s obedient, humble servants. Per order of the Authority, &c.: Joun Mackay, Chairman pro tem. To His Excellency General Washington, New- York. MAJOR HAWLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Northampton, August 20, 1776. May rr pLEAsE your Honour: As it is proper that you should be made acquainted with the terms upon which all the men under your command have engaged in the service, and as it may have happened that our Council, through the multiplicity of their business, may have neglected to transmit to you the resolve of the General Assembly upon which our first recruits for your Army were raised, your Honour will not consider me as officious in sending to you that resolve. You will observe, sir, that the non-commissioned officers, as well as the privates, are entitled to a month’s advance pay; and I beg leave to inform you, that as in some companies which went from the County of Hampshire the non-com- missioned officers were not appointed when they marched, they have not received any more advance pay than that of private soldiers. That was the case in Captain Lyman’s 1087 company, and I take it to have been so in Captain Gray’s. Pursuant to an after-resolve, (of which I am not possessed,) the commission officers were to have a month’s advance pay, which those from this County have generally received. I have many things on my mind which I want to suggest, but shall defer them to another opportunity. I most heartily wish your Honour health, victory, and, on every account, a happy campaign; and have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your most obedient and most humble servant, JosepH Haw_ey. To General Gates. P.S. According to your desire, sir, I have done every- thing in my power to suppress the pernicious and iniquitous practice of delaying the march of officers and soldiers for the sake of taking the small-pox. Yours, J. H. PETER PENNIMAN TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Minden, August 20, 1776. Str: Soon after the arrival of the Scotch officers at this town, pursuant to the order of the honourable Board, we wrote a few lines to your Honour, requesting a solution of certain questions relative to the manner of conducting our- selves with regard to said officers and their servants. One of the Selectmen was ordered to sign said letter in the name of the rest, but it seems inadvertently omitted it, which we suppose might be the reason of our not being favoured with an answer; and, by way of excuse, we must say, that we were not apprized of the above-mentioned omission (at least most of us) till a few hours ago. And as the same difficul- ties still remain on our minds, we are under a necessity of troubling your Honour with another epistle on the subject. As we observed in our former letter, two large roads pass through this town, one of which leads from Worcester to Providence, Rhode-Island, and the other from New-York and Connecticut to Boston. ‘The latter of these has for many years been called the Middle Post Road. Now, these officers (at least some of them) are desirous of boarding in the centre of the town, where these great roads intersect each other; the Selectmen are not willing to gratify them in this respect, thinking it would not be altogether agreeable to the spirit of the resolves of Congress. ‘The officers take it as an abridgement of the liberty granted them, and insist that they have a right to board where they like in any part of the town. We beg to be instructed in this matter. Another difficulty has arisen with regard to these officers’ servants or waiters; they have brought five men servants and two women, wives, they say, of two of the men servants. The resolve of Congress makes no provision for servants ; nor did your Honour mention anything concerning them in your letter to the Selectmen. ‘The officers refuse to pay for their board; and we cannot find any one willing to trust to any pay. A difference having arisen between one of said officers and his servant, the officer has left the house where he used to board, and he left his servant behind, refusing to pay his board ; the entertainer, to secure his pay, detains the officer’s trunk and part of his clothing. We must entreat your Honour to explain our duty to us in these matters. We are, with great respect, your Honour’s most obedient, humble servants. In the name and by the order of the Selectmen of the Town of Minden: Pretrer Penniman. COMMITTEE OF MIDDLESEX COUNTY, MASSACHUSETTS. Ata meeting of the Committee of Correspondence, Inspec- tion, and Safety, for the several Towns in the County of Middlesex, assembled at Concord, in said County, August 20, 1776: Present the Committees of thirty-two ‘Towns, and about one hundred Members. Voted, and chose the Honourable James Prescott, Esq., Chairman. Chose Oliver Prescott, Esq., Clerk. Then passed the following Resolves unanimously: Whereas confederacies are judged to be formed or forming in many parts of the country, and may be strengthened, and many other great inconveniences ensue from such persons Who are inimical to the cause of American liberty collecting together: Therefore, CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1088 Resolved, That we will use our best endeavours to prevent such persons assembling together for such purposes, and restrain them from all intercourse with each other, or with the officers or privates sent into this County, or any of these States, as prisoners, by confining them to their towns or farms, or laying them under bonds, or by committing them to close custody, or otherwise, as may be judged proper, agreeable to the orders of this State; and that all such as are noto- riously inimical, (whatever their pretensions may be,) shall be disarmed and confined to the limits of their towns or farms, until properly released from said confinement by said Committee. And whereas divers wicked persons, intending to defraud the inhabitants of these States, and for the sake of base and unlawful gain, have forged, altered, and uttered divers Notes and Bills of this and the other Amerzcan States, and have also used divers artifices and much low cunning to depreciate the value of our Paper currency, to the great damage of the good people of these States, &c.: Therefore, Resolved, That we will use our utmost efforts in discover- ing all such frauds, and bringing to condign punishment all such wicked persons as aforesaid, agreeable to the laws of this State. It is recommended to the Committees of Safety for the several towns in the County aforesaid, that such persons as are prisoners, and have hired themselves out for their support, be not permitted to go out of the limits of such towns, until the time of their contract be fulfilled, unless some other person go with them, at the order of the Committee of such town where they reside; that their respective masters see that they keep good hours, and conduct themselves well in their families; that the said prisoners be not allowed to frequent publick houses, and have no spirituous liquors on the Sabbath, on any pretence whatsoever; and that they be not permitted to dwell with any person judged to be inimical to the American States. It is also recommended to the several towns in the County aforesaid that may be defective, that they procure, as soon as may be, their town-stock of powder, and furnish such of the poor in their several towns with fire-arms, as are not able to equip themselves agreeable to the order of this State. And whereas there are divers persons in tliese States now on parole, who frequently visit the officers and privates who are prisoners in the several towns, to the great danger and disquietude of the good people of this State: ‘Therefore, Resolved, That the Committee of Reading be desired to acquaint the honourable Board therewith, and desire that all such towns as have officers quartered in them may be ex- cepted from said parole, that so all such intercourse may be prevented for the future. It is also recommended that the Committees of the several Towns in this County desire their Representatives to use their utmost influence in the General Court to procure an order of this State, that all persons travelling through the same shall have passes, denoting their friendliness to the American States, and make provision for the taking up and examining all suspected persons. And we do hereby bear testimony against all mobs, riots, and disorderly proceedings; and will endeavour to suppress all vice, immorality, and profaneness. Voted, That a Committee be appointed to call County meetings for the future, if occasion requires, and that they write to the Committees of the several ‘Towns, and inform them in said notification for what purpose said meeting is called. Then chose Ephraim Wood, Esq., Jonas Haywood, Esq., and James Barrett, Esq., a Committee for that purpose. Voted, That the Clerk be desired to transmit an extract from the Minutes to the publisher of the Monday and Thurs- day paper. Extract from the Minutes: Otiver Prescort, Clerk. ORDERS IN COUNCIL. At the Court at St. James’s, the 21st day of August, 1776. Present: The King’s Most Excellent Majesty in Council. Whereas the time limited by his Majesty’s Order in Coun- cil of the 17th of May last for prohibiting the exporting out of this Kingdom, or carrying coastwise, Gunpowder, Salt- 1089 petre, or any sort of Arms or Ammunition, will expire on the 23d of this instant, August; and whereas it is judged expedient that the said prohibition should be continued for some time longer, except in those cases where (for the benefit and advantage of trade, and for the use and defence of ships trading to foreign parts, and of the transports and victualling vessels employed in his Majesty’s service) his Majesty, by his several Orders in Council of the 13th and 27th of October, and of the 6th and 22d of November 1775, and of the 5th and 19th of February last, has thought proper to permit and allow the exportation of and carrying coastwise Gunpowder, Saltpetre, Arms, and Ammunition, under certain conditions and restrictions mentioned in the said Orders: His Majesty doth therefore, by and with the advice of his Privy Council, hereby order, require, prohibit, and command, that no person or persons whomsoever (ex- cept the Master-General, Lieutenant-General, or principal Officers of the Ordnance, for his Majesty’s service) do, at any time during the space of three months, to commence from the said 23d day of this instant, August, presume to trans- port into any parts out of this Kingdom, or carry coastwise, any Gunpowder, Saltpetre, or any sort of Arms or Ammu- nition, or ship or lade any Gunpowder, Saltpetre, or any sort of Arms or Ammunition, on board any ship or vessel, in order to transporting the same beyond the seas, or carry- ing the same coastwise, except in the cases comprised within the aforementioned Orders in Council of the 13th and 27th of October, and the 6th and 22d of November, 1775, and of the 5th and 19th of February last, without leave or permis- sion in that behalf first obtained from his Majesty or his Privy Council, upon pain of incurring and suffering the respective forfeitures and penalties inflicted by an act passed in the twenty-ninth year of his late Majesty’s reign, intituled ‘An act to empower his Majesty to prohibit the exportation of Saltpetre, and to enforce the law for empowering his Majesty to prohibit the exportation of Gunpowder, or any sort of Arms and Ammunition; and also to empower his Majesty to restrain the carrying coastwise of Saltpetre, Gun- powder, or any sort of Arms or Ammunition.” And the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty’s ‘Treasury, the Com- missioners for executing the office of Lord High Admiral of Great Britain, the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, the Master-General of the Ordnance, and his Majesty’s Secre- tary at War, are to give the necessary directions herein, as to them may respectively appertain. Srepu. Corrre.t. At the Court at St. James’s, the 21st day of August, 1776. Present: The King’s Most Excellent Majesty in Council. Whereas his Majesty was graciously pleased, by his Royal Proclamation, bearing date the 22d day of March last, to promise and declare that the bounties of £3 for every Able Seaman, and of £2 for every Ordinary Seaman, fit for his Majesty’s service, should be paid in the manner thereby directed to every such Able and Ordinary Seaman, not above the age of fifty, nor under the age of eighteen years, who should, on or before the 30th day of April then following, enter themselves to serve in his Majesty’s Royal Navy, either with the Captains or Lieutenants of his Majesty’s ships, or the chief officers on board such tenders as should - be employed for raising men for the service of the Royal Navy: And whereas the time thereby limited was, by Orders in Council, prolonged and extended from the said 30th day of April to the 3ist day of this instant, August; and it being judged expedient for his Majesty’s service that the said bounties should be continued to be paid for some longer time: his Majesty, with the advice of his Privy Coun- cil, doth therefore order, and it is hereby accordingly ordered, that the time limited for payment of the said bounties be prolonged and extended from the said 31st day of this in- stant, August, to the 3lst day of October next, inclusive; whereof all persons concerned are to take notice and govern themselves accordingly. SrepuH. Corrre.t. THOMAS JONES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Virginia, Northumberland County, August 21, 1776. GentLemen: [ have delivered to Mr. Thomas Walker, at the request of Captain Nicholson, four hundred and thirty- two half barrels of gunpowder, eighteen chests of arms, Firru Series.—Vot. I. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1090 loose muskets, and twenty pieces ofosnaburgs. Mr. Walker tells me he received only four hundred and thirty-one half barrels of powder. The persons I intrusted to deliver it are certain they delivered the whole quantity. I hope it will be found right. As soon as I was informed by Captain Conway of his arrival, and that the powder, &c., was landed and stored not more than two miles from navigation, in the lower end of the County, I thought it by no means a safe place for so valuable a cargo, especially as Lord Dunmore’s fleet was lying at no great distance from it; therefore I directed it to be carted about twelve or fourteen miles higher up the country, where it might be more immediately under my inspection. This, together with the necessity of having a constant guard, has occasioned a considerable expense, but not more, I hope, than will be thought requisite. ‘The several accounts were laid before the Committee, who regulated them as they thought proper, except some few which I made a particular agreement for. You may be assured, gentlemen, that I have acted as if it had been upon my own account, and the trouble I have been at you are exceedingly welcome to. I think myself happy in having had it in my power to serve the Province of Maryland, particularly upon so interesting an occasion. There is still a balance due to the Colony of Virginia, of £3 18s. 2d., which Captain Walker has promised to pay. Lam, with regard, gentlemen, your most obedient servant, Tuos. Jones. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President of the Council of Safety of Maryland. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CECIL COUNTY COMMITTEE. [No. 153.] Annapolis, August 21, 1776. GenrLemMen: We approve very much of what you have done, and send you five hundred pounds currency by Cap- tain George. You will be pleased to purchase all the guns and blankets you can for the use of the Province. ‘There are not enough to be had here, and are greatly wanting. Cartouch-boxes, bayonets, belts, and gun-slings, are sent up to Chester- Town for the Eastern-shore companies, and Co- lonel Richardson has orders to distribute them among his battalion. Canteens are high. We have a number of workmen engaged in making wooden bottles at 2s., a few at Qs. Td., and hope to supply you from Kent. Enclosed is an order of Convention relative to the pay and rations of the Flying-Camp Militia. Knapsacks and haversacks are making at Baltimore-Town, and shall be sent up for the companies, and priming-wires and brushes, if our contractors furnish them in time, which we expect they will do. Weare, &c. To the Committee of Observation for Ceci] County. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO ISAAC GRIEST. [No. 154.] Annapolis, August 21, 1776. Sir: We have received your favours of the 19th and 20th instant. If Jacobs will not set all his hands to work on the tents, and give the utmost despatch in his power in having them completed, he must deliver the linen to Johnson, as the troops must not be detained on their march to the north- ward. Cloth at twenty-five shillings is abundantly too high for blankets. We think the bottle-makers should be exempt from mustering while they are engaged in the service of the publick, and don’t doubt that their Captains will excuse them for not attending. ‘They must work day and night. Bay- onet-belts must be supplied the Flying-Camp out of the magazine. We shall want six hundred more knapsacks and haversacks, and desire they may be immediately made as soon as the linen arrives from Parker, which will be in a day or two at farthest. Deliver it to Johnson to be made up into tents. We are, &c. To Mr. Isaac Griest, Quartermaster. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [No. 155.] Annapolis, Maryland, August 21, 1776. Sir: The President informs us that, by the order of the Convention, he wrote to you for £10,000, for money ad- vanced by this Province on account of this Congre:s. If the 69 1091 requisition in that letter is complied with, we shall be obliged if you will order the money to be paid into the hands of Sée- phen Stewart, who will convey it safely to us. We are, with great respect, sir, your most obedient, hum- ble servants. By order: Dant. or Sr. Tuos, Jenirer, President. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Hon- ourable Congress, at Philadelphia. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO SAMUEL DORSEY. [No. 156.] Annapolis, August 21, 1776. Sir: We approve your patterns for a tent, but cannot give the price you ask. One of the Baltimore tentmakers was here, and says he will make them with a round seam for two dollars. If you would make them with such seams on your model, we would have you proceed; otherwise, be pleased to make some agreeable to the Baltimore pattern, at twelve shillings. If you do not care to make them on those terms, send the linen you have to Baltimore-Town to William Johnson, who has agreed to make at those prices. The tent-poles we will pay you for according to the price given at Baltimore, which we cannot now ascertain. We wish to hear-more fully about the bayonets. We are, &c. To Mr. Samuel Dorsey, Anne-Arunde! County. CAPTAIN DARNES TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Queen-Anne’s County, August 21, 1776. GentLemen: Yesterday Captain Dean produced an order from your Board, ordering the arms out of the hands of my company into that of Captain Dean’s, which I think exceed- ing hard, as I myself, the rest of the officers, and many of the privates, have taken very uncommon pains to collect arms for the use of this company. I suppose the situation of my company may have been misrepresented to you. Mr. Joseph Nicholson, one of your Board, informs me it has; that is, that there was not a pro- bability of arming my company. I can venture to assure you that by Saturday next we shall be well armed. I make not the least doubt, gentlemen, but in that case you would prohibit the culling of my arms. My men are exceedingly distressed for want of linen; it is not to be had here. ‘Therefore shall be much obliged by two bolts of linen. Please despatch it immediately, as we are daily expecting orders to march. Am, gentlemen, your very ready, humble servant, Joun Darnes. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. DOCTOR WEISENTHALL TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore-Town, August 21, 1776. Gentiemen: The bearer, Dr. Finley, is one of the can- didates that has offered himself several times for a Surgeon’s place in one of the battalions of Militia. He is well known to Colonel Hall, of whom probably best inquiry may be made concerning his fitness for the service. Mr. John Dor- sey, of Frederick County, likewise has applied, of whom I had opportunity to speak the last time I was in Annapolis. Mr. John Johnson has been long willing to accept a Mate’s station, who is at present in Frederick-Town. As I have not received your particular directions concerning Surgeons of the Militia, I have taken the liberty to mention only the above, as Dr. F%nley intended to go down personally. Colonel Ewing’s battalion marched away without any Surgeon, though I furnished them with some trifling medi- cines, especially to Captain Posey, who had the most sick, as well as Captain Young’s company. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant ; C. WEISENTHALL. To the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland. AMOS GARRETT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Hartford County, August 21, 1776. Srrs: I received by the hands of Colonel Aquila Hall the sum of £50, to be applied towards the Saltpetre Works CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1092 under my care. The same is continued carrying on, but— what is the reason I can’t say—we can’t produce the quan- tity | have heard made at some places. We are assiduous at the business, and lose no time from the work, except when employed in collecting the stock. The exact quantity made I can’t justly say, having not weighed off for some time. I expect some odds of two hundred weight. We daily in- crease the same something. I have sent down by this conveyance seventeen bayonets and seven muskets fixed with bayonets. ‘The muskets and bayonets were to have been presented to the Committee of this County for the use of the publick; but this opportunity offering immediately to Annapolis, and Mr. John Hall, Lieutenant in Captain Paca’s company, informing of their being immediately wanted, I thought it advisable to send them down, and trust your Honours will have them valued, and allow me what they may be valued at, and pay the same, and of the bayonets, as per account enclosed, to Mr. Hall, who will receive and transmit it to me. ‘There is also in the box a gun our Committee agreed to give a man forty-five shillings for, which I paid him. Some small repair I did to the lock, and is charged in the account, as also two bayonets put to two guns Colonel Carvell Hall put into my bands to repair, and some charges for the re- pairs. I also send in the box a gun sent by Mr. Gabriel Christie, and one other Mr. John Hall got from some other person, all which hope will get safe to hand. I will con- tinue to make the bayonets; but the fitting these muskets and repairing some other old guns from our neighbours has kept my man, who is but slow, employed. I am your Honours’ most humble servant, Amos GarreTr, To the Hon. the Council of Safety of Maryland. The Province of Maryland, to Amos Garrett, Dr. £ s.d. To 17 bayonets, at 7s. Gd.....cceereccocescors b wialan abe, ef6ye 6 36 To cash paid James Brown fora gun bought by the Committee of Harford, and directed me to pay for and repair........ 2 50 Repairing the ScrewS. ..eecescecssecees ccc cne ees eecece Opets0 To 2 bayonets on 2 muskets Colonel Hall gave me to repair, 0 15 0 Repairing the locks .:1.0 2. +000 0 sspies os cerccsanenceccsisie 0 50 "TORS MuUSketyNOm Luts stuete sit eles laretcentert stake piacverekeisivers sie ote iy) "Eo, b musket, NOs 2: iccte ave sie cestsielstclcterelots stelolsiaataitetets one ere 3150 Toul inaslcetHNob B22 crejelscis orelolelstoitisa ofsiale cota atuy otek stetetetots ake) ‘To: Iimuskets Nov din. cite tisscs ciels: scio nie s[hslelers alesse sae torels 3e1b10 Hos lemusket UNO’ os cjeleeis's. «elelele’= titasteatalsiters aieleleisiserstaletore SeLUne TO imuasketANno. Guiisuscccmtoslameatticeteccisecicioe section ay We Flo Liisket Non 7a i ec cresererete e-scvern esl atel eis eter oteetetelebiiy terete Ay se To a box and carting the guns to the vessel..........+504. 0 76 To Gabriel Christie 1 un... wiey sles + 10 = a0» ni ersye estate sits 3 00 To Colonel Hall 2 guns......... SOIL OIRDIEIS arb 006 Bde EHS 6 00 To John Hall Deuns sep. ccee » sptpinsie ss oe sec es Bicleleciels ciate 4 50 €47 11 6 Received 24th Jugust, 1776, for Mr. Amos Garrett, the above and in full. Epwp. Hatu. CESAR RODNEY TO THOMAS RODNEY. Philadelphia, August 21, 1776. Last night, by the post, I received an account of your defeat in the election, and in which I was not disappointed; being convinced you continued to be sanguine in your ex- pectations without taking the necessary steps to carry a point of that sort; added to all the rest of your bad policy, you suffered Caldwell’s company to march away just before the election, when there was no necessity for it, as the other companies were not half full in any of the Counties. Parke tells me the conduct of your Light-Infantry heretofore had drawn down the resentment of the people, which put it in the power of that party who were opposed to you to make this use of it. As to the orders which Hodgson has on me, he can’t stand in need of the money; for, knowing that I could not be down, and that Mr. McWilliam had not the wherewithal to satisfy his order, the Delegates procured of Congress three thousand dollars for the purpose of advancing a month’s pay to the soldiers and contingent expenses, fifteen hundred of which have been sent down to Colonel Patterson. How- ever, as you have paid him forty odd pounds in part, it is so far well. I hope you have taken his receipt, but cannot tell how you ascertained Hume’s debt, as you had not the bond. As Mr, Read will go to the Convention, and our Colony 10935 requires two Delegates to make a representation, I shall come home next week if possible; but if I should not be down time enough, pray attend to the Orphan’s Court. ‘The present Convention is solely for the purpose of framing Government, and will not be allowed to go out of that line, except it be so far as is necessary to supply the Flying- Camp with such things as may be heretofore omitted. The people may perhaps think better of this matter the next time they choose. I am yours, &c., Casar Ropney. To Mr. Thomas Rodney. P. S. One Woodcock, at Wilmington, has been speaking to me about a privateer he was applied to to build by Cap- tain Pope. He says he has a parcel of carpenters sent to him and cannot go on for want of the iron-work, rum, &c. Some person among you ought to go immediately and enter into a contract with him and find the means of supplying him. PETITION OF THE OFFICERS OF THE FIRST AND REGIMENTS OF VIRGINIA. Presented 21st August, 1776, and agreed to be explained and sent to the Delegates in Congress. [Referred to the Board of War.] To the Honourable the Lieutenant-Governour and Council of State of the Commonwealth of Virainta: The Petition of the Captains and Subalterns of the two Oxp Vireinta Regiments humbly showeth: That your petitioners, actuated by the love of their coun- try, were forward to enter into military duty, and promised to themselves those advantages of rank to which their early services would of right entitle them. That although they were, many of them, actually imbodied and encamped near Wilhamsburgh before the two first regiments of North-Caro- lina Continentals were even directed to be raised, as your petitioners are informed, yet your petitioners, holding at that time only Colonial commissions, having the highest respect for the authority of the Congress, cheerfully submitted to the precedence given the North-Carolinians, although younger in the service than themselves, and then employed in the Colony of Virginia, to which your petitioners belonged. That the same temper, which prompted your petitioners to submit in the instance above specified, does also dispose them to insist upon that rank to which they are entitled. That your petitioners are well informed that the two first regiments are upon the Continental establishment from the first of November; they are therefore much at a loss to ac- count for the present date of their commissions, which are brought down as late as the middle and last of January, by which your petitioners will lose their just rank in the Con- tinental line, an inconvenience which will be particularly felt by the First Regiment in their junction with the troops to the northward, as the dates of commissions will be the only criterion by which to ascertain the right of command. Your petitioners are also of opinion that the Congress proba- bly intended to give rank to the two first regiments by taking them upon their establishment so early in the last fall. Your petitioners are informed, and have good reason to believe, that their present commissions were dated without a particular attention to the consequences, which will so materially affect your petitioners, especially if succession should be taken through the whole Continental line. Your petitioners there- fore look up to your honourable Board for redress in the premises, and trust that, if necessary, your honourable Board will make such representation to the Congress upon the subject of this address as shall give it success. And your petitioners, as in duty bound, shall ever pray, &c. Rank to commence from the day they were taken into Continental pay SECOND MEMORIAL OF PREUDHOME LA JEUNESSE. [August 21, 1776, referred to the Board of War.] To the Hon. Joun Hancock, Esq., President: The Memorial of Prevpuome La Jeunesse, of Monrreat, in Canapa, humbly showeth: That by his great zeal for the American cause in the late expedition of Canada, he was much distinguished by the commanding officers of the Continental Army; but after their retreat he could not be of further use, and was directed CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1094 to offer his services to the honourable the Continental Con- gress. ‘That he has been in Philadelphia upwards of six weeks, inactive, and much desirous to enter into the Conti- nental service, daily pressed upon by his own countrymen and other Frenchmen, or persons who understand French, wishing to be employed under your memorialist, of whom he might have fifty or more, if he had a commission to inlist them, and who will certainly disperse if they have not soon an answer, ‘That his said countrymen, and more especially your memorialist, can never return to their homes whilst a King’s Governour is in full possession thereof; but whenever it should be thought proper for the Continental Army to reénter Canada, your memorialist thinks that a corps of Canadians, Frenchmen, and others who speak French, might be of great use in that service. Your memorialist once more prayeth that his case may be considered, and that the honourable the Congress would be pleased to grant him a commission of Captain of a corps of Canadians, Acadians, French, and others who speak French. And your memorialist, as in duty bound, &c., PREUDHOME LA JEUNESSE. Philadelphia, August 21, 1776. ——= Ata Board of War, August 21, 1776. Agreed to report to Congress, That the Petition of Preud- home la Jeunesse be granted, and a Commission be given him to be Captain of a Company of Canadians, Acadians, and French, to belong to Colonel Livingston’s Regiment, and to join the Army at Ticonderoga as soon as may be. PASS FOR SERGEANT SUTHERLAND. In Committee, Lancaster, August 21, 1776. Sergeant Sutherland, of the Seventh Regiment of Royal Fusileers, prisoner-of-war at Lancaster, in Pennsylvania, hath permission to go from Lancaster to Reading, with letters from Captain Kinnear, and accounts relative to that regi- ment, to be presented to General Prescott, and is to return to Lancaster on or before the 24th day of August instant, and deliver up this passport. By order of the Committee: Wiuuram Atier, Chairman. —— Sergeant Sutherland, on his arrival at Reading, produced the above passport, and is now on his return, in which none will molest him. August 22, 1776. j James Reav, Chairman of Committee of Berks. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 23, 1776.] New-York, August 21, 1776. Sir: Enclosed I have the honour to transmit you a copy of my letter to Lord Howe, as well on the subject of a gene- ral exchange of prisoners in the Naval line, as that of Lieut. Josiah in particular, and of his Lordship’s answer, which, from its matter and manner, is very different from General Carleton’s orders which were forwarded yesterday. The situation of the armies being the same as when I had the pleasure of addressing you last, I have nothing special to communicate on that head, nor more to add, than that I am, with all possible respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. ee Head-Quarters, New-York, August 17, 1776. My Lorn: Being authorized by Congress, as their com- manders in every department are, to negotiate an exchange of prisoners; and presuming, as well from the nature of your Lordship’s command as the information General Howe has been pleased to honour me with, that the exchange in the Naval line will be subject to your Lordship’s directions, I beg leave to propose the following mode of exchange for your Lordship’s consideration, viz: “Officers for those of equal rank, and sailors for sailors.” If the above proposal should be agreeable to your Lord- ship, I am charged in a particular manner to exchange any officer belonging to the British Navy in our hands and of equal rank, for Lieutenant Josiah, who was lately made prisoner in a ship retaken by the Cerberus frigate. The * 1095 reason, my Lord, of my being charged to propose the ex- change of Lieutenant Joszah in preference to that of any other officer is, that authentick intelligence has been received that, regardless of his rank as an officer, he has not only been subjected to the duties of a common seaman, but has experienced many other marks of indignity. As a different line of conduct, my Lord, has been ever observed towards the officers of your Navy who have fallen into our hands, it becomes not only a matter of right but of duty to mention this to your Lordship, to the end that an inquiry may be made into the case above referred to. From your Lordship’s character for humanity, I am led to presume the hardships imposed on Lieutenant Josiah are without either your knowledge or concurrence, and therefore most readily hope that upon this representation your Lord- ship will enjoin all officers under your command to pay such regard to the treatment of those that may fall into their hands as their different ranks and situations require, and such as your Lordship would wish to see continued by us to those who are already in our power, or who may hereafter, by the chance of war, be subjected to it. I have the honour to be, my Lord, with great respect, your Lordship’s most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON. To the Right Hon. Lord Viscount Howe, Admiral and Commander-in-Chief of the British Navy in America. Eagle, off Staten-Island, August 19, 1776. Str: Concurring with the proposition you have been pleased to make in your favour of the 17th, for an exchange of prisoners in my department, viz: ‘ Officers for those of equal rank, and sailors for sailors,” I will take the liberty to propose an officer of the same rank with Lieutenant Josiah when he arrives. The Cerberus being absent, I have no other information respecting the situation of Mr. Josiah, than what is communicated in your letter; but the matter, you may be assured, shall be inquired into, and every atten- tion paid to the rules of propriety, as well as the dictates of humanity, on all such occasions. Principles and conduct form the true distinction of rank amongst men; yet, without a competent habit in the manners of the world, they are too liable to meet with unmerited dis- regard. But insult and indignities to persons of whatever rank, who are become parties in these unhappy disputes, cannot be justified, and are, I persuade myself, as much dis- approved of by every officer under my command, as they can never cease to be by me. I am, with great personal respect, sir, your most humble servant a Howe. To General George Washington. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. New-York, August 21, 1776. Dear Sir: On Monday I received your favour of the 16th instant, with its several enclosures. The time you were in treaty I can readily conceive was very irksome and disagreeable; however, if the good consequences you in- tended are produced, you will think it well spent. General Carleton’s orders, for their indecent, illiberal scur- rility, are equal, if not superior, to anything I have seen, and are such as I could not have expected from a person of his high rank. He holds forth a language very different from General Howe, as you would perceive by the copy of his letter I transmitted you. The assassination of General Gor- don is a matter entirely new, having never heard of it before. The paper made up as a letter, and directed to me, which Major Bigelow brought with him, only contained a copy of the orders. Iam glad the works at Fort Stanwiz are going on so well, and that they have so much provision in store. In a little time I hope they will be strong and complete. By a letter from Governour Trumbull I am informed that a Captain Van Buren had procured a sufficient quantity of sail-cloth and part of the cordage wanted for the galleys in Connecticut, and that the rest would be probably obtained there. Upon the whole, I hope necessaries to fit them out will be obtained one way or another. The enclosed letter from Colonel Stark was transmitted and referred to me by General Gates, in order that I might CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1096 determine upon the subject of it. I should suppose the value of rations ought to be settled with the Commissary, or sub- mitted to Congress for their decision. 1 do not conceive it is with me to direct in this instance, and therefore think it right to give notice of it by this opportunity. Since my last of the 13th nothing worthy of mention has occurred in this quarter, unless the ships-of-war having left their stations up the North River and joined the fleet again, is considered as such. On Sunday morning they came down with their remaining tenders. It is more than pioba- ble that an attempt by two of our fire-vessels to destroy them a night or two before contributed to their departure. The enterprise, though conducted with spirit and resolution, did not succeed to our wishes, only one tender having been bumt. The Phenix was grappled for some time, but cleared herself without damage. Sige, Go. WasHineron. To Major-General Schuyler, Northern Department. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN OFFICER ON BOARD THE ROYAL SAVAGE, IN LAKE CHAMPLAIN, DATED AUGUST 21, 1776. To-morrow, wind and weather permitting, we sail to- wards St. John’s, where we may soon expect to come to action. Our fleet consists of one sloop, three schooners, four galleys, and sewen gondolas, the whole well officered and manned, and under command of General Arnold. If we meet with the enemy, doubt not but we shall support our charge. RICHARD BRUERE AND OTHERS TO THE NEW-YORK CONVEN- TION. At the White-Plains, by order of the General Committee ; for the County, August 21, 1776. GentLEemeN: On the 6th day of July last past, having given our parole to you at this place, under the consideration of being allowed a sum of money barely sufficient to pay our board and for the common necessaries of life, and that the said sum was to be repaid by ourselves or friends before our departure from the country, and as one of us has written without the receipt of any answer or money to pay our way, we think it somewhat extraordinary, and you must have given the necessary orders for our being supplied, which have been neglected by some other of your officers. We have also been informed that some of your officers imagined the whole allowance of two dollars per week was to be paid for our board and washing, little considering what other neces- saries are wanting on these occasions; and as the small sum before mentioned, which we are to repay, we humbly con- ceive to be our own, and that the Committee having billeted us to such houses as may be most expedient for your con- venience, we are left at liberty to bargain for ourselves. We are at present six weeks in arrear to our landlord; and must beg, gentlemen, that you will give us some answer. From, gentlemen, your humble servants, Ricup. Bruere, Tuos. R. Harris, - Samu. Cox. To the Gentlemen of the Provincial Congress of New- York, at Harlem. DUTCHESS COUNTY (NEW-YORK) COMMITTEE. In Committee, Dutchess County, August 21, 1776. Resolved, That persons be appointed to inspect and take an account of all the Salt in this County, except what may be intended for the private use of families; and that no person presume to sell any Salt in, or remove it out of the County till the further order of this Committee; and that the persons so to be appointed be authorized to send for any persons, and examine them under oath, touching the premises. Resolved, That Mr. Thomas Storm, a member of this Committee, be authorized to wait upon the Convention of this State, and inform them that there is a quantity of Salt in this County, but supposed to be not more than sufficient to supply the inhabitants of the County, at one bushel for each family, and that it is exceedingly wanted; and pray the advice of the Convention, whether the Salt may be sold 1097 and distributed, or whether, notwithstanding the wants of the County, it ought to be reserved for the use of the Army; and if the latter, which will be the most prudent and eligible mode of keeping and reserving it. By order of the Committee : Easertr Benson, Chairman. PETITION OF CADWALADER COLDEN, JUN. To the Honourable the Representatives of the State of New- York, in Convention: The Petition of Canwataper Coxpen, Jun., of ULster County, Esq., humbly showeth: That your petitioner, impressed with the most painful ap- prehensions of the calamities that would flow from a separa- tion of the American Colonies from the Government of G'reat Britain, did, in the beginning of the present most unhappy disputes, appear opposed to such measures as, he imagined, would involve his country in distress; in consequence of which, he was stigmatized by those from whom he differed in sentiment, with the odious appellation of an enemy to his country, and thereby became the object of invective, slan- der, and malevolence, and was often insulted and frequently threatened with destruction of his person and property. This notwithstanding your petitioner’s: attachment to the rights of private judgment, and although he conceived the freedom of disquisition and debate, on topicks which affected the pub- lick weal, to be the birthright of Englishmen, and a privilege which particularly distinguish the freeman from the slave. Nevertheless your petitioner, willing to avoid the giving the least cause of offence, determined no longer in vain to op- pose the prevailing current opinion, of which, bis determina- tion, he, by letter, acquainted some of the Committee in the County so long since as the 3d of May last was a twelve- month, and in a few days after was among the first that signed the General Association. Since which time, your petitioner doth aver, that he hath in no way whatsoever opposed or obstructed any publick measures, nor hath he, in any one instance, either persuaded or dissuaded any man from pursuing the propensity of his own inclinations. In testimony whereof your petitioner hath publickly called upon his accusers and persecutors to adduce any proof to the contrary. Notwithstanding which, and without the least cause, your petitioner’s house was surrounded -by an armed body of men, commanded by Colonel Palmer, in the dead of the night of the 24th of June last, and on being granted admission, he, the said Palmer, and divers others, proceeded to search every part of the house of your petitioner for arms and ammunition, &c., and also examined his desk and chest of papers; and though said Palmer declared himself per- fectly satisfied that your petitioner was destitute of all offen- sive weapons, &c., he nevertheless seized on the person of your petitioner, and sent him under strong guard to New- Windsor, and the next day he was conveyed as a prisoner to Newburgh ; whereupon, being called before the Commit- tee, he excepted to their jurisdiction, alleging its locality to their own Precinct, and that he lived in the Precinct of Hanover, and if guilty of any offence, the Committee of said Precinct was of competent authority to take cognizance thereof, and therefore desired that any matter he might stand charged with might be referred to the Committee of Hanover. But this being overruled, your petitioner ap- pealed to the County Committee or Convention. Upon which, he was then discharged, giving his parole to appear before them when notified by a letter from the Chairman of that Board. That the next day your petitioner heard that Colonel Palmer, and some of the party who had surrounded his house in the night, had in the neighbourhood pretended to be in pursuit of a man said to be come from on board the man-of-war; that at the house of one Mary Knap they had actually overtaken and seized a man, (one of their own party,) who was made to confess or say, that he had made his escape out of your petitioner’s house when he heard the party coming to it in the night; and that he had delivered to your petitioner letters or messages from on board the man- of-war, and had also brought a letter to said Mary Knap from her husband, who was on board the man-of-war. That, considering the temper of the times, your petitioner thought such a report, if believed in his neighbourhood, might be of dangerous consequence to him, therefore immediately wrote a letter to the Chairman of the County Committee, (not CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1098 knowing him to be one of the Committee he had already seen before,) acquainting him of the circumstances of this affair, and desiring a hearing before the County Committee. But before this letter got to the hands of the Chairman, the Committee had sat, and ordered your petitioner to appear before them on the 9th day of July, to answer the charges that then might appear against him touching his being an enemy to the American cause. A copy of which order was served on your petitioner. ‘That accordingly, on the 9th day of July, your petitioner appeared before the County Committee; and that though no charge was even adduced against your petitioner, much less supported, of his acting inimical to the liberties of his country, or that he in any manner whatsoever opposed, obstructed, or counteracted publick measures, and that the story concerning the man from on board the man-of-war escaping out of your petition- er’s house was acknowledged by Colonel Palmer and some of his party to be only a piece of fun, (as he called it,) or contrivance formed to impose on the said Mary Knap; yet, to the surprise of your petitioner and the astonishment of the County, your petitioner was ordered to the common Jail of the County, in close confinement, under every circum- stance of indignity and disrespect. Irom whence your peti- tioner took the liberty to inform your honourable Board of his grievances, and to pray for relief. And your petitioner further showeth, that though the Pre- sident of your honourable Board was pleased to answer his letter the 16th of July, in which he informed him that your Board was pleased to refer the matter back to the County Committee, yet he did not receive the letter till the 31st; neither did the Chairman of the County Committee give notice to your petitioner of the matter being referred back to the Committee, nor send him the President’s letter, till applied to for it. That your petitioner, upon the receipt of said letter, hearing that the County Committee was to meet the 6th instant, and not knowing whether they would please to call him before them, wrote a letter to the Committee, and also made application to them through his friends, desiring their reconsideration of the rigorous treatment he had received by a close confinement in a Jail, for near five weeks, without any charge against him, (as has been already shown,) and soliciting his discharge. Notwithstanding which, all the in- dulgence your petitioner was able to procure has been a release from the common Jail, upon giving security in the exorbitant sum of £2,000, not to go off his farm until fully discharged by your honourable Board. Your petitioner, therefore, relying on the equity and hu- manity of your honourable Board, doubts not but that, as you are the advocates of freedom, you will show yourselves equally the patrons and protectors of the innocent and op- pressed, and speedily grant him an ample release from the unmerited and arbitrary restraint he at present labours under. And your petitioner, as in duty bound, shall ever pray. CapwaLaDER Cotpen, Jun. Coldenham, August 21, 1776. COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL SULLIVAN, Crown-Point, August 21, 1776. Dear Genera: When I parted with you to go on com- mand to Cumberland Head, | little expected you would so soon leave us. My surprise was great on my return to find you were gone. Part of the troops marched away, and the rest were ordered to Ticonderoga. I have always consider- ed this as a post of great importance. ‘The works were in ruins, but they might have been repaired before this. Five thousand men, in my opinion, would have manned them, and stopped the enemy here bad they attempted to advance. Wiser councils have fixed on Ticonderoga. That place is made very strong. Great attention has been paid to the fleet. It is now truly respectable. It goes down the Lake to-morrow under General Arnold. I make no doubt it will prevent the enemy from coming up this year, unless some extraordinary disaster should happen to it. There is a considerable number of Indians and Canadians with the Regulars at the Isle-aux-Noix. I expect some of them will be paying me a visit here in a few days. Iam preparing to entertaim them. The Sixth Battalion has always remained here. We ex- pected almost every day to go up to Ticonderoga. As the whole Army was to be removed there, I did not throw up 1099 any works till a few days ago. I thought it very necessary that my camp should be secured. I fixed on an eminence on the east side of the Point, and have made some strong intrenchments on the land side, and shall throw up some works on the side next the water, which will secure us against surprise; and a few pieces of artillery, if I can find them, would cover our retreat, should the main body of the enemy approach. The General has been pleased to approve of my intrenching, and directed me to stay here. My men have got in good spirits, and seem very well contented at their present station. I should apprehend that some troops should be continued on this Point till spring, when the place should be fortified strongly. Should the enemy get possession of it, very bad consequences will follow. A regiment of the Eastern troops might come here when my regiment leaves it. General Gates is reforming the Army, and is very suc- cessful. He pursues the same plan I have heard you speak of to keep off the small-pox. Should anything extraordi- nary happen in this quarter you may expect that I shall trouble you, now and then, unless I find it disagreeable to you, I am, honoured, sir, with the greatest respect, your most humble and obedient servant, Toe Hite ee CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, August 20, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour, Jabez Huntington, Wm. Hilthouse, Jed. Elderkin, Nathaniel Wales, and Ben- jamin Huntington, Esquires. Voted, To draw an Order on the Pay-Table in favour of Captain James Chamberlain, for Advance-Wages of 20s. per man for his Company, now ordered to New-York. Order delivered Captain Chamberlain 20th August. Voted, That his Honour the Governour is authorized and desired to furnish Captain McCall and Lieutenant Jacob Dewit of Norwich with as many Fire-Arms and Bayonets as they shall want to supply their men, out of the Colony Arms, in the hands of Mr. David Trumbull. A Return of Officers for a Company, formed out of the Gentlemen of the Horse, under the command of Captain James Chamberlain, being made to his Honour the Gover- nour and his Council of Safety, by which it appears that said Company have chosen James Chamberlain for their Captain, Noah Chapin, Jun., their Lieutenant, and Simeon Chapman for their Ensign, which is approved; and it is thereupon Voted, 'To accept and approve said Officers; and they are hereby established in their several Offices to which they are chosen, to serve in said Company, as a Foot Company of Militia in defence of these States, until the present exi- gency is over; and his Honour is desired to commissionate them. Commissions granted August 20, 1776. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety, August 21, 1776: Present: His Honour the Governour, Jabez Huntington, Richard Law, Titus Hosmer, Jed. Elderkin, Wm. Hill- house, Nathaniel Wales, Jun., and Benjamin Huntington, Esquires. An Account exhibited by Mr. John Leffingwell, of Nor- wich, for sundry repairs of Fire-Arms and stocking six Guns, amounting to £12 11s. 11d.; said Gun-Stocks were charged at 12s. each, out of which, 2s..on each Gun-Stock is deduct- ed, which amounts to 12s. out of said sum of £12 11s. 11d., which leaves the sum of £11 19s. 11d., which is granted to said Mr. John Leffingwell on said Account, and an Order is to be drawn for the same accordingly. Order drawn 21st August, delivered Colonel Hunting- ton. Mr. Jepson, of Hartford, applied to this Board for the purchase of four Cannon, six-pounders, at the Furnace at Salisbury, for the use of a Privateer; which being consi- dered, and the question put, whether this Board will at present admit the sale of said Cannon, and passed in the negative. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1100 Voted, That a Lieutenant, one Sergeant, and fifteen Privates, be detached from the Company under command of Captain Thompson, at Black-Rock, in New-Haven, and go to Milford, and there assist the inhabitants in building a Fortification at the Harbour in that place. And that the Selectmen of Milford have liberty, at the expense of said Town, to take four of the Colony Cannon from the Fur- nace at Salisbury, (viz: three nine-pounders and one twelve- pounder, if such are on hand, or as soon as they can be obtained,) and also one ton of Shot, suitable for said Cannon, to be used in the Fort, till further orders from the General Assembly, or the Governour and this Council. And if the General Assembly, or Governour and Council aforesaid, shall order said four Cannon to any other place during the present contest, the expense of transporting said Cannon, Xc., to be repaid to said Town by the Colony. And the Overseers of said Furnace are hereby directed to deliver said Cannon and Shot accordingly. Copy delivered Mr. John Harpin, August 21, 1776. Voted and Ordered, That Isaac Doolittle § Co., owners of the Powder-Mill at New-Haven, deliver three hundred weight of Powder into the hands of the Selectmen of Mil- ford, taking their receipt to account with the Colony for the same. Order delivered John Harpin, August 21, 1776. Voted, To draw an order on Colonel William Pitkin, for three hundred weight of Gunpowder, in favour of the Select- men of Chatham, taking their receipt to account for the same. Order delivered Mr. Hosmer, August 21, 1776. Voted, To draw an order on Colonel William Pitkin, for five hundred weight of Gunpowder, in favour of the Select- men of Middletown, taking their receipt to account for the same. Order delivered Mr. Hosmer, August 21, 1776. Voted, To draw an Order on Colonel William Pitkin; for three hundred weight of Gunpowder, in favour of Jabez Hamlin and Titus Hosmer, Esquires, and the rest of the Committee, for overseeing the Lead Works at Middletown, &c., keeping a proper account thereof. Order delivered Mr. Hosmer, August 21, 1776. Voted, To appoint Mr. Bela Elderkin, of Windham, and he is hereby appointed, Second Lieutenant of Marines on board the ship-of-war belonging to this State. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. Lebanon, August 21, 1776. Srr: I do myself the honour to enclose the copy of a letter from the Hon. Major-General Gates, [of August 11,] with General Carleton’s orders, and the letter to Major Hawley therein mentioned. Permit me to add, that the practice of inoculating for the small-pox, which has been fallen into by the troops from your State, (as well Captain Ferguson’s company at Gilas- gow, as others at Number Four,) every way hurts the publick service, and exposes the other troops anew to that infection, which has already rendered abortive the hopes of the Army, proved fatal to many, ruined the health of more, and exposed the whole to destruction. I have full confidence that this practice will appear in the same dangerous point of view to you as it does to General Gates, and that you will use such measures as your wisdom shall dictate to prevent any ill consequence from the past, and any future practice of the like nature. At the same time, I beg leave to assure you that every precaution will be taken in this State to prevent that fatal infection from being carried into the Army by the troops or others going from hence. I am, sir, with great truth and regard, your obedient, humble servant, Jona. TRUMBULL. To the Hon. President of the Council of the State of Mas- sachusetts-Bay. MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL. In Council, August 21, 1776. Ordered, That the Committees of Correspondence, In- spection, and Safety, of the several Towns and Plantations in this State be, and they are hereby, empowered and directed to 1101 take effectual care to keep within the limits of their respective Towns and Plantations all Prisoners of War who now are or shall hereafter be committed to their care, and agreeable to an order of Congress, the 21st May, to superintend their conduct; and in cases of gross misbehaviour, or refusing to labour for their support, (excepting such Officers as are on parole,) to confine them in the County Jail. And the Sheriff of the said County is hereby ordered and directed to receive into his custody any such Prisoners as the Committee or Committees may send them for their misbehaviour, And the said Committees are herey directed to report their doings to the Council as soon as may be. And further, any Pri- soners of War strolling from the ‘Town to which they have been destined to other Towns, be by the Committee of said Town sent to the common Jail. And the Secretary is directed immediately to publish this order in the several News- papers. A true copy. Attest: Joun Avery, Dep. Sec. In Council, August 22, 1776. Ordered, That the Committee of Correspondence, &c., in the several Towns in this State, do forthwith transmit to the Sheriff of the County whereunto they respectively be- long, an accurate list of all Prisoners of War in their respec- tive Towns, expressing their names, and to what Company or Corps they did belong; to the end that the several Sheriffs may be able to make a true return thereof to this Board as soon as may be, and, as the Congress have requested, an immediate Return of all Prisoners of War within this State be made to them. A true copy. Attest: Joun Avery, Dep. Sec. Sher In Council, August 22, 1776. Ordered, That the Sheriffs of the several Counties within this State do make a Return of the names of all the Prison- ers of War that shall be returned to them by the several Committees in their respective Counties, together with such as may be confined in the several Jails within their respec- tive Precincts, to the Council, that a Return thereof may be made to Congress as soon as may be. A true copy. Attest: Joun Avery, Dep. Sec. Council Chamber, Watertown, August 21, 1776. Ordered, That the several Committees appointed by a Resolve of the Great and General Court, on June 25, 1776, to inlist five thousand of the Militia in their respective Counties for the reinforcement of the Continental Army in Canada and New-York, do forthwith make Returns to the Council of the number of men inlisted in each County, and what Companies have actually marched to each of those departments, with the number of men there is in each Com- pany, and when they marched, and, in general, of all their proceedings relative to the said inlistment; and that the Committees appointed by a Resolve of July 10, 1776, to raise two other Regiments for the Northern or Canada De- partment, do forthwith make the like Return; and that the foregoing Orders be published in the Boston and Watertown Newspapers. By order of the major part of the Council: Joun Avery, Dep. Sec. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO MAJOR GAINS. State of New-Hampshire, in Committee of Safety, August 21, 1776. Srr: You are hereby appointed Mustermaster, to muster the following companies of soldiers, raising for the Conti- nental service, under the command of Captains Hodgdon, Calfe, Brown, Clements, and Dearing, passing ninety in each company, officers included, receiving none but good able-bodied, effective men, well equipped; and make return of muster-rolls as soon as may be. Mesuecu Weare. To Major George Gains. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GENERAL HOWE. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Sir: In answer to the favour of your letter of the 3d of June, relative to the embarrassment and confusion which had been occasioned in the Army by vacancies having been CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1102 filled up here and also by you, I am to inform you that the Secretary of War, having taken his Majesty’s pleasure there- upon, and written to you fully on that head, I flatter myself all those difficulties are removed, and that for the future you will have none of the like nature to complain of. I am, &c. Gro. GERMAINE. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GENERAL HOWE. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Str: I have the favour of your letter of the 4th of June last, with two enclosures; the one, a state of the goods removed from Boston, and the other, a plan on which the corps of Loyal Nova-Scotia Volunteers was then formed; and as your plan holds forth encouragement to those who have success in recruiting, I trust the officers, by their activity and attention, may be able soon to complete the corps. Tam, &c., Gro. Germaine. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GENERAL HOWE. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Sir: Your letters of the 7th and 8th July, from Staten- Island, were delivered to me by Lieutenant-Colonel Blunt, of the Fourth Regiment, and I had the honour of laying them before the King. His Majesty entirely approves of your prudence in waiting for the arrival of one of the expected reinforcements; nor is this, your discretion, the sole object of his royal approbation; it has been graciously extended to the whole of your conduct and plan; in both of which you have exhibited such wisdom, zeal, and attention to the ser- vice, as deservedly reflects the highest honour upon you, and must contribute most effectually to the support and advance- ment of the honour of Government. As his Majesty had reason to imagine that Vice-Admiral Lord Shuldham had stationed a proper number of ships off the harbour of Boston, in order to thwart all designs which the Rebels might have of seizing any of the succours which might be sent to you, he has been much hurt and surprised _ to find that so many of the Highland corps have had the misfortune to fall into the hands of the enemy. And I am to inform you that orders will be sent to Lord Howe to make inquiries into that matter. His Majesty expressed great satisfaction at the account which you ¢'ve of the coming in of so many of his subjects. Such a step, whilst it proves that they are impressed with a grateful sense of their situation, in obeying the mildest and best of Kings, will, it is to be hoped, when they find them- selves sure of receiving protection, induce others to give similar proofs of their loyalty and zeal for Government. I have sent to the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty’s Treasury the particulars of your request respecting an early supply of woollens, linen, and shoes, for the Provincial troops, and have no doubt but a due and speedy attention will be paid to it. The behaviour of Captains Reynor and Curtis, in their respective commands, has given the King great satisfaction. iam, &c., Geo. GERMAINE. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GENERAL HOWE. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Sir: I had the honour of receiving and laying before his Majesty your letter, dated Halifax, June 7, 1776, wherein you acknowledge the receipt of my despatches of the Ist and 7th February and 28th March. Sensible as you were that the interests of your King and country required your presence in the neighbourhood of New- York, I am not at all surprised at the lively mortifica- tion which you suffered on account of your tedious detention at Halifax, and in being so long prevented from executing those plans which your zeal and wisdom had projected, and to which the high order of the troops was likely to ensure success. It must at that time have been some alleviation of your uneasiness, to know that the delay was not occa- sioned by any neglect; and it will afford you no small degree of present satisfaction to be informed that the King, having read and considered the reasons which you assign for your ‘detention at Halifax, is of opinion that an earlier removal from there was impracticable. His Majesty was also pleased to express his entire approbation of your idea respecting the intended motions and employment of the Army. 1103 I herewith transmit you a copy of a despatch sent to General Sir Guy Carleton, which I think makes it unneces- sary for me to enter into a discussion of that part of your letter which relates to the difficulties that might arise upon a junction of your respective armies. A duplicate of this despatch is sent herewith, which, for fear any accident should happen to the original, you will transmit to Sir Guy Carleton by the first opportunity. And as Lord Howe has the com- mand of the fleet, and there happily subsists the most perfect harmony between you, I flatter myself that there is no occa- sion for me to say anything about the disposal of the trans- ports. With regard to the Forty-Seventh Regiment, I must beg leave to refer you to my former letter of the 2lst of June. The loss of the ordnance store-ship in Boston Bay is an unlucky and very mortifying circumstance; and I am to acquaint you that orders are given for a strict inquiry to be made into that affair. Iam, &c., Gro. GERMAINE. ‘ LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR TRYON. Whitehall August 22, 1776. Sir: I am very glad to find by your letters of the 8th of July, which I received by Lieutenant-Colonel Blunt, that your information of the disposition of the inhabitants of the Province continues to give you ground to expect that when the presence of the Rebel force is removed, and protection held forth by the King’s troops, they will in general give testimony of their fidelity to his Majesty and attachment to the Constitution. The steady loyalty of the people of Staten-Island cannot be too much commended, and their affectionate reception of the troops under General Howe cannot fail to recommend them to the particular favour of Government; and I have the pleasure to acquaint you that it is his Majesty’s command that you do signify to them, in the most publick manner, his Majesty’s very great satisfaction in their conduct, and in the proofs they have given of their loyalty and affection, ind to assure them of his Majesty’s paternal regard and con- stant protection. The next advices we receive from General Howe will, I trust, make it necessary for me to give you some instruc- tions respecting your government. In the mean time I have the satisfaction to repeat the assurances I have been before authorized to give you, that your perseverance in the line of conduct you have adopted, upon such laudable motives, is very much approved by the King. Lam, &c., To Governour Tryon. Gro. GERMAINE. P.S. Mr. Knox having, by my directions, transmitted to the War Office that part of your letter, No. 7, respecting Lieutenants Grant and Campbell, enclosed I send you a copy of the answer thereto. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR CARLETON. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Sir: [have had the honour of laying before the King your letter, dated Montreal, 20th June, 1776, wherein you transmitted to me the agreeable news of the repulse of the Rebels at Trois Rivieres, and of the precipitate manner in which they bad evacuated Canada; and I have the satis- faction to inform you that his Majesty much approves of your conduct, and that of the officers and forces under your command. The zeal manifested by his Majesty’s national and for- eign troops is very commendable; and although the hasty retreat of the enemy deprived them of an opportunity of dis- tinguishing themselves in action, | am thoroughly persuaded that the high opinion which you entertain of them is well founded, and that you will upon no occasion find yourself disappointed in depending upon their fidelity and valour. The very particular and disagreeable situation that you have, in your letter of the 2d June, described Captain Fors- ter to have been in, made it necessary for him to enter into the agreement concerning his prisoners that you have sent me a copy of; the reasons he has given for his conduct are © solid, and show the humane feelings of a brave officer. It is hoped that the prisoners you will have been able to take, will be the means of procuring the release of such of CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. . Army beyond the limits of your own Government. 1104 his Majesty’s officers and loyal subjects as are in the dis- graceful situation of being prisoners to the Rebels; for although it cannot be that you should enter into any agree- ment or treaty with Rebels for a regular cartel for the ex- change of prisoners, yet I doubt not but your own discretion will suggest to you the means of effecting such exchange, without the King’s dignity and honour being committed, or his Majesty’s name used in any negotiation for that purpose; and | am the more strongly urged to point out to you the expediency of such a measure, on account of the possible difficulties which may otherwise occur in the case of foreign troops serving in North-America. I have had the pleasure of finding Captain Le Maitre (who brought your despatches) a very intelligent person, and I had a particular satisfaction in recommending him to his Majes- ty’s favour, as an officer of merit, and one for whom you interest yourself. Tam, &c., Gro. GERMAINE. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR CARLETON. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Sir: I had the honour to lay before the King your letter of the 22d of June, wherein you acquaint me that you had formed the Army under your command into four Brigades, and given the command of them to Lieutenant-Colonel Nesbitt of the Forty-Seventh Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Frazer of the 24th Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Powel of the Fifty-Third, and Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon of the Twenty-Ninth; and his Majasty was pleased to observe thereupon, that those officers might continue to act as Briga- diers until part of your Army should be ordered to join the troops under the command of General Howe, and that then their rank of Brigadiers must cease, in order to prevent the impropriety of their having higher rank and pay than several of the Lieutenant-Colonels who are their seniors in that Army. You will here permit me to inform you that the King, upon reading that part of your letter of the 20th June, where you take notice of the troops under the command of Major- General Phillips, was pleased to observe, that although offi- cers of Artillery, when ordered on duty, certainly command according to their rank and the dates of their commissions, yet that it never has been the custom of the British service, nor, as it is apprehended, of any other in Europe, that either General officers or others of Artillery, should roll in duty with the officers of the line; and that Major-General PAil- lips having acted under you in that predicament, must not in future be considered as a precedent. Tam, &c., &c., Gro. GERMAINE. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR CARLETON. Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Str: The rapid success of bis Majesty’s arms in driving the Rebels out of Canada does great honour to your conduct, and I hope soon to hear that you have been able to pursue them across the Lakes, and to possess those posts upon the frontiers which may more effectually secure your Province from any future insult. His Majesty, in appointing you Commander-in-Chief of his forces in Canada, was pleased to extend your commis- sion to the frontiers of his Provinces bordering thereupon, wisely foreseeing that it might be necessary for the com- pleting your plan of operations, that you should march your I trust before this letter reaches you that you will, by your spirit and activity, have cleared the frontiers of Canada of all the Rebel forces, and will have taken the proper measures for keeping possession of the Lakes. ‘That service being per- formed, his Majesty commands me to acquaint you that there still remains another part of your duty to be under- taken, which will require all your abilities and the strictest application—the restoring peace, and the establishing good order and legal Government in Canada. It is an object of the greatest importance to this country; the difficulties attending it are immense; but his Majesty depends upon your zeal and upon your experience for carrying it into exe- cution. The rewarding those who have preserved their loyalty, and the punishing those who have forsaken their allegiance, will tend to the future safety of your Province, 1105 by convincing the inhabitants that the laws can be executed for the protection of the innocent and the punishment of delinquents. His Majesty, ever anxious for the happiness of his subjects, commands me to inform you that no time should be lost in beginning so important a work, and that you do therefore return to Quebeck, detaching Lieutenant- General Burgoyne, or such other officer as you shall think most proper, with that part of your forces which can be spared from the immediate defence of your Province, to carry on such operations as shall be most conducive to the success of the Army acting on the side of New-York; and that you direct the officer so detached to communicate with, and put himself as soon as possible under the command of, General Howe. You will order such artillery as you will judge necessary to proceed with this detachment. And as a great quantity of heavy cannon and military stores were sent, upon the supposition that Quebeck might have been in the hands of the Rebels, you will, upon requisition from General Howe, supply him with such cannon and stores as may not be wanted for the protection of Canada. I cannot finish this despatch without repeating to you the confidence which his Majesty places in your duty, your zeal, and your attachment to his service; and that you cannot more effectually recommend yourself to his loyal approba- tion and favour than by exerting yourself as successfully in your civil capacity as you have already done in your mili- tary command. Iam, &c., &c., Gro. GERMAINE. LORD GEORGE GERMAINE TO GOVERNOUR CARLETON, Whitehall, August 22, 1776. Sir: The proofs which many of the Indzans have already given of their zeal and fidelity, and the manifest utility which large parties of them must be of to the Army, leaves no room to doubt but you will have exerted every means in your power to induce them to a general declaration in our favour; and the better to enable you to prevail on them to do so, a considerable supply of goods, suitable for presents to them, has been provided; the greatest part of which is sent out on board the Lord Shuldham, armed victualler, now at Cork, in her way to Quebeck, and the remainder will be sent by one of the victuallers which are to sail from hence. Mr. Hey not choosing to return to Quebeck, his Majesty has been pleased to promote Mr. Livius to the office of Chief Justice of the Province in his room. Mr. Southouse, who had lately been appointed Attorney-General, is made a Judge of the Common Pleas for the District of Montreal, and Mr. Monck, Solicitor-General of Nova-Scotia, succeeds Mr. outhouse as Attorney-General. A mistake appearing to have been made in Mr. Owen’s warrant, by appointing him a Judge for the District of De- troit instead of Montreal, a new warrant has been made out which rectifies that mistake, and the Receiver-General will have orders from the ‘Treasury to pay him the salary for the past year, according to his present appointment. Enclosed I send you two intercepted letters of Benefield & Company, merchants at Montreal, which will inform you of their connexion with the Rebels, and the service which they proposed rendering them if they had been suffered to con- tinue in the possession of the Province. Iam, &c., &c., Gero. GERMAINE. SILAS DEANE TO COUNT VERGENNES, Paris, August 22, 1776. Sir: I was this morning informed of the arrival of Mr. Arthur Lee, and that he would be in Paris to-morrow. This was surprising to me, as I knew of no particular affair that might call him here; and considering the extreme jeal- ousy of the British Ministry at this time, and that Mr. Lee was the agent of the United Colonies in Great Britain, and known to be such, I could wish, unless he had received some particular intelligence from the United Colonies, that he had suspended his visit, as I know not otherwise how he can serve me or my affairs, now (with the most grateful sense [ mention it) in as favourable a course as the situation of the times will admit. I have the honour to be, &c., Firtu Series.—Vot. I. Sitas Deane. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1106 C. STEVENSON TO DOCTOR FRANKLIN. St. Eustatia, August 22, 1776. Str: I received some days past a packet from Amsterdam, to my address, for you, which I forwarded by Mr. Russell via Virginia, whose confidence and care I could safely rely on. Yesterday [ received a second, (marked B,) which will be handed you by Mr. Forbes, bound for Philadelphia. I have his assurance of his particular attention, and hope it will be received in safety. I shall at all times be ready to render you my services of this or any other kind without reserve. And am, with every respectful attention, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Corns. Srey . STEVENSON. To Doctor Beryamin Franklin. MARINE COMMITTEE TO COMMODORE HOPKINS. In Marine Committee, Philadelphia, August 22, 1776. Str: As you are now about to return to Ihode-Island, where we understand the Alfred and Cabot remain inactive, we think proper you should exert your utmost endeavours, in conjunction with the commanders of those vessels, to get them equipped and manned with all possible expedition for a six months’ cruise. We think a most important service may be performed by the Alfred, Columbus, Cabot, and Hampden, by despatching them for Newfoundland, with orders to destroy the British fishery there. ‘They must make prize of every British ship or vessel they meet with; they must seize and destroy their fishing boats and stages, and make prisoners of all their fisher- men, or such of them as will not freely enter into our service. And as it Is highly probable they may take more prizes than they can conveniently spare men to bring into port, it may be proper in such case to destroy them. ‘The season is now come when the Newfoundland men begin to load their fish cargoes, consequently no time must be lost; and if the Co- lumbus is not in port when you reach Rhode-Island, you'll despatch the Alfred, Cabot, and Hampden, immediately, ap- pointing such place of rendezvous and such signals as will enable them to meet again in case of separation, and also enable the Columbus to follow and join them; and whenever she returns from her present cruise, you must order her on this service, giving the commander of her a copy of the instructions, signals, &c. We doubt not there are some British ships of war on the Newfoundland station to protect their fishery, and of course our Commanders may act with such caution as to avoid being taken themselves; but we hope this will not prevent a spirited and resolute conduct in the execution of this expedition, which we flatter ourselves will in the event prove highly detrimental to our enemies— honourable and beneficial to the United States of America. These being the objects we have in view, we desire that your orders to the Commanders may be adapted in the best manner your knowledge and experience can devise to obtain the ends proposed. When this small squadron have done the enemy as much mischief as they can in that quarter, they must proceed into the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and there take cruising ground as may be most likely to intercept the supplies of Indian goods and other stores that we suppose will be sent from England for Canada when they know that our troops have evacuated that country. « There is another object well worthy of their attention, but we fear the acquisition of it is too uncertain to found a cruise upon—we mean the capture of Hudson Bay ships, which, in their return, must be very valuable. If the Captains should be of opinion that by dividing their force they can accomplish both these services, we would submit that point to your and their determination. We have no doubt but they will take valuable prizes in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, if the cruising ground is well chosen; and they must send their prizes for such of our ports as they will be most likely to reach with safety. We deliver you herewith some of the Marine books, list of Continental Agents in every State, and several of the printed Declarations of Independence. ‘They may do well to notify the inhabitants of the French Islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon of this Declaration, and sound how the inhabi- 70 1107 tants stand affected towards us, assuring them the French Government favour our cause, and will probably become our allies by treaty. Perhaps our ships may find shelter and protection in these Islands, if the enemy have ships in that quarter too strong for us. Should this fleet take any prizes whose cargoes might be particularly useful to the inhabitants of these States, they may do well to convoy such into port; and if they gain any intelligence that the Commanders think important, they must despatch one of the small vessels with the account to us, putting into the first port, and sending an express with it to the General or to us. You will instruct the Commander of each vessel to write us, by all opportunities, of their proceedings, and of the occurrences they meet with. They must make us monthly returns of their crews, of the supplies made to them, of the provisions, and make copies of their log-books and journals, to be transmitted to us at theirreturn. They must be care- ful of their ships’ stores and materials; use their officers and men in such a manner as will recommend the service, and at the same time preserve strict discipline. ‘They will no doubt, from principles of humanity and generosity, treat their prisoners with all kindness and attention their respective situations and circumstances will admit of ; and we hope their conduct will in all things be such as to merit the continuance of our confidence. You will direct the Commanders of each vessel to be very exact in keeping a list of all persons on board that are entitled to prize-money, mentioning their names, stations, and shares, copies of which they must furnish the Agent or Agents, that receive the prizes, in order that just and equitable distribution of prize-money may in due time be made, ' We also wish to have a full and just valuation of all the cannon, stores, &c., which you brought from Providence that have been appropriated to publick use, or that remain for that purpose ; and we desire you would have the vessels you took and the property in them libelled and tried, in order that such part as is condemned may be sold, the accounts settled, and distribution of the prize-money made. We are, sir, your very humble servants, Joun Hancock, Gero. Watron, Rosr. Morris, Samu. Huntineron, Strep. Hopkins, Fra. Lewis, JosepH Hewes, Geo. Reap. To Esek Hopkins, Esq., Commodore Continental service. MARINE COMMITTEE TO CAPTAIN HACKER. Philadelphia, August 22, 1776. Sir: Since the dates of those orders we have already addressed to John Paul Jones and you, as Commanders of the Brigantine Hampden, we have, in consultation with Commodore Hopkins, altered your destination, as you will learn from him, You are, therefore, to receive fresh orders from the Commodore, and obey them as if from, sir, your very humble servants. To Hoysted Hacker, Esq. MARINE COMMITTEE TO NATHANIEL SHAW, JUN. Philadelphia, August 22, 1776. Sir: Commodore Hopkins recommends the purchase of the armed schooner his fleet lately carried into New-London as an advisable measure for this Committee to adopt; and in hopes to promote the publick service thereby, we now request you will purchase said schooner on the best terms in your power, and assist the Commodore to fit, equip and man her with all possible expedition as a Continental cruiser. He is ordered to offer the command to Captain Chew, of New-London, and we hope he may accept it, as he is so well recommended by your Committee. You will supply this vessel with all necessary provisions and stores for a six months’ cruise, providing the whole on the best terms, and in due time rendering us an account thereof. If you have not money sufficient for his purpose, your draught on us will be duly honoured, by, sir, your very hum- ble servants. To Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., Esq. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1108 MARINE COMMITTEE TO NATHANIEL SHAW, JUN. Philadelphia, August 22, 1776. Sir: The Secret Committee have directed Mr. Barnabas Deane, of Whethersfield, Connecticut, to deliver you sundry articles he has imported on Continental account, which you are to receive for use of the American Navy, granting Mr. Deane a receipt for the whole, in order to answer the accounts of the said Secret Committee; but as Mr. Deane is in want of some of those very articles, as well as others, for the frigate built under his direction, you are to supply any of these, and assist him in procuring any other articles wanted for that ship, charging the same to his account, or to the ship’s, as you shall judge most proper. You are hereafter to render us an account of the expen- diture of all stores you receive or buy on account of the Continent. The salt you will keep for the purpose of putting up pork the ensuing season for the use of the Navy. We are, sir, your humble servants. To Nathaniel Shaw, Jun., Esq. MEMORIAL OF REDMOND BURKE, [Read August 22,1776. Referred to the Board of War. for further consideration. ] To His Excellency the President and the Honourable Mem- bers of Congress: The Memorial of Repmonn Burke: GentLemMeN: Your memorialist having set forth in a for- mer memorial to his Excellency the President, which he begs leave to refer to, that on account of his health and other motives, not necessary to mention, he had obtained leave from General Lincoln to withdraw from the Army in the Southern Department, in order to serve in a more favour- able clime, is sorry now to be under the disagreeable neces- sity to declare some of these motives, which, for very obvious reasons, besides trespassing on your time, might far better be buried in oblivion. ‘They were gross indignities, added to flagrant injuries. A considerable part of the pay and rations granted by Congress being withheld from him for above a year, during the Presidency of Rawlins Lowndes, Esquire, in South-Carolina, and the command of General Howe, notwithstanding repeated applications to his Colonel and these two gentlemen, as will appear from indubitable vouchers; and having applied to General Lincoln* for redress some time after the fall of Savannah, the defeat of Briar Creek, and the loss of our galleys at Purisburgh, your me- morialist was first desired to attest his claim before a magis- trate, though ’twas sufficiently evident, from the date of his commission and the resolve of Congress, together with the certificates of the Paymasters and Commissaries, which were adduced; and having accordingly attested his claim, was then required to get a certificate from his Colonel, then in camp, that he believed the oath to be true. Your memorialist was then at length induced to do what nothing but the vicinity of the enemy could have prevented his doing long before, namely, to gratify his Colonel’s ardent desire, which he had often evinced, by withdrawing from the Army in that depart- ment, in order to try the service elsewhere. ‘The Colonel being in other respects a man of worth, and for a long time particularly friendly to your memorialist, and being since killed in action, ’twould be a painful task to unfold the motives of his pique, or enumerate the many little injustices that proceeded from it; suffice it to say, that to put an end to animosity, he obtained the General’s leave at Purisburgh to withdraw, and informed him of his intention of serving to the northward. And now, gentlemen, he begs to refer you again to his former memorial, which was presented to his Excellency the President of Congress, and which he desired should be laid before the Board of War. ‘The Board have determined upon it in a manner that, ’tis hoped, will appear very injurious and unworthy that fidelity and perseverance with which your memorialist flatters himself he has acted in struggling through innumerable difficulties to rejoin those whom he esteemed his friends, in rejecting overtures made to him both on the Continent and in the Isles, in neglecting very flattering opportunities of comfortably settling amongst Postponed * The memorialist does not mean, in enumerating losses, to reflect on General Lincoln, who is well known to be a brave and faithful servant of the publick. 1109 opulent relations in Jamaica, to say nothing of his service since the very commencement of hostilities, and his having lost, in General Provost’s ravage of South-Carolina, what- ever little property he had by his own industry acquired, his house being pillaged and burned at that time, nor of what is of far greater consequence to him, his having forfeited by his attachment to the American interest whatever claims he might have in the British dominions. He has only further to relate, that since his arrival here, while waiting for the determination of the Board of War, his necessaries were seized on for diet and lodging, and to the liberality of the Freemasons only ’tis owing that he is not now languishing in a prison for debt. ‘The memorialist submits the premises to the candour, justice, and humanity of Congress. Philadelphia, August 22, 1776. On Monday last Captain Alexander Hunter came to town, who was taken last January by Lord Dunmore, and returned to Great Britain, from whence he got a passage in one of the fleet which brought out the second division of Hessians, from which he made his escape in a boat yesterday week. By him we Jearn that the first division of foreign troops sailed the beginning of May; and the second, consisting of twenty- seven sail, the 26th; that they fell in with each other off Sandy-Hook, and came in together on Monday, the 12th instant; that made up about one hundred and ten sail, and contained eight thousand Hesszans and Waldeckers, and one hundred of the English Guards. They were in general healthy, except a little of the scurvy and itch. The Eng- lish troops on Staten-Island were embarking when he left the fleet, and the foreigners were disembarking to encamp on Staten-Island. He also informs that there were five thousand foreigners more to follow in a third division. From the best accounts, we find the force at Staten-Island to be—- General Howe, from Halifax, with - - - - - 8,000 The Scotch, who embarked at Glasgow for Boston, 3,400, out of which 850 were taken by our cruisers, - - - - = = - = = = = = 2,350 The defeated troops under Cornwallis and Clinton from South-Carolina, supposed not more than - 2,500 The two divisions of Hesstans, Waldeckers, and English Guards, which arrived on Monday, the 12th instant,- - - + - - - - - = = 9,000 Lord Dunmore’s scrubby fleet, about fifty fighting men, but with negroes, Tories, &c., - - - - 150 Total, - - - - - - 22,000 Number of Marines unknown. Ships Asia and Eagle, of sixty-four guns, the Roebuck and Phenix, of forty-four, one bomb, and about twenty frigates and sloops-of-war. ‘They have also about three hundred sail of transports, store-ships and prizes. Some persons, in calculating the above, add fifteen hun- dred, as part of the Army destined for Carolina, of whose arrival we have not had any account, either at South-Caro- lina or Staten-Island. BERKS COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. In Committee of Inspection and Observation for Berks County, at Reading, August 22, 1776. Mr. Berie Hertel de Rouville, and his son Mr. Jean Bap- tiste de Rouville, having represented to this Committee that they are in great want of money for their support during their stay at Reading, and that if one of them could go to the city of Philadelphia, he could negotiate business with Monsieur Picotte de Bellestre, in Bucks County, and procure from him a necessary supply of money for the support of them, the said Messieurs de Rouville, and therefore praying the permission of this Committee for one of them to go to Philadelphia on the business aforesaid, the Committee grant permission to the said Mr. Jean Baptiste de Rowville to go directly to the said city of Philadelphia, and to be absent on the business aforesaid for the space of ten days from his departure to-morrow evening, under an engagement to pre- sent himself to the honourable the Council of Safety of Penn- sylvania, and to exhibit to them this passport immediately on his arrival in the city. By order of the said Committee: James Reap, Chairman. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1110 In Committee of Safety, August 26, 1776. Allowed to pass to Bristol for the purpose above-men- tioned. i Samu. Morris, Chairman. COLONEL WILSON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read August 26, 1776. Referred to Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Franklin, Mr. J. Adams.] Amboy, August 22, 1776. Sir: A number of copies of the resolutions of Congress offering rewards to the foreign troops who will desert the service of Great Britain, have been transmitted here. Per- mit me to express my surprise that no distinction is made between officers and privates. Several other gentlemen— one of them a German, well acquainted with the manner and disposition of his countrymen—have signified their con- cern on this account. I am informed that a Colonel in the Hessian Army has given intimations that he would willingly listen to overtures. Perhaps it is not yet too late to offer additional rewards to officers in proportion to their rank and pay. Iam, with much esteem, sir, your very humble servant, James Wixson. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of the Con- gress. GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. {Read August 26, 1776.] New-York, August 22, 1776. Sir: I do myself the honour to transmit Congress a copy of a letter I received yesterday evening by express from General Livingston ; also, copies of three reports from Co- lonel Hand. Though the intelligence reported by the spy on his return to General Livingston has not been confirmed by the event he mentions, (an attack last night,) there is every reason to believe that one is shortly designed. The falling down of several ships yesterday evening to the Narrows, crowded with men, those succeeded by many more this morning, and a great number of boats parading around them, as I was just now informed, with troops, are all circumstances indicating an attack, and it is not improbable it will be made to-day. It could not have happened last night, by reason of a most violent gust. We are making every preparation to receive them; and [I trust, under the smiles of Providence, with our own exertions, that my next, if they do attack, will transmit an account that will be pleasing to every friend of America and to the rights of humanity. I have the honour to be, with all possible respect, sir, your most obedient servant, GHRW satikiorow Elizabeth-Town, August 21, 1776. May iT PLEASE your Excetvency: In the utmost haste I must inform you, that very providentially I sent a spy last night on Staten-Island to obtain intelligence of the move- ments of the enemy, as many things, apparently new, were seen from our lines. He has this moment returned in safety. The substance of his information I must give you in short. He went on the Island about midnight, and got, undiscovered, to the house of the person to whom he was sent, who in- formed him that the whole force of the enemy, of every kind, was thirty-five thousand men, fifteen thousand of whom were left on the Island, but all the rest embarked; that they ex- pected to attack every hour, he thinks this night at farthest. It was to be on Long-Island and up the North Rwer. That the fifteen thousand men were to land and attack at Bergen Point, Elizabeth-Town Point, and at Amboy. He has heard the orders read, and heard the Generals talk of it. The wagons are all laid out and ready; that they appear very determined, and will put all to the sword. ‘They are in great want of provisions; pork tolerably good, but flour exceedingly bad. ‘They have eat up all the cattle, and are now killing and barrelling up all the horses they meet with. All the field-pieces are taken on board except two. The informant may be depended on, being employed by the General, and carries his baggage. He has been employed in purchasing cattle; he has given ten pounds for a cow, and ten dollars fora sheep. ‘That the Tories on the Island are very illy treated lately, so that the inhabitants, who at first 1111 were so pleased, would now be willing to poison them all ; they take from them everything they choose, and no one has anything they can call their own. I am, with great respect, your Excellency’s most humble ant sha Spe Witt. Livineston. To His Excellency General Washington, at New-York. The Bearer is to pass all ferries and posts, and to be hastened with all speed. Wut. Livingston. Narrows, August 21, 1776. Sir: Twelve small vessels and two men-of-war came in from sea late yesterday evening. The small craft and one of the men-of-war joined the fleet at the watering place. Some of the blue-coated gentry embarked yesterday after- noon below the Narrows, and then moved up. The Admi- ral had a large company on board in the evening; his ship was ornamented by displaying a variety of colours on the occasion. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Epwo. Hanp. To General Nixon. Narrows, August 21, 1776, nine o’clock. Sir: Since I reported this morning, nineteen transports have been filled with men, and they still continue to em- bark. I am, sir, yours, &c., To General Nixon. Epwp. Hanp. Narrows, August 21, 1776, five o’clock, P. M. Sir: There are at least fourteen sail of transports, some of them crowded with men, now under sail; and more, from the noise, are hoisting anchor. Those under sail move down as fast as they get from among the fleet. I am, sir, yours, &c., To General Nixon. Epwp. Hanp. LORD STIRLING TO COLONEL NIXON. August, 1776. Dear Sir: I have taken the earliest opportunity of com- municating your letter of this day, with the paper enclosed, to the General. He has ordered me to tell you, that while one regiment only was on Governour’s Island, he never had an application of the like kind; that since he has reinforced it with another regiment, several of those applications have been made; that in our present situation Governour’s Island is more strong and better guarded than any other post of the Army; that when the expected reinforcements arrive, your post will have a proportional reinforcement; and that in the mean time it is your duty to make the best defence you can with the force under your command, ever relying that the General will pay the highest attention to every post, and particularly to so important a one as that which is under your immediate command. I have the honour to be, &c., Sriruing, Brigadier-General. To Colonel John Nixon. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEW-YORK, DATED AUGUST 22, 1776. This night we have reason to expect the grand attack from our barbarian enemies; the reasons why, follow: The night before last, a lad went over to Staten-Island, supped there with a friend, and got safe back again undiscovered ; soon after he went to General Washington, and upon good authority reported, that the English Army, amounting to fifteen or twenty thousand, had embarked, and were in readi- ness for an engagement; that seven ships of the line, and a number of other vessels of war, were to surround this city, and cover their landing; that the Hessians, being fifteen thousand, were to remain on the Island, and attack Perth- Amboy, Elizabeth-Town Point, and Bergen, while the main body were doing their best here; that the Highlanders ex- pected America was already conquered, and that they were only to come over and settle on our lands, for which reason CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1112 they had brought their churns, ploughs, &c.; being deceived, they had refused fighting, upon which account General Howe had shot one, hung five or six, and flogged many. Last evening, in a violent thunder-storm, Mr. (a very intelligent person) ventured over. He brings much the same account as the above lad, with this addition, that all. the horses on the Island were, by Howe’s orders, killed, bar- relled up, and put on board, the wretches thinking that they could get no landing here, and of consequence be soon out of provision. ‘That the Tories were used cruelly, and with the Highlanders were compelled to go on board the ships to fight in the character of common soldiers against us. ‘The British Army are prodigiously incensed against the Tories, and curse them as the instruments of the war now raging. Mr. further informs, that last night the fleet were to come up, but that the thunder-storm prevented. ‘The truth of this appears, from the circumstance of about three thou- sand red-coats landing at ten o’clock this morning on Long- Island, where, by this time, it is supposed our people are hard at it. There is an abundance of smoke to-day on Long-Island, our folks having set fire to stacks of hay, &c., to prevent the enemy’s being benefited in case they get any advantage against us. All the troops in the city are in high spirits, and have been under arms most of the day, as the fleet have been in motion, and are now, as is generally thought, only waiting for a change of tide. Forty-eight hours or Jess, I believe, will determine it as to New- York, one way or the other. The thunder-storm of last evening was one of the most dreadful I ever heard; it lasted from seven to ten o'clock. Several claps struck in and about the city; many houses damaged; several lives lost. Three officers, a Captain and two Lieutenants, belonging to Colonel McDougall’s regi- ment, encamped opposite to us, were struck instantly dead, the points of their swords for several inches melted, with a few silver dollars they had in their pockets; they (the per- sons) were seemingly roasted. A dog in the same tent was also killed; a soldier near it struck blind, deaf, and dumb. One in the main street was killed, as likewise ten on Long- Island; two or three were much burnt and greatly hurt. When God speaks, who can but fear? PETITION OF ABEL NOBLE AND PETER TOWNSEND. To the Honourable House of Convention of the Represen- tatives of the State of New-York: The Petition of Apex Nosue and Peter Townsenp, Pro- prietors of Srirtine Iron Works, humbly showeth : That your petitioners having contracted to make about sixteen tons of large anchors, eighteen tons of bar iron, and five tons of steel, for the Continental service, have, for the making the said anchors, constructed a new anchor work, as the bellows and cranes of the old works were not sufficient for the wroughting cf anchors of twenty-seven and _ thirty hundred weight; but forasmuch as the artificers and labour- ers have been and still are liable to be draughted out of the Militia, your petitioners will not be able to perform their con- tract unless the said artificers and labourers are protected from serving in the said Militia: Your petitioners therefore most humbly pray that your Honours will be pleased to grant a protection to so many artificers and labourers as are mentioned in the schedule hereto annexed, from serving in the said Militia, until the said contract shall be performed, and also to the number of hands mentioned in the said schedule for carrying on the furnace, which is now under blast, and which must unavoidably stop unless such protec- tion be granted. And your petitioners shall ever pray, Xc. Ase Noste, Perer Townsenp. SCHEDULE. For the Anchor Work. 5 Firemen, thatis, one to each fire, 2 Tenders, with coal and other 10 Sledgemen, needfuls. For the Steel Works—Six Fires. 6 Firemen, 1 Smith, 6 Assistants, 2 Colliers, 1 Stock taker, 1 Carpenter, 1 Clerk for the above steel, 10 Colliers’ hands, 4 Coal carters, Likewise 1 Carpenter. 1113 Forge for making Anchor and Bar Iron, 5 Firemen, to work at the fires, 3 Head colliers, 5 do, Assistants, 15 hands, labourers for the colliers, 1 Stock taker, 6 Coal carters, for the forge and 1 Carpenter, anchor work, 1 Blacksmith, 1 Clerk, for the forge and anchor 1 Teamsman, to cart pigs from the work, furnace to the forge, 1 Overseer, for the forge and anchor 1 Turner, work, 1 Founder, 1 Smith, 1 Keeper, 4 Miners, 2 Mine carters, 10 Coal carters, 5 Master colliers, * 95 Colliers’ labourers, 1 Furnace clerk, 1 Overseer or chief manager. 2 Fillers of the farnace, 2 Pounders of ore, 1 Mine burner, 1 Stock taker, 1 Gutterman, 2 Carpenters, 1 Wagon-maker and mender. Ase. Nosie, Prerer TownseEnD. GENERAL HEATH TO GENERAL MIFFLIN. King’s Bridge, August 22, 1776. Dear Str: As his Excellency the Commander-in-Chief has thought fit to appoint a Court to inquire into the conduct of the Captain of the row-galleys in the late action up the river, and seems desirous that all the information possible should be obtained from home, and that you, in particular, should attend, if you could be spared—if nothing extraordi- nary should happen in the morning, I would have you ride to the city and attend the Court, which is to sit at ten o’clock. I think it would be best also to take two or three gentlemen with you who seem to be best acquainted with the affair. I am, dear sir, your humble servant, W. Hearn. To General Mifflin. CADWALLADER COLDEN, JUN., TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Coldenham, August 22, 1776. Dear Sir: Your favour of the 16th of July I had not the honour to receive till the evening of the 31st, and am sorry that I am still under the necessity of troubling you again on the same subject, though not from the same disagreeable place. Upon the receipt of your letter, I wrote to the County Committee, which I heard was to sit the 6th of Au- gust, desiring them to reconsider my case, and also got some of my friends to attend their meeting, who inform me that the Committee was about coming to a resolve that, as I had appealed to the Congress, (now the Convention of the Re- presentatives of the State of New-York,) I should remain in jail till discharged by them; but, with much difficulty, my friends prevailed with them to accept of security for my abiding on my own farm until fully discharged by your honourable Board; upon which I was sent for, and gave security accordingly. 1 then desired to have a copy of the proceedings of the County Committee in my case, in order to lay before your Board, which was refused; but they resolved to send a copy to you. I sent to the Chairman, ten days ago, to know if he had sent them, and informed him that | wanted to apply to your Board for my discharge, and that it was necessary you should be furnished with what the Committee had to allege against me, and the minutes of their proceedings thereon. He said he could not get ready the copy of those papers in less than eight days. Yesterday | sent to him again, and the papers were not yet made out, but Mr. Boyd said they should be ready by this morning. I think it hard that I am not allowed a sight of those pa- pers. However, am confident, if they have the least regard to decency and truth, they can’t contradict one assertion contained in my petition to your honourable Board. Per- haps they may not send a copy of my last letter to the Com- mittee ; therefore shall send a copy of it by the bearer, for your perusal, as it contains an explanation of a sentence that passed from me when before the Committee the first time, which I have not touched upon in my petition, but . they may perhaps have made use of it against me. Since 1 wrote that letter, it has occurred to me that perhaps the reason of my being disappointed in meeting with that relief I so confidently expected from your Board, was owing to the mode of application, which I did not advert to when I first applied to you. _ I hope the enclosed petition will be more unexceptionable, and that you will please to lay it before the honourable Convention, and use your good CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1114 offices that the prayer thereof may be granted, to, sir, your most obedient, most humble servant, Canp’r Cotpen, Jun. To Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq., President of the Convention of the Representatives of the State of New-York. P. S. One great reason that I am so solicitous to have my discharge is, that I want to be at liberty to go to see my honoured ancient father once more, who, I am sure, must be overwhelmed with grief and anxiety, at this critical mo- ment, for the fate of a country in which he must soon leave all that is dear to him. GENERAL WATERBURY TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, August 22, 1776. Dear Generat: You may rely upon my diligence in for- warding the galleys as fast as possible. ‘The business has been much retarded by so many of the carpenters being sick, and the misfortune I met with in hurting my leg, which for some days has rendered me incapable of attending upon the busi- ness ; but my leg is growing better fast, and shall endeavour to forward the business with all possible despatch. I have been very uneasy myself that the galleys are not completed before now. I sent an express to Albany some days ago for deck nails and other necessaries, for the galleys, which will be here to- morrow, without fail. In compliance with the General’s request, I shall send to Albany to General Schuyler for what necessaries we shall want for the shipping. Instead of a thousand axes his Honour Governour Trum- bull mentioned in his letter, there was but eight hundred and two came to hand. I shall send the remainder by this con- veyance. I am, dear General, your Honour’s most obedient, hum- ble servant, To General Gates. Davin Wartersory, Jun. GENERAL GATES TO EGBERT BENSON. r Tyonderoga, August 22, 1776. Dear Sir: The 29th ultimo I granted Doctor Stringer, at his earnest request, a permission to go to New-York with all expedition, to procure medicines for the General Hospital and Army in this department. He made me a solemn pro- mise he would not delay an instant in returning to his duty, with the medicinal stores so much wanted, and which the troops here are almost ready to mutiny to obtain. I am this day informed that Doctor Stringer, instead of fulfilling bis promises and returning with all imaginable despatch to his duty, is gone a preferment hunting to the Congress at Phila- delphia, while the troops here are suffering inexpressible distress for want of medicines. I entreat, sir, you will instantly lay this letter before General Washington, and re- ceive his commands for sending a supply of medicines to Doctor Potts, at Lake George. Not one of the ten chests of medicines, which you told me at New-York were sent to the ten regiments that marched in the spring from thence, have ever been received by either of those regiments; there- fore be sure you send the supply now demanded by some person whose particular duty it will be to see it delivered to Doctor Potts. Many of the Regimental Surgeons here have not any medicines, nor do I believe there is a pound of bark in the whole camp. I cannot be long answerable for the consequences of the shameful neglect of the Army in this department. The United States expect the same good ser- vice from their troops here as everywhere else. ‘This they cannot have, unless they command the same attention to be paid the health of their soldiers here as elsewhere. I am, dear sir, your affectionate humble servant, Ho. Gates. [Copy to Dr. John Morgan, Director-General of the Hospitals. ] COLONEL HARTLEY TO GENERAL GATES. Crown-Point, August 22, 1776. Honouren Sir: A small reconnoitring party which I sent down towards Gilliland’s is just now returned. ‘The Cor- poral tells me all is very quiet there; that Gilliland and the few other inhabitants there had informed him that there had been no appearance of an enemy since the flag of truce came up; that Gilliland seemed very friendly, and was very 1115 anxious to know our operations, but received very little satis- faction from the party. Gilliland also mentioned, that Captain Frazier had told him that there were no parties of Regulars out, but forty Indians had, contrary to the desire of the officers at the Isle-aux-Noix, passed the sentries and insisted upon going to war; and that that party of Indians were out when Frazier was at McCauley’s. The Indians may have returned back, but it is possible they still may be up this way. ‘The scout- ing parties ought to be very careful, I am, sir, your most humble and obedient servant, Tuos. Hartey. Newport, August 22, 1776. By a gentleman from Dartmouth we are assured that a privateer belonging to Fair-Haven had taken a very large Jamaica ship, with seven hundred hogsheads of sugar, two hundred hogsheads of rum, and a large quantity of cotton. This ship was so valuable that the Captain of the privateer, who was the best pilot for the Eastern-Shore of any on board, went on board the ship to carry her in, and was parted with by the privateer last Sunday week. The pri- vateer is arrived with more prisoners than men belonging to her. GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, August 22, 1776. Sir: Yesterday I received your favour of the 7th instant, and make no doubt you have received mine of the 12th and 13th instant, to which I beg leave to refer. I find, by my son’s letter of the 17th, you have returned to Albany, and was so full of business you had not time to write me. Shall be obliged to you for such particulars of the treaty with the Indians as may be communicated, when your leisure will permit. The axes and clothing are already sent by the same route you direct in your last to Skenesborough. 1 am in- formed the last ten or fifteen miles of that road are difficult to pass; and as a ready communigation with the Army is of importance, | hope it may be mended and made passable. IT now enclose you an account of the cost of the axes and estimate of the cost of transportation, also an account of the sums advanced to the head carpenters, and also to the sea Captains, to enable them to raise men for the Lake service. Since my last, Captain David Hawley, of Fairfield, and Captain Frederick Chappel, of New-Haven, have been with me, and have undertaken, each of them, to raise a company of seamen, and proceed to Ticonderoga with all expedition. I have recommended them to General Washington, and requested him to permit them to inlist seamen out of our Militia now at New-York. I have advanced to each of them £100, being the same sum advanced Captain Warner before, making £540 in the whole. It is agreed to allow said Captains six shillings for each seaman they shall inlist, for their trouble and expenses. I likewise enclose you invoices of clothing already sent forward for the use of the Northern Army; more is providing and will be forwarded as soon as possible, with tents for our troops serving there, of which I have to request you to advise Congress, before whom I shall lay the accounts for pay- ment. I send the clothing to you without their particular orders for that purpose, but not without thinking it absolutely necessary. Our furnace at Salisbury continues in blast. I have given the overseer orders to prepare the swivels you request as fast as can be done conveniently without putting a stop to cast- ing cannon. Six, nine, and twelve-pounders are cast there. Should any of them be wanted at the northward, shall be willing to supply you as far as in our power. ‘The bearer will stop at the furnace, and procure a more full and particu- lar account when the swivels will be ready, and inform you. Would you have them sent out by the way of Skenesborough, or to the North River as before proposed ? Inoculation for the small-pox, I find, has been practised by troops on their march to join your Army. I hope a practice so pernicious in every respect will be discouraged. I have taken the liberty to suggest my fears and sentiments to General Gates on this subject. Indeed, sir, if it is not timely restrained, it appears to me it must prove fatal to all our operations, and may ruin the country. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1116 In obedience to orders from Congress, I have appointed the Regimental Paymasters to the regiments from this Co- Jony. I think the measure a good one, but am told that Congress has never marked out their duty, nor given any instructions on that head. I flatter myself it is now in your power to discharge the balance due to us on last year’s account. With that hope, the bearer, one of our Committee of Pay-Table, waits on you, and by him shall likewise hope to receive the sums due on the account for axes and cash advanced to carpenters and seamen, now enclosed to you. Yours, &c., &c., To Major-General Schuyler. J. TrumBuw.. Boston, August 22, 1776. Last Thursday was sent into Marblehead, by the Franklin vessel-of-war, Captain Skimmer, and on Saturday last was conveyed round to this harbour, a brig from St. Augustine, bound for Bristol, with five thousand raw and half-dressed deer skins, and about two tons of indigo. There were on board of said brig a Lieutenant, a Sergeant, and a Drummer, of the Fourteenth Regiment, going on the recruiting service. Monday last arrived at Portsmouth a vessel from Holland, laden with dry goods, drugs, spices, &c. GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, August 22, 1776. Sir: Your Excellency’s letter of the 13th instant came to hand last evening, and, agreeable to your directions, I shall order Captain Burbeck, with bis company of Artillery and the company of Artificers, to march as soon as possible for Norwich, and from thence to go by water to Norwalk and New-York. I am your Exceliency’s most obedient, humble servant, Artemas Warp. To General Washington. . P.S. Major Wadsworth was appointed Major of Brigade to this division of the Army the 22d day of April; and when the Continental regiments were ordered to New-York and Ticonderoga, as the brigade was divided, I directed him to do duty as Brigade-Major to the regiments that are ordered in to take the place of the Continental regiments, until further orders. THOMAS RICE TO JAMES WARREN, Pownalborough, August 22, 1776. Srr: In obedience to the recommendations of the General Court, I have obtained what subscriptions I could in the east Precinct in said town for the exchanging hard money for Continental bills, and herewith transmit the same. I found in general a ready mind amongst the people, but they had not ability. Our means of getting money, not only in this town but County, is at an end; and what little the people had, they were obliged to part with for the necessaries of life. Everything the people have in their power to do for the publick weal they are in general ready to perform, and hope impossibilities are not expected. I am, in behalf of the Committee of Correspondence, &c., your Honour’s most obedient, humble servant, Tuos. Rice. To Hon. James Warren, Esq. We whose names are hereunto subscribed, not only in obedience to the recommendation of the General Court, but from an earnest and sincere desire to promote the liberty and happiness of America, do voluntarily offer to exchange hard money for Continental bills, when called upon therefor, to the amount of the number of dollars affixed to cur respec- tive names, to be applied to carrying on the war in Canada. Ebenezer Whittier...........840 John Barber......$30 John Langdon, Jun......... 35 Thos. Rvce....... ee | MASSACHUSETTS COUNCIL TO PETER PENNIMAN, In Council, August 23, 1776. GentLemen: The Council have received yours of the 20th instant, and have ordered the Sheriff of the County of 1117 Worcester to remove all the prisoners in the town of Mendon to the town of Grafton. Every officer that has had a ser- vant allowed him is to support his servant so long as he retains as such; and if any officer refuses to do it, he is not to be allowed any servant for the future. And that the servant who has been dismissed be sent to the Sheriff of the County of Worcester, to be by him confined in jail, unless he will consent to go to labour for his support in such town, and to continue within the limits thereof as you shall appoint him. To the Committee of Correspondence in the Town of Men- don. NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO ELIJAH GROUT AND SELECTMEN OF CHARLESTOWN, NO, 4; In Committee of Safety, August 22, 1776. GenttemMeNn: A letter from General Gates complains loudly of the conduct of some persons acting as physicians in your town, inoculating soldiers for the small-pox, thereby hindering them from joining the Army where there is no danger of the infection; and that he fears by their means the disorder will be spread in the new Army. We are of opi- nion, that there is great danger that the small-pox may be carried from Number Four to the Army, which, if it should happen, will be of the most destructive consequence; there- fore recommend it to you to put an immediate stop to inocu- lation in your town, and take the most strict care to have all infection cleansed, which will ease the minds of our bre- thren in the Army, and probably prevent much damage to them. To Elijah Grout, Esq., and Selectmen of Charlestown. BENJAMIN HARRISON, JUN., TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Virginia, Williamsburgh, August 23, 1776. Honourasce Sir: Ido myself the honour to transmit you an account of the state of my office at this day. Balance on hand, $140,856§. The 20th instant is pay-day again to the whole Army, and after the warrants are discharged, I shall send another account, that the honourable Congress may judge when I shall want money again. I have the honour to be, your very obedient servant, Bens. Harrison, Jun., Deputy Paymaster-General. To the Hon. John Hancock, Esq. MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN DARNES. [No. 155.] Annapolis, August 23, 1776. Str: It was represented to our Board that your company had but about forty muskets, those very indifferent, and that there was not any probability of your getting a sufficient number to make up the deficiency. Upon this information, as the Convention has directed us to despatch all the compa- nies of Flying-Camp Militia that could be armed with the utmost despatch, and as Captain Deans wanted but a. few effective arms to complete his company, we issued the orders, which we should not have done had we been truly informed of your circumstances. Advise us of the number you have delivered to Captain Deans, and we will replace them as soon as possible, that your company may march. We have not.any linen. We are, &c. To Captain Darnes. * MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO EDWARD PARKER. [No. 156.] Annapolis, August 23, 1776. Sir: We will take the blankets you told Captain Nor- wood you could procure for the publick, fifty for his com- pany, and the remainder you will keep till further orders. Be pleased to have them valued by two gentlemen who may be indifferent, and the price shall be paid to you or your order, on transmitting the account. We are, &c. To Mr. Edward Parker. J. NICHOLSON, JUN., TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Queen Anne’s County, August 23, 1776. Sir: Captain Darnes has been exceedingly active in endeavouring to arm his company of the Flying-Camp, to CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1118 march to the northward. He has nearly got them equipped for that purpose. He only wants thirty fire-locks, which he can procure from Winters, provided he can obtain the con- sent of the Council of Safety; without which, he will not spare them, as he looks upon them to belong to the publick, in consequence of his contract. Captain Darnes has been encouraged by me to make application to you for them, upon a supposition that that part of the Flying-Camp which be- longs to the Western Shore will be armed there. Indeed, if Captain Darnes obtains the consent of the Council to get Winters’s arms, it will be the means of getting off Captain Fiddiman’s company likewise, because Captain Darnes will then be able to spare some guns from his company, which are inferior to Winters’s arms, but at the same time are so much superior to any Fiddiman is likely to procure for his company, that he will gladly accept of them, and march off early next week. I shall do myself the pleasure of waiting upon the Council next week, as soon as Mr. Johnson is elected for Caroline, which will immediately be the case, without opposition. I speak thus, from assurances made me by every man of in- terest and note in the County, every one of whom I have had personal interviews with. I congratulate you on the favourable turn our affairs are likely to take in Canada. I ain, with much respect, sir, your very humble servant, J. Nicuouson, Jun. To the Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, President, &c. APPOINTMENT OF JAMES WHITE AS DEPUTY-COMMISSARY OF THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA. Philadelphia, August 23, 1776. To all whom it may concern: Be it known, that Colonel Joseph Trumbull, Commissary-General, has thought proper to appoint me Commissary for the States of New-Jersey and Pennsylvania; and in consequence thereof, I have thought proper to appoint James White Deputy-Commissary for the Province of Pennsylvania. The allowance for the troops marching through to Head- Quarters, is one pound of beef per man per day, one pound of bread per man per day, and one gill of rum per man per day, or three pence in lieu thereof, six pounds of candles per week for one hundred men for guards, and eight pounds of soap for one hundred men per week. I do certify, that the above allowance is issued at Amboy and the other posts in New-Jersey, agreeable to my instruc- tions from Colonel Trumbull, Commissary-General. CarpPENTER WHaRTON. MARINE COMMITTEE TO LIEUTENANT BALDWIN. Philadelphia, August 23, 1776. Sir: The Continental schooner Wasp, under your com- mand, being now thoroughly repaired, well fitted, equipped, and manned, you are immediately to proceed in said schooner on a cruise against the enemies of these States. We deliver you herewith a Marine book, by which you will know who are our enemies, and also how to conduct yourself in con- formity to the Continental Rules and Regulations. You have likewise a list of the Agents in the several States, to some of whom you must address the prizes you take. We deliver you herewith a letter for a gentleman in Ber- muda, which is of much consequence to America. You are therefore to proceed with the utmost expedition to Port Ellis, at the east end of that Island, and deliver the said letter as quickly as possible; receive from him any others he may send ‘in return; and as you will then be near the best cruising ground for West-India ships, you may make a cruise about that latitude, for such length of time as your provi- sions will enable you to keep the sea, unless success should tempt you to return much sooner with a good prize. Use your people well, but preserve strict discipline ; treat prisoners, if any you make, with humanity, and in all things be duly attentive to the honour and interests of America. If you can get any seamen at Bermuda, ship as many as you can accommodate, and bring us the best account you can obtain of the state and condition of that Island with respect to provisions, number of inhabitants, what cannon, arms, &c., they have there, and inquire particularly after any British men-of-war that have been there, that are there, or 1119 that are expected. Should you be unfortunately taken, either going to or after you leave Bermuda, be sure to destroy all letters you may have for us from that Island. Should you gain any intelligence you may think important, you must quit all other pursuits to inform us thereof as soon as possible. Wishing you success, we are, sir, your humble servants. To Lieutenant John Baldwin, commanding the Schooner Wasp. PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE, “In Committee of Inspection and Observation for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, June 1, 1776: “‘ Whereas the Honourable Continental Congress, by their Resolve of the 30th of May, empowered the said Commit- tee to regulate the price of Salt: Therefore, Resolved, That the said article of Salt shall not exceed the following prices, viz: coarse Salt, 7s. 6d. per bushel, 3s. 9d. the half bushel, and 2s. per peck; fine Salt, 8s. per bushel, 4s. the half bushel, and 2s. 2d. per peck.” And whereas Stephen Shewell and Joseph Shewell, in- habitants of this City, have knowingly counteracted said Resolution of the Ist of June, by selling coarse Salt at 12s. per bushel, and 1s. 6d. the half peck, and fine Salt at 2s. the half peck; and being charged with a breach of said Re- solve before this Committee, Joseph Shewell, being present, acknowledged the charge to be just: Therefore this Committee, in discharge of the duty they owe to the publick, and in order to show to the world their resolution to support their limitations, which they are of opinion are founded on just and generous principles, after giving them previous notice, do declare and hold up to the world the aforesaid Stephen Shewell and Joseph Shewell as enemies to their country, and preclude them from all trade or intercourse with the inhabitants of these States. Committee-Chamber, August 23, 1776. NatTHANIEL DonneELL, Sec. pro tempore. ORDERS. Head-Quarters, Woodbridge, August 23, 1776. The Battalions of Associators from the City of Philadel- hia having completed six weeks’ military service for the defence of the Colony of New-Jersey, are hereby, agreeable to orders of Convention, relieved from further duty on this station, and directed to proceed to Philadelphia as soon as the necessary accommodations for their march can be pro- cured. General Mercer takes this opportunity to return his hearty thanks to those gentlemen for the readiness with which they have, on every occasion, executed such parts of the military service as their stations required. H. Mercer, Brig. Gen. EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED ELIZABETH-TOWN, AUGUST 23, 1776. Last week I left the Army upon the Mohawk River, at the breaking up of the treaty with the Indians. We had present nineteen hundred and sixty-six, including men, wo- men, and children, of the Indians, who have solemnly engaged for a strict neutrality. Both the passes into Canada are now so well fortified that I think we have no reason to apprehend the enemy will enter that way. The fort on the pass from the Mohawk River to Wood Creek, called Fort Stanwix, has been repaired by Colonel Dayton’s regiment, by the order of General Schuyler. It is a very important station, and I believe, without exception, the strongest fort on the Continent. A wide ditch is sunk round it, about ten feet deep, the glaces on the outside are raised six feet above the surface, and the wall of the fort within the ditch ten feet, and that is picketed upon the top. We have several pieces of cannon, from six to twelve- pounders, and the passes up Wood Creek can be stopped in a few hours, so that no artillery or baggage can be brought from the Lakes, and small-arms cannot hurt us. This fort upon the 5th instant we honoured with the name of our worthy General—Fort Schuyler. CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 1120 GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS, [Read August 26, 1776.] New-York, August 23, 1776. Sir: I beg leave to inform Congress, that yesterday morning, and in the course of the preceding right, a con- siderable body of the enemy, amounting by report to eight or nine thousand, and these all British, landed from the transport ships mentioned in my last, at Gravesend-Bay, on Long-Island, and have approached within three miles of our lines, having marched across the low cleared grounds near the woods at Flatbush, where they are halted, from my last intelligence. I have detached from hence six battalions, as a reinforce- ment to our troops there, which are all that I can spare at this time, not knowing but the fleet may move up with the remainder of their Army, and make an attack here, on the next flood tide. If they do not, I shall send a further rein- forcement, should it be necessary, and have ordered five battalions more to be in readiness for that purpose. I have no doubt but a little time will produce some important events. I hope they will be happy. ‘The reinforcement detached yesterday went off in high spirits; and I have the pleasure to inform you, that the whole of the Army, that are effective and capable of duty, discover the same, and great cheerful- ness. I have been obliged to appoint Major-General Sullivan to the command on the Island, owing to General G'reene’s indisposition. He has been extremely ill for several days, and still continues bad. By yesterday evening’s post I received a letter from Ge- neral Ward, enclosing a copy of the invoice of ordnance stores taken by Captain Manley, with the appraisement of the same, made in pursuance of my direction founded on the order of Congress, which I do myself the honour of trans- mitting. You will also receive the treaty between the Commis- sioners and the Indians of the Six Nations and others at the German-Flats, which General Schuyler requested me to forward, by his letter of the 18th instant. I have the honour to be, with great respect, sir, your most obedient servant, Gu AMLsesare GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL HEATH. Head-Quarters, New-York, August 23, 1776. Sir: Yesterday morning the enemy landed at G'ravesend Bay, upon Long-Island, from the best information I can obtain, to the number of about eight thousand. Colonel Hand retreated before them, burning, as he came along, seve- ral parcels of wheat, and such other matters as he judged would fall into the enemy’s hands. Our first accounts were, that they intended, by a forced march, to surprise General Sullivan’s (who commands during the illness of General Greene) lines; whereupon I immediately reinforced that post with six regiments. But they halted last night at Flatbush. If they should attack General Sullivan this day, and should show no disposition to attack me likewise, at the making of the next flood, I shall send such reinforcements to Long- Island as 1 may judge expedient, not choosing to weaken this post too much, before I am certain that the enemy are not making a feint upon Long-Island, to draw our force to that quarter, when their real design may perhaps be upon this. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, Go. WasHINGTON, To the Hon. Major-General Heath, at King’s Bridge. P.S. The flood tide will begin to make about eleven o’clock, at which time, if the detachment ordered yesterday were to move to the high and open grounds about Mr. O. De Lancey’s and Bloomingdale, they would be ready to come forward, or return back, as occasion should require; it will give them a little exercise, and show them wherein they are wanting in any matter. COLONEL COOKE TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. New-York, August 23, 1776. Honovurep Sir: Upon the recommendation of your Ho- nour of the 12th instant, a number of able-bodied effective _ men, not obliged to do duty in any train-band, with sundry gentlemen of the Horse, within the limits of my regiment, 1121 amounting in all to fifty-two men, among which are a very considerable number of old commission officers, voluntarily engaged in the publick service for this present important emergency, and yesterday I here led them to the choice of officers; and by a major vote they nominated the following persons, viz: Joseph Smith, Jun., for their Captain; John Trowbridge, Jun., Lieutenant; and Eleazer Hubbee, En- sign; and have joined themselves to my regiment as a distinct company. I therefore desire your Honour to send them commissions. With them came Major Starr, of the Light-Horse, who was very active in procuring them to en- gage in this service; and as both my Field-Officers were in the service, I desired him to officiate as Major of my regi- ment, which he cheerfully accepted of, and which I doubt not will meet with your Honour’s approbation. As the Militia regiments from the County of Fairfield were destitute of any Chaplains, the Rev. Ebenezer Baldwin generously offered his services, and is now here officiating in that capacity for my regiment and for the Fourth; and if it be agreeable to your Honour, I desire he may have a warrant for that purpose. And as my regiment came also without any Doctor, and several of the men were taken ill soon after our arrival, and help of that kind very difficult to be obtained here, I desired Dr. Charles Peck (who has been improved many years as a Physician, and who came down with the company above mentioned) to officiate in that character, and trust he will be of great service; and would therefore desire that he also may have a warrant, either for a Surgeon or a Surgeon’s Mate. I am, sir, with all due respect, your Honour’s most obe- dient, humble servant, JosepH P. Cooke. A Proc LAMATION. By His Excellency the Honourable Witt1am Howe, Grene- ral and Commander-in- Chief of all His Majesty’s Forces within the Colonies lying on the Aruantick Ocean from Nova-Scorra to West-Foripa, inclusive, &c., &c., &c. Whereas it is represented that many of the loyal inhabit- ants of this Island have been compelled by the leaders in rebellion to take up arms against his Majesty’s Government: Notice is hereby given to all persons so forced into rebellion, that on delivering themselves at Head-Quarters of the Army, they will be received as faithful subjects, have permits to return peacefully to their respective dwellings, and meet with full protection for their persons and property. All those who choose to take up arms for the restoration of order and good government within this Island, shall be disposed of in the best manner, and have every encouragement that can be expected. Given under my hand, at Head-Quarters on Long-Island, this 23d day of August, 1776. Wm. Howe. By his Excellency’s command: Roserr Mackenzir, Secretary. GENERAL HEATH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. King’s Bridge, half-past one o’clock, P. M., August 23, 1776. Dear Generat: Lam so unhappy as not to have received your letter until this moment, having been all this forenoon with the Engineers, viewing the ground and laying out the works; but upon sight of your letter, I have ordered the detachment here to parade and march for Mount Washing- ton as soon as possible, and the detachment at that place, which consists of near eight hundred, to march forward agreeable to your Excellency’s direction. I hope soon to hear good news from Long-Island. I have never been afraid of the force of the enemy: [ am more so of their arts. ‘They must be well watched. They, like the Frenchman, look one way and row the other. How- ever, | trust they will not find Americans deficient either in fortitude or policy. A floating bridge, or number of boats, seems to be highly necessary for a communication on Harlem River. I submit to your Excellency’s consideration, whether some of the fire rafis (as they are called) might not be employed to advan- tage for this purpose. I have the honour to be, with great respect, your Excel- lency’s humble servant, W. Hearn. To His Excellency General Washington. Firru Series.—Vot. I. ~ 4 CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, &c., AUGUST, 1776. 5) ~~ 1122 GENERAL HEATH TO COLONEL NICOLL. King’s Bridge, August 23, 1776. Cotonet Nicotn: You are forthwith to march with the detachment lately put under your command to [ort Wash- ington, where you are to halt (unless there should be an alarm) until evening, and then return here; but if there should be an alarm, you are to march on towards Blooming- dale and join General Mifflin, who is gone forward, and under whose command you'll be. I am, sir, your humble servant, W. Hearn, M.G. P.S. As soon as two companies are paraded, you will march them forward, leaving an officer to order the others after you, as fast as they come on the parade. GENERAL HEATH TO COMMISSARY OF PROVISIONS. King’s Bridge, August 23, 1776. Sir: A number of Militia belonging to Captains Pztkin, Lomas, Cheney, Forbes, and Grant, of Colonel Wolcott's regiment, on their march from Connecticut to New-York, are destitute of provisions, and cannot obtain any at the publick houses; their number is something short of two hundred. Upon their application to you, you are to supply them with one day’s provisions to carry them to the city. I an, sir, yours, &c., Wm. Hearn, M. G. To the Assistant Commissary of Provisions at Mount Wash- ington. GENERAL HEATH TO GENERAL MIFFLIN. King’s Bridge, August 23, 1776—two o’clock P. M. Dear Sir: Being out with the Engineer I did not receive the enclosed until just now. I have ordered the detachment here to parade immediately, and march as far down as your post. You will immediately march the detachment at your post forward as far as you may think proper, agreeable to his Excellency’s direction. Colonel Nicoll, who commands the detachment here, will halt at your post unless there should be an alarm, when he will follow as fast as possible. If all should be quiet he is to return before evening. I am, dear sir, your humble servant, Wcktlot act To General Mifflin. GENERAL TEN BROECK TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. August 23, 1776. Srr: As the necessities of the service at this present time require all the regiments to be completely filled with their proper officers, [ must acquaint you the North Regiment, which was Colonel Graham’s, is deficient of two Colonels, and of several other officers, who are gone in the service. I beg you lay this before the Convention, and pray the following persons may be promoted as Field-Officers in the reciment: Robert G. Livingston, Jun., Colonel; Major Stmon Westfield, to be Lieutenant-Colonel; Major Landon, to be the first Major; and Captain David Van Ness to be second Major. Staff Officers: Henry Van Howenberg, Adjutant; Cornelius Schormerhorn, Quartermaster. As for the Cap- tains and subalterns, I cannot make a proper arrangement. If they must be elected in by the companies, as has been customary, the precedent is bad, and we get unfit persons for officers, who have no command over the men. I shall wait your directions to me in the same, and act accordingly. Ask only for blank commissions for three companies, and shall fill them as you direct. 1 am, your very humble and obedient servant, Perrus Tren Broecx. To the President of the Convention of the State of New- York. COLONEL CORTLANDT TO GENERAL GATES. Skenesborough, August 23, 1776. Dear Generac: I have received your favour of yester- day, and have made the contents known to General Water- bury, Colonel Wynkoop being absent. He left this in order to recover his health, which was greatly impaired. I found him very unwell on my arrival. Hope his departure may be agreeable, as he desired me to acquaint the General that he would return as soon as his health would permit. 1 1123 General Waterbury was thinking to have sent me up to Cheshire’s, but is now resolved that I shall stay. I am in- formed the road from Cheshire’s to Fort Edward is still very bad, and Wood-Creek wants more clearing out. Many of the carpenters are sick, so that the carpenters go on but slowly. ‘There are several carpenters among the troops, I am informed, and have advised General Waterbury to draught them for that purpose. Give me leave, dear sir, to assure you that nothing shall be wanting on my part to execute whatever commands the General thinks proper to order, and will do my endeavours to forward on the works, which go on better for being well looked to. ‘The General will please further to advise me; who am, with respect, your obedient, humble servant, Py ets oer na GENERAL GATES TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. {Read September 2, 1776.] Tyonderoga, August 23, 1776. Sir: Having an opportunity by a safe hand going imme- diately to Philadelphia, I do myself the honour to enclose your Excellency a list of the Naval force of the United States now at Crown-Point, under the immediate command of Bri- gadier-General Arnold. J also transmit your Excellency my orders and instructions to General Arnold, which | earnestly wish to merit the approbation of Congress. I have lately reported all extraordinary occurrences in this department to General Schuyler, and doubt not but he has constantly for- warded them to your Excellency. Saturday se’nnight, I expect the whole of the Militia of the different States, with the two established regiments from Boston, will be arrived here. I shall thereupon send your Excellency a general return of this Army. I have that confidence in Congress, that | am persuaded no supplies wanted in this Army will be withheld from it longer than the time that it is absolutely necessary to prepare and send them. The enclosed letter, signed by myself, and in the name of all the officers of the regiments from Jersey and Pennsylva- nia, I beg leave to present to your Excellency, and to entreat your recommendation of their request to Congress. With great respect, I am, sir, your Excellency’s most faithful and obedient, humble servant, Horatio Gates. To His Excellency John Hancock, Esq. List of Armed Vessels on Lake Cuampnain, August 22, 1776. : se S : RS NAMES OF VESSELS AND COMMANDERS. %S Size of Guns. > |S z 5) Paes = 21% Sloop Enterprise............ Dickson......) | 12} 4-lbs............ 10| 50 Schr. Royal Savage, Hon. Gen. Arnold. 12/4 6-lbs. 8 4-lbs.} 10} 50 Schooner Revenge......... Seaman...... 8|4 4-lbs. 42-Ibs.| 10] 35 Schooner Liberty.......... Premier...... .| 8/2 4-lbs. 62-Ibs.| 8} 35 \Gondola New-Haven.....Mansfield .... ee 3|112-1b. 29-Ibs.| 8) 45 Gondola Providence....... Simmonds.... fz] 3 Ditto. 8] 45 Gondola Boston............ Sumner... 3 Ditto. 8} 45 Gondola Spitfire............ Ulver acon cee 3 Ditto. 8} 45 Gondola Philadelphia.....Rwe ....0006 3 Ditto. 8) 45 Gondola Connecticut...... Grant coscaske b PO ie Ditto. 8} 45 Gondola Jersey............+ Grimes.......