1754 Letters

unknown -

I have also sent some of the soldiers' accounts, in hope of getting the money for them, as they are uneasy on that head.

Alexandria, VA - 9 March 1754

In my last, by Mr. Stewart, I slightly mentioned the objection, which many had against enlisting, to wit, not knowing who was to be paymaster, or the times for payment.

unknown - 20 March 1754

In a conversation with you at Green Spring, you gave me some room to hope for a commission above that of major, and to be ranked among the chief officers of this expedition.

Alexandria, VA - 20 March 1754

I was favored with your letter by Mr. Stewart, enclosing a lieutenant-colonel's commission, and I hope my future behaviour will sufficiently testify the true sense I have of this kindness.

Wills Creek, OH - 25 April 1754

Mr. Ward, has this day arrived from the Fork of the Monongahela, and brings the disagreeable account, that the fort, on the 17th instant, was surrendered at the summons of Monsieur Centre cceur to a body of French

Wills Creek, OH - 27 April 1754

You will see, by the enclosed speech of the Half-King, that the Indians expect some assistance from you ; and I am persuaded you will take proper notice of their moving speech, and their unshaken fidelity.

Great Meadows, PA - 0 May 1754

Since writing my last I have still stronger presumption, indeed almost confirmation, that they were sent as spies, and were ordered to wait near us, till they were truly informed of our intentions

Little Meadows, PA - 9 May 1754

The want of proper conveyances has much retarded this expedition, and at this time it unfortunately delays the detachment I have the honor to command.

Youghiogany, OH - 18 May 1754

Giving up my commission is quite contrary to my intention. Nay, I ask it as a greater favor, than any amongst the many I have received from your Honor, to confirm it to me. But let me serve voluntarily

Youghiogany, OH - 18 May 1754

These Indians contradict the report of the French having received reinforcements, though they agree that eight hundred men are very shortly expected.

unknown - 23 May 1754

This day I returned from my discoveries down the Youghiogany, which, I am sorry to say, can never be made navigable.

Great Meadows, PA - 27 May 1754

I received the news of your arrival at Winchester, and desire of seeing the Half-King and other chiefs of the Six Nations.

Great Meadows, PA - 29 May 1754

This is by an immediate express, whom I send to inform you, that yesterday I engaged a party of French, whereof ten were killed, one wounded, and twenty-one taken, with the loss of only one of mine killed and two or three wounded

Great Meadows, PA - 29 May 1754

I assure you, Sir, nothing is more a stranger to my breast, or a sin that my soul more abhors, than that black and detestable one of ingratitude.

Great Meadows, PA - 29 May 1754

The bearer hereof, Monsieur Drouillon, and Monsieur La Force and two cadets, I beg leave to recommend to your particular notice, as prisoners of war, and officers whom I had the honor of taking.

Great Meadows, PA - 10 June 1754

I shall with great pleasure wear the medal, which you were pleased to compliment me with, and shall present the others to Indian chiefs, as I have already done one to the Half-King.

Alexandria, VA - 11 August 1754

He advanced slowly as far as Gist's house, thirteen miles from the Great Meadows, employing the soldiers on the way in repairing the road, and sending out scouting parties to watch the motions of the French.

Alexandria, VA - 20 August 1754

Another thing, which should be fixed indisputably, is the law we are to be guided by, whether martial or military. If the former, I must beg the favor of your Honor to give me some written orders and indemnification

unknown - 15 November 1754

I think the disparity between the present offer of a company and my former rank too great, to expect any real satisfaction or enjoyment in a corps, where I once had, or thought I had, a right to command