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f 1 .
JOURNAL
LIEUT. WM. FELTMAN.
1781-2.
MARCH INTO VIRGINIA AND SIEGE OF YORRTOWN.
1 1 1
t
THE
JOURNAL
oe
LIEUT. WILLIAM FELTMM,
OF THE FIRST PENNSYLVANIA REGIMENT,
1781-82.
INCLUDING
THE MAKCH INTO VIRGINIA AND THE SIEGE OF YORKTOWN.
PHILADELPHIA:
PUHLISHED lOR THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PKNX'-VIA AMA,
By HENRY CAKKY BAIHD
1853.
Tlie Joxirnal of Lieut. William Feltman, of the First Penn-
sylvania Regiment, from May 26, 1781 to April 25, 1782, em-
hracing the Sietje of Yorktown and the Southern Campaign.
[The Society is indebted to Horn R. Kneass, Esq., for permission to publish
this Journal. The following letter from that gentleman to the Chairman of the
Publishing Committee furnishes some particulars of the author.]
Dear Sir,— Lieut. "William Feltman was a native of Lancaster County, Penn-
sylvania, which place he claimed as his residence as long as he lived.
He died a few years before the beginning of this century, but the precise year
when he died, or his age at the time of his death, I am unable now to ascertain.
The journal was handed to me over twenty years ago by my grand-mother,
(now deceased,) who was a sister of Lieut. Feltman, and has been in my posses-
sioii^ever since.
Very respectfully yours,
Horn R. Kneass.
Philadelphia, April 27, 1853.
YorJc Town [Pennsylvania], 26 the line of march at 5 o'clock in the morning — and
joined the 3Iarquis's troops this day, and passed a body of militia (Vir-
ginia) of 1800 men. We had a very severe march of 23 miles this
day. (Orange Co.)
11^^. — Marched at 4 o'clock and encamped at 10 A. II — 10 miles.
Vlth. — Took up the line of march at 6 o'clock A. M. : march through
a thicket of fine woods, nothing but a foot path, through which we got
with a grea* difficulty, especially our artillery. At last we arrived on
the main road leading to Fredericksburgh which I long wish for, and
encamped 5 miles from where we entered on the road. (Louisa Co.) —
14 miles.
Vitli. — Continued on this ground in order to refresh ourselves, which
we had great occasion for.
14/7i. — Took up the line of march at 5 o^ clock A. M. ; marched through
a d — poor county, the water being very scarce. This day see a number
of Negroes, the greater part of them being naked — 12 miles.
Ibtli. — Took up the line of march at sunrise. A great scarcity of
water that day and a very fatiguing march. Refreshed ourselves in an
orchard with Col. Robinson. The Marquis and Gen. Wayne took a
snack with us — 14 miles, (Hanover County.)
IQth June. — Took up the line of march at day break, made a short
day's march of six miles, being much fatigued. This day built a fine
bush hut — 6 miles.
llth. — Tsok up the line of march at S o'clock in the morning, march
through the best country we have ever seen in this State, and encamped
at Mr. Dandridge's, being 20 miles.
I'^th. — Very fine morning. This day the enemy advanced on us.
Our encampment struck at sunset. All the Continental Troops marched
in order to surprise a pirty of Tarl^ton's horse. We continued till day
li^ht^ but on our arrival found they had gone some hours — 13 miles.
19(7i. — Lay on otrr arms till oneo'cloel:; retired into tBe eotmtrj
4 miles, where we lay destitute of any refreshment, bedding or covering —
4 miles, (Henrico Co.)
20^/t. — Marched at 6 o'clock, three miles, and were reviewed by the
General. Lay on our arms all night — 3 miles.
2ls( June. — Arrived at Col. Simm^s mills. Marched at 12 o'clock
A M., 8 miles, and lay at Bunill's ornery, destitute of every necessary
of life — 8 miles.
22fZ. — Marched at 2 o''eloek through a well inhabited country,
though I can give no account of the people, as I have not been in the
inside of a bouse (but one or two ornerys). They sometimes come to
the road side in oirder to take a view of us as we pass by, but a person
can scarcely discern any part of them but the nose and eyes^, as they
have themselves muffled up- with linens, &c., in order to prevent the sun
from burning their faces (I mean the female sex). At the same time
they will have a number of blaek& standing around them, all naked,
nothing to hide their aakedness. You can easily distinguish their sex;.
I mean the blacks, for reason^s already mentioned. They will also have
their attendants dressed in the sasae uniform. They will also attend
their table in this manner.
This day we pftsseth June. — At six o'clock in the morning we were informed that a
covering party of horse were but a small distance before us. Gen.
Wayne immediately ordered the front platoon of each battalion to turn
out immediately, which order being complied with, being four platoons
and Major McPherson's party of Legionary horse, we pursued them
tive or six miles in full speed. At last we came within a short distance
of them. Major Hamilton had the command of the Infantry. A party
then of about forty men of the New England troops were ordered to
mount behind the same number of dragoons, and then pursued them and
came up with them in a short time. We had a severe skirmish with
their Horse and Infantry, in which we took a n'umber of their horse and
cattle, and killed forty of their Infantry. Our loss was trifling. Major
McPherson's horse threw him into the field of action, who fortunately
made his escape. I expected every moment they would have attacked
our small party of Infantry, which was posted on a small knoll, in order
to cover the Light Dragoons.
21th June. — This day we lay at Bird's Ornery.
"l^tli. — Made some movements for advantage of ground.
'I'dtli. — Manoeuvred considerably in consequence of bad intelligence.
30i/i. — Greatly fatigued; lay by great part of this day. Our tents
came to us this evening.
Julij \sf, '81 — Marched at day break 8 miles to York River, for 'the
troops to Vt'ash and refresh themselves, where one man and Dr. Downey
of the Gth Reg't Penua. were unfortunately drowned. I mounted
guard this day ; returned that night to our former ground, I leaving the
rear-guard of the army.
Id Juhj. — Marched down to Bird's Ordinary, returned that night to
our old encampment — 8 miles.
3c/. — Marched at sun [rise] to Mr. Old Fields. Manoeuvres
retrograde and many, the troops almost worn out. Very hot weather.
4jA. — A wet morning; cleared up 10 o'clock.
This day we had a Feu de Joie in celebration of our Independency of
America. After that was over the Pennsylvania line performed several
man(X!uvres, in which we fired ; had the thanks of the Marquis. The feu
de joie was with a running firing from right to left of the army.
htU. — Took up the line of march at 7 o'clock on our way to Williams-
burg (which I should be very happy of seeing). Proceeded as far as
Chickahomony Church, where we lay on our arms till sunrise — 6 miles.
htli Juhj. — At sunrise we took up the line of march for Jamestown,
at which place the enemy lay encamped.
The first battalion of our line (the Pennsylvanians) was detached with
a small party of nffenaec', ■vv-hieh brougBt otr a s^cattenng ffre m fronJ
and on the floink* of our battalioo (the lirst), that coatinued for two or
three hours, between our Kifienien. and fcheir Yeagers;, our battalion
(the first) was tben ordered to close eolumn and advanoe, when we had
information the 2nd and 3rd battalions with one of Infantry were in
sight of us ; we th«n. fornied again, displayed to the right and left, the
8rd battalion on our right and the 2Q,d on ouy left; being then formed^
brought on a general engagement, our advance regular at a charge tilL
we got within eighty yards of their whole armiy, they being regularly
formed, standing one yard distance from each other, their Light In-
fantry being in front of our bafetaldon. We advanced undeF a very heavy
fire of grape-shot, at which distance we opened our musqaetiy. Then
I received a wound witb a canister shot in my left breast, but did not
retreat until the whole of ua retreated, which was- very rapidly. Upon
our retreat I felt very faintisln, but the thongbts of falling into the
enemy's hands made nae push on as hard as- I possibly etjuld for about
five miles, when I got a horse and rode to Bird's Ordinary, being 12
miles, where 1 arrived in the morning, 3 »' clock, my wound being very
paiaful. list of the WQunded officers of our line
Capt. Cropley
€apt. Jirnney
Artillery
6 Reg't Pienna.
do.. Doyle
do. "Vanleas"
It. ii.
do. Stake
I
U IC
do. McClelknJ
1
u u
diov Montgomery
4
((■ u
Lieut Hei°bert woundted and takea aiv^ immediately paroled.
Lt. White 1st.
Lt.. Pierey 2nd.
The nurabej of ©u i i •
AwjxL&t 23c?.— The troops took up the line of march at 9 o clock an
the morning for Bolton's Bridge, which we completed about one o clock,
P. M., and encamped at Mr. Savage's farms, being 10 miles.
24^'r.— This day eleven o'clock A. M., I bad the pleasure
with a number of other gentlemen officers to be introduced to the County
llochambeau at the Marquis's quarters. He is au elderly gentleman, of
15
about five feet six inches bigh, and has a very soldierly appearance ; is
a man well experienced of war, &c.
lAth Sejit' r. — This morning I wrote the following letters, viz.
One to ray brother App. No. 8 ; one to Lieut. Johnston, No. 2, and
one [to] cousin Harry Dering, No. 1.
The above letters I sent by a soldier, Wm. Noble, who got his dis-
charge from the 4th Reg't, Penna.
2bt1i SrptW, '81. — Spent this day at the billiard table in town, and in
the evening went to a hop.
2Qth. — This day Lieut. Striker, 6 others and self took a ride to Col.
Toliver's,* where Lieut. Wm. Moore lay sick with the fever and ague ;
dined very sumptuously and spent the afternoon with him; said Toliver
has a very elegant seat about three miles from Williamsburgh.
'ilth. — This morning half past seven o'clock the general beat, snd at
eight o'clock the Infantry and our Brigade took up the line of march
and encamped half a mile this side of Williamsburgh along with the
rest of the army.
28'o. o. Two JO Inch Mortars and 2 Royals.
Xo. 4. Four IS pounders, iron pieces.
'So. 5. Four IS pounders and 2 Twentv-fours. (All Brass.)
No. 6. Do. bo.
No. 7. Six Twecty-fonr Pounders (all brass.)
No. S. One Eight Inch Howitzer; Eight Thirteen Inch Mortars and
2 Royals (all brass. )
We could not pass the ravine to see the remainder of our work.
22
IdfJi Oct'r. '81. — At one o'clock this day Major Hamilton with a
detachment marched into town and took possession of the batteries and
hoi^^ted the American flag.
Tlie British army marched out and grounded their arms in front of
our line. Our whole army drew up for them to march through, the
French arm}^ on tbeir right and the American army on their left.
The British prisoners all appeared to be much in liquor.
After they grounded their arms they returned to town again.
20th Oct'r. — This day the prisoners remained in town.
Lt. Collins and self took a walk to see cur gentlemen officers who had
just landed, and took a sup of grog with them.
Jlead Quarters near York, October 20tJi, 1781.
The General congratulates the army upon the glorious event of yester-
day. The generous proofs which his Most Christian Majesty has given
of his attachment to the cause of America must force conviction in the
minds of the most deceived among the enemy, relatively to the decisive
good consequences of the alliance, and inspire every citizen of these
States with sentiments of the most unutterable gratitude. His fleet, the
most numerous and powerful that ever appeared in these seas, commanded
by an Admiral whose fortune and talents insure great events; an army
of the most admirable composition, both in officers and men, are the
pledges of his friendship to the United States, and their co-operation has
secured us the present signal success.
The Genl. upon this occasion intreats his Excellency Count He
Rochambeau to accept of his most grateful acknowledgments for his
councils and assistance at all times. He presents his warmest thanks to
the General Baron He Viominel, Chevalier Chastellux, Marquis De St.
Simon and Count De Viominel, and to Brigadier Genl. De Choisey (who
had a separate command) for the illustrious manner in which they have
advanced the interest of the common cause.
He requests the Count De Rochambeau will be pleased to communi-
ate to the army under his immediate command the high'sense he enter-
tains of the distinguished merits of the officers and soldiers of every
corps, and that he will present in his name to the regiment of Agenors
and Deuxpouts the pieces of brass ordinance captured by them, as a
testimony for their gallantry in storming the enemy's redoubts on the
night of the fourteenth instant, when officers and men so universally
vied with each other in the exercise of every soldierly virtue.
The General's thanks to each individual of merit would comprehend
the whole army, but he thinks himself bound by afiection, duty and
gratitude to express his obligations to Major Generals Lincoln, La Fayette
and Steuben, for their disposition in the trenches; to Gen. Du Portail and
Col. Carney for their vigour and knowledge which were conspicuous in
their conduct of the attacks ; and to Gen. Knox and Col. De Abbervaille
for their great care, attention and fatigue in bringing forward the artil-
lery and stores, and for their judicious and spirited management of them
in the parallels. He requests the gentlemen above mentioned to com-
municate his thanks to the officers and soldiers of their respective com-
mands.
Ingratitude, which the General hope& never to be guilty of, would be
conspicuous in him, was he to omit thanking in the warmest terras his
Jiixcellency Grovernor Wilson, for the aid he has received from him and
from the militia under his command, to whose activity, emulation and
couTage such applause is due. The greatness of the acquisition would
be an ample compensation for the hardships and hazards which they, en-
countered with so much patriotism and firmness.
In order to diffuse the general joy in every breast, the Genl. orders
[that] those men belonging to the army who may now be in confinement
shall be pardoned, released and join their respective corps.
Divine service is to be pei'forraed in the several Brigades or Divisions.
The Commander in Chief earnestly recommends it that the troops not
on duty should universally attend, with that seriousness of deportment
and gratitude of heart which the recognition of such reiterated and as-
tonishing interpositions of Providence demands of us.
21st. Oct'r. '81. — This afternoon the prisoners marched out of town,
under the care of three Divisions of militia.
This day Lt. Thomas Doyle and self took a walk to town, where we
found all the houses ruined and destroyed.
In this day's Gen'l. Orders, the troops are to be in readiness to move
at the shortest notice.
Division Orders of this day.
The Baron Steuben feels himself particularly happy in complying
with the request of his Excellency Genl. Washington in presenting his
warmest thanks to the ofiicers and soldiers of his Division, for the great
skill and alacrity- with which they performed the several duties assigned
them during the siege against York. He ever entertained the highest
opinion of the troops, but the spirit and bravery which was so conspicuous
on the present occasion has given him additional confidence in them and
secured his warmest and lusting friendship.
He canUot be too thankful to Brigadier Genls. Wayne and Gist for
their gallant behaviour on all occasions, and the great assistance they
aflbrded him during the whole of the operations. He also wishes Col.
Butler, Col. Stewart, Major Hamilton, Major Willis, Major Edwards
and Major Koxburgh, the ofiicers and soldiers under their command, to
accept his best thanks for the good conduct shewn in opening the second
parallel, which he considers as the most important part of the siege.
He takes pleasure in assuring them it was performed with a degree of
bravery and dispatch that exceeded his most sanguine expectations.
He cannot conclude without expressing in the highest terms his ap-
probation respecting the conduct of Captain Walker, who performed
double duty in the trenches, by mounting with his company, in addition
to the services he rendered him as his Aide de Camp, which was so
great as to entitle him to his sincere acknowledgments.
This day received the following letters, viz :
One from my brother Frederick Kneass, dated the 10th Oct'r. 81.
One from my brother App, dated the 10th Oct'r. 81.
One from Lt. Johnston, dated York Town, Oct'r. 12, 81.
One from some person or other [who] signed himself Incognito.
24
22d Oct^r. '81. — This morning I wrote the following letters, viz :
One to my mother, and one to my brother App. No. 9.
This morning our brigade went on duty to York and Gloster.
2'id Oct'r. — This morning Capt. Stevenson and self crossed the river
to take a view of Gloster, which we found full of sick of the British.
This afternoon Col. Tarlton was dismounted from his horse by an in-
habitant who owned the horse.
Spent the afternoon very agreeably drinking wine and claret, &c.
^.^th. — The Freuch troops are employed this day in taking their heavy
pieces of ordinance. ,
This day wrote a letter to ray Brother App., No. 10.
Spent the afternoon with the Officers of the Third Penn'a Battalion.
Return of the Garrison of York and Gloucester, in Virginia, which
surrendered prisoners of war on the 19th October, 1781 : —
To his Excellency Gen. George Washington: —
1 Lieut. General. 15 Adjutants.
1 Brigadier General. 20 Quarter-Masters.
2 Colonels. 14 Surgeons.
12 Lieut. Colonels. 22 Mates.
14 Majors. 445 Serjeants.
83 Captains. 5780 Rank and File.
132 Lieutenants. 187 Drummers and Fifers.
55 Ensigns. 9 Bombardiers.
4 Cornets. 6*Gunners.
2 Chaplains. 154 Matrosses.
Hospital Department.
1 Surgeon and Field Inspector.
3 Surgeons. 4 Stewards.
10 Mates. 2 Ward Masters.
2 Chaplains. 19 Assistants.
2 Purveyors. 2 Carpenters.
Commissary DejKirtmeiit.
1 Commissary of Prisoners. 2 Clerks.
4 Commissary of Issues. 3 Issuers.
1 Commissary of Forage. 2 Coopers.
2 Assistants' Forage. 1 Labourer.
Total, 7025.
N. B. This return is exclusive of the warrant department, which adds
iipv;ards of 1000 to the list of prisoners.
One hundred sf]uare-rigged vessels, and upwards of 300 pieces of
ordnance, 80 of which are brass.
During the siege the enemy's loss was* **00 killed, deserted, and
made prisoners.
25ison and Moore shot a very fine young deer,
close by our encampment.
Likewise a soldier of our battalion shot a fine deer.
4th Deer. — The troops took up the line of march this morning at
sunrise. The greater part of the road being verji hilly, crossed Hico
and Country Line Creek. A snow fell this day of about fijur inches
deep. Encamped at Mr. Sumner's Ordinary.
Capt. Bartholomew, of our battalion, unfortunately broke bis leg this
evening. Caswell county. 18 miles.
5» /)«•*/■, '81- — This day we lay still in order to give our soldiers
rest, as they were much fatigued from yesterday's march,
6/A Dec*)-. — This morning I had the honour of commanding the Bul-
lock Guard. I marched with my detachment to one Mr. Davis's, abomt
three miles from our encampment to get a fresh corn-field for the cat-
tle, 402 in nianiber.
1th Deer. — The troops took up the line of march this rao-rning at
sunrise, (I still being a Bullock Guard.) Passed through a very beau-
tiful country, no pine to he seen. Very sloppy this morning. Crossetl
Haw Ptiver. The troops wore obliged to ford it, which was very disa-
greeable this season of the year, and encamped on the banks of said
river. 16 miles. Guilford county.
Our heavy bag age was left on the ground this morning, under the
command of Major James Moore.
Sth Dee^r, '81 — This morning at day-light the troops took up the
line of march, passed through a very fair country (no pincs;) and en-
camped at Guilford Court House. 20 miles.
30
N. B. Crossed a branch of Hico Creek, where we were obliged tu
make a bridge across on account of its being about four feet deep.
We encamped on the heights near Gruilford Court House, where the
late action was fought between Gen. Greone and Lord Cornwallis. \\ e
found on s dd fields a number of huts of muskets, &c.
Between the ordinary and the court house we see a negro's head
sticking on a sapling on one side of the road, and his right hand side to
a sapling on the opposite side. He was just hanged, then cut to
pieces for killing a white man, &c.
dth Dec'r, '81. — This day we remained on the ground in expectation
of getting clothing washed, but the weather turned out to be very rainy
and disagreeable. This place is called the Irish settlement.
'[0th Deer J '81. — We received orders this morning to remain on the
ground for to wash our clothing, &c. This day very rainy and disagree-
ably cold.
ll^A Deer. — This morning at sunrise the troops took up the line of
march. Passed through a very fine country, (settled by Quakers, who
have tolerable good plantations, &c.) Crossed two branches of Deep
Creek, and encamped near Mr. Barney **iddle's, on the banks of **st's
Creek. 15 miles. Guilford county.
\2th Deer. — The troops took up the line of march this morning at
the usual time; passed through a country settled by Grcrmans, who
have very good plantations, and a small quantity of meadow, which is
seldom to be seen. (A ^ov^ pines this day.) Left Moravian town,
called Salem eight miles upon our right hand.
Yesterday Col Craig of the 3d Battalion, Penn'a, took the right of
our Brigade, and this day our Battalion encamped upon the right as
usual. (16 miles) long.
Encamped on the hill near Mr. McCreary's. Roane county.
13^/i Dcc^r, '81. — This morning at sunrise the troops took up the line
of march. Passed through a fine country, (no pines.) Grossed the Yad-
kin in boats. The soldiers and the baggage forded, and encamped
within 1 mile of said river. 13 miles.
\Xth Deer. — The trooj^s took up the line of march this morning at
sunrise. Passed, through Salisbury, which is a fine little town; two or
three elegant houses; and encamped within half-a-mile of said town. 7
miles.
This evening Capt. Davis and Lieut. Collier went to town and spent
the evening with Capt. Christr. Stake at Mr. Bream's, an old townsman
of mine.
\btli Dec^r.—T\\Q troops took up the line of march this morning at
sunrise. Passed through a very fine country ; went back to town this
morning and wrote the following letters, viz:
One to my Brother App., No. 13, and one to my mother, and deli-
vered them to Capt. Christ'r Stake. Encamped at Mr. Taylor's,
Roane county, 12 miles.
16//i Deer. — This morning at sunrise marched at the usual time ;
crossed Coddle Creek, and Mr. Phciff"er's Ornery, where Capt. Bower
and self dined. Passed through a fine country, and encamped on llocky
Run. Mecklenburg county. 14 miles.
31
'V\ itliin half a mile of our encampments -was an Indian Town of the
Catawbas Nation. They arc but few in number at this place, about
eighty. About four miles from this place, I am informed, their princi-
pal town is, where they have fifteen square miles of land. The land
here is very good, and no pines.
17^/i Dtcr, '81. — This day remained on the ground in consequence of
rain.
ISth Dec /:— This morning a very great frost. The troops took up
the line of march at the usual hour, crossed Millet Creek, marched
through Charlotte Town, and encamped within half a mile of said town.
There are but three tolerable houses in town, and about one dozen of
ordinary buildings, &e. Mecklenburg county. 13 miles.
■J his day I mounted camp guard;
' 19/A Dec'?-. — The troops took up the line of marcb this morning at
sunrise, and crossed iVIt. Copper Creek and several other small runs, and
encamped this side of Glenn's Branch. We saw but very few houses
this day. 15 miles. Mecklenburg county.
20i'A Dec')-. — This morning at sunrise the troops took up the line of
march. Passed through a fine. level country, and encamped at 12 mile
creek, Indian Land, in South Carolina. 10 mile.«. Camde» District.
Lieuts. Lodge, McKinney, Strieker, Van Court, and self took a ride
about four miles from our encampment to see an Indian town of the
Catawba Nation. We had a very long, tedious, and disagreeable ride,
and all small Indian foot-paths and thick woods to ride through. We
see one of their towns, but it was only the remains of a town, -which
was burnt by the British. We rode on half a mile farther, when wc
found a very fine bottom, but all the old houses evacuated.
We see three Indians in a canoe, coming down Catawba Riven We
hailed them, and brought them to, and asked them several questions.
They informed us the town was half-a-mile the other side of the river.
We were very desirous of seeing the town, but could not trust our
horses on this side for fear they would be stolen.
I marched the sick of our brigade this day.
We could not cross the creek, it being very high water ia conse-
quence of yesterday's rain. We were obHged to fall a number of trees
across the creek for the troops to cross over.
21s^ Deer. — The troops took up the line of march at 12 o'clock, M.
Crossed 12 mile creek, passed through a very fine country, and en-
camped at Maxwell Creek. 7 miles.
At this place were seventeen British officers, paroled. A warm day.
I'lnd Dec'r. — This morning at day-light the troops took up the lisie
of march. Crossed Waxaw Creek, Cane Creek, Camp Creek, Gill's
Creek, and Bear Creek, and encamped on the south side of said creek,
on Major Barkley's farm, Creaven county, Camden District. 10 miles.
This a very rainy, sloppy, and disagreeable day.
^ 23yf(f Deer, '81. — This morning at sunrise the troops took up the line
of march. Passethey reflect on the cir-
cumstances attending the formation of Capt. Willmot's detachment. W^e
do therefore beg the General will inform us whether it was his intention
that Capt. AVillmot's command should be formed on the principle it was,
or whether by mistake. Should it prove the latter, we shall be happy,
and have not a doubt that Gen'l Greene's sense of equity and honor
will lead him to do justice to the feelings of a body of injured OtScers.
For the purpose of better explaining the points wherein we conceive
ourselves agrieved, we enclose a copy of the order.
[Here is a blank page in the MS.]
5*
44
"\Yc have the honor to be with respect jour obedient and very lunnblc
servants. (Signed,)
John Davis, Captain.
Jos. Collier, Lieut.
Henry Henly, Lieut.
A. M. Dunn, Lieut.
Jno. Humphrey, Ensign.
Samuel Smith, Capt.
H'y Bicker, Capt.
J. McCuUam, Lieut.
T. Boude, Capt.
J. Stotsbury, Capt.
Eben'r Denny, Ensign.
T. B. Tilden, Lieut.
Andrew Irwin, Capt.
T. Campbell, Capt.
B. Lodge, Lieut.
Jerr'h Jackson, Capt.
Jno. Van Court, Ensign.
James McFarlane, Lieut.
J. Steel, Capt.
"W. Feltnian, Lieut.
Francis White, Lieut.
Jas. McCuUoch, Lieut.
Peter Cunninghaiu, Lieut.
Jacob Weitzel, Lieut.
George North, Lieut.
Jno. McKinney, Lieut.
Thos. Doyle, Lieut.
Jno. Markland, Lieut.
D iMcKnight, Lieut.
James McPberson, Lieut.
J. Bowen, Capt.
R. Allison, Lieut.
Wm. Lusk, Capt.
W. l^evins, Lieut.
D. MarsluiU, Lieut.
1*. Smith, Lieut.
March 29th, 1782. — This morning it was excessive cold, snowed a
little; cleared up a fine day. This morning we breakfasted at Mr. Wil-
liamson's ; started about eleven o'clock, A. M., and arrived in camp
about dinner time. Mr. Williamson was so good as to make us a pre-
sent of an elegant bunch of asparagus.
This afternoon received an answer from Gen. Greene, in consequence
of yesterday's memorial, viz :
Head Quarters, March 29th, 1782.
Gentlemen : — The constitution of an army and that , of civil govern-
ment are upon such difl'erent principles, the object of one so difi'erent from
the other, that what might be essential to military operations in tbe forma-
tion of an army, would befounJ too simple for tlie various interests and dif-
ferent claims under civil government. The business of an army is to cover
the country and annoy the enemy ; that of civil government to protect
and secure the rights of individuals. Therefore to argue from analogy
of the rights of men under these different governments, is confounding
things that have no relation, and reasoning upon principles that never
can be admitted in an army. It i.s necessary both to the success and the
security of an army, that its movements should be simple and secret.
If the constitution of an army is not upon this principle, it can never
answer the designs of government ; and to furu! an army upon any plan
which must defeat the great object of it, will burthen the community
with great expense without utility. I am always as tender of tbe feel-
ings ot ctEcers as possible; but if they go into refinements, :iud urge
injuries wbich have no foundation but from improper modes of reason-
ing, I cannot sacrifice the public good iirid the reputation of the army at
largo to accommodate military operations to their way of thinking
45
You arc to consider yourselves as officers of the continental army,
Lound by its laws, and governed by military maxim?. You arc under
military, not civil, government. If you feel any injury, it must be as
(ifiicers of the line of the arm}', and not those of any particular state.
13at if you will give yourselves the trouble to read military authors, and
consider the practice of other armies, and reflect without prejudice upon
the nature and design of detachments, you cannot but be convinced your
grievances arc imaginary
When detachments are made, it is for some particular purpose. To
make it, therefore, in a manner not perfectly calculated to answer the
design, would both sacrifice the public good, and by degrees the reputa-
tion of the army. There are more things to be taken into consideration
in making a detachment than merely the military abilities of the officer
commanding, or his rank in the line of the army.
There is a knowledge of the country, the people, and other local cir-
cuuistances, which are very material considerations, to be attended to, to
give success to an enterprise.
A man of an inferior capacity, with a knowledge of these things, would
be able to execute and command much better with them, than a man
of superior capacity without them.
I have ever made it a rule, and I find it well warranted by the best
military writers, as well as from the reason and nature of the thing, to
detach such men and officers as I may think requisite for the service to
be performed. Nothing short of this can give success to an enterprise.
I hope, therefore you will consider this explanation satisfactory. You
may be assured I have the strongest disposition to oblige and do justice
to the merit and services of every officer, but I must confine myself to
such maxims of military govci-nment as are necessary to do justice to the
public and the army at large.
I am. Gentlemen,
Your most obed't, humble serv't,
Natii. Greene.
To Capt. John Davis and others, of the Penn'a Line.
jiarch 29th continued, 1782.- — This afternoon Capt. Ziglcr joined our
Regiment.
3la)-ch 30//i, '82. — A very cold and disagreeable day.
March o\st, 1782. — Morning and evening very cold.
Capt. Zigler ordered in this day's order to take command of Capt.
Stevenson's compan}^
April \st, 1782. — This day I wrote the following letters, viz : one to
mv mother; one to Capt. John Doyle; and one to Capt. Abraham
Dehuft'.
This morning I mounted the right flank picquct, about one mile from
our encampment.
This evening received a letter from my brother App. This afternoon
a Hessian Yeager (a deserter) passed my picquet. Uur line mustered.
April 2;u?, '82. — This morning a very heavy white frost
This day wrote the following letters, viz: one to my brother App.
46
No. 17 ; and one to my brother Kneass, No. 1 ; and sent them with
the rest of the letters I wrote yesterday by Joseph , from llei-
ger's Town, Penn'a.
This evening received orders to gear up our wagon horses, and hold
ourselves in readiness to march at a moment's warning. It is thought
the enemy are determined to fight us, as they are making all preparations
for that purpose.
This morning and evening very cool, and the middle of the day very
warm.
Last night sis soldiers, prisoners of war, made their escape out of the
Provost Guard.
^^pril urd, 1782. — Last night it was very cold.
This morning we sent an answer to Gen. Greene's letter of the 29th
of last month, viz :
Camp, Apl. 3d, '82.
Sir : — That civil and military governments differ we grant. But that
they are both constituted on principles of justice is a circumstance in itself
loo evident to admit of a doubt.
Therefore to quote civil government, and deduce thence that a sub-
ject, though not of a State, we had right to ask redress of grievances,
and not to be deemed unreasonable. For that military subjects have
not a claim to justice, although the Government is supposed to hold it,
in its very principles, is a matter that we have never yet been acquaint-
ed with. From what circumstances the General judges, when lie sup-
poses us to have taken up the nuitter as (3fSccrs of a State, and not of
the Continental Army, we are at a loss to know; and can only answer,
that it is not in our power to account for the feelings and ideas of any
body but ourselves; but offer to explain why it should affect us particu-
larly, as there was an officer of our brigade sent by regular detail with
the detachment to the Grand Parade, and was dismissed th'ence by Capt.
AVillmot, who produced an order vesting him (Capt. Willmot) with
power to approve of or reject such officers as he might think proper.
If the Gcn'l will reflect a moment on the circumstances, he must na-
turally conclude, (unless he supposes us void of every delicate sensation)
that we have cause of complaint. We conclude with answering, that
although the answer to our address was not so satisfactory as we could
have expected, we are induced, from the peculiar situation of the army,
and our zeal for the public good, to decline any further steps on the oc-
casion. And remain with respect.
Your most obedient humble scrv'ts,
[Signed on behalf of the officers,]
John Davis, Capt. 1st Penn'a. Batt.
J. Bower, Capt. 2nd Penn'a. Batt.
This day a flag came to Bacon's Bridge.
April Ath, '82. — Lt. Collier, Doyle, and self, took a walk about a mile
on the left of our encampment, cro^:sed Ashley Kiver, went to a Mr.
47
Itzcv's house, drank grog, &.C. A warm day. This day a second flag
came to the bridge.
This day wrote the following letters, viz : one to my mother, and one
to my brother App., No. 18, and sent them by Mr. Patten.
A/jn'I 5th. — This day the Light Infantry brohe up and joined their
respective regiments.
This afternoon a third flag came to the bridge, requesting that the
confiscated estates should not 'be sold, but restored to the proper own-
ers, &c.
A very warm and fine day.
April Qth. — A very fine, warm, and agreeable day.
April "ith, '82. — This morning mounted Gen. Greene's guard. Lived
exceedingly well ; plenty of good wine, &c.
This day two deserters came to Head Quarters. A very warm day.
April 8 til, '82. — Last night very cold. This morning a British Dra-
goon came to Head Quarters, who deserted hist night fi-om a party of
two hundred horse, who came as far as Dorchester. He brought his
horse and all his accoutrements with him.
T'lis morning was relieved by Lieut. Hammond, of our regiment.
This morning a very heavy firing of cannon and small arms.
April 9th, '82. — A very rainy and very disagreeable day. We were
obliged to keep in our tents. In this day's General Orders I was ap-
pointed Paymaster to the First Battalion of Pennsy'a.
Ajiril lOih, '82. — All last night excessive hard rain, thunder and
lightning. A cloudy, rainy, and dull day.
April llth. — Rained all day. Last night a very heavy rain.
This afternoon a flan; came to Bacon's Brid";c.
Aj^ril Vlth, '82. — This morning Capt. Ziglcr went as a (lag to the
enemy's lines. Cloudy all day.
Ap)ril \ofli., '82. — This morning nine o'clock the whole army formed
in a field in front of the Adjt. Genl's. Fired one round by platoons, one
by divisions, and one by battalions.
A very fine, warm, and agreeable day.
April 14A'i, '82. — Last night it rained very hard, and very heavy
thunder and lio;htnino-.
A fine, warm, and agreeable day.
April 15th. — This being a very warm day in camp, Lieuts. Doyle,
Collier, and self, took a walk through the woods, and called at one Mr.
Warren's house, where part of the fields were surrounded by palmetto
trees, as a substitute for a fence. It has leaves about two feet long, and
two inches wide, and very sharp at the end. The woods are all covered
over with a very fine, sweet flower, called jessamine.
IG'/i April. — .\ fine and warm day. Morning and evening very cool.
April \~th. — This evening a Capt. Orcndorff and fifty men went to
the lines.
Apjril iSth, '82. — Spent the afternoon very agreeably with Lt. Cle-
mens, of the Maryland line. This day four deserters came to Head
Quarters.
Aj^ril I9th, '82. — This day Lieut. McFarland and self took a ride into
48
tlie country. Had tlie pleasure of seeiug three alligators, one of seven
feet, one of four, and one of two feet.
April 20th, '82. — This afternoon a Captain, Subaltern, and twenty-
four rank and file, (Refugees,) deserted from John's Island, and came to
Head Quarters, all armed.
Ajvi'l 21st, '82. — This morning Lieut. Cunningham and self rode to
Head Quarters, with a determination to resign our commissions, which
were accepted of by Genl. Greene, after making a small pause of half an
hour.
I asked him whether he would be so obliging as to advance us a small
sum of money, which he very politely refused, and made answer that he
had not any money for those people who chose to return homo at their
own will.
22d April, '82. — This day I was very busily employed in getting
ready to start for the northward.
23f? Jipril, '82. — This morning Capt. Campbell, Capt. Stevenson,
Lieut. Cunningham, Lieut. Arthur and self started, and came on to a.
Mr. Dunklin's, 28 miles from camp.
2itli April. — This day we passed a number of hills, &c., and quar-
tered at Capt. Hail's, 28 miles.
2htli April. — Dined at Col. Thompson's. Crossed the Congaree, and
quartered at Mr„ Dawson's, where we were treated very politely. 26
miles.
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