1777 Letters

Fishkill, NY -

AFTER a march like that of Hannibal over the Alps, we arrived, last night, at this place, where we found the utmost difficulty to get forage for our horses, and lodgings for ourselves

Baltimore, MD - 1 January 1777

Your letter of that date, containing the very agreeable intelligence of the success of the Continental arms under your command, was last night delivered to me by your Aid-de-camp, Colonel Baylor

Philadelphia, PA - 1 January 1777

ever solicitous to comply with your requisitions, I am up very early this morning to despatch a supply of fifty thousand dollars to your Excellency.

Peekskill, NY - 4 January 1777

I have just arrived here; find only part of two regiments of the militia, from the Massachusetts. The badness of the roads hath much retarded the troops.

New York, NY - 5 January 1777

In consequence of the advantage gained by the enemy at Trenton on the 26th of last month, and the necessity of an alteration in the cantonments, Lord Cornwallis, deferring his going to England by this opportunity

Baltimore, MD - 6 January 1777

General Lee's situation seems to be extremely dangerous and critical, and from General Howe's behaviour to him, it is highly probable he will be brought to a trial for desertion.

Williamsburg, VA - 9 January 1777

Patrick Henry letter to Richard Henry Lee... I congratulate you my dear Sir on our well timed success at Trenton.

Dedham, MA - 9 January 1777

Present my affection in the tenderest manner to my little deserving daughter and my amiable sons. It was cruel parting this morning. My heart was most deeply affected although I had the presence of mind to appear composed.

Paris, FRA - 11 January 1777

Lord Stormont discovered that these vessels were employed by Silas Deane, and the cargoes intended for America. He went immediately, at an unusual hour for business, to Versailles

Danbury, CT - 12 January 1777

I arrived at Danbury on Thursday night, the 2d of January, in company with General Lincoln, who, going on the next day for Peekskill, directed me to tarry here, to forward the militia as they arrived.

Hartford, CT - 13 January 1777

Our spirits have been cheered by two or three pieces of good news, which Commissary Trumbull, who is now with me, tells us he saw yesterday, in a letter from General Washington, who has gained another considerable advantage of the enemy at Stony Broo

Providence, RI - 13 January 1777

There are, at this place and in the vicinity, about two thousand men, part of six thousand ordered from the New England States. The others are on their march, and expected in, a few days.

Hartford, CT - 14 January 1777

IT is now generally believed that General Washington has killed and taken at least two thousand of Mr. Howe's army since Christmas. Indeed the evidence of it is from the General's own letters.

Bedford, NY - 14 January 1777

Yesterday I walked from Danbury to this place twenty long miles in company with Mr. Cabot and two other gentlemen.

Poughkeepsie, NY - 19 January 1777

This, as well as Fishkill, is a pretty village. We are almost wholly among the Dutch. Zealous against the Tories, who have not half the tranquillity here, that they have in the town of Boston

Williams Tavern, MA - 19 January 1777

I summoned the fort to surrender. I have taken the liberty to inclose a copy. The answer to the summons was verbal, and in substance, that, as the Americans were excepted, they, although Britons, had no answer to return.

Bethlehem, NY - 20 January 1777

General Washington, with his little army, is at Morristown. Cornwallis, with his larger one, at Brunswick. Oh ! that the continental army was full. Now is the time!

Paris, FR - 20 January 1777

I have met with disappointments, unexpected as they have been affecting ; after orders and counter orders and manoeuvres, the very history of which would fill a volume

Eaton, PA - 24 January 1777

WE have at last crossed the Delaware and are agree ably lodged at Easton, a little town situated on a point of land formed by the Delaware on one side, and the river Lehigh on the other.

Burlings - 30 January 1777

I have just received the honor of yours of the 27th instant. The last evening we moved back from the neighbourhood of King's Bridge ; General Lincoln's troops to Dobbs's Ferry and Tarrytown

Providence, RI - 31 January 1777

By the best intelligence we have been able to procure of the enemy's force on Rhode Island, it consisted of about six thousand men; eleven regiments of British, and four of Hessians.

Baltimore, MD - 2 February 1777

Baltimore is a very pretty town, situated on Patapsco river, which empties itself into the great bay of Chesapeake. The inhabitants are all good Whigs, having some time ago banished all the Tories from among them.

Baltimore, MD - 3 February 1777

I shall take opportunities to describe this town and State more particularly to you hereafter. I shall inquire into their religion, their laws, their customs, their manners, their descent and education, their learning, their schools and colleges, and

Westchester, NY - 6 February 1777

When I received your Excellency's orders to march towards King's Bridge, nothing could be more agreeable than the manoeuvre ; but I cannot say the taking the command of a body of troops, entirely militia, was so.

Paris, FR - 6 February 1777

The bearer, Mons. Holtzendorff, is a Prussian officer, who served the last war in Germany, and with reputation. Gentlemen of first character in the army here have recommended him

Baltimore, MD - 7 February 1777

I AM at last, after a great deal of difficulty, settled in comfortable quarters, but at an infinite expense.

Baltimore, MD - 7 February 1777

I THINK, in some letter I sent you since I left Bethlehem, I promised you a more particular account of that curious and remarkable town.

, SC - 8 February 1777

I am sorry to find that you have not yet heard any thing from our uncle, respecting his ideas upon his situation at the present crisis, and this induces me to trouble you with this letter.

Baltimore, MD - 10 February 1777

FELL's point, which I mentioned in a letter this morn ing, has a considerable number of houses upon it. The shipping all lies now at this point.

Philadelphia, VA - 11 February 1777

Richard Henry Lee letter... I would go to every extremity to serve my friend, and the able friend of liberty and mankind.

Baltimore, MD - 15 February 1777

We have from New Hampshire a Colonel Thornton, a physician by profession, a man of humor. He has a large budget of droll stories with which he entertains company perpetually.

Baltimore, MD - 17 February 1777

Howe, as you know my opinion always was, will repent his mad march through the Jerseys. The people of that Commonwealth begin to raise their spirits exceedingly and to be firmer than ever.

St, SC - 20 February 1777

A sense of duty and humanity for the people at large, induces me to transmit to you the enclosed Proclamation and intelligence for their information

Baltimore, MD - 21 February 1777

Many persons are extremely dissatisfied with numbers of the generaf officers of the highest rank. I Don't mean the Commander-in-chief, his character is justly very high

Lebanon, CT - 21 February 1777

although it would have made me very happy to have been able to procure a release of all our officers in captivity, I freely acknowledge and acquiesce in the justice and impartiality of the measures you have taken respecting them.

Baltimore, MD - 25 February 1777

From the resolves, which I have the honor of transmitting herewith, you will perceive the measures Congress have taken to reenforce your army at this juncture.

Paris, FR - 27 February 1777

This will be delivered you by Captain Gov, who, with his lieutenant and two sergeants, embarks with thirty field pieces, ten ton of powder, ball, lead, he. which I wish safe and in season for service

, VA - 0 March 1777

in the course of conversation on public affairs, gave abundant proof of his being an adherent to the King of Great Britain, and a dangerous enemy to the State; that he ran into the most outrageous abuse of our proceedings

Middlebrook, NJ - 1 March 1777

I have taken the liberty to trouble you with this hint, as sometimes things the most obvious escape attention. If you agree with me in sentiment, you will easily fall upon the most proper mode for answering the purpose.

Philadelphia, PA - 6 March 1777

It is truly lamentable, that we have never been able to this day to conquer that fundamental error made in the outset by short enlistments.

Princeton, NJ - 7 March 1777

As to expectations of promotion, I have not the least, either in the line or the staff.

Philadelphia, PA - 7 March 1777

This city is a dull place, in comparison of what it was. More than one half of the inhabitants have removed into the country, as it was their wisdom to do.

London, ENG - 9 March 1777

General Lafayette letter to father in law the Duke D'Ayen...I have found a peculiar opportunity of distinguishing myself, and of learning a soldiers trade: I am a general officer in the army of the United States of America.

Peekskill, NY - 9 March 1777

When I had completed the disagreeable retreat from Canada, I was with circumstances of indignity. Since which, and before, every Major-General, except myself, has had the honor of commanding posts, separated from the main army.

Providence, RI - 11 March 1777

The new levies of the Massachusetts Bay being all ordered to Ticonderoga, and those of Connecticut inoculated for the smallpox, deprives us of the aid of Continental troops, on whom we had placed our chief dependence.

Philadelphia, PA - 16 March 1777

What pleasure has not this vile war deprived me of? I want to wander in my meadows, to ramble over my mountains, and to sit, in solitude, or with her who has all my heart, by the side of the brooks.

Wethersfield, CT - 16 March 1777

But one thing still more important, concerning which should be glad to know your Excellency's mind, is the inoculation of the several Troops belonging to Col.o Sheldon's Reg.t

Philadelphia, PA - 17 March 1777

The principle of retaliation was early adopted by the States of America, and, if adhered to, will be the most likely way to prevent our enemies from making distinctions, which have no other foundation but the gratification of their revenge

Philadelphia, NY - 18 March 1777

Horatio Gates to Anthony Wayne... I sincerely wish you Joy of being Appointed a Brigadier General...

Unknown, MEX - 20 March 1777

Josef Joachin Moraga letter to Antonio Bucareli y Ursua... The mission of San Francisco, which was founded at the Laguna and Arroyo de los Dolores, a site very beautiful and abundant in water, wood, and stone, is now also completed...

Williamsburg, VA - 20 March 1777

Patrick Henry letter to Richard Henry Lee... Every possible method has been taken to hasten the march of the new Levys.

New York, NY - 22 March 1777

Your militia bill should have been so framed as to give birth to strong and decisive executive powers.

Philadelphia, PA - 23 March 1777

" A PLOT, a plot ! a horrid plot ! Mr. A.," says my barber, this morning.

Kingston, NY - 25 March 1777

We have lately received an uncertain, though unpleasant, account of the enemy's landing at Peekskill. How did your nerves bear the shock ? My father and mother, I apprehend, were very uneasy.

Providence, RI - 26 March 1777

I was made very unhappy, a few days since, by hearing your Excellency was exceedingly ill with a fever.

Philadelphia, PA - 26 March 1777

The Congress have authorized you to proceed in the exchange of prisoners, agreeably to the cartel at present existing, or such other regulation. as you may think proper to make in the matter

Williamsburg, VA - 28 March 1777

Patrick Henry letter to Richard Henry Lee... Corn flour and meat are bought up ... in so much that it is almost impossible to furnish the public demands...

Williamsburg, VA - 29 March 1777

Patrick Henry letter to George Washington... I am very sorry to inform you, that the recruiting business of late goes on so badly, that there remains but little prospect of filling the six new battalions from this State...

On Board The Victory - 30 March 1777

General Lafayette letter to wife...I shall not arrive at Charlestown for eight or ten days. It will be a great pleasure to me to land...

Philadelphia, PA - 31 March 1777

Accidents have thrown so many letters into the hands of the enemy, and they take such a malicious pleasure in exposing them, that I choose they should have nothing but trifles from me to expose.

Philadelphia, PA - 2 April 1777

You think I dont t write politics enough. Indeed I have a surfeit of them. But I shall give you now and then a taste, since you have such a gout for them.

Philadelphia, PA - 3 April 1777

As you seem so inquisitive about politics, I will indulge you so far (indulge. I say. Observe that word, indulge ! I suppose you will say, it ought to have been, oblige,)

Philadelphia, PA - 4 April 1777

The regulation. relative to the payment of the troops and the department of the Paymaster-General will, I hope, be the means of introducing order and regularity into that part of the army, where, it must be confessed, they were extremely wanted.

Morristown, NJ - 5 April 1777

The opinion I advanced respecting the enemy's not moving before the beginning of May, seems to be shaken, though not entirely overthrown, by some present appearances.

Philadelphia, PA - 6 April 1777

You have had many rumors propagated among you which I suppose you know not how to account for. One was, that Congress, the last summer, had tied the hands of General Washington, and would not let him fight, particularly on the White plains.

Philadelphia, PA - 8 April 1777

Lee fares as well as a man in close prison can fare, I suppose, constantly guarded and watched. I fancy Howe will engage that he shall be treated as a prisoner of war, and in that case we shall all be easy.

Paris, FR - 8 April 1777

The bearer. Viscount Mourreu, is the gentleman of whom I formerly wrote, and who has been long detained by a variety of accidents, which he can relate to you at large.

Philadelphia, PA - 9 April 1777

Yesterday evening, the Congress completed the business of the Medical Department, and on so large and liberal an establishment that we may rationally expect the most beneficial effects will flow from it.

Salem, MA - 9 April 1777

I esteem it a singular honor done me by your Excellency in offering me the post of Adjutant-General ; and it pains me sensibly that I am obliged to decline it.

Philadelphia, PA - 10 April 1777

My wishes are, Sir, and I think they correspond with the true interests of America, that you should quickly be possessed of a strong army ; that your powers might be such as to gratify your wishes of crushing our enemies

Philadelphia, PA - 13 April 1777

ENCLOSED with this, you have a correspondence between the two Generals concerning the cartel for the exchange of prisoners. Washington is in the right, and has maintained his argument with a delicacy and dignity, which do him much honor

Philadelphia, PA - 13 April 1777

The graves of the soldiers, who have been buried in this ground from the hospital and bettering house during the course of the last summer, fall and winter, dead of the smallpox and camp diseases, are enough to make the heart of stone to melt away.

Salem, MA - 14 April 1777

I sent, by the express, an answer to your letter respecting the office of Adjutant-General, and gave what appeared to me sufficient reasons to excuse my declining to accept it ; but I have since been uneasy lest you should deem them otherwise

Philadelphia, PA - 19 April 1777

WE have now an ample representation from New York. It consists of six delegates, and they are to all appearance as high, as decisive, and as determined as any men ever were or can be.

Philadelphia, PA - 23 April 1777

MY barber just left the chamber. The following curious dialogue was the amusement during the gay moments of shaving.

Philadelphia, PA - 23 April 1777

THERE is a clock calm at this time in the political and military hemispheres. The surface is smooth and the air serene. Not a breath nor a wave, no news nor noise.

Philadelphia, PA - 26 April 1777

Posterity! you will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom! I hope you will make a good use of it If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven that I ever took half the pains to preserve it.

Philadelphia, PA - 27 April 1777

My barber, whom I quote as often as ever I did any authority, says, "he has read histories of cruelty and he has read romances of cruelty, but the cruelty of the British exceeds all that he ever read."

Philadelphia, PA - 4 May 1777

ENCLOSED with this you will have an Evening Post containing some of the tender mercies of the barbarians to their prisoners.

Philadelphia, PA - 7 May 1777

Some merchant ships are arrived this week from Mary land. They were first chased by men of war in attempting to get into Chesapeake Bay.

Boston, MA - 7 May 1777

And since, notwithstanding all my objections, tis your Excellency's pleasure, I am happy to declare my acceptance of it. At the same time, I am constrained, from my real feelings, again to express my fears that I shall fall short of your Excellency's

Philadelphia, PA - 10 May 1777

THE day before yesterday, I took a walk with my friend Whipple to Mrs. Wells's, the sister of the famous Mrs. Wright, to see her wax-work.

Philadelphia, PA - 10 May 1777

The bearer of this, the Marquis Armand de la Rouerie, is entitled to my warmest recommendations, because he brought from his own country letters to me that I am obliged to attend to, and put great faith in

Philadelphia, PA - 15 May 1777

In the midst of infinite noise, hurry and bustle, I lead & lonely, melancholy life, mourning the loss of all the charms of life, which are my family, and all the amusements that I ever had in life, which is my farm.

Philadelphia, PA - 17 May 1777

O ! that I could wander upon Perm's hill and in the meadows and mountains in its neighborhood, free from care ! But this is a felicity too great for me.

Philadelphia, PA - 22 May 1777

I would give three guineas for a barrel of your cider. Not one drop is to be had here for gold, and wine is not to be had under six or eight dollars a gallon, and that very bad.

Middlebrook, NJ - 23 May 1777

I embrace the first opportunity since my arrival here to write you. I am very happy in the General's family. His secretaries and aides-de-camp are gentlemen of education, and of the most polite, obliging manners.

Philadelphia, PA - 25 May 1777

I am ashamed of our farmers. They are a lazy, ignorant set ; in husbandry, I mean ; for they know infinitely more of every thing else than these.

Philadelphia, PA - 2 June 1777

Revenge in ancient days, (you will see it through the whole Roman History) was esteemed a generous and an heroic passion. Nothing was too good for a friend, or too bad for an enemy.

Philadelphia, PA - 4 June 1777

You will see, by the enclosed papers in a letter from my friend Parsons, a very handsome narration of one of the prettiest exploits of this war, a fine retaliation of the Danbury mischief.

Williamsburg, VA - 5 June 1777

Patrick Henry letter... The signal honour conferred on me by the General Assembly in their choice of me to be Governor of this commonwealth, demands my best acknowledgments...

Philadelphia, PA - 5 June 1777

the Congress have authorized you to fix on such rewards or sum of money as you may judge proper, to encourage deserters from the enemy, both horse and foot.

Middlebrook, NJ - 5 June 1777

A resolution, of the 30th ultimo, has been shown to me by some French officers attached to the corps of artillery under my command, ordaining that all officers of artillery, ... shall take rank, in the American artillery, according to the dates of th

Kingston, NY - 5 June 1777

Mr. Cuyler informs me, that some of my friends in your county have done me the honour of naming me, among other candidates, for the office of governor.

Snow Hill, SC - 8 June 1777

In compliance with your request, I do myself the pleasure of committing to paper some of the principal circumstances and arguments relative to the late proposition of an union between South Carolina and Georgia.

Philadelphia, PA - 13 June 1777

You will perceive, from the inclosed resolves, the fixed determination of Congress to retaliate, as nearly as lies in their power, on our enemies, should they think proper to send any of their prisoners to Great Britain, or to any other part of the B

Saratoga, NY - 14 June 1777

Our numbers are so few to the northward, and we have so little prospect of their increasing, that should a disaster befall us at Ticonderoga, we should have very few troops indeed to oppose them.

Cornells Ferry, PA - 16 June 1777

As the militia can be but illy spared at this busy season, I wish to know, as early as possible, your Excellency's orders respecting them ; if you wish to have them in the Jerseys or on this side the Delaware.

Fort Edward, NY - 16 June 1777

If the information which Amsbury gives is to be relied upon, as I think it is, we shall soon be air tacked at Ticonderoga

Charleston, SC - 19 June 1777

General Lafayette letter to wife...I shall now speak to you, my love, about the country and its inhabitants, who are as agreeable as my enthusiasm had led me to imagine.

Philadelphia, PA - 24 June 1777

Your favor of the 23d, containing the agreeable intelligence that the enemy had retreated from Brunswick, I had the honor of receiving yesterday afternoon

Ticonderoga, NY - 25 June 1777

I informed you yesterday, that an encampment of the enemy had been discovered at Gilliland's Creek. Last night two of their vessels came up to Crown Point, and this morning there are seven lying at that place.

Albany, NY - 28 June 1777

Should an accident happen to the garrison of Ticonderoga, and General Burgoyne make a push to gain the south part of the Lake, I know of no obstacle to prevent him.

Kingston, NY - 6 July 1777

When I consider that one of the reasons assigned for the creation of woman was, "that it is not good for man to be alone," I find my present situation condemned, not only by my own feelings, but by divine authority.

Morristown, NJ - 6 July 1777

The enemy having entirely quitted Jersey, and the General suspecting they might go up the North River, the army moved up from Middle Brook, last Thursday, to this place, to be nearer to Peekskill.

Saratoga, NY - 7 July 1777

just before they arrived at Skenesborough, they were overtaken by the enemy's vessels and gunboats, and were obliged to abandon the vessels, in which we lost all our ammunition.

Philadelphia, PA - 8 July 1777

Next month completes three years that I have been devoted to the service of liberty. A slavery it has been to me, whatever the world may think of it.

Dorset, NY - 8 July 1777

I intended to march to Skenesborough by the way of Castleton, and from thence to Fort Edward ; but when I got to Castleton I found the enemy were in possession of Skenesborough, which obliged me to change my route.

Fort Edward, NY - 9 July 1777

Since I wrote you from Saratoga, I have not been able to learn what is become of General St. Clair and the enemy. The army followed the troops that came to Skenesborough as far as Fort Ann, where they were yesterday repulsed

Philadelphia, PA - 11 July 1777

We have had no news from camp for three or four days. Mr. Howe, by the last advices, was manoeuvring his fleet arid army in such a manner as give us expectations of an expedition

Philadelphia, PA - 13 July 1777

WE have a confused account from the northward of something unlucky at Ticonderoga, but cannot certainly tell what it is. I am much afraid we shall lose that post, as we did forts Washington and Lee

Peekskill, NY - 14 July 1777

you are forthwith to repair to Norwalk, Fairfield, and the places adjacent on the Sound, transmit me without delay the intelligence you shall from time to time receive of the movements of the enemy

Fort Edward, NY - 14 July 1777

On the 12th instant General St. Clair arrived here. As he fell in with Hudson's River about twelve miles below this, I ordered the troops to halt at Fort Miller, having no kind of shelter for them at any other place

Fort Edward, NY - 16 July 1777

I arrived here yesterday noon, and last evening had some little conversation with the General and others upon the state of our affairs. They are far from being such as could be wished.

Fort Edward, NY - 17 July 1777

although I am not solicitous about the opinion of the world, though very far from Disregarding it, I wish to hold a character with your Excellency something more than merely negative.

Saratoga, NY - 17 July 1777

Fort George was destroyed yesterday afternoon, previous to which the provisions, stores, and batteaux, were removed, and this morning about ten o'clock the last of them passed us

Peekskill, NY - 21 July 1777

I was this morning favoured with your excellency's letter of the 29th ult., and my appointment to Colonel Malcolm's regiment.

Smiths Clove, NY - 22 July 1777

Your favour of the eighteenth, from Saratoga, reached me yesterday Your pronouncing Fort Edward among the other forts, indefensible, surprises me a little, as it is entirely contrary to the representations of several gentlemen of judgment

Moses Creek, NY - 23 July 1777

It was determined upon to leave the ground occupied by our advanced posts, upon the road to Fort Anne and Fort George, and retire to Fort Edward in the way to this place, having previously removed everything.

Fort Montgomery, NY - 26 July 1777

When I had the pleasure of seeing your Excellency at Ramapo, I mentioned that the terms, for which the two militia regiments stationed at this post were engaged in service, expired the last of this month

Morristown, NJ - 26 July 1777

But, having advanced a dozen miles into the Clove, we halted, having reason to doubt, from the enemy's movements and the best intelligence we could obtain, whether they were bound up the North River or to the eastward, or not.

Saratoga, NY - 28 July 1777

So far from the militia that are with me increasing , they are daily diminishing, and I am very confident that in ten days, if the enemy should not Disturb us, we shall not have five hundred left

, MA - 30 July 1777

Abigail Adams letter to John Adams... How are all our vast magazines of cannon, powder, arms, clothing, provision, medicine, &c., to be restored to us?

Saratoga, NY - 31 July 1777

As General Burgoyne is advancing towards us, and as a movement of a body of troops from the Grants towards Skenesborough will doubtless much embarrass him

Peekskill, NY - 31 July 1777

I received your favor of the 28th instant, and have, according to your direction, ordered two brigades, namely, General McDougall's and Huntington's, to put their heavy baggage over the river, and to be in readiness to march

Charleston, SC - 1 August 1777

That terrible performance which, by-the-by, most wise and respected rulers, was torn down, as it were, from under your noses, almost as soon as it was stuck up in Savannah, reached this place only last night

Philadelphia, PA - 1 August 1777

Last night the General and his family arrived here. Yesterday morn ing, about half after nine o clock, an express came to the General to inform him of the arrival of the enemy's fleet at the Capes of the river.

Stillwater, NY - 4 August 1777

By the unanimous advice of all the General Officers, I have moved the army to this place. We propose to fortify our camp, in hopes that re-enforcements will enable us to keep our ground

Philadelphia, PA - 4 August 1777

The misfortune at Ticonderoga, has produced a very disagreeable alteration in our affairs, and has thrown a gloom upon the favourable prospect which the campaign previous to that event afforded.

, MA - 5 August 1777

Abigail Adams letter to John Adams... We have never, since the evacuation of Boston, been under apprehensions of an invasion from them, equal to what we suffered last week.

Fort Montgomery, NY - 9 August 1777

I never knew the militia come out with greater alacrity ; but as many of them yet have great part of their harvests in the field; I fear it will be difficult to detain them long, unless the enemy make some movements that indicate a design of coming t

Bennington, VT - 10 August 1777

I find the men sent here from the county of Worcester, under the command of Colonel Gushing, left their homes in such haste, that they are by no means prepared to remain in camp any considerable time

Philadelphia, PA - 11 August 1777

An express from Sinnepuxent, a place between the Capes of Delaware and the Capes of Chesapeake, informs, that a fleet of one hundred sail was seen off that place last Thursday.

Philadelphia, PA - 11 August 1777

THINK I have sometimes observed to you in conversation, that upon examining the biography of illustrious men, you will generally find some female about them, in the relation of mother, or wife, or sister, to whose instigation a great part of their me

Stillwater, NY - 12 August 1777

I waited upon General Schuyler, on my way to the militia who had assembled and were assembling at Manchester, on the Grants, received his instructions, and met the troops the 2d instant.

, VA - 13 August 1777

Thomas Jefferson letter to Dr. Benjamin Franklin... With respect to the State of Virginia in particular, the people seem to have laid aside the monarchical, and taken up the republican government...

unknown - 13 August 1777

The men are exercised in smaller or greater numbers every day. The country people bring in a plenty of vegetables, &c. and we hear very few complaints from those immediately about us of the violations of private property.

Saratoga, NY - 14 August 1777

I beg the favor of you to report whether the route you have marched will be practicable with a large corps of cannon, without repair, or with what sort of repair.

Philadelphia, PA - 17 August 1777

The complaints of the want of men to the north ward are so great and urgent, that Congress, with a view of affording them some assistance, have come to the inclosed resolve

Philadelphia, PA - 19 August 1777

I am sorry that you and the people of Boston were put to so much trouble, but glad to hear that such numbers determined to fly. The prices for carting which were demanded were detestable.

Philadelphia, PA - 19 August 1777

Howe's fleet and army is still incognito. The gentlemen from South Carolina begin to tremble for Charleston. If Howe is under a judicial blindness, he may be gone there.

Van Schaicks Island, NY - 19 August 1777

I have the honor to congratulate your Excellency on a signal victory gained by General Stark over a detachment of about fifteen hundred of the enemy near Bennington

Philadelphia, PA - 20 August 1777

I feel an inclination sometimes to write the history of the last three years, in imitation of Thucydides. There is a striking resemblance in several particulars between the Peloponnesian and the American war.

Philadelphia, PA - 21 August 1777

They had been seen from the eastern shore of Virginia, standing off and on, for two days before. This method of coasting along the shore, and standing off and on, is very curious.

German Flats, NY - 21 August 1777

I leave this place this morning with twelve hundred Continental troops, officers included, and a handful of militia, for Fort Schuyler, which is still besieged by a number equal to ours.

unknown - 21 August 1777

If the enemy have a design upon Charles Town which does not so clearly appear to me as it does to most people, I hope we shall ruin the northern branch of their army

Philadelphia, PA - 22 August 1777

This moment an express is arrived from Maryland, with an account of near two hundred sail of Mr. Howe's fleet, being at anchor in the Chesapeake Bay.

, NY - 22 August 1777

Upon my leaving Philadelphia, the prospect this way appeared most gloomy, but the severe checks the enemy have met with at Bennington and Tryon county, have given a more pleasing view of public affairs.

Philadelphia, PA - 23 August 1777

IT is now no longer a secret where Mr. Howe's fleet is. We have authentic intelligence that it is arrived at the head of Chesapeake bay, above the river Patapsco, upon which the town of Baltimore stands.

Philadelphia, PA - 23 August 1777

I think there is a reasonable ground for confidence, with the favor of Heaven, that Howe will not be able to reach this city.

Fort Dayton, NY - 23 August 1777

The excessively bad roads, and necessary precautions in marching through a thick wood, retarded us so much, that we have but this moment reached this place

Paris, FR - 23 August 1777

I mean to give you a short view of the conduct of this Court, with respect to American ships of war, private as well as public, which I cannot well do without giving you a history of facts.

Philadelphia, PA - 24 August 1777

The lightning struck in several places. It struck the Quaker alms-house in Walnut street, between Third and Fourth streets, not far from Captain Duncan's, where I lodge.

Philadelphia, PA - 25 August 1777

A letter from Chesapeake bay, dated yesterday morning, informs that the enemy had not then landed.

Bennington, VT - 25 August 1777

I hear that to-morrow I may expect five companies of the three months men. As soon as they arrive, I shall discharge the whole of Colonel Cushing's ; for the discontent among them is so general that they will be of very little service here

Philadelphia, PA - 26 August 1777

HOWE's army, at least about five thousand of them, besides his light horse, are landed upon the banks of the Elk river, and the disposition he has made of his forces indicates a design to rest and refresh both men and horses.

unknown - 26 August 1777

Messrs. Pinckney and Horry arriv'd here yesterday, but they could not inform me certainly whether you had employ'd Hunt to buy me a horse.

Kingston, NY - 27 August 1777

You will readily believe, that we were not pleased at this resolution, and I assure you for my own part, I felt exceedingly distressed at your removal, just when changing fortune began to declare in our favor.

German Flats, NY - 28 August 1777

You may depend on my joining you as soon as possible with my detachment, about twelve hundred men. Few Indians will be with me.

Philadelphia, PA - 29 August 1777

General Washington, with a very numerous army, is between Wilmington and the Head of Elk. Howe will make but a pitiful figure.

Philadelphia, PA - 30 August 1777

The enemy are in possession of the Head of Elk, a little town at the head of the river Elk, in which they found a quantity of corn and oats belonging to the States.

Hudson River - 30 August 1777

It is with great concern I find myself obliged to add to this application, a complaint of the bad treatment the Provincial soldiers in the king's service received after the affair at Bennington.

Philadelphia, PA - 1 September 1777

A letter from General Washington, dated Saturday, informs that our light parties have brought in four-and- twenty prisoners more. So that the prisoners and deserters since Mr. Howe landed are near a hundred.

Philadelphia, PA - 1 September 1777

the Congress have appointed a committee to collect and arrange the evidence relative to the evacuation of Ticonderoga, which will be afterwards transmitted to you, that a court-martial may be thereupon instituted for the trial of the General Officers

Philadelphia, PA - 2 September 1777

There is but one course for us to take, and that is to renounce the use of all foreign commodities. For my own part, I never lived in my whole life so meanly and poorly as I do now, and yet my constituents will growl at my extravagance.

unknown - 2 September 1777

Surgeons, medicines, and attendance, with every comfort imaginable, have been amply supplied to the sick and wounded officers and soldiers, prisoners at Bennington

Paris, FR - 3 September 1777

Captain Landais is the bearer of this. He goes in the Heureuse, loaded with stores for America.

Bennington, VT - 4 September 1777

The person I sent to General Burgoyne is returned. He had an opportunity to confer with him, with Fraser and others, and was suffered to return into the country, under the character of a Recruiting Officer.

Pawlet, VT - 4 September 1777

By a scout, who has been near Fort Edward, and from one of the inhabitants in that neighbourhood, I have a confirmation of the enemy's movements mentioned in your letter. I think it is not probable that their design is on your post.

Philadelphia, PA - 6 September 1777

Congress, desirous of reenforcing the army at this critical period, have recommended to the States of Pennsylvania and New Jersey to order out immediately a considerable part of their militia

Philadelphia, PA - 8 September 1777

THERE has been a very general apprehension during the last week, that a general action would happen as on yesterday, but we hear of none.

Philadelphia, PA - 9 September 1777

the Congress have directed General Putnam to hold in readiness fifteen hundred men, under the command of a Brigadier, to cross the North River when you may think proper to order it.

Paris, FR - 10 September 1777

This will be handed you by M. Francy, who is agent for Messrs Rodrique Hortalez & Co. You will see by the bills of lading, the quantity of stores shipped by that house, and make some judgment

Pawlet, VT - 11 September 1777

I should not have been short of ammunition, had the militia from the Massachusetts attended to the orders of the Court, and had the ball sent from Springfield and Albany been of a size suitable for the muskets.

Philadelphia, PA - 12 September 1777

General Lafayette letter to wife...I must begin by telling you that I am perfectly well, because I must end by telling you that we fought seriously last night

Philadelphia, PA - 12 September 1777

I am sorry for the unfortunate issue of the day; but from the troops keeping up their spirits, I flatter myself it will still be in our power to retrieve the loss of yesterday.

Pawlet, VT - 12 September 1777

You will please to take the command of five hundred men, and proceed, in the best route, to cross the Narrows, as soon as may be, to the landing at the north end of Lake George

Philadelphia, PA - 14 September 1777

Mr. Howe's army is at Chester, about fifteen miles from this town. General Washington's is over the Schuylkill, awaiting the flank of Mr. Howe's army.

, MA - 17 September 1777

Abigail Adams letter to John Adams... It is a very great satisfaction to me to know from day to day the movement of Howe and his banditti.

unknown - 18 September 1777

I did myself the honour to write you a hasty line this evening, giving it as my opinion that the city was no longer a place of safety for you. I write you again lest that letter should not get to hand.

Kingston, NY - 18 September 1777

I am confident that the proper advantages will not be taken of Burgoyne's situation. We have no chance, I fear, in that quarter from management.

Behmus Heights, NY - 19 September 1777

in the present position and circumstances of General Burgoyne's army, considered with his apparent views, your army ought to be posted at Stillwater

Pawlet, VT - 21 September 1777

All your movements since you left this place have [been] very agreeable to me. I am greatly obliged to you for your exertions, and am glad to hear, that with spirit the officers and men under you have distinguished themselves.

, VT - 23 September 1777

The success Colonel Brown hath met with, you learn by the inclosed, which is a copy of his letter to me. He hath acted with great spirit, and informs me that his officers and men have behaved with bravery.

Paris, FR - 23 September 1777

I take the liberty of enclosing an extract of a letter written jointly by Dr Franklin and myself in March last

Potsgrove, PA - 25 September 1777

Although our loss in the battle of Brandywine was not so great as the enemy's, yet since then it has been much larger; I mean by straggling and desertions

unknown - 26 September 1777

We shall move towards Philadelphia to-day, as the weather is fair and our reinforcements are at some distance below, ready to fall in with us.

Peekskill, NY - 27 September 1777

he informs me that General Howe's army had found means to cross Schuylkill several miles below his army...

Peekskill, NY - 29 September 1777

By order from General Washington, all the troops from this post, except about eleven hundred Continental and four hundred of the militia, are withdrawn.

Skippack, PA - 30 September 1777

Tim Pickering letter to Anthony Wayne

Yorktown, PA - 30 September 1777

I wish soon to receive the most pleasing accounts from you. We are in daily expectation of agreeable tidings, and that General Howe is totally reduced.

Yorktown, PA - 30 September 1777

the Congress were alarmed in their beds by a letter from Mr. Hamilton, one of General Washington's family, that the enemy was in possession of the ford over the Schuylkill

unknown - 1 October 1777

General Lafayette letter to wife...I was encouraged to take this measure by a slight wound...

Peekskill, NY - 4 October 1777

This morning we had information from our guard-boats, That there were two ships of war, three tenders, and a large number of fiat-bottomed boats, coming up the river.

Behmus Heights, NY - 5 October 1777

I am sorry to repeat to your Excellency the Distress I have suffered for want of a proper supply of musket cartridges from Springfield, or the materials to make them.

Paper Mills, NY - 6 October 1777

I am this moment returned from Fort Independence, and find the [intelligence concerning a] party of the enemy, which were said to have landed last night at that Fort, is without foundation.

Yorktown, PA - 7 October 1777

One thing is now becoming more and more certain every day, that is, that our people will and do fight. And although they make a clumsy hand of it, yet they do better and better.

Fishkill, NY - 8 October 1777

the enemy, after making a variety of movements up and down the North River, landed, on the morning of the 4th instant, about three thousand men, at Tarrytown

Fishkill, NY - 8 October 1777

I have waited on Governor Clinton, to consult about our present circumstances, and fix upon the most effectual measure that could be pursued against the enemy, who are now landing a considerable number of troops at Fort Constitution

Yorktown, PA - 9 October 1777

It is with the highest pleasure I comply with the order of Congress, in conveying to you the inclosed resolve, expressing the thanks of that body to you for the wise and well-concerted attack upon the enemy, near Germantown

Yorktown, PA - 9 October 1777

They have, for this end, authorized you to sentence, by court-martial, any person convicted of either of the above-mentioned offense

New Windsor, NY - 9 October 1777

My guards fell in with, and took two spies from General Clinton, going to Burgoyne. One of them confessed, that his orders were to make all possible despatch, and inform General Burgoyne that he had got Fort Montgomery

Fishkill, NY - 9 October 1777

In my letter of yesterday, I acquainted you of the enemy's having possession of Fort Montgomery. Yesterday they proceeded up the river with their ships, galleys, flat-bottomed boats, &c., and landed a body at Fort Constitution

Fishkill, NY - 9 October 1777

Upon your letter, and some intelligence I received from below, I am fully of opinion the enemy intended a desperate effort to relieve General Burgoyne.

Yorktown, PA - 12 October 1777

the enemy have, at different times, compelled our troops, who are prisoners with them, to labor, and that a number are at this time actually engaged in throwing up some works at and near Kensington

Red Bank, NJ - 14 October 1777

I arrived here on Saturday last with my regiment. They were much fatigued with the march, as I forced thirty-five miles one day. They are now in high spirits, and go to their duty with the greatest cheerfulness.

Hartford - 15 October 1777

The shipping, moving up the river, must fully convince us that their intentions are for Albany.

Yorktown, PA - 15 October 1777

Government and law in the States, large taxation, and strict discipline in our armies, are the only things wanting as human means.

unknown - 15 October 1777

I beg leave to felicitate you upon the victory gained over the haughty Burgoyne, a victory which derives much of its importance from the critical time in which it happened.

Fishkill, NY - 16 October 1777

Last Monday, General Parsons, with about two thousand troops, marched down and took possession of Peekskill and the passes in the Highlands.

Fishkill, NY - 16 October 1777

I received your agreeable favor, and congratulate you on the glorious intelligence it contains of the capture of General Burgoyne.

Yorktown, PA - 17 October 1777

As the Congress will doubtless proceed to appoint a successor in my stead, on him, therefore, will devolve the business of the chair. It will fall within the line of his duty to keep up that connection and correspondence with you

Marbletown, NY - 17 October 1777

For the rest, as your operations must be governed by circumstances, I can only inform you of facts. Kingston was burnt yesterday afternoon, because I had not troops to defend it.

York, NY - 20 October 1777

was a good deal surprised to find you had been told that Congress had appointed General Conway a Major-General. No such appointment has been made ; nor do I believe it will

York, NY - 20 October 1777

General Conway has not lately been mentioned in Congress, nor has there been much talk of an Adjutant-General, since it is not certainly known whether Colonel Pickering will accept his new appointment.

Red Hook - 20 October 1777

Would it not answer a very valuable purpose to get the guns out of the row-galley that is scuttled in Esopus Creek, as they may be turned to the annoyance of the enemy, and prevent their getting possession of them?

Lancaster, PA - 24 October 1777

In consequence of this application we have ordered out two classes of militia, offering an exemption from their fines to such delinquents of the former classes as can be prevailed upon to join them

Yorktown, PA - 24 October 1777

News I am afraid to write, be cause I never know, until it is too late, what is true.

Boston, MA - 25 October 1777

Abigail Adams letter to John Adams... THE joyful news of the surrender of General Burgoyne and all his army, to our victorious troops, prompted me to take a ride this afternoon with my daughter to town...

Yorktown, PA - 25 October 1777

A few months relaxation will, I hope, restore my health and constitution, and enable me still to contribute my feeble efforts, in some mode or other, to the advancement of the cause of freedom in America

Boston, MA - 25 October 1777

We find, by the destination of the prisoners of General Burgoyne's army to this neighbourhood, a wide and difficult field opens to us. To provide quarters, provisions, fuel, &c., for five or six thousand men, will be no small task.

Fishkill, NY - 25 October 1777

By a deserter, and two of our people who escaped from the enemy at Yerplanck's Point, day before yesterday, I am informed that four regiments are gone from New York to reenforce General Howe

Yorktown, PA - 25 October 1777

As to news we are yet in a painful suspense about affairs at the northward, but from Philadelphia, we have accounts that are very pleasing.

Yorktown, PA - 26 October 1777

The forts at Province Island and Redbank have been defended with a magnanimity which will give our country a reputation in Europe.

Pleasant Valley, NY - 27 October 1777

General Gates, in his letter of the 24th instant, gives me rea son to believe a large part of his army are on the move down each side of the river. Part of them had reached Hurley yesterday.

Fishkill, NY - 27 October 1777

the enemy have evacuated Peekskill, Fort Montgomery, and all adjacent posts, and gone down the river with their whole fleet.

Yorktown, PA - 28 October 1777

WE have been three days soaking and poaching in the heaviest rain that has been known for several years

Williamsburg, VA - 29 October 1777

Patrick Henry letter to George Washington... The Regiment of Artillery commanded by Colonel Charles Harrison is yet in this State.

Albany, NY - 29 October 1777

As I have not heard a syllable from you, or General Putnam, for a week past, I conclude you are in no want of any further assistance from me.

Fishkill, NY - 30 October 1777

I have, therefore, only to add, that the enemy have demolished Fort Montgomery, and all the other posts in the Highlands, and moved down with their whole force towards New York

Williamsburg, VA - 30 October 1777

Although it seems impossible to enlist Continental recruits here, yet the zeal of our countrymen is great and general in the public cause. I wish some proper exertions of that spirit were wisely directed to the general good.

White Marsh, PA - 0 November 1777

The papers and clothing of the companies which have lately joined Malcolm's regiment are at Bethlem.

Albany, NY - 2 November 1777

As to any attack upon New York, I utterly disapprove of it; for, while the enemy's ships of war can act in the North and East Rivers, the taking of that city would be doubtful

Albany, NY - 2 November 1777

If Sir Henry Clinton marches towards Mount Holly, our army will, of course, move directly to Princeton, and hang upon his rear and right flank. If he marches towards Trenton, our army will march to Somerset

Fishkill, NY - 2 November 1777

I understand, from Colonel Morgan, that all the Northern army were marching down on both sides the river, and would probably be to-morrow at New Windsor

Whitemarsh, PA - 4 November 1777

pleased as I am with this proof of your fond affection, I do not wish you to indulge such melancholy thoughts. I know tis difficult to control the mind.

Albany, NY - 5 November 1777

By inquiry, I have learned that General Patterson's brigade, which is the one you propose to send, is by far the weakest of the three now here, and does not consist of more than about six hundred rank and file fit for duty.

Saratoga, NY - 6 November 1777

When I did myself the pleasure to write you on the 17th ult., I was not apprized of the enemy's progress up Hudson's River, nor of the barbarous devastation they have been guilty of committing at Kingston

unknown - 6 November 1777

This days Philadelphia paper contains Gen Burgoyne's Letter to s'r W'm Howe : as I cannot send you the paper itself I copy the letter

Fishkill, NY - 7 November 1777

as they are raised only till the 1st of December, the officers and men think it exceeding hard that they should be obliged to make that long march, and their times out soon after they could reach you.

unknown - 7 November 1777

There have been several women from Ph a within two days past, who have applied for leave to pass into the country declaring that unless this indulgence be granted to them, they must inevitably starve.

New Windsor, NY - 9 November 1777

I cannot forbear confessing, that I am astonished and alarmed beyond measure, to find that all his Excellency's views have been hitherto frustrated, and that no single step of those I mentioned to you has been taken

unknown - 9 November 1777

Craig of Moylan's Light Dragoons, with sixteen horsemen surprised one of the enemy's patrols this morning, consisting of seven horse and seven grenadiers and took the whole party prisoners

, NY - 10 November 1777

General Parsons and myself were down at Eastchester, and within three miles of King's Bridge. From every appearance, the enemy seem much frightened.

New Windsor, NY - 10 November 1777

I am pained, beyond expression, to inform your Excellency that, on my arrival here, I find every thing has been neglected and deranged by General Putnam

New Windsor, NY - 12 November 1777

The enemy appear to have stripped New York very bare. The people there (that is, the Tories) are in a very great fright.

unknown - 12 November 1777

I have been endeavouring to collect the best idea I could of the state of things in New- York, in order the better to form a judgment of the probable reinforcement gone to General Howe.

Fishkill, NY - 14 November 1777

The inclosed is a copy of a letter from Colonel Hamilton to me, by which you will see that I am positively ordered to send all the Continental troops from here. This letter contains some most unjust and injurious reflections

unknown - 14 November 1777

A considerable breach was made on the 11th in the masonry of the fort, many palisades were level'd, the block houses almost ruin'd, several cannon dismounted, and a valuable artillery officer kill'd.

Peekskill, NY - 15 November 1777

The troops now remaining with General Putnam will amount to about the number you intended, though they are not exactly the same. He has detached Colonel Charles Webb's regiment to you.

Whitemarsh, PA - 15 November 1777

I was honored with your favor of the 8th instant, en closing a minute of Congress intimating my appointment to the Board of War.

Red Bank, NJ - 17 November 1777

Our fleet here are now moving as fast as possible to Timber Creek. The river is so open to the enemy's shipping, that topsail and other vessels are now passing between Mud Island and Province Island to the Schuylkill, unmolested.

unknown - 18 November 1777

You, my dear father will call me a presumptuous young man, especially when you hear that three general officers are gone to investigate these points on the spot.

Whitemarsh, PA - 18 November 1777

Colonel Harrison yesterday went to Reading to see General Mifflin, being in some doubt whether to accept or not. I hope ardently that he will, because he is a sensible, a diligent, a most worthy, honest man

Albany, NY - 23 November 1777

I have never entertained the smallest idea that General Burgoyne should be permitted to ex change the port of embarkation, or that the least variation of the spirit and letter of the Convention would be indulged to the troops under his command.

Haddonfield, PA - 26 November 1777

General Lafayette letter to General Washington...I went down to this place since the day before yesterday, in order to be acquainted of all the roads and grounds around the enemy.

unknown - 26 November 1777

Your kind letter of the 23d announces a very accept able reinforcement of linnen for which I am exceedingly obliged to you the boots will come in good time those which I wear at present are in good condition

unknown - 29 November 1777

Gen'l Greene has joined us, and our forces are reunited. The enemy after razing Bilingsport and Red Bank have quitted the Jerseys altogether.

unknown - 0 December 1777

I make no doubt but your Excellency is acquainted with the present ineffective state of the cavalry. In this situation it cannot be appropriated to any other service than that of orderlies, or reconnoitering the enemy's lines

unknown - 3 December 1777

We have received several accounts from outposts within a few days past intimating that an attack upon us was meditated. We have in consequence prepared ourselves

Williamsburg, VA - 6 December 1777

Inclosed I have the honor to transmit you an ac count of necessaries sent off in nine wagons, for the Virginia regiments in Continental service. The goods have been delivered to Colonel Finnic, the Quarter master

Fishkill, NY - 11 December 1777

As to your loss of influence among a certain body, it is less so than you may imagine. The virtuous and sensible still retain their former sentiments.

Philadelphia, PA - 13 December 1777

I am anxious to despatch the Brilliant, that your Lordship may have the earliest communication with Earl Cornwallis

Portsmouth, NH - 15 December 1777

I have had many opportunities, in the course of this journey, to observe how deeply rooted our righteous cause is in the minds of the people ; and could write you many anecdotes in proof of it.

unknown - 15 December 1777

The army cross'd the Schuylkil on the 13th and has remained encamped on the heights on this side. Our truly republican general has declared to his officers that he will set the example of passing the winter in a hut himself

Camp Gulph, PA - 16 December 1777

General Lafayette letter to father in law the Duke D'Ayen...The bad season is fortunately drawing near; the English ships will be obliged to quit their confounded cruising stations...

unknown - 19 December 1777

The advantages that would arise from a superiority in cavalry are too obvious to be unnoticed.

Poughkeepsie, NY - 20 December 1777

When the enemy left the river, it was my opinion that as many of the troops from the Northern Department should be sent to reenforce the Grand Army under your Excellency's more immediate command

Valley Forge, PA - 21 December 1777

You tell me you embraced the opportunity by Mr. Goodhue to write to me, though you had nothing new to acquaint me with ; and yet you filled up nearly three pages.

unknown - 23 December 1777

The matter was in brief as follows : when we march'd from Whitemarah Camp, and were in the act of crossing the Schuylkil, we received intelligence that the enemy were advancing on this side of the river

Valley Forge, PA - 24 December 1777

How many parents hearts have been rent with grief, how many widowed mates, how many spotless virgins (like the drooping lilies), have bowed their heads, oppressed with sorrow, at the loss of children, husbands, lovers !

Valley Forge, PA - 26 December 1777

I have consulted some of the General Officers who I thought most capable of advising upon the proper steps to take in our present circumstances. They say that they can by no means advise for or against an attack.

Valley Forge, PA - 31 December 1777

General Lafayette letter to General Washington...I should have much reproached myself the liberty I took of writing to your excellency, if I had believed it could engage you in the trouble of answering that letter.