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Parole—. Countersigns—.
It is with the highest pleasure and satisfaction the Commander in Chief announces to the Army the arrivals of the Count de Grasse in the Chesapeake with a very formidable Naval and Land force; at the same time he felicitates them on this auspicious occasion he anticipates the glorious Events which may be expected from the combined Operations now in contemplation. As no circumstance cou'd possibly have happened more opportunely in point of time, no prospect cou'd ever have promised more important successes, and nothing but our want of exertions can probably blast the pleasing prospects before us. The General calls upon all the gallant Officers, the brave and faithful soldiers he has the honor to command to exert their utmost abilities in the cause of their Country and to share with him (with their usual alacrity) the difficulties, dangers and glory of the present Enterprize. The Commanding Officers of Corps are to cause abstracts to be immediately made for a Months pay of their respective Commands, excluding any infamous characters who may have been so far left to the sense of Honor, the pride of their professions and the love of their Country as to desert the standard of freedom at this critically interesting period, those men only are to be comprehended who are present with their several Corps.
Major Platt is appointed Division Inspector to the Division Commanded by Major General Lincoln and is to be respected and obeyed accordingly.
Parole—. Countersigns—
The Commander in Chief takes the earliest Opportunity of testifying the satisfaction he feels on Joining the Army under the Command of Major General the Marquis de la Fayette with prospects which (under the smiles of Heaven) he doubts not will crown their toils with the most brilliant success. A conviction that the Officers and soldiers of this Army will still be actuated by that true Martial spiritt and thirst of Glory which they have already exhibitted on so many trying occasions and under circumstances far less promising than the present affords him the most pleasing sensations.
The arrival of a powerful Fleet and Army under the Command of His Excellency the Count de Grasse and the Marquis de St Simon desplays a new and striking instance of the generous attention of his most Christian Majesty to the interests of the United States.
In addition to the force already assembled a very respectable body of troops both French and Americans are now on their March from the Eastward and may soon be expected to aid our Operations in this quarter. The Zeal and celerity with which Major General the Marquis de St Simond debarked his troops and Joined the Army under the Command of the Marquis de la Fayette at so critical a Juncture demand his most grateful acknowledgements, which he intreats the Marquis to Accept.
He also prays him to have the complaisance to signify to the Officers and soldiers under his Command the high sense the General entertains of the spirit and Ardor they have shewn on that Occasion. He particularly admires the patience with which they supported the scarcity of Provisions that unfortunately existed at the time of their Junction owing to particular circumstances, circumstances which he exceedingly regretts, but hopes are already remedied and that the like misfortune will not be again experienced.
Accurate Returns of the different Corps as well Continentl as Militia now serving here to be given in at Head Quarters Tomorrow Morning at ten oclock, specifying the Number of Militia that are unarmed and that the men returned on duty &ca. be particularly and satisfactorily accounted for.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
As during the present scarcity of Provisions the Quarter Master will take care that a sufficient number of Cornfields be appropriated to the use of the Troops, the Commander in Chief in the most Pointed manner forbids the soldiers entering or taking Corn in any field but those pointed out by the Quarter Master, and hopes that every Officer will exert himself to see this order attended to.
Parole Toulon. Countersigns Villers, Belleisle.
An accurate inspection of the Arms Accoutrements and Ammunition to be made immediately and the deficiencies compleated; also a correct Return of the Troops that are disembarked to be made this day and delivered to the Adjutant General.
The Continental Troops composing the Army in Virginia are to brigaded as follows viz.
First. Colonel Voses, Lieutenant Colonel Barbers and Lieutent. Colo. Gematts Battallions of Infantry will form a Brigade to be commanded by Brigader General Muhlenburgh.
2d. Colonel Scammells regiment and Lt. Col. Hamiltons Battalion of Infantry and Hazens Regiment, a Brigade to be Commanded by Brigadier General Hazen.
3d. Colonels Gaskins
17. Lieut. Col. Thomas Gaskins, of the Third Virginia Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
4th. The third and fourth Maryland regiments, a Brigade to be Commanded by Brigadier General Gist.
5th. The two Jersey regiments and the Rhode Island regiment, a Brigade to be Commanded by Colonel Dayton.
6th. The first and second New York regiments a Brigade to be Commanded by Brigadier General James Clinton.
Parole Petersburgh. Countersigns Richmond, Hannover.
All deserters and persons coming from the Enemys Lines are to be sent in the first instance to Head Quarters. No Horses, Arms or accoutrements are to be purchased from them except for the Public services, unless it is specified to the contrary in the written passes which will be granted to them by the Adjutant General, any persons of the above discription found without proper passes, with the Army or in the environs of the Encampments are to be apprehended and sent to the provost Guard.
The Deputy Commissary of Prisoners will report to Head Quarters all prisoners of War immediately after their Capture.
At a General Court Martial assembled at Williamsburgh September 12th. 1781 by order
of Major General the Marquis de la Fayette, Colonel Vose President, Captain
Wilkin
18. Capt. Robert Wilkins, of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment. He served to June, 1783.
of good order and Discipline, was tried and acquited.
The Commander in Chief approves the Opinion of the Court. Captain Wilkin is released from his Arrest.
The several issuing Commissaries will be particularly careful in preserving all the sheep skinns, for the use of the Artillery. They will be delivered on application to Mr. Thomas Jones, Deputy field Commissary of Military stores.
Captain Lieutenant Miles
Parole Marsailles. Countersigns Ostend, Newport.
The first Brigade of Light Infantry, Waynes Brigade and the third Maryland Regiment are to remove at eight oClock Tomorrow Morning to the encampment advanced of the city.
The field Artillery attached to the Brigades are to be provided with Horses Tomorrow without fail.
Four days Bread (if to be had) or flour and the like quantity of Meat (no more of which fresh than will keep) is to be issued to all the Troops Tomorrow.
General Du Portail will direct the Number of intrenching and other tools necessary to be taken with the Army in the first instance and fix the mode of Transportation with the Quarter Master General.
19. Capt.-Lieut. John Miles, of the Second Continental Artillery. He resigned in December, 1782.
20. Capt.-Lieut. Baxter Howe, of the Second Continental Artillery. He died Sept. 20, 1781.
A Corporal and four Dragoons from Colonel Moylands Command to attend dayly at Head Quarters untill further orders.
An accurate Return of the several regiments of Militia on duty here, specifying the Brigades they belong to to be given in at the orderly Office at ten oClock Tomorrow Morning.
While the Army continues in its present position General orders will be issued every day at three oClock P. M. at the orderly Marque in the rear of the American Encampment.
Parole Virginia. Countersigns York, Gloscester.
Officers of the day for Tomorrow
Major General Lincoln.
Colonel Dayton.
Lt. Col. Antill.
B.M. Hobbey.
The Rolls are to be called with the greatest strictness at retreat beating this evening and again at tattoo in presence of the Field Officers, at which time no Officer or soldier in condition to March is to be absent from his Post in Camp. The General confides in the Commanders of Corps for the punctual execution of these orders.
Till circumstances shall render a change of disposition Necessary, the following will be the order of Battle for the Army, the American Troops composing the right Wing will be formed into two Lines, the Continental Forces in the front line, consisting of the following devisions and in the following order viz. Muhlenberghs and Hazens Brigades to form
The Division on the right under the Command of the Marquis de la Fayette, Waynes and the Maryland Brigade, the Division of the centre for the present to be commanded by Baron de Stueben, Daytons and Clintons Brigades, that on the Left. The senior Continental Officer will Command the Right Wing and his Excellency Count Rochambeau the Left Wing of which he will be pleased to make his own disposition.
The two Companies of Delaware are for the present to be annexed to the 3d Maryland Regiment.
Stephens and Lawson
The whole Army will March by the right in one Column at 5 oClock tomorrow Morning precisely. The particular order of March for the right Wing will be distributed by the Quarter Master General.
The General desires that the Officers will confine themselves in point of Baggage to objects of the first Necessity, that the Army may March as light and unincumbered as possible. The Quarter Master General will have directions to appoint a proper deposit for the effects that will be left, from whence they will be transported to the Army as soon as a parmenent position is taken.
The Quarter Master General will allot a proportionate Number of the Waggons in his possession for the service of the Left Wing.
If the Enemy should be tempted to Meet the Army on its March, the General particularly enjoins the troops to place
35. Brig. Gen. Adam Stephen's and Robert Lawson's brigades of Virginia Militia.
their principle relyance on the Bayonet, that they may prove the Vanity of the Boast
which the British make of their particular prowess in deciding Battles with that
Weapon. He trusts that a generous Emulation will actuate the Allied Armies, that the
french whose National Weapon is that of close fight, and the troops in General that
have so often used it with success will distinguish themselves on every Occasion that
offers; the Justice of the cause in which we are engaged and the Honor of the two Nations must inspire every breast with sentiments that are
the presage of Victory.
General Muhlenberghs Brigade of Infantry with the Artillery attached to it, preceded
by Colonel Lewises
Parole Lewis 16th. Countersigns Seguire, Decasta.
Officers for the day Tomorrow
Major General Marquis de
la Fayette.
Colonel Scammell
Lt. Col. Vandyke
B.M. Bleeker.
The whole Army, Officers and Soldiers, will lay on thier Arms this Night.
36. Col. Nicholas(?) Lewis, of the Virginia Militia.
Parole Rochambeau. Countersigns Viomenil, Bougainville.
Officers for the day Tomorrow
Major General Baron
Steuben
Colonel Courtlandt
Lt. Col. Barber
B.M. from Waynes Brigade
Our ungenerous Enemy having as usual propagated the small Pox in this part of the Country, the Commander in Chief forbids the Officers and soldiers of this Army having any connection with the Houses or Inhabitants in this neighbourhood or borrowing any utensills from them.
Each Brigade in the first line of the right Wing will throw up a small Work in its front for the security of the Camp Guard.
General Duportail will please to order an Engineer to trace out the above Works.
Major William Barber is appointed Inspector to the Division Commanded by Major General the Marquis de la Fayette and is to be obeyed accordingly.
An orderly serjeant from each Division to be sent to the Adjutant Generals Office daily.
EVENING ORDERS
Twelve hundred men to be paraded tomorrow Morning at seven oClock in the front of Colonel Gimatts Light Infantry Battalion to be imployed in such manner as the Engineers shall direct. The Quarter Master General will send to the above mentioned place at the same hour 500 spades or shovels, One hundred Pick Axes, four hundred Axes, hatchetts or bill Hooks.
An Officer with a small Guard is to attend and have particular charge of the Tools. He is to take a Receipt for the quantity and kind of tools delivered to each Officer commanding a fatigue party, and if the tools are not returned in the evening he is to report the Name of the Officer and the Number of deficient tools to Head Quarters; shou'd any of the tools through unavoidable accident be broken in the course of the work in which they are employed, the broken parts are to be delivered to the Officer charged with the reception of the tools who is to make his report of them.
This regulation relative to the care of distribution of the tools to be considered as a standing order.
Parole Chattellux. Countersigns Lincoln, Steuben.
Officers for the day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel Vose
Lt. Col. Olney
B.M. Cox.
Lieutenant Colonel De Hart to be field Officer of the day in the room of Lieut.
Colonel Barber indisposed. Major Cummings
General Muhlenburghs Brigade will consider itself as a reserve Picquet this Night. General Muhlenbergh will take his orders from Baron Steuben, Major General of the day.
A picquet consisting of eight Captains, sixteen subalterns, sixteen serjeants and three hundred Rank and file, to parade immediately in the field between Tarltons Camp and the Works abandoned by the Enemy.
The Brigade Major of the day will inform Baron Steuben
41. Capt. Richard Cox, of the Second New Jersey Regiment, He was made major in January, 1783, and served to the close of the war.
42. Maj. John Noble Cumming (Cummings), of the First New Jersey Regiment. He was appointed lieutenant colonel of the Second New Jersey Regiment in December, 1781; lieutenant colonel commandant in February, 1783; served to November, 1783.
when the Picquet is formed and take his orders for their disposition.
AFTER ORDERS
The whole of Hazens Brigade off duty and 2 C., 6 S., 6 S. and 100 Rank and file of Waynes Brigade to be added to the reserve pickett already ordered, they will form with General Muhlenburghs Brigade at sunset and consider themselves under his immediate direction.
The advanced season and various considerations render it indispensibly necessary to conduct the attacks against York with the utmost rapidity, the General therefore exhorts and requires the Officers and soldiers of this Army to pursue the duties of their respective departments and stations with the most unabating ardor; the present moment offers in prospect the epoch which will decide American Independence and the Glory and superiority of the Allies.
A vigorous use of the means in our power cannot but ensure success, the passive conduct of the Enemy argues his weakness and the uncertainty of his Counsels; the Libertys of America and the honor of the Allied Arms are in our hands; such objects must excite a patriotic emulation in the greatest actions and exertions, their consequences will amply compensate every Danger and fatigue.
All Deserters and others coming from the Enemies Lines are to be stopped at the Outposts and reported to the General Officer of the day who is desired to send such as are capable of giving useful information to Head Quarters, the rest are to be disposed of as the Governor or person appointed by him may direct; in the first examination of them at the Outposts the most scrupulous attention is to be used, to prevent any
person infected with the small pox from entring either the French or American Camps. All Officers and others are strictly forbid for obvious reasons to wear red Coats.
The General forbids all those who are not required by their station or the Command of a superior Officer to employ themselves in reconnoitring the Enemies works; the curiosity of such persons often interrups the observations of Officers particularly charged with this business; the good of the service requires that each Officer adheres to the duty assigned to him.
Twelve hundred men properly Officered for fatigue Tomorrow. Four hundred of them are to parade near the two Redoubts now constructing, at day break.
The Quarter Master General will have One hundred Axes ready at the same time and place. The remaining eight hundred are to parade at six oClock in front of the Encampment lately Occupied by Colonel Gimotts Regiment where the Quarter Master General will have the Tools employed to day in making fascines and Gabions. The Officer commanding each of the above parties will appoint a commissioned Officer with a small guard to receive and deliver the intrenching tools agreeable to the Orders of yesterday. Stephens and Lawsons Brigades will furnish the above parties.
Parole France. Countersigns Spain, America.
Officers for the day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Stewart
Lt. Col. Huntington
B.M. Aorson
52. Capt. Aaron Aorson, of the Third New York Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
The health of the troops is an object of such infinite importance that every possible attention ought to be paid to the preservation of it.
The Quarter Master General is directed to use effectual Measures to obtain a quantity of Straw sufficient for the men to lodge upon.
The Commissaries will endeavour to keep up a constant supply of Rum which is in that case to be issued at the rate of One Gill pr man daily.
It is expected that bread of a good quality will be furnished by Mr. Ludwick, superintendent of the Bakers, nearly sufficient for the Army and the Commanding Officers of Corps are called upon to see that their men are duly supplied with Provisions on all occasions; and particularly whenever ordered on fatigue or any other duty.
Colonels and Commanding Officers of Corps are also requested to have as many of their men present with their Corps as possible: if any who are fit for duty are absent at Williamsburgh or any other place in the vicinity an Officer ought to be sent to bring them on immediately.
A General Court Martial of which Col. Dayton is appointed President will assemble
Tomorrow at ten oClock A.M. at the Judge Advocates Marque, about a thousand yards
south East of the Bridge over beaver dam Creek for the tryal of Captain Duffy
All evidences and persons concerned to attend; an orderly serjeant from each Division will be sent to the Court.
Accurate Returns of the Continental Troops and Militia in Camp to be given in at the Adjutant Generals Office Tomorrow at orderly time.
53. Capt. Patrick Duffy, of the Fourth Continental Artillery. (See General Orders,
Oct. 11, 1781, post.)
On October 1 William Stephens Smith wrote to Quartermaster General Pickering that
Washington wished to alter “the route of the Express riders instead of its being
continued thro' Richmond, they must pass from the Boling Green to todds Bridge and
cross at Ruffins ferry.” Smith's draft is in the Washington
Papers.
For Picquet this night the third Maryland regiment, to parade at five OClock in the rear of the works and receive their orders from the General Officer of the day. Covering party General Waynes Brigade to parade at the same time. Fatigue Tomorrow General Clintons Division to parade at the times and places directed yesterday.
Two Captains four subs six serjeants and one hundred rank and file from General Muhlenberghs Brigade for fatigue to parade in front of the Maryland Regiments at six oClock Tomorrow morning and take directions from the Quarter Master General.
MORNING ORDERS
The Commander in Chief having ordered his own Baggage Waggons to be sent to assist in the Transportation of Ordnance and stores, Requests that all the Waggons of the General field and other Officers may be employed on the same service; as it is of the utmost consequence that the heavy Artillery should be brought up without a moments loss of time, the Waggons will Parade in the field near Head Quarters immediately.
Major Fish is appointed member of the Court Martial ordered yesterday in the room of Major Bauman.
Parole Martinico. Countersigns Calais, Dieppe.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier General Muhlenbergh
Lieut. Colonel Cochran
Major Rice
B.M. Hobby.
The Commanding Officers of Corps are enjoind to exert the utmost vigilence and strictest precautions to prevent their men from
54. Capt. John Hobby (Hobbey), of the Ninth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Third Massachusetts Regiment in May, 1782, and served to June, 1784.
straggling out of Camp; almost every House in the vicinity of it being infected with the small pox or some other contagious Malady.
The surgeons of the Army are to be particularly attentive to removing without an instants delay any Soldier in whom the symptoms of the small Pox may appear.
Salt Provision is not to be issued without a General Order but in cases of necessity.
The York Brigade is to be employed in making Facines and Gabions untill further orders, by the particular desire of Major General Lincoln. The duties of the General and Field Officers of the day will commence at the time the Picquetts assemble on the Parade.
For Pickett this evening, the fourth Maryland regimt. to parade at the usual hour.
Covering party General Muhlenburghs brigade, except the hundred men employed this day on fatigue.
Captain John Carlile
Capt. Pike
The Gentlemen in the Medical Department from South Carolina are desired to do duty in the General Hospital at Williamsburgh.
55. Capt. John Carlisle (Carlile), of the Second Canadian Regiment. He retired in July, 1783.
56. Capt. Robert(?) Pike, of the First New Hampshire Regiment.
Parole Pennsylvania. Countersigns Carolina, Georgia.
Officers of the day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Hazen
Lt. Colonel Hamilton
Major Gibbs
B.M. Bleeker
The first Brigade of Light Troops will turn out at six oClock Tomorrow Morning for Fascine making, in the place of the New York Brigade who have this day been on that duty: they will parade in front of their own Encampment, where they will receive further orders.
6 Captains, 12 subalterns, 18 serjeants and 300 Rank and file from Daytons Brigade for Picquet this Night: to parade as usual.
Covering party Hazens Brigade
Working party for the Redoubts, two field Officers, four Captains, Eight subalterns, Twelve serjeants and four hundred rank and file from Waynes Brigade to be at the works by sunset this evening; they will be relieved by an equal Number of Officers and men from the Militia at sunrise tomorrow Morning.
Parole Gaudaloupe. Countersigns Dunkirk, Newport.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Lt. Colonel Adams
Major Wyllis
B.M. Cox
The order of the 5th of July last respecting the assembling
59. Capt. Richard Cox, of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He was promoted to major in January, 1783, and served to the close of the war.
of the General Officers and heads of Departments at Head Quarters at 2 oClock is to be strictly attended to.
The Quarter Master General is now and upon every change of position to furnish the General with the Return of the Quarters of the General Officers (when they are out of Camp) and those of the Heads of Departments, that there may be no difficulty in sending to them.
The order for keeping the men constantly supplied with two days Provisions, especially of Bread, is to be strictly observed.
Every Deserter from the American Troops after this public Notice is given who shall be found within the Enemies lines at York, if the place falls into our hands, will be instantly Hanged.
All fresh parties of Militia and others coming into Camp are to be immediately reported at Head Quarters.
Commanding Officers of Brigades and Corps are desired to make report as soon as may
be of the Officers, Non Commissioned Officers and soldiers of their respective
Commands that have been killed or wounded since the Arrival of the Army on this
ground.
In future all Officers commanding parties on any kind of duty are desired to make a return of their killed and Wounded to the General Officer of the day as soon as they are relieved, that he may insert the same in his Report to the Commander in Chief.
The General Congratulates the Army upon the brilliant success of the Allied Troops
near Gloucester.
60. A return of the killed and wounded of the French Army from September 6 to
October 1 is in the Washington Papers, under date of Oct.
2, 1781.
61. A cavalry sortie attempted by Tarleton, in which he was wounded. A letter from
the Due de Choisy to Brig. Gen. George Weedon, Oct. 3, 1781, describing the
affair, is in the Washington Papers.
and that at so small an Expence, the Enemy amounting to six hundred Horse and foot were compleatly repulsed and Reconducted to their very lines.
The Corps of the Allied Army were the Duke de Louzerns Legion and the Militia Grenadiers of Mercer.
The following is the list of our killed and Wounded, and as far as can be gathered of
the Enemies. The Duke de Louzerns Legion had three Hussars killed, Captains Billy
Dillon
The Enemys loss in killed and Wounded exceeds Fifty including the Commanding Officer of the Infantry killed, and Colonel Tarlton badly wounded.
Permission may be granted to the sutlers to sell liquors
and refreshments to the Army under such regulations as the Quarter Master General
shall establish: upon complyance with which they will meet with due encouragement,
and protection in their persons and property.
6 Caps., 12 subs., 18 serjeants and three hundred Rank and file from Waynes Brigade for Picquet this Night.
Covering party the Maryland Brigade, to Parade as usual. For making Fascines tomorrow, Hazens Brigade: to parade at six in the Morning on their own parade, where they will receive orders.
Four hundred men from the Militia properly Officered to parade Tomorrow Morning 6
oClock in front of Lawsons
Parole New Hampshire. Countersigns Pennsylvania, Jersey.
Officers of the day Tomorrow
Major General Baron Steuben
Lt Col. Gimott
Major Hollingshead
B.M. Aorson
62. Robert Guillaume, Baron Dillon(?). He was colonel en second of Lauzun's Legion, and commanded 300 huzzars at Gloucester.
63. Balch gives this name as — Dutertre, but with no additional information to that above.
64. Brig. Gen. Robert Lawson, of the Virginia Militia.
The Officers and men of the following Regiments now on duty to be immediately Relieved by their respective Brigades: Barbers, Scammells, Gaskins, Adams, Ogdens and Courtlandts; the whole of the Officers and men of these Regiments to hold themselves in readiness for immediate duty and be furnished with Provisions agreeable to General orders.
The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolutions
By the United States in Congress assembled, September 20, 1781.
Resolved, That the present vacancies of hospital physicians and surgeons be filled up by the senior surgeons of the hospital lately deranged, the eldest hospital mates or regimental surgeons, as shall be recommended by the director and chief physician and surgeon to the army.
That all future vacancies of hospital physicians and surgeons be filled by the eldest regimental surgeons and hospital mates, who shall be reckoned of equal grades, who shall upon examination be found qualified and obtain certificate of recommendation from the director and chief physician and surgeon of the army, or of the deputy-collector and chief physician in a separate department: That the persons requisite to fill the highest grades in the hospital and medical departments, be appointed from time to time, by Congress according to merit and abilities: That all surgeons to regiments or corps not belonging to the line of any particular State, be nominated by the director of the hospital, and the chief physician and surgeon of the army, subject to the approbation of the Commander in Chief, and shall be equally entitled to promotion to hospital physicians and surgeons with the regimental surgeons of state lines.
On recommendation of the director approved by the Board of War: Resolved, That Dr.
Joseph Young,
67. Doctor Young served to the close of the war.
and doctors Goodwin Willson, Daniel Jenifer, Samuel Edmondson and George
Campbell,
On the recommendation of the deputy director, approved by the Board of War: Resolved,
That doctors Thomas Tudor Tucker, and Vickers,
In Congress, September 22, 1781.
Ordered, That no appointment be made of mates to supply the places of those promoted in the general hospital by the resolution of the until the farther order of Congress.
Extract from the Minutes
Charles Thomson Secrty
Major General the Marquis de la Fayette and Lt. Col. Harmer are appointed Officers of the day for this day, vice Major General Lincoln and Lt. Col. Adams, on other duty.
For Picquit this night, Olneys regiment.
Covering party Daytons, Courtlandt and Gimatts regiments. The regiments of Butler,
Stewart and Roxbury,
The General is surprized to find a quantity of Offal and
68. Doctors Wilson (Willson), Edmondson (Edmonson, Edmunson), and Campbell served to the close of the war; Doctor Jenifer served to October, 1782.
69. Drs. Moses Bloomfield, Moses Scott, and David Jackson resigned in December, 1780; Dr. Francis Hagan resigned in May, 1781.
70. Dr. William Burnett (Burnet), Chief Physician and Hospital Surgeon of the Continental Army. He served to the close of the war.
71. Doctors Tucker and Samuel Vickars (Vickers) served to the close of the war.
72. Both Smith and Carne served to the close of the war.
73. The First Maryland Regiment, then commanded by Capt. Alexander Roxburg (Roxbury, Roxburgh).
other offensive matter at the different slaughter yards about Camp remaining unburied; any Commissary who shall in future suffer any thing of the kind will be arrested. There being also a number of dead Horses and other putred bodies about the Camp, the Quarter Master General is directed to apply to the Adjutant General for a party to bury same, to prevent any ill effects that may arise from suffering them to be longer above ground.
AFTER ORDERS
The men and Officers of the first New York regiment which are on duty are immediately to be relieved; and the whole of the Regiment to be held in the most perfect readiness for duty: and to be furnished with Provisions agreeable to General orders. Cortlandts Regiment was this Morning warned to be ready for immediate duty, by mistake, It will therefore consider itself absolved from the injunction then laid on it.
Parole York. Countersigns Viomenil, Lincoln.
Officers of the day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel Vose
Major Olney
B.M. Fullerton
Lieutenant Colonel Dabneys regiment, the Delaware Detachment now doing duty with the third Maryland Regiment, and One hundred and sixty men which his Excellency Governer Nellson is requested to have selected from the Militia for the purpose, are to assist
74. Lieut. Richard Fullerton, of the Third Pennsylvania Regiment. He was transferred to the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
the Artillery during the present Operations, they will Encamp in the Park and take their orders from General Knox.
The Division Inspectors are to Mount as Majors of the Trenches, with their respective Major Generals.
Brigadier General Elbert
Major Galvan is appointed division Inspector to the Division Commanded by the Major General the Baron de Steuben.
The Commander in Chief congratulates the Army upon the late victory obtained over the Enemy at Eutau Springs in South Carolina. He returns his warmest acknowledgements to General Greene for his admirable General Plann of operations, his Judicious dispositions on the present Occasion and the exemplary vigor with which he conducted their Execution. He requests him to communicate the most grateful expressions of his Esteem to the Gallant Officers and soldiers of whom he makes such Honorable mention for their conduct on the 8th. of September. The National Military fame encreased by the atchievements of that day, entitle each individual who shared in them to the thanks of their Country.
General Green took upon this Occasion five hundred prisoners including the wounded which the Enemy lost on the field, and he supposes that their loss in killed and wounded exclusive of this, cou'd not be less than six hundred. His own loss in killed and wounded was about five hundred.
75. Brig. Gen. Samuel Elbert. He was colonel of the Second Georgia Regiment; commanded a brigade at Yorktown; also brigadier general of Georgia Militia; served to close of the war.
REGULATIONS FOR THE SERVICE OF THE SIEGE
1 The service of the siege will be performed by Divisions alternately; the Fatigue men will first be detailed out of the Division and the remainder will form Battalions under their respective Commanders to guard the Trenches; the first night there will be an exception to this Rule; the first regiment of each Brigade will that Night form a Division, Commanded by Major General Lincoln.
2d The divisions shall be warned for the Trenches, the preceding evening, and they are to furnish no guards when they mount the Trenches.
3d No Officer or soldier of a Regiment Commanded for the Trenches will be excused from Mounting unless he be sick; the quarter guard of each regiment will alone remain in Camp.
4th. The Major General of the Division which Mounts, will be Major General of the Trenches, the Brigadiers will Mount with their Brigades.
5th. The General Officers of the Trenches will reconnoitre carefully all the Avenues, places of Arms and advantageous Angles, that he may determine in Consequence the order and position of the Troops, in case of attack.
6 the Inspector of the Division which Mounts, will do the duty of Major of the Trenches. He will make the detail of the service of the troops during the twenty four hours that he shall be there, and attend to the punctual observance of Orders.
7 He will visit before hand all the Posts of the Trenches, and visit them again when the troops are posted there in order to make a state of them, and communicate promptly to each the orders of the General Officer: near whom he is to keep himself to receive them. Each Brigade to send to the General of the trenches an orderly Officer.
8 the Major of the Trenches will be instructed by the General Officers, of the Alarm posts in case of a Sally, and take care to inform the Troops of it.
9th An officer of rank will be appointed by the Commander in chief to act as superintendant of the deposit of the Trenches, for the following important service during the whole siege vizt. To take charge of all the sand bags Fascines, Gabions, Hurdles and other Materials deposited at the place which the Engeneers will appoint and keep an accurate state of them.
10th He is to deliver the sand bags and necessary tools for the work, and take care that the tools are redelivered when they are no longer wanted.
11th. He will take care that there are Litters, and men ready to go with them to bring off the Wounded.
12th He is to count all the Detachments of fatigue men when they enter the Trenches and make a Report to the Adjutant General.
13 He will give Billetts for taking from the deposits of Artillery the Ammunition which the troops in the Trenches may require.
14th He will transmit a daily report to the Adjutant General of all the orders and Certificates that he shall have given, as well as a state of the Deposits which shall have been committed to his care.
15th He will likewise transmit to the Adjutant General a return regimentally digested of the killed and wounded.
16 He will above all watch over every thing which relates to order and regularity in the Trenches, except in the disposition of the Troops, which is the particular province of the Major of the trenches.
17 The Trenches shall be releived every Twenty four hours unless a particular order to the contrary by the General in which case the relief shall be in the rear of the others.
18. The General having fixed the hour for Mounting the trenches, and the parade for assembling the Reliefs to be on the ground sufficiently before hand to give the General Officers and Adjutant General time for inspection.
19th. When the troops shall have arrived the Major of the Trenches shall
form them in the order in which they are to occupy the Trenches.
20th Each Brigade previous to entering the Trenches, will form a picquet to consist of one Captain one subaltern, three serjeants and fifty Rank and file to be posted and employed as the General Officers may think proper; the remainder of the brigade will be formed in the common order.
21 The Drums are to be equally distributed in front and rear of the brigade. One only will March with each Picquett that may be detached in the Trenches.
22d Each Battalion will send previous to the Relieving hour an orderly man to the tail of the Trenches to conduct the troops that are to relieve them.
23d The Major of the trenches will distribute the orderly men in such manner as that they may conduct each relieving Corps directly to the post which it is to Occupy.
24th When the relieving Troops arrive, those who dismount will cede them the side nearest the Epaulment.
25 All the troops either relieving or relieved will March with Drums beating Colours flying and carry Arms to the place from whence they are to file off when they will support their Arms.
26 When the Troops shall have taken there post in the trenches, the standard bearrers will plant their standards upon the Epaulments and sentries will be posted with proper intervals, with orders to give Notice of whatever they may see coming out from the place and of the shells that may be thrown by the Enemy, but no notice to be given or any movement to be made for Cannon shot.
27. The sand-bags will be desposed on the Epaulments of the Trenches, to cover the sentries.
28 The officers will cause each soldier to work in his place to enlarge the trench and strengthen the Epaulments.
29th, No honor to be rendered in the trenches when the Commander in Chief and Generl.
Officers of the Trenches visit them; the soldiers will stand to thief Arms facing the
Epaulment and ready to mount the banquet.
30 When the Troops retire from the Trenches, they will March in reversed Columns.
31. When the troops are out of the Trenches, the Commanding Officers of brigades will halt them in order to collect them and give time for the Junction of detached Picquetts.
32 The said Officers will examine whether any person be missing, and reconduct his Command in good and compact order to Camp, suffering no straggler to precede the main Body.
33. The Infantry are to make the number of Gabions &ca. ordered them.
34 The Gabions are to be three feet high including the end of the Pecquetts which are to enter the ground, they are to have two feet and a half diameter and be formed of Nine Picquetts, each of two and a half inches circumference interlaced with branchery, striped of leaves to be equally closed at top and bottom, in order that they may not be larger at one end than the other.
35 Hurdles shall be six feet long and three feet wide and shall be made of Nine Picketts, each of two inches and a half to three inches circumference, equally distant from each other and interwoven with stronger Branchery than that employed for the Gabions.
36 The Fascines are to be sixfeet long and six inches through, to be made of branchery, the twigs of which are to be crossed, to be bound with Withs at each end and in the middle, to each fascine, three pickerrs of three feet long and two or three inches diameter.
37 The Brigades shall always have at the head of their Camp, the stated Number of fascines which they will replace in proportion as they are used.
38 The Commandants of Corps shall be responsible for the observance of the dementions of the Materials employed in the trenches, inattention in this point
76. Banquette; what is now called the fire or firing step.
being very pernicious to the service.
39 Each soldier going to the Trenches either to mount Guard or Work shall take with him a fascine to be left at the Deposit of the Trenches.
40 The Number of fatigue men Ordered shall be punctually furnished, they shall be conducted by an Officer of each regiment to the rendezvous where the brigade Major will see them, and the Officer appointed to superintend the detail of the seige (as mentioned in the 9th & 12th. Articles will see them enter the Trenches and count them).
41 When the fatigue men enter the trenches, the Officers will march agreeably to the Regulations of the Army. Each fatigue man will take his tool at the Deposit and if they are armed they will leave them piled under the Guard of a sentry.
42 Each Commandant of a squad shall be charged with making the soldiers which compose it work, and with keeping them in order; the serjeants shall take care of two squads and the Officers of the Totality, but the Captain shall be more particularly charged with the first and the Lieutenant with the second Division.
43 The fatigue men are to March near each other and Observe the greatest silence when the Engineers place them.
44 The Officers who Command the fatigue parties will be constantly with their detachments and exactly observe the directions of the Engineers.
45 When the work is Commenced they are to walk constantly along their detachments to make the soldiers perform their duty obliging them to cover themselves with alacrity and afterwards to perfect the work.
46 The Officers of covering parties will cause their soldiers to sit down, hinder them from quitting their Musquetts which they are to hold before them, the butt on the ground.
47 The advanced posts of such Detachments as are Commanded by
Non Commissioned Officers will remain prostate untill the trench is sufficiently deep to cover a man to the waist; when the Detachment with their advanced Posts will retire into the trenches, to Occupy the Head of the Work which shall have been made.
48 In the saps, Batteries and other places adjacent to the deposits of powder no soldier is to be permitted to smoke.
49 In case of a sally, the Fatigue men are to retire briskly into some part of the Trenches where they may not embarrass the Troops, they are to retire in preference to the place where their Arms were lodged.
50 The Troops will march briskly out of the Trenches and repair to the place of Arms, batteries, Angles and Avenues which shall have been designated to them from whence they may defend it more advantageously and take the enemy in reverse or flank, taking particular care not to occupy the banquet for the defence of the Epaulment: but always to post themselves in the reverse of the Trenches.
51 During the sally all the Batteries will direct their fire upon the front of attack in order to desperse the besieged.
52 When the troops shall have repulsed the Enemy, they are not to pursue them but wait the orders of their General Officers to resume their posts in the Trenches.
53 As soon as the attack is finished, the Officers of fatigue will reconduct their detachments to Work and call the rolle, that any absent soldiers may be punished at return to Camp.
54 At the hour for withdrawing the fatigue, the Detachments are to return in good order and the Officers are to report to the Commandant of the Regiment what has been the conduct of the soldiers.
55 Besides the fatigue men of the trenches a sufficient detachment
shall be given to the superintendant of the Deposit in the Trenches whose service shall be for twenty four hours: this officer is to employ them in collecting the tools, in making the different distributions, in going with the Litters, and bringing the wounded to the hospital of first dressings.
Some Rum being arrived an issue of one Jill pr man to all noncommissioned officers and privates will be made this afternoon at three o'clock near Major General Steuben's Marquee on Returns signed by the officers commanding brigades, and one week's allowance of Spirits to officers agreeably to the General Orders of August 1780 will be issued tomorrow morning at eight o'clock on regimental returns to be signed by the respective Colonels or officers commanding regiments at the Magazine near the Commissary General's tents; those who neglect sending proper returns will have only themselves to blame if they lose their dividend on this occasion.
Half after eight o'clock in the morning in future to be the orderly hour, at which time the General Officers and Heads of Departments are to make their Reports at Head Quarters.
The Quarter Masters of Brigades and Corps
are to make returns of all their Camp equipage to the Quarter Master General tomorrow.
Parole Bergen op zoom. Countersigns Chattelux, Gloucester.
Major Dexter is appointed officer of the day for this day vice Major Olney indisposed.
The Guards and Fatigue for the Trenches will mount daily at twelve o'clock: they are to parade precisely at eleven on the right of the Marquis de la Fayette's Division.
For the treaches this day
Major General the Marquis de
La Fayette
Brigadier Generals Muhlenberg
and Hazen
The Marquis de La Fayette's division will mount in the Trenches this day.
The President and Members of the General Court martial whereof Colonel Dayton is President will attend to that duty untill they finish their Business unless otherwise directed by General Orders.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Baron Steuben
Brigadier General Wayne
The Baron Steuben's Division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
Parole Paris. Countersigns St. Malo, Granville.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Brigadier General Clinton
Major General Lincoln's Division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
For the present the Jersey troops under the immediate command of Colonel Dayton are to be formed into one battalion under the orders of Colonel Ogden, Lieutenant Colonel De Hart, and Major Hollinshead.
The Regiment lately commanded by Colonel Scammell is to be formed into two Battalions, one to be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Huntington and Major Rice: the other by Lieutenant Colonel Laurens, Aid to the Commander in Chief and Major Cummings.
Lieutenant Colonel Laurens will join his corps whenever it mounts the Trenches.
The Commander in Chief is extremely sorry to see that notwithstanding there is a plenty of wood in the vicinity of the different incampments a practice prevails of burning rails and thereby adding to the distresses of the inhabitants who have sufficiently suffered by the ravages of war. He calls in the most express manner upon the commanding officers of Corps to put a stop to so pernicious a practice.
A Serjeant and twelve from the Militia to be sent to Williamsburgh and put under the orders of Mr. Morris, Deputy Quarter Master for the purpose of procuring Wood for the Hospital and Bakery.
An Orderly man to be sent from each division to the General Hospital they will take their orders from Doctor Craik.
AFTER ORDERS
As the Service of the Trenches unites the double object of defending a post and prosecuting the Works of the Siege, the troops that mount are all in rotation to be employed on Fatigue. The Major General
commanding will take care that such dispositions are made that the Labour may be equally shared by the whole: that the fresh succession of fatigue men may enable the Soldier to work with the greater vigour and alacrity, and the several parties may be contiguous to their respective alarm posts, where the men called out for work are previously to lodge their arms in order, that in case of a Sally they may resume their stations in the Line with the greatest promptness and regularity.
The Gabions and other materials for the Siege are in future to be provided by Corps.
The Adjutant General will apportion the number to be required of each corps, which number is to be kept constantly complete. A regimental officer is always to superintend and see that the Dimensions of the several materials required are conformable to the regulation of the 6th instant.
One third of the Militia is to be on duty each twenty four hours, one half of that number to mount at six o'clock in the morning and be relieved
by the other half at five in the evening. The officer commanding them to be responsible that the men are regularly supplied with Provisions agreeably to General Orders. They are to Parade in front of the Enemy's old works near the Mill-dam and be employed as tile Major General of the Trenches shall direct.
Parole Boston. Countersigns Providence, Hartford.
For the Trenches Tomorrow
Brigadier Generals
Hazen
The Marquis de la Fayettes division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
The General has been informed that there are in the Possession of some officers of
the Army, Negroes who have come out of York. If there are
any such, Report of them is to be made immediately to the Adjutant General and if any
officer should be found after this Notice keeping in his Service a Negroe under the
above
description he may depend upon being called to the severest account for it. This order is to extend to the officers of militia as well as those of the Continental Troops.
A Return of the shoes actually wanting by the Continental Troops to be made to the Adjutant General this Afternoon at four o'clock and the regimental clothiers to call at the clothier's store near Commissary Irwin's Tent tomorrow morning at eight o'clock for their respective Proportions.
A Return of the Names, dates of inlistments, terms of service and place of abode of the noncommissioned officers and private men belonging to the State of Connecticut now serving in Colonel Lamb's regiment of Artillery and in the Companies of Artificers annexed to the Artillery from Colonel Baldwin's regiment reduced, to be given in at the Adjutant General's office as soon as may be.
Persons whose duty does not call them to the Trenches and who Assemble there merely to indulge Curiosity are to walk on the Reverse of the Trenches that they may not interrupt the works.
The Officer superintending the Fatigue partys is to be particularly attentive to the Execution of this Order.
The regimental Surgeons are to deliver returns of the Sick of their respective regiments at the Flying Hospital every Saturday at twelve o'clock.
AFTER ORDERS
The Engineers having made a demand of a large quantity of materials for the Trenches which cannot be dispensed with without very great prejudice to the Service, the General expects, he need not say more, to induce the commanding officers of Divisions Brigades and Corps to furnish their proportions as hereafter mentioned and have them delivered at the reverse of the Trenches at five o'clock this evening.
Muhlenberg's Hazen's and Wayne's Brigades each to furnish: 60 Saucissons,
Gist's Brigade to furnish: 54 Saucissons, 71 Fascines, 190 Palisades, 760 Short pickets.
The Militia to furnish: 67 Saucissons, 89 Fascines, 210 Palisades, 840 Short Pickets.
97. Saucissons were long fascines.
Parole Rochelle. Countersigns Brest, Antwerp.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Baron Steuben
Brigadr. Generals Wayne and
Gist.
Baron Steuben's Division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
That a want of materials may not cause an interruption to the present operations the Corps hereafter mentioned are directed (agreeably to the 33d article of the regulations for the service of the Siege) to prepare the proportions now assigned them with the utmost dispatch and to keep that quantity always in readiness by replacing the daily consumption.
The Saucissons are to be from nine to eighteen feet long the Gabions two and a Half feet wide and three feet high; and the Fascines six feet long.
The proportion of these materials to be furnished by the Militia to be apportioned to the several corps by their own Adjutant General.
Untill further Orders a Camp colour man to be sent from each Corps every morning at eight o'clock to the Quarter General's Store at the Barn behind Allen's house for the purpose of repairing the roads and cleansing the environs of the Camp.
The Quarter Master General will furnish them with Tools and give them their directions.
Parole Augustine. Countersigns Savanna, Augusta.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Brigadier General Clinton
Major General Lincoln's Division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.
The Commander in Chief expects the Commandants of Corps will not only see (agreeably to article 38 of the regulations for the siege) that the dimensions of the materials are conformable to the directions given but also pay particular attention that the Saucissons and Fascines are firmly bound; all that are not fit for use will be rejected at the Deposit of the Trenches and the Corps in Default to make up the deficiency without Loss of time.
At a General Court martial of the Line held at Camp before York October 2d and continued by adjournments whereof Colonel Dayton is president.
Captain Duffy
99. Capt. Patrick Duffy.
such as drawing his sword on Captain Ballard,
Also charged by Lieutenant Colonel John Stewart with 1st. Being drunk. 2d. Rioting in the street. 3d. Abusing a french soldier. 4th. A violation of good Discipline in having “in a seditious and disorderly manner threatned to take a french guard stationed at the Hospital for the security of the sick” was tried.
1. Capt. Jeremiah Ballard, of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
2. Lieut. George Blewer, of the Fourth Pennsylvania Regiment. He was transferred to the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to the close of the war.
The Court after mature consideration are of opinion that Captain Duffy drew a sword on Captain Ballard and attempted to stab him when unarmed on the evening of the 23d. of September last and on the morning of the 24th. drew his sword on Captain Ballard he having one by his side.
That Captain Duffy also seized a pistol from Lieutenant Blewer and snapped it at him on the before mentioned evening declaring he would shoot him when Lieutenant Blewer was attempting at Captain Duffy's own request an amicable settlement of his quarrel with Captain Ballard.
It does not appear to the Court that Captain Duffy fired on Captain Ballard or that the pistol Captain Duffy seized from Lieutenant Blewer was loaded.
The Court are of opinion that Captain Duffy's conduct, as found, is a breach of Article 21st. Section 14th. of the Rules and Articles of war and sentence him to be discharged the service.
At the same Court Lieutenant Munday
3. Lieut. William Munday.
Parole Champaigne. Countersigns Breston, Narbonne.
For the Trenches Tomorrow
Major General Marqs. de la
Fayette
Brigadiers General Muhlenberg
and Hazen
The Marquis de la Fayette's division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.
The superintendant of the Deposit of the trenches is requested to have the quality of the Saucissons, Fascines and Gabions brought to the Deposit accurately inspected; to reject such as are not fit for use, and Report the Corps that offer them.
Parole Canada. Countersigns Albany, New Windsor.
For the trenches tomorrow
Major General Baron de Steuben
Brigadiers General Wayne and
Gist
Major General the Baron de Steuben's division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.
The Quarter Master General having represented that there is at present a very unequal distribution of Tents among the Continental troops whereby some Corps are exposed while others are more than fully covered in order to remedy this inequality and that troops sharing the same dangers and fatigues may enjoy equal benefits the following Corps are directed to send to the Quarter Master General's store tomorrow by noon the Tents set against their names respectively (being the surplusses of their due proportion) vizt.
Dayton's Brigade
Hazen's
Clinton's
Wayne's
Gists
As General Hazen's brigade will be in the Trenches tomorrow untill Noon they will be excused from sending in their surplus tents untill the morning following.
As soon as the Tents are lodged in the store the Quarter Master General will distribute them among the deficient corps.
The Brigade of Artillery is to furnish one Horseman's tent and twelve common tents to the companies of the Delaware regiment attached to it.
The Brigade Quarter Masters are to be Responsible that a due proportion of good tents are delivered in.
One week's allowance of Spirits to officers of the line will be issued tomorrow at ten o clock near Baron Steuben's marquee on regimental returns sign'd by the officers commanding regiments or corps.
At the General Court martial of the line whereof Colonel Dayton is President.
Captain Park
19. Capt. William Parke, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment. He was dismissed in January, 1782.
inhabitant or inhabitants for money or monies due to them certifying that he was on public business when he was not authorized therefore but on his own private business” was tried.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that Captain Park gave a Certificate at Hartford town in Maryland for monies due from him when he was on his private business certifying he was on public business and that his Conduct in this instance was ungentlemanlike in breach of Article 5th. Section 18th. of the rules and Articles of War; but as it appears to the Court that Captain Park's conduct was dictated by Necessity and in some measure owing to misapprehension they sentence him only to be Reprimanded in General Orders.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court against Captain Park and as nothing ought more sensibly to wound the feelings of an Officer than being found Guilty of Ungentlemanlike Behavior He thinks any further Reprimand unnecessary.
Captain Park is released from his Arrest.
At the same Court the following prisoners were tried: John Bemus of Colonel Vose's regiment charged with Desertion and Inlisting in the Maryland line found Guilty in Breach of Articles 1st. and 3d., section 6th. of the Rules and Articles of War and sentenced to receive Twenty five lashes on his bare back four mornings successively amounting in the whole to one hundred lashes.
Nathaniel Harthorne of the same regiment charged as above, found Guilty in breach of the aforesaid Articles of War and sentenced the same.
David Shaw a soldier of the second New York regiment charged with Desertion found Guilty of a breach of Article 1st. Section 6th. of the Rules and Articles of War and Sentenced to receive Twenty five Lashes on his naked back four mornings successively amounting in the whole to one hundred Lashes.
John Readman soldier of the second New York regiment charged with repeated Desertion
found Guilty of a Breach of Article 1st. Section 6th of the Rules and Articles of War
and sentenced to suffer Death more than two thirds of the
Court agreeing thereto.
John Dubée of Captain Gosselin's company in the Canadian Old Regiment charged with
striking Lieutenant William Torrey of said regiment while in the execution of his
duty found Guilty in breach of Article 5th. section 2d. of the Rules and Articles of
War and sentenced to suffer Death more than two thirds of
the Court agreeing thereto.
Richard Jeffers a soldier of the Maryland line charged with Desertion found Guilty of a breach of Article 1st. Section 6th. of the Rules and Articles of war and sentenced to receive Twenty five Lashes on his naked back four mornings successively amounting in the whole to one hundred Lashes.
Abel Amos and Ned Blake soldiers of the Maryland line charged with Desertion.
The Court are of opinion the Charges against Amos and Blake are not supported.
The Commander in Chief approves the above sentences of the Court Martial.
The Court Martial whereof Colonel Dayton is president is dissolved and another ordered to Assemble at the Judge Advocates Marquee tomorrow morning at nine o'clock for the trial of Lieutenant Colonel De Hart and such others as may be brought before them: Colonel Cortlandt will Preside, Lieutenant Colonel Van Dyck, Major Rice, Two Captains from Muhlenbergs, two from Hazen's, two from Dayton's, two from Clinton's, one from Wayne's and one from Gists Brigades to attend as Members.
All Evidences and persons concerned are desired to attend. An orderly serjeant from each division to be sent daily to the Court.
AFTER ORDERS
One Captain from Wayne's and one from Gists Brigades exclusive of those ordered this day will attend as Members of the General Court Martial of which Colonel Cortlandt is President, instead of the two ordered from Dayton's Brigade.
Parole St. Vincent. Countersigns Grenada, Tobago.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Brigadier General Clinton
Major General Lincoln's Division to mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
The Effects of the late Colonel Scammell will be disposed of at public Sale tomorrow at three o'clock P.M. at Major Rice's tent in General Hazen's brigade.
Parole Quebec. Countersigns Penobscot, Portsmouth.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General the Marqs. de
la Fayette
Brigadiers Muhlenberg and
Hazen
Major General the Marquis de la Fayette's division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
The Commander in Chief congratulates the Allied Army on the Success of the Enterprize last evening against the two important works on the left of the enemys line: He requests the Baron Viomenil who commanded the French Grenadiers and Chasseurs and the Marquis de la Fayette who commanded the American Light Infantry to accept his warmest acknowledgements for the excellency of their dispositions and for their own Gallant Conduct upon the occasion and he begs them to present his thanks to every individual officer and to the Men of their respective Commands for the Spirit and Rapidity with which they advanced to the Attacks and for the admirable Firmness with which they supported themselves under the fire of the Enemy without returning a shot.
The General reflects with the highest degree of pleasure on the Confidence which the Troops of the two Nations must hereafter have in each other. Assured of mutual support he is convinced there is no danger which they will not chearfully encounter. No difficulty which they will not bravely overcome.
The troops will be supplied with fresh beef to Thursday next inclusive, they will receive three pints of Salt to every one hundred rations for the allowance of Wednesday and Thursday.
Parole Domingo. Countersigns Antwerp, Bruges.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Baron de Steuben
Wayne and Gist
Major General Baron de Steuben's division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.
The Commander in Chief having observed that the Trenches are constantly crowded by Spectators, who by passing and repassing prevent the men from working and thereby greatly impede the operations of the Siege; He therefore Orders that no officer who is not on duty shall hereafter enter the trenches except General Officers and their Aids. And that no inhabitant or person not belonging to the Army be suffered to enter the Trenches at any time without permission from the Major General of the Trenches.
In future the relief for the Trenches are not to beat their drums after they pass the Mill dam; they are from that place to march silently with trailed Arms and Colours furled untill they arrive at their Posts in the trenches.
Lieutenant Colonel De Hart being releas'd from his Arrest, the Court Martial of which Colonel Cortlandt is President will proceed to the trial of the Prisoners confined in the Provost.
AFTER ORDERS
The Inspector acting as Major of the trenches is desired to be very particular in making a return of the Officers and Men Killed and wounded in the Trenches as well Militia as Continental, during their tour, which they will deliver in to the Superintendant of the Deposit of the Trenches, immediately on being relieved.
Parole Philadelphia. Countersigns Chester, Wilmington.
For the Trenches tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Brigadier General Clinton
Major General Lincoln's division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.
Parole France. Countersigns Versailles, Paris.
For the day tomorrow
Major General the Marqs de la Fayette
Brigadiers Muhlenberg and Hazen.
Major General the Marqs. de la Fayette's division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.
AFTER ORDERS
This day's relief of the Trenches is countermanded untill further Orders.
Parole Independence. Countersigns Rochambeau, De Grasse.
For the Day tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Colonel Butler
Major Woodson
Inspector Bleeker
General Muhlenberg's Brigade will hold itself in readiness for duty tomorrow.
Parole Congress. Countersigns York, Gloucester.
For the Day tomorrow
Major General the Marqs. de la
Fayette
Colonel Walter Stewart
Major Reid
Brigade Major Cox
Brigadier General Hazen's Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten o'clock on their own parade.
As a great number of the axes delivered to working parties during the siege have not been returned the Commander in Chief directs that the Commandants of Corps, continental and militia, may have an immediate and strict search made in their respective commands and that all the axes found which have not been issued for their particular use may be returned to General Elbert Superintendant of the deposit of the trenches.
The Provost Guard consisting of one sub, two serjeants, Two Corporals and twenty privates to be relieved by divisions in rotation daily. The Marquis de la Fayettes will furnish it this day; Major General Lincolns division tomorrow, and the Baron's the next day.
AFTER ORDERS
The General congratulates the Army upon the glorious event of yesterday.
The generous proofs which his most Christian Majesty has given of his attachment to the Cause of America must force conviction on 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 unalterable Gratitude.
His Fleet the most numerous and powerful that ever appeared in these seas commanded by an Admiral whose Fortune and Talents ensure 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 cooperation has secured us the present signal success.
The General upon his occasion entreats his Excellency Count de Rochambeau to accept his most grateful acknowledgements for his Counsels and assistance at all times. He presents his warmest thanks to the Generals Baron Viomenil, Chevalier Chastellux, Marquis de St. Simond and Count Viomenil and to Brigadier General de Choissy (who had a separate command) for the illustrious
manner in which they have advanced the interest of the common cause.
He requests that Count de Rochambeau will be pleased to communicate to the Army under his immediate command the high sense he entertains of the distinguished merits of the officers and soldiers of every corps and that he will present in his name to the regiments of Gattinois and Deuxponts the two Pieces of Brass Ordnance captured by them; as a testimony of their Gallantry in storming the Enemy's Redoubt on the Night of the 14th. 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 however by Affection Duty and Gratitude to express his obligations to Major Generals Lincoln, de La Fayette and Steuben for their dispositions in the Trenches.
To General Du Portail and Colonel Carney
54. Col. Ethis de Corny.
55. François Marie, Comte d'Aboville, colonel and commander in chief, French artillery in America.
spirited management of them in the Parallels.
He requests the Gentlemen above mentioned to communicate his thanks to the officers and soldiers of their respective commands.
Ingratitude which the General hopes never to be guilty of would be conspicuous in him was he to omit thanking in the warmest terms His Excellency Governor Nelson for the Aid he has derived from him and from the Militia under his Command to whose Activity Emulation and Courage much Applause is due; the Greatness of the Acquisition will be an ample Compensation for the Hardships and Hazards which they encountered with so much patriotism and firmness.
In order to diffuse the general Joy through every Breast the General 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 performed tomorrow in the several Brigades or Divisions.
The Commander in Chief earnestly recommends 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 astonishing interpositions of Providence demand of us.
Parole York. Countersigns Washington, Rochambeau.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Baron de Steuben
Lieutenant Colonel Antill
Major Fish
Brigade Major Aorson
General Wayne's Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten o'clock on their own parade.
Major General the Marquis de la Fayette's division to furnish a corporal and four privates daily as a guard for the Hospital.
Major Graham
The Troops are to be in readiness to move at the shortest notice. The regiment under the command of Colonel Craig is to join Wayne's Brigade and Gaskins is to join that of Gist. As it has been represented that there are a number of Deserters from the American Army among the Prisoners taken at the surrender of York and Gloucester it is directed that an Officer from every Corps or State line
63. Maj. John Graham, of the First New Fork Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
with a number of noncommissioned officers who know their deserters may attend when the Prisoners are assembled to march: then to point out and apprehend those of their respective corps.
Parole Bourbon. Countersigns Franklin, Jay.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Clinton
Lieutenant Colonel Barber
Major Gibbs
Brigade Major Fullerton
Gists Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten o'clock on their own Parade.
Parole America. Countersigns Paris, Madrid.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Wayne
Lieutenant Colonel Olney
Major Wyllys
Brigade Major Williams
Colonel Daytons Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten o'clock in the morning on their own Parade.
Two Pioneers from each regiment and Corps to be sent immediately to Colonel Pickerings Quarters to be continued on duty from day to day untill dismissed by the Quarter Master General.
AFTER ORDERS
The Biscuit taken from the Enemy is not to be issued without a General Order.
At the General Court martial of the Line whereof Colonel Cortlandt is President,
Lieutenant Arthur
69. Capt. Abraham(?) Williams, of the Second Massachusetts Regiment.
70. Lieut. James Arthur. He resigned in April, 1782.
1st For disobedience of Orders of the 13th. Inst.
2dly Conduct prejudicial to the Service and unbecoming an Officer in returning himself unfit for Duty for some time past when during that period he made frequent and distant excursions on parties of pleasure &ca. where his Conduct and Behavior indicated no real indisposition.
The Court on Consideration are of opinion that Lieutenant Arthur is Guilty of the first Charge against him in breach of Article 5th Section 18th of the Rules and Articles of War.
They acquit him of the second Charge against him.
The Court in consequence of Lieutenant Arthur's being Guilty of the first charge sentence him to be Reprimanded in Brigade Orders.
The Commander in Chief Approves the opinion of the Court.
Two Captains, four subalterns, six serjeants, and two hundred rank and file from the Marquis de la Fayette's division to parade tomorrow morning at eight o'clock on their division parade. They are to assist in Collecting and removing the Military stores at York and Gloucester. Major Doughty will attend at the above time and place to conduct them.
Parole Holland. Countersigns Adams, Dana.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier General Gist
Lieutenant Colonel Cochran
Major Cummings
Brigade Major Hobby.
Brigadier General Clinton's brigade for duty tomorrow.
Untill further Orders it is expected that one of the Field officers of the day will stay constantly in York during his Tour to whom the heads of the Staff departments are to apply for assistance in Collecting and securing the Stores in their several departments.
The Officer who remains in York is himself to Visit the several Guards and Fatigue
Parties on duty there as often as convenient and order the Inspector of the day who
will attend him to do it at other times.
81. Lieut. Col. Robert Cochran, of the Second New York Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
82. Maj. John Noble Cummings (Cumming), of the First New Jersey Regiment, He was promoted to lieutenant colonel of the First New Jersey Regiment in December, 1781, and to lieutenant colonel commandant in February, 1783; served to November, 1783.
83. Capt. John Hobby, of the Ninth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Third Massachusetts Regiment in May, 1782, and served to June, 1784.
84. The British prisoners began their march October 21 and by the 29th all of the
surrendered troops had been removed from Yorktown. On October 25 Washington
directed the Commissary General of Prisoners to dispose of them as follows: At
Winchester: the Artillery, 193; Guards, 467; Twenty-third Foot, 205; Forty-third
Foot, 307; Seventy-sixth Foot, 625; 2 battalions of Anspach, 948; Queen's Rangers,
248; Pioneers, 33. In all, 3029. At Fort Frederick, Md.: Light Infantry, 594;
Seventeenth Foot, 205; Thirty-third Foot, 225; Seventy-first Foot, 242; Eightieth
Foot, 558; Hereditary Prince, 425; Regiment Du Bose, 271; Yagers, 68; British
Legion, 192; North Carolina Volunteers, 114. In all, 2,924. This memorandum is in
the Washington Papers.
AFTER ORDERS
Two hundred men from General Muhlenberg's Brigade will parade tomorrow morning at seven o'clock on the right of the first Parrallel to Level the works. They will be commanded by two Field Officers and a proportion of Captains and Subalterns.
Application must be made to the Quarter Master General this evening for tools.
Parole Normandy. Countersigns Burgundy, Champaign.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Hazen
Lieutenant Colonel Adams
Major James Hamilton
Brigade Major Lloyd
Brigadier General Hazen's brigade to furnish the Guards and fatigue Parties for York tomorrow.
86. Lieut. Col. Peter Adams, of the Third Maryland Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
87. Maj. James Hamilton, of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
88. Capt. Richard Lloyd, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He retired in June, 1783.
The Inspector of the Division which furnishes the Guards for the Day will wait on Major General St. Clair for his Orders.
General Wayne's brigade will furnish the Party for levelling the works tomorrow.
In future the Guards will mount at 8 o'clock.
AFTER ORDERS
It having been represented that many Negroes and Mulattoes the property of Citizens of these States have concealed themselves on board the Ships in the harbor; that some still continue to attach themselves to British Officers and that others have attempted to impose themselves upon the officers of the French and American Armies as Freemen and to make their escapes in that manner, In order to prevent their succeeding in such practices All Officers of the Allied Army and other persons of every denomination concerned are directed not to suffer any such negroes or mulattoes to be retained in their Service but on the contrary to cause them to be delivered to the Guards which will be establish'd for their reception at one of the Redoubts in York and another in Gloucester. Mr. David Ross will have the superintendency
and will give passes to enable them to return to their Masters or where that is not
practicable will have directions to make other provision for them. Any Negroes or mulattoes who are free upon proving the same
will be left to their own disposal.
The Gentlemen of the American Army who have made return to the Orderly Office of negroes in their possession agreeably to the Order of the 9th. instant are desired to deliver them to the above mentioned Mr. David Ross this day or tomorrow.
The General Officer of the day is requested to establish a Guard in York and the Commandant of Gloucester another at that post for the reception of negroes agreeably to the above order.
Discharging of fire arms in the vicinity of Camp is prohibited on pain of immediate and exemplary Punishment.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
For the day tomorrow
Major General St. Clair
Lieutenant Colonel Harmar
Major Edwards
Brigade Major Cox
The Maryland Brigade to furnish the Guards and Fatigue Parties for York tomorrow.
The Badness of the weather preventing General Wayne's Brigade from working to day they will consider themselves for that duty tomorrow.
97. Maj. Evan Edwards, of the Fourth Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in January, 1783.
Parole St. Domingo. Countersigns St. Simon, DeBarras.
For the Day tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Colonel Ogden
Major Alexander
Brigade Major Aorson
Those regiments that have not furnished their proportion of men to the sappers and miners agreeable to the Orders of the 28th. of May last are now to do it and the men who have returned to the Pennsylvania line from that Corps are immediately to be replaced.
General Muhlenberg's Brigade to furnish the Guards and fatigue Parties for Yorktown tomorrow; and Clinton's Brigade with Ogden's regiment will be employed in levelling the works.
The Brigade Quarter masters are again call'd upon in the most positive terms to see that all dead carcases &ca. in and about Camp are immediately buried.
A Serjeant and twelve men from the Baron Steubens Division will this day Patrol from their left to the Forks of the road above Head Quarters for the above purpose, they must be furnished with tools from their respective corps.
Like parties will be immediately sent from General Lincoln's and the Marquis de la Fayettes divisions, the former to scour the ground between York town, Tarleton's old camp and the right of the French Camp, the latter in front of their own camp extending to the river and as high up as the east end of York.
AFTER ORDERS
Resolved, That it be and hereby is recommended to the several states of which the general officers of the army are inhabitants, to settle with them for the depreciation of their pay, on the principles adopted in settlements with the officers of their respective lines.
Parole Paris. Countersigns Brest, Toulon.
For the Day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel Richard Butler
Major Roxburgh
Brigade Major Fullerton
General Hazen's Brigade for Guard and fatigue duty in York and General Wayne's Brigade for levelling the works tomorrow.
AFTER ORDERS
Detail of Guards to mount daily in York untill further orders
Main Guard
Ravine do.
Hornwork
Magazine
Left Redoubt
Robinson's house
Commissary General's
Okely's Store
Quartermaster general
Provision Guard
21. Maj. Alexander Roxburg, of the Fourth Maryland Regiment. He retired in January, 1783.
The above Guards are to be formed on the Brigade parade and posted on the right of the Brigade previous to its marching.
A man to be sent every morning from each guard in York to the Gate by which the guards enter the town to conduct the relief for their respective guards.
At a Brigade General Court martial whereof Major Hollinshead
George Leadbetter charged with Desertion to and being found in arms with the enemy was tried and found Guilty being a breach of the 6th. Section, Article 1st, of the rules and Articles of war, and Sentenced to Suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence of the Court.
22. Maj. John Hollinshead, of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He resigned in November, 1781.
The Court Martial whereof Colonel Cortlandt is President is dissolved and another ordered to assemble at ten o'clock tomorrow morning of which Colonel Ogden is appointed President.
Lieutenant Colonel Barber, Major Wyllys, two Captains from Muhlenberg's, two Captains from Hazen's, two Captains from Dayton's, one Captain from Clinton's, two Captain's from Wayne's and one Captain from Gists Brigades will attend as Members of the Court martial to try such prisoners as may be brought before them.
A Serjeant from each Division to attend, orderly to the Court.
All Evidences and persons concerned are requested to attend.
Parole De Grasse. Countersigns De Barras, De Bougainville.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Wayne
Lieutenant Colonel Antile
Major Fish
Brigade Major Williams
The 3d Maryland and Colonel Ogden's regiments for Guards and fatigue in York town tomorrow and the 4th. Maryland and the 1st New York regiments will be employed in Levelling the works.
The Brigade which furnishes this days guards in York will also furnish three Serjeants and thirty Privates to bury, the Dead bodies and Carcases and cover the other putrid matter in town, the Quartermaster of the Brigade or in his absence one of the regimental Quartermasters will take charge of the Party and be answerable that the duty is performed.
If there be not tools in the Brigade the Quarter Master General will furnish them.
Major Gibbs is appointed Member of the Court Martial of which Colonel Ogden is President in the room of Major Wyllys sick.
The Court to assemble tomorrow morning ten o'clock at the Judge Advocates Marquee.
Parole Annapolis. Countersigns Baltimore, Hampton.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Gist
Lieutenant Colonel Van Dyck
Major Rice
Brigade Major Hobby
The second Regiment of York and Lieutenant Colonel Barber's Battalion will furnish the Guards and fatigue parties tomorrow.
Vose's and Gimat's Battalions for fatigue for levelling the works tomorrow.
In pursuance of the determination of a Board of General Officers setting forth the means by which the Officers of the Army may receive a general benefit from that Article of the Capitulation which entitles them to a right of pre-emption of the Goods in the possession of the Traders in York and Gloucester at the time of the surrender of these Posts.
The Commander in Chief is pleased to direct that every officer who came here with this Army (coming under the following description) receive on account of his pay to the amount of Twenty pounds (dollars at Six shillings) each vizt.
General Officers and their families and other military
staff regimental officers, (the Officers of the Hospital) the Chaplains, (the
Quartermaster General the Commissary General and their Deputies. But not to include
the Deputies of Deputies.)
That an Officer from each brigade be appointed to take up the Goods from the traders for the Officers of their respective brigades whose receipt shall entitle them to Payment. The officers appointed by the brigades to purchase for them are to be furnish'd with a List of the names of the officers they are to act for and the Specific articles they are to purchase for them Attested by the officer commanding the Brigade which Lists are to be produced to the Commander in Chief as soon as the purchase is Compleated.
General Officers and (Heads of departments not connected with Brigades are themselves to purchase for the persons entitled or give written authority to one person in their respective departments to do it for them) who is to be furnished with Lists similar to those already mentioned.
(The Brigades and Corps having balloted for priority of purchase are to be served in the following Order vizt.)
1st. Dragoons; 2d. Waynes brigade; 3d. Gist's brigade; 4. Hazens brigade; 5. Muhlenbergs brigade; 6. Artillery; 7. Sappers and Miners; 8. Clinton's Brigade; 9. Dayton's Brigade; 10th. The Chaplains, the Quarter's, Commissary's and Hospital Departments.
The General Officers and families to purchase at such
times as they think proper.
The Persons appointed to purchase for each brigade and seperate department will have a Certificate of their Appointment from Major General St Clair.
The Person who purchases the Articles wanted by the Left Wing from Count Rochambeau.
The Regimental Paymasters to take receipts from each officer as so much pay and transmit an account of the Aggregate sum to the Paymaster General to be by him charged to the regiment.
Where officers are unconnected with Brigades, their accounts to be transmitted to the Paymaster General by the General Officers to whom they are attached and the Heads of departments to which they belong.
Untill the purchases above authorized are completed and the same announced by a General Order no person whatever is permitted to purchase on private account.
The Troops and British Prisoners except those in the Hospital to draw five days allowance of corned beef, the Commissarys to issue with the Beef half the quantity of Salt allowed to fresh Beef.
One Week's allowance of Spirits to be issued to the officers tomorrow at the Magazine in Yorktown at ten o'clock.
It is expected the Division Inspectors will give a sufficient Reason for their non compliance with the General Orders of the 25th instant requiring their attendance on Major General St Clair and that they will pay strict attention to the same in future.
At the General Court martial whereof Colonel Ogden is President, Gilbert Otter, soldier of the Second New York regiment charged with“ Not doing his duty as a Centinel and with assisting in robbing a french officer's Waggon” was tried. The Court on Consideration are of opinion the Charge is not supported.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the Court and orders the Prisoner released from his Confinement.
Parole Holland. Countersigns Seville, Gascony.
For the Day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Hazen
Lieutenant Colonel Cochran
Major Graham
Brigade Major Fullerton
General Wayne's brigade for Guard and Fatigue in Yorktown and Hazen's for levelling the works tomorrow.
The Quartermaster General is requested to point out a House in York or elsewhere convenient for a Provost.
Notwithstanding the repeated Orders for that purpose it is reported there are yet many Carcases unburied in the environs of the Camp.
The General therefore desires that the Quartermaster General may send a person to reconnoitre the ground betwixt the French and American camps and in general the whole environs of the American Camp and the town of York, who if he finds occasion will apply for a party and conduct them to the places where the carcases are.
The Order of the 25th. instant prohibiting the discharging of fire arms in the vicinity of Camp not being attended to the General Officer of the day is requested to send out Patrols to detect and apprehend all stragglers with fire arms;
every soldier so detected is to receive thirty lashes, on his bare back at the head
of the Corps he belongs to without trial , the first time
the Corps assembles after his being apprehended.
Colonel White of the first regiment of dragoons being favored with an opportunity by
the arrival of the Northern Army to request a hearing by Court martial upon the
Charges exhibited against him by Captain Heard
In consequence of which Captain Heard replied that upon investigation he found that his Charges against Colonel White were grounded upon Misinformation and expressed his Wishes to withdraw them.
54. Capt. John Heard.
The General in order that this declaration may have its proper Effect and that Colonel White may be totally freed from the aspersions cast on his Character in consequence of the Charges alluded to Directs it to be Published to the Army.
The General cannot forbear adding that Accusations of so serious a nature should be made with the most scrupulous caution; an Officer's Character being too sacred to be impeached with Levity without a sufficient foundation.
Colonel Vose is appointed President of the General Court martial now sitting, vice Colonel Ogden, ordered out of Camp on particular Duty.
Captain John Bankson
He is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.
AFTER ORDERS
Major Woodson is appointed for the day tomorrow vice Major Graham indisposed.
55. He was transferred to the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
Parole Bermuda. Countersigns Trenton, Fredericksburg.
For the Day tomorrow
Major Reid
Major General St. Clair
Lieutenant Colonel Adams
Brigade Major Williams
General Gist's brigade for duty tomorrow.
Parole Antwerp. Countersigns, Bruges, Rouen.
For the Day tomorrow
Major General Lincoln
Lieutenant Colonel Harmar
Major Cummings
Brigade Major Cox
Colonel Ogden's and the first New York regiments for duty Tomorrow.
The Commander in Chief has been informed there are a number of Public horses in the hands of the Officers of the light infantry; they are required to deliver them immediately to the Quartermaster General.
The officers appointed to purchase Goods for the different Brigades, Corps &ca. are without delay to make their Returns to the Commander in Chief.
Parole—. Countersigns—.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier General Clinton
Lieutenant Colonel Antill
Major Fish
Brigade Major Lloyd
Hazen's brigade to furnish the guards and fatigue in York tomorrow.
At a Brigade General Court martial held at Camp near Yorktown in Virginia, October 26th. 1781, By order of Brigadier General Gist whereof Major Roxburgh was president the following prisoners were tried:
James Stite, William Selwood, Michael Harman and John Stanton, late of the German regiment, severally charged with “Desertion”, were found Guilty but from some peculiar Circumstances the Court sentence them to Receive each one hundred lashes on the bare Back.
Owen Curly, late of the same regiment, charged with Desertion, Inlisting with the
Enemy and bearing Arms against these United States found guilty in breach of Article
1st. Section 6th. of the Rules and Articles of war and Sentenced to be Hanged by the
Neck till he is Dead .
James Johnston late of the same regiment charged as above found Guilty and sentenced to be Hanged by the Neck untill he be Dead.
William Timmans late of the first Maryland regiment charged with Desertion, inlisting with the Enemy and bearing arms against these United States, Marauding, and burning the Houses of different inhabitants of the State of Maryland, found Guilty of the whole of the above Charges and sentenced to be hanged by the Neck till he be dead.
Thomas Crawford late of the same regiment charged with Desertion, Inlisting with the Enemy and bearing Arms against these United States, found Guilty of the two last Charges and sentenced to receive One Hundred lashes on his bare back.
Thomas Lesac of the same regiment, charged as above found Guilty and Sentenced to receive One Hundred Lashes on his bare back.
Jeremiah Owings, Thomas Williams and Andrew Warick, all late of the same regiment, severally charged as aforesaid were found Guilty of the two last Charges and sentenced each to receive One Hundred Lashes on the bare back.
Edward Cosgrove late of the first Maryland regiment charged with Desertion, Inlisting
with the Enemy and bearing Arms against the United States, found Guilty in breach of
Article 1st. Section 6th. of the Rules and Articles of War and sentenced to be Hanged
by the Neck untill he be dead .
James Reynolds late of the aforesaid regiment, charged as aforesaid found Guilty of the two last charges and sentenced to receive one Hundred Lashes on his bare Back.
John Wise of the Delaware regiment, charged as aforesaid found Guilty and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back.
Matthias Carry late of the second Maryland regiment, charged with Desertion inlisting with the Enemy and bearing Arms against these United States found Guilty of the whole of the Charges and sentenced to suffer Death.
William Cole late of the same Regiment, charged as above found not Guilty but considered by the Court as a Prisoner of War.
Henry Oston late of the second Maryland regiment, charged as aforesaid found Guilty of the two last Charges and sentenced to Receive One Hundred Lashes on his bare back.
Abraham Erwin late of the second Maryland regiment, charged with Desertion inlisting
with the enemy and bearing Arms against these United States, Marauding in one of the
Barges in Chesapeak bay found Guilty of the above Charges and sentenced to suffer Death .
Evan Whale charged with Desertion inlisting with the Enemy and bearing Arms against
these United States; No Evidence appearing to support the Charges the Court are of
opinion Evan Whale should be considered as a prisoner of
War.
Richard Ariss late of the third Maryland regiment, charged with Desertion inlisting with the Enemy and bearing Arms against these United States; the Court, after maturely considering the Charges and the Prisoner's defence find him Guilty in breach of Article 1st. and Section 6th. of the Rules and Articles of war and Sentence him to be Hanged by the Neck untill he be Dead.
Patrick Denison late of the 4th. Maryland regiment, charged as aforesaid found Guilty
in breach as above and sentenced to be Hanged by the Neck untill he be dead .
Michael Clark late of the 4th Maryland regiment, charged as aforesaid found Guilty of
the latter Charges and sentenced to receive One Hundred lashes on his bare back.
Lewis Smith Charged with Desertion inlisting with the Enemy and bearing arms against these United States. No Evidence appearing to support the Charges, the Court are of opinion Lewis Smith should be considered as a Prisoner of war.
Edward Marshall late of the Delaware Regiment, charged
with Desertion inlisting with the Enemy and bearing arms against these United States
found Guilty of the two last Charges and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on
his bare back.
The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing Sentences and orders William Timmans to
be immediately executed .
At a General Court Martial held at Camp, October 3th. 1781, whereof Colonel Vose vice Colonel Ogden is President.
Serjeant Selkirk and James Steel of the 2d New York regiment, Charged with robbing a french officer's waggon at Yorktown were tried.
The Court on Consideration are of opinion that the Charge is not supported against either of the Prisoners.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the Court and orders the prisoners to be released from Confinement and join their Corps.
The Court martial whereof Colonel Vose is President is dissolved.
Lest difficulties may arise in settling and adjusting the accounts of the Merchants who have furnished Goods to the officers of the
American Army agreeably to the General orders of the November
The Gentlemen who have purchased for Brigades Corps and Departments are desired to remain in Camp untill the Accounts are adjusted as they are the only persons able to solve any doubts that may arise.
Parole—. Countersigns—.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Hazen
Lieutenant Colonel V Dyck
Major Rice
Brigade Major Aorson
A subaltern from Hazen's brigade to be sent to Williamsburgh Hospital to relieve
Captain Pike
At the intercession of their Officers the Commander in Chief is pleased to Pardon Owen Curly, lames Johnson, Edward Cosgrove, Matthias Catty, Abraham Erwin, Richard Ariss, Patrick Denison, of the Maryland line and George Leadbetter, of the Jersey Brigade, Condemned to suffer Death by the sentence of a General Court Martial of their respective Lines.
After this day the Traders in York and Gloucester are at liberty to open their Stores to all purchasers.
83. Capt. Zebulon(?) Pike.
84. Lieut. John Blair, of the First New Jersey Regiment. He served to April, 1783.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
A General Court Martial will Assemble at ten oclock tomorrow morning at the City Tavern for the Trial of Major General Howe upon the following Charges exhibited against him by the Delegates of the State of Georgia in Congress by order of the General Assembly of the said State.
Major General the Baron de Steuben will Preside.
General Knox, Colonels Stewart, Lamb, Moylan and Hampton and Majors Bauman, Clarkson,
Burnet, Moore, McPherson, Galvan and Murnan to attend as Members, and Captain
Walker
56. Capt. Benjamin Walker, of the Fourth New York Regiment. He had been aide to Baron Steuben with the rank of major since September, 1778; lieutenant colonel and aide to Washington in January, 1782, to close of the war.
mercy of the enemy without any Continental troops instead of retreating to the back Country and gathering the inhabitants. Whereby the Good people of the State were further discouraged and the Country thus abandoned became an easy prey to the British troops they marching up and taking Post at Augusta and sending Detachments to every Part of the State.”
By the United States in Congress assembled
Resolved, That the legislature of each State raise, at the expence thereof, in the first instance, to be reimbursed
by the United States, so many men as may be necessary to complete the quota assigned to such State, out of the number of land forces agreed upon in the resolution of the 3d and 21 days of October, 1780, calculating the deficiency upon the number of men whose times of service will expire on or before the first day of March, 1782.
Resolved, That the legislature of each State be called upon in the most pressing manner, to cause the quota thereof of land forces to be compleated and in the field by the first day of March next, and to provide for replacing those men whose time of service shall expire between the said first day of March, 1782, and the last day of November in the said year.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the legislature of each State, to fill up the quota thereof of land forces by inlistments for three years, or during the war.
Resolved, That such states as now have any non-commissioned officers or privates in any of the regiments of cavalry, legionary corps, artillery, or Hazen's regiment, be credited in their quotas for such men, according to the numbers, from time to time; for which purpose the Commander in Chief is hereby directed to specify such non-commissioned officers and privates to the states to which they formerly belonged, in the returns which he shall make to the states, and in his annual return to Congress.
Resolved, That the Commander in Chief cause returns to be made as speedily as possible, to the legislature of each State, as well of the number of men whose time of service expire before the first day of March, 1782, as of those whose time of service will expire on or before the last day of November in the year aforesaid.
By the United States in Congress Assembled
Resolved, That in future no particular warrants issue in favour of any officers in actual service in the line of any State, for pay or subsistence, but that at all times they draw their pay and subsistence with the regiment to which they respectively belong, from the paymaster of such regiment.
By the United States in Congress assembled
Resolved, That the resolution passed yesterday against issuing particular warrants and respecting the mode of drawing for pay and subsistence, be
extended to officers of the seperate corps, as well as to those in the lines of the several states.
Captain Nicholas White is appointed to do the Duty of Judge Advocate to the General Courtmartial whereof Major General the Baron de Steuben is President, vice Captain Walker whose indisposition obliges him to retire.
Lieutenant Chandler Burlington
83. Lieut, Chandler Burlingame (Burlington), of Olney's Rhode Island Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
The Town Major is desired as soon as Possible to procure and deliver to the Adjutant General a Return of the Officers of the Continental Army now in this City exclusive of those attached to the Corps stationed here, specifying their Names, Rank the Corps they belong to, their Quarters and the occasion of their being in Town.
Olney's Regiment will tomorrow take the Guards at present mounted by the Militia in this City and keep them up untill further orders.
The General Court Martial whereof Major General Baron Steuben is President is to assemble on Wednesday next at ten o'clock A.M.
Colonel Nicola of the Invalid Regiment and Major Olney of the Rhode Island regiment are appointed Members vice Colonel Humpton and Major Burnet whose duty obliges them to leave the City.
Parole—. Countersigns—.
Contracts having been made for Supplying the Troops of the United States at various Posts with Provisions, The Officers are in future not to draw any rations on Public Account but will be paid in Money at the Close of each Month the amount of the several rations respectively allowed them by Congress, but for their greater convenience it is agreed that the Contractors shall Supply them with the whole or so many of the rations allowed as they may think proper to draw for, and the Pay master General or his Deputy will at the close of every Month settle with the Contractors and after paying them for such Articles as the Officers have drawn pay each Officer or the Paymaster of his Regiment the balance due him. No officer except such as Command Corps in this City are in Future to draw Wood from the Quarter Master, but at the end of every Month each Officer shall be paid for the Wood he is allowed at the average price paid by the Quarter Master during that Month.
A return to be made immediately to the Adjutant General by each Officer of the Number of Servants they respectively have, distinguishing those who are soldiers from those who are not.
Parole—. Countersigns—.
Captain Rochfontaine is appointed a Member of the Court Martial whereof Major General the Baron Steuben is president vice Colo. Moylan absent.
An orderly Serjeant to be sent daily to the Court Martial
at the city Tavern from the Rhode Island Regiment.
Parole—. Countersigns—.
Major Moore being so much indisposed as to be unable to attend the General Court Martial whereof he is a Member, Major Dexter is requested to attend in his place.
That the business of the Court Martial may not be delayed Major Dextor will please to attend immediately.
As it is expected that in the Course of the present Winter many of the Officers and men belonging to the Army of the United States will be indulged with leave of absence from their Corps for a limited time and as it is absolutely necessary the Strictest Punctuallity should be Observed in returning at the expiration of the time for which their Furloughs are granted. The Commander in Chief has thought proper
thus early in the season to Signify his fixed determination to all concerned that every Officer or soldier who shall absent himself beyond the limitation of his Furlough (unless he shall be prevented from returning by some inevitable Misfortune or other Casualty which shall be deemed a sufficient reason for his detention) shall for such conduct be brought to Tryal before a Court Martial.
Upon the return of any Officer who may have violated this Order by absenting himself beyond the time of his Furlough report is immediately to be made thereof to the Adjutant General or Deputy Adjt. Genl. who is to represent the same to the General or Commanding Officer, that the necessary Steps may be Taken without delay. The mode of proceeding against absent Officers as pointed out by a Resolution of Congress is to be invariably pursued.
Soldiers are also to be Tryed and punished in the most Summary manner if they will be guilty of a crime so injurious to the Public Service as well as to the Interests and feelings of their Brother Soldiers who may in consequence of the long absence of such delinquent be unavoidably debared the gratification of visiting their friends before the Opening of the Campaigne. The General however cannot but hope by Taking the precaution of causing this Public Notice of his intention to be given to the Army, the Disagreeable Consequences will be prevented which might otherwise have Taken place, for he is pesuaided whoever will give himself the trouble to reflect will find that, as great indulgencies as are consistent with the Public good and justice to individuals are granted in the first instance. That as a certain Number of Officers and Men must be constantly kept in Camp, every Tresspass upon those indulgencies is an act of injustice to the individual who is detained in Consequence of it: and probably in the issue to the Public.
That the most pointed exactness is indispensibly Necessary in all Military affairs, Events unknown and frequently of the greatest Magnitude depending upon it, and that those men who may have attached
themselves to the Service of their Country should consider that the public has a constant claim upon their services which can only be despensed with under certain circumstances and for definite Periods of which those intrusted with the regulation of the Army must be supposed to be the most Competent Judges. No Officer or soldier is to be permitted to be absent on Furlough after the Tenth day of April next on any Occasion whatever.
The Musters of the Army are with all possible expedition to be completed to the Thirty first day of December last inclusive, after which period They are to be taken regularly at the end of every Month and the Rolls Transmitted to the Pay Office without delay agreeable to a resolution of Congress of September 25th. 1780.
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The Operating force of the Army having Suffered great
diminution by the Number of Soldiers made use of as Servants by persons of different denominations not immediately connected
with the line;
The General anxious to have the Regiments in the most collected State and as
respectable as possible at the opening of the ensuing Campaigne, Orders that in
future, no person belonging to the civil Staff be permitted to take a Soldier as a
Servant , and that those Gentlemen in that Department
who now have such, return them to their respective Regiments, or Corps, on or before
the first day of April next, by which time he hopes they will be able to provide
Themselves otherwise without inconvenience.
Officers Commanding Corps are desired to pay particular Attention to this order, and directed immediately to recall such of their men as are absent without proper authority: especially those with officers who have retired from the Service.
The General is astonished to find by the returns that some of the absentees are accounted for in the manner last Mentioned.
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Commanding Officers of Regiments or Corps are not in future to furnish Servants or Waggoners from their Corps on any pretext whatever, without an express order from the Commander in Chief or Officer Commanding the Army. Officers actually belonging to regiments or Corps and serving with them are to be allowed servants from their respective Corps in the following proportions: Infantry, Artillery and all Corps serving on foot viz.
And to each regimental Waggon is to be allowed one Waggoner without Arms. Field
Officers of Regiments or Corps may take one servant with
them on Furlough, but no other regimental Officers to take one from their Regiment on
any Account.
No Officer or Doctor to take a Convalescent from the Hospital for a servant on pain of being Tryed by a Court Martial.
The General and Military staff and officers not belonging to Corps are to be allowed Servants in the following proportions, and when they are not otherwise provided may take them from the Army viz.
Major General
Brigadier General
Colonel
Lt.Colonel
Major
Captains
Aid decamp
Major of Brigade
The servants carrying Arms are to be exempt from Guards and other Camp duties, but are to appear under arms whenever the Regimt. Parades and are to Mount guard with the Officer on whom they wait.
The Servants without Arms are never to appear in rank and File, except at the Inspection. When a Regiment Marches and leaves its Camp standing One servant to each Company is to be permitted to remain; but on the Camps being struck and the Baggage Loaded they are to join their regiment.
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The United States in Congress assembled have been pleased to pass the following resolves.
In Congress December 24, 1781.
Resolved, That in future no recruit shall be inlisted to serve as a drummer or fifer. When such are wanted, they shall be taken from the soldiers of the corps in such numbers and of such description as the Commander in Chief or commanding officer of a seperate army shall direct, and be returned back and others drawn out as often as the good of the service shall make necessary.
That all drummers and fifers, after being supplied each with a good drum and fife, shall keep the same in repair by stoppages from his pay, in such manner as the commanding officer of the corps shall direct.
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The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve:
By the United States in Congress assembled,
January 24, 1782.
The proceedings of a General Court Martial upon Major General Howe being read:
“Resolved, That the sentence of the general court martial acquitting Major General R. Howe, with the highest honor, of the charges exhibited against him, be, and hereby is, approved and confirmed.”
The General Court Martial whereof Major General the Baron de Steuben is president, is
dissolved and another ordered to assemble for the tryal of Colonel Brodhead, of the
First Pennsylvania Regiment, of which Colonel Lewis Nichola
The Court will assemble at the Barracks on Saturday at 10 oClock A.M. All evidences
and persons concerned are requested to attend. Captain N. White
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Captain Benjamin Walker, of the 2d New York Regiment is appointed Aid de Camp to the Commander in Chief and is to be respected and Obeyed accordingly.
1. Col. Lewis Nicola.
2. Lieut. Col. Antoine Felix Wuibert (Wiebert), of the Continental Engineers. He had
served as a volunteer on the Bonhomme Richard.
3. Maj. Ferdinand Joseph Sebastien de Brahm, of the Continental Engineers.
4. Maj. Coggeshall Olney.
5. Capt. Philip Liebert, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He was transferred to the Invalid Regiment in March, 1782, and resigned in April, 1783.
6. Capt. Robert McConnell, of the Fourth Continental Artillery. He served to June, 1783.
7. Capt. Jacob Humphrey (Humphreys). He was adjutant of the Sixth Pennsylvania Regiment; transferred to the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783; served to June, 1783.
8. Capt. Moses (“N”) White, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He was aide to General Hazen to the close of the war.
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Captain Pearson
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A General Court Martial for the Tryal of Major General McDougall on sundry Charges exhibitted against him by Major General Heath will assemble at West Point as soon as possible. Major General Lord Sterling is appointed President. The Deputy Adjutant General of the Eastern Army will Detail the Members.
AFTER ORDERS
The General Court Martial ordered this Morning for the Tryal of General McDougall may Sett at West Point or some convenient place in its vicinity.
10. Capt. John Pearson, of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment. He was transferred to the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
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Colonel Olneys regiment will be under Arms for Inspection at Nine oClock on Thursday Morning next in the Barrack Yard. His Excellencys Guards in the vacant Lot between third and fourth Streets near head quarters at 12 OClock on this same day.
Colonel Stewart of the 2d. Pennsylvania Regiment is appointed Inspector for the Northern Army, and Lt. Colonel Ternant of Armands Partisan Corps for the Southern Army. They are to be obeyed and respected accordingly.
At a general Court Martial held by order of the Commander in Chief at Philadelphia, February 11 Inst. was Tryed James Crab (alias Daniel Shea) for Desertion and reinlisting, Willful Perjury and Defrauding the States of Nine Pounds Specie. Found guilty and sentenced to receive One hundred Lashes, and that the pay master of the 2d Jersey Regiment do stop in his hands Nine Pounds Specie in order to refund the Bounty received by the prisoner.
The Commander in Chief approves the above sentence and orders that he receive his Corporal punishment immediately, and remain a prisoner untill there is an Opportunity of sending him with a Copy of his sentence to the regiment to which he belongs.
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The Mustering of the Rhode Island Regiment is Postponed till Monday next and that of the Guards till Saturday.
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At a general Court Martial held at Philadelphia February the 18, 1782 by order of the Commander in Chief, William English Soldier in the New Hampshire Line was Tryed for Deserting from the New Hampshire Line re-inlisting in the Pennsy. Line, defrauding the States, and Perjury, found guilty and sentenced to suffer Death. The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence.
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At a general Court Martial held in Philadelphia January 29, 1782, whereof Col Nichola is President, Colonel Daniel Brodhead of the first Pennsylvania Regiment was Tryed on the following Charges viz. first for various specious and unwarrantable attempts on the life, liberty and property of the good people of this Country, highly oppressive and injurious to individuals and detrimental to the common weal, by rendering what is most valuable to free men uncertain and precarious. Second for creating a Monopoly in Trade and Countenancing the savages for private and interested purposes. Third. For forming a Jobbing connection with the Assistant Quart. Master Mr. David Duncan while he, Colonel Brodhead was possessed of public Money. Fourth, for withholding a sum of public Money drawn to the direct and sole use of the eighth Pennsylvania Regiment and for, not accounting and Settling with the Auditor for said sum of Money after application made for that purpose by Advertisment of the 25 June 1779. Fifth for mis-applying and not Appropriating public Money to the purposes intended. Sixth for Sheltering from punishment a most Notorious public delinquent and oppressing and injuring honest inocent and industrious men from Motives equally designing and interested. Seventh, for not attending to the good order and Discipline of the Troops under his Command nor to their Comfort or accomodation, nor puting the Garrison into a state of defence, but allowing it to continue
in a ruinous untenable and un Military state, tho a number of Artificers were long employed in the Department at high Wages and a large allowance of Provisions; eighth, for neglecting to cover the Frontiers with small Detachments Cantoned in the Country, while a Number of the soldiers have been improperly employed in the Quarter Masters Department and others unnecessarily retained at his Quarters.
The Court after maturely considering the Charges, evidence and Defence do not find Colonel Brodhead guilty of any attempts on the liberty and property of the good people of the Country near Fort Pitt, and therefore do acquit him of the first charge. They likewise acquit him of the 2d and 3d charges, as to the fourth charge, it does not appear to the Court that Colonel Brodhead was possessed of any public Money for the use of the soldiers of the eighth Pennsylvania Regiment; nor that he could Settle his accounts with the Auditor in consequence of the advertisement, being unprovided with some vouchers left by him on this side the Mountain, and the Auditors not furnished with the account of the sums to be charged him, Therefore do acquit him of the fourth Charge, with respect to the fifth charge it appears to the Court that Colonel Brodhead received a sum of public Money for the recruiting Service, part of which he applyed to the purpose of Supplying the Garrison with Provisions, in which the Court think him Justifiable and acquit him of the fifth charge. The Court are further of Opinion that Colonel Brodhead is not guilty of the sixth, seventh and eighth Charges. Therefore are of Opinion that the Prosecution is malicious and groundless and acquit Colo. Brodhead with the highest honor.
The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing opinion of the Court and discharges Colonel Brodhead from his arrest.
The Court whereof Colonel Lewis Nichola is president is dissolved.
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The Commander in Chief is pleased to Pardon William English, a soldier belonging to the New Hampshire Line now under sentence of Death for Desertion, and orders him to be released from Confinement.
At a Brigade General Court Martial held at the Hutts near Morris Town Feb. 14. Ult. by order of Colonel Elias Dayton, of which Lieut. Colonel Barber is President, James Furry, Soldier in the 2d Jersey Regiment was Tryed, charged with Desertion to the Enemy, The Court find him guilty of Desertion which is a breach of the 1 Article 6 section of the Articles of War and after mature deliberation sentence the said James Fury to suffer Death by Hanging (more than two thirds of the Court Martial agreeing thereto. The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court.
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Four Subalterns and one surgeon from the Pennsylvania Line are immediately to proceed to Fort Pitt to replace a like number of Officers of that line who were left out by the late Arrangement of the Army.
The Baron de Steuben will inspect the Guards at Nine oClock on Wednesday next, and
the Rhode Island Regiment at eleven oClock on the same day.
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The Commander in Chief having returned and resumed the Command of the Main Army, presents his thanks to Major General Heath and the Troops which have been employed under his orders, for having preserved the important Posts committed to their Charge and covered the Country so successfully against the depredations of the Enemy during the Absence of the General. All the present Arrangements of Command and interior regulations of the Army will continue in force unless where alterations are made by some particular order for the purpose.
The General proposes to review the whole Army by Brigades as soon as conveniently may be. On the days appointed for the review all the men are to be present with their Corps except such as are prevented by Detachments, Sickness or other Sufficient cause. Accurate regimental Rolls are to be exhibited on the Occasion and all absentees Satisfactorily Accounted for. The first Massachusetts Brigade will be reviewed on Saturday the 6. Instant at eleven oclock A.M. The 2d Brigade on
73. The Varick Transcripts here contains the following: “NB. No General orders were issued from the above date untill the 4th. of April, 1782.”
Monday and the 3d on the Tuesday following at the same hour.
The Honorable the Congress has been pleased to pass the Following Resolve.
By the United States in Congress Assembled March 19th, 1782.
On a report from the Secretary at War. Resolved, That so much of the Act of Congress of the 30 of September, 1780, as establishes the pay and rations of the regimental surgeons and their mates, be, and hereby is, repealed: That in future the pay of a regimental surgeon shall be fiftynine dollars per month, and that he be entitled to draw three rations per day, and forage as heretofore; and that pay of a regimental surgeon's mate be in future forty-two dollars per month, and he be entitled to two rations per day.
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The Tryall of Major General McDougall having been delayed by his objecting to the president and some of the Members of the Court Martial which was constituted for the purpose of trying him; and there being no rule yet established by our Military Code of Laws by which the right or limitation of Challenges is ascertained; but the President and Members excepted against having expressed a desire to be excused from that duty, It is therefore ordered that Major General Howe Preside at the said Court, and that other Members be appointed in the places of those who have been Challenged and declined Serving, as also of those who may be absent. The Court will assemble at West Point or some convenient place in the vicinity of it on Wednesday next.
The Commander in Chief will review the first and Second Connecticut Brigades on Thursday next at eleven oClock.
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The regimental Pay Masters of the Massachusetts Line will apply immediately to Mr. Lunt their State Clothier for as many Uniform Coats as will complete the respective Regiments; and put them into the hands of the regimental and other Taylors employed by the public, that they may be fitted to the men without loss of time.
The Commanding officers of Regiments in the Massachusetts Line will be pleased to determine by Lott or otherwise which four Regiments shall be compleated with Breeches from the Supply in the hands of their State Clothier, The pay masters of the Regiments to whose lott they fall will apply and receive them with their Coats; The remaining regiments and the Connecticut Line will make application to the assistant Clothier General for the Cloth and Trimmings for their Breeches.
The General is exceedingly concerned to observe the distressed State of Several Corps for the want of clothing. He hopes the imbarrassments they have laboured under on that account are nearly removed, he earnestly entreats and exhorts officers of every discription to use their utmost exertions to have the clothing finished and distributed as early as possible, and particularly that they will pay the greatest attention to have every article exactly Suited in Size and shape to the individual for whom it is designed, Nothing can be more essenttial than this to the good appearance
of the Troops and nothing more detrimental than the want of it.
All deserters and persons coming from the Enemys lines are to be sent immediately to Head Quarters.
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The first Massachusetts Brigade will be inspected and Mustered on Monday next. The first regiment at 9 OClock, the 4th, regiment 11 o Clock and the 7th. at One o Clock, The necessary blank returns and Muster Rolls will be previously delivered them by the Inspector General. All guards and parties from that Brigade within a days March of Camp are to be relieved by the 2d Brigade, and no man to be absent from the Inspection that can possibly attend.
The general Court Martial whereof Major General How is President will assemble at West Point Tomorrow.
A list of all the Officers of the different Regiments and Corps digested in regimental order to be sent to the Adjutant Generals office as soon as possible.
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The Commanding officer of Engineers is without loss of time to lay before the Commander in Chief a State of the Works at West Point Together with an estimate of the species and quantity of Materials, and the Number of men necessary to put the Fortifications in a State of defence that the most essential repairs may be effected before the Army shall take the field. As it is the intention of the General that the Troops shall (as soon as the Season will admit) be drawn together and encamped in tents for the purpose of affording an equal Opportunity to every Corps for perfecting itself in discipline and Maneuvres.
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The officers appointed as Members of the General Court Martial whereof Major General Howe is president are to attend to that duty in preference to any other untill the business before them is finished.
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At a general Court Martial held at Carlisle by order of Brigadier General Irwine whereof Colonel Richard Butler is President.
John Harling, Soldier in the 2d. Pennsylvania Regiment, charged with deserting a Detachment from the same regiment at Lancaster and being since taken in the Service of the Enemy, was Tried and found guilty, in breach of the first second and third Articles, Sixth Section of the Articles of War and Sentenced (more than two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto) to suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing Sentence.
At the same Court, William Campton, soldier in the 2d Pennsylvania Regiment, charged with Deserting from the same and inlisting in another Corps, was tryed, found guilty and sentenced to receive One hundred lashes on his bare back, to be inflicted in the manner following viz. 50 lashes the first time, 25 lashes the second time and the remaining 25 lashes the third day. Also Hugh Smith, a Recruit belonging to the Pennsylvania Line charged with having used Traiterous and disrespectful expressions against the United States tending to promote Desertion among the soldiery, was Tryed
and found Guilty in breach of the first Article, second section and fourth Art. 6 Sect. of the Articles of War and sentenced to receive One hundred Lashes on his bare back.
The Commander in Chief approves these Two sentences and orders them to be put in Execution at such time and place as the Commanding Officer at Carlisle shall find convenient.
In future no man is to be discharged from the Army but by the Commander in Chief, when any men either from inability, or any other cause; are to be discharged they are first to be reported to the Inspector who will apply at Head Quarters where proper printed discharges will be given.
From this time untill further Orders no furloughs are to be granted but in very particular cases, when such exist, the Commanding Officer of the Regiment will apply through the Brigadier to Head Quarters and will be answerable that the case is extraordinary and absolutely requires the indulgence.
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The repairs most necessary at the post of West Point (agreeably to the report of Major Villefranch Commanding Engineer there) are to be sett about immediately and executed with the greatest dispatch.
The Company of Artificers lately raised under the direction of the Quarter Master General is immediately to be employed in this duty except such Men as may be indispensible for other services.
The Artificers from the line now with the Engineers are to remain with them till further orders, such others and the Number of Fatigue Men which may be Necessary to Complete the Works with despatch Major Villefranch is to apply to the Adjutant General for.
As it is essentially necessary that these repairs should be done before the Army assembles in the field the General desires and expects that the Commanding Officers of Corps will be particularly attentive that the
Artificers they furnish are good, allowance is to be made to the Corps that have already furnished.
The Quarter Master General will furnish the Timber, boards and Nails called for by Major Villefranche.
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The Commander in Chief, requests the General Officers, Commanding Officers of Brigades and regiments will assemble at Major General Heath's Quarters at 12 oClock this day or as soon after as may be, before 3 oClock on business of very interesting Concern to the Army.
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The regimental paymasters are to apply to the Assistant Clothier Genl. for such a Number of shoes as are actually wanting in the several regiments, the Strictest Oeconomy must be made use of in this Necessary Article.
The Armourers and men who have been employed in making Cartridges under the direction of the Commandant of Artillery are to be still continued in that service. No Artificer from the line is to be retaind by the Quarter Master of West Point, except he first obtains a certificate from the Commanding officer of the Garrison that such an Artificer is absolutely requisite for such a particular purpose, in which case Major General Heath will be pleased to give the necessary order for a limitted time only.
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The United States in Congress Assembled having been pleased by their Proclamation, dated the 19th March last, to appoint Thursday next the 25th. Instant to be set apart as a day of Fasting, humiliation and
Prayr for certain special purposes therein Mentioned: the same is to be Observed accordingly throughout the Army, and the different Chaplains will prepare Discourses Suited to the Several Objects enjoin'd by the said Proclamation.
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The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolutions:
By the United States in Congress Assembled.
Monday, April 8, 1782.
On a report from the Secretary at War, to whom was referred a plan of the paymaster general, for the better regulation of the pay of the army:
Resolved, That as all returns necessary to check the accounts of pay and rations, and to give full information of public issues of cloathing and stores, are lodged at the war office, the Secretary at War is hereby empowered and directed to issue his warrants on the paymaster general, in favour of each regimental paymaster, for the pay and rations which shall appear on adjustment of their accounts to be due to the regiments respectively, and to the head of each department for the pay and rations due to such department; that the accounts for pay and rations of each regiment, and of each department in the army from January 1st, 1782, shall be made out at the end of every month and be transmitted to the war office for examination and warrants:
That the manner of making the payments, of keeping the accounts, and the returns of the regimental paymasters, be regulated by the Secretary at War:
That the paymaster general shall pay on the warrants of the Secretary at War, from such monies as shall be put into his hands for the pay and rations of the troops, and to the orders of the Commander in Chief, or officer commanding the southern army, from such monies as shall be placed in his disposal for contingencies.
Resolved, That all resolutions heretofore passed, empowering general officers to draw warrants on the paymaster general, except that empowering the officer commanding the southern army, be, and the same are hereby repealed.
Resolved, That there be one deputy paymaster for the southern army: That there shall be one assistant allowed to the paymaster general, who shall do the duties of a clerk.
That the paymaster general be, and he is hereby authorised to appoint his deputy and assistant.
That the paymaster general immediately give bonds with two sureties to the Superintendant of finance, in the sum of fifteen thousand dollars, for the faithful performance of his office.
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At a General Court Martial whereof Major Darby
The Court having duly Considered the Charge and Lieutenent Muzzeys Defence are of Opinion that the reasons offered by the said Lieut. Robert Muzzey are not sufficient for his over staying the time limit in his Furlough, for altho it does not appear to the Court that his circumstances at Home were so peculiar that they required his Attendance, yet it was his duty to have Complyed with his furlough or made application
52. Maj. Samuel Darby, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
53. Lieut. Robert Muzzey, who resigned on Apr. 30, 1782.
to have the limitts of his furlough lengthened, and do sentence him to be Mulcted of his Pay and Subsistence for the said eighty six Days.
The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence of the Court Martial.
The Quarter Master General will as soon as may be furnish the Commander in Chief with an exact Return of all the Artificers in his Department; whether they be inlisted Soldiers or hired Men, specifying where they are and how they are employed.
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The Contractors for Supplying Provisions to the Garrison of West Point and its Dependencies are, after the first of May, untill some Alteration is made in the disposition of the Army, to issue to the first and Second Massachusetts Brigades, the third Regiment of Artillery and such other Corps or parts of Corps as may occasionally be Stationed at West Point; they are also to supply the troops at the posts on the Eastern side of the river in that vicinity, the posts of Kings Ferry, Dobbs Ferry and Fish Kill. An issuing Store must also be established by them at Newburgh or New Windsor. The remainder of the troops are to be supplyed under the Contract for furnishing the moving Army.
The Commanding Officer of the Garrison of West Point will upon application of the Contractors give such information as may be necessary of the Number of Rations to be issued from time to time at the Posts above Mentioned.
The System on which Provisions are in future to be issued, First. When a regiment, independent Corps or Detachment, are to draw Provisions, their proper Quarter Master or some Commissioned Officer appointed in orders to do his duty, shall make out and sign a Provision Return Setting fourth in Colums the Number of Persons, with their Ranks
Or Stations, the Number of pays to be drawn for, the commencing and ending of the time, both days included, and the number of rations, this Return to be Countersigned by the Commanding officer of such regiment, Corps or detachment; When the Contractors shall have issued the Provisions and have taken a receipt signed by the proper Quarter Master, or officer doing his duty, by the Commanding Officer of a Detachment, Quarter Master Serjeant or some person in his absence, not under the rank of Serjeant, This return and receipt so executed shall be admitted at the Treasury as a sufficient voucher for the Contractors.
2ndly. All orders for Provisions for General Officers, and the Quarter Master General, and their families, shall be signed by themselves, or one of their Aids or Assistants; and a receipt signed by the Servant who shall receive it shall be a Sufficient voucher for the Contractors.
3rdly. No person whatever, in the departments of Quarter Master Genl. and of Millitary Stores shall sign any order or return for Provisions, excepting the Heads of those Departments, or such persons as shall be respectively appointed by them to perform this business; of such appointments the Contractors are to have Notice in Writing. No returns are to be made for any but those who are Necessarily employed in the said departments and who do not draw Provisions in any other Character. The rations, allow'd to each individual must be fix't and the returns must Specify the Number, Stations or occupations of the persons, the Numbr. of days to be drawn for, the Commencing and ending of the time, both days included, and the Number of rations in the whole; This return with proper receipts shall be sufficient vouchers for the Contractors. No fatigue rations to be issued in either of the departments of Quarter Masters Generals or Military Stores but by the particular Authority of the Superior Officer, a copy of whose orders must be Transmitted Monthly, with the Contractors Amounts.
4thly, Hospital: No officer or other person whatever, belonging
to the General Hospital, shall sign or Countersign any orders or returns for Provisions, or Hospital Stores excepting the Superior Officer of that department at the post or place where such Provisions or stores are Necessary to be drawn; such Superior officer shall make out and sign two returns as follows viz. One return for all the Sick and Convalescents under his care, setting forth the Number of persons, the Number of days to be drawn for, with the commencing and ending of the time, both days included; the Number of rations, and at what allowance p. day for each class of sick or Convalescents; also pointing out by different lines, what regiments or Corps the persons belong to. This return with a proper receipt, signed by the Steward of the Hospital will be a voucher; he shall make and sign another return for himself and all the Officers and others under his Command or direction, setting fourth the Number of persons with their rank or stations, in distinct Columns, the Number of days to be drawn for, with the Commencing and ending of the time, both days included, and the number of rations; This return with a proper receipt or receipts will be a voucher. When such superior Officer draws an order for Hospital stores he shall express the Articles in Words at full length, and the Steward of the Hospital shall sign a proper receipt for them in like words also. No fatigue rations to be allowed any person in the department, except by order of the Physician or Surgeon Genl., a Copy of which order to be Transmitted with the Contractors Accounts.
5thly. All orders or returns for Provisions, for Prisoners of War at settled Posts must be signed by the Commissary of Prisoners or Town Major, if none, to be Countersigned by our Commanding Officer if any. These returns must shew in proper Columns the Number of each rank and station as also the Women and Children allowed to draw with the Number of rations to be drawn, the Number of days, with the Commencing and ending of the time. No prisoners are to draw more than two thirds of a ration, and
that without liquor, saving such who are allowed otherwise by Capetulation; where whole rations are allowed, Vegetables and other Articles are to be Substituted for the liquor. In no returns is liquor to be drawn for the women with the prisoners, or any Compensation made for it. No Provisions to be drawn for any Prisoners who are out at Work.
6thly. The Commanding Officer of any Corps passing a post, shall sign the Orders for Provisions for such Corps, to be Countersigned by the Commanding Officer of the Post if senior; but for Detachments not Commanded by a Commissioned Officer, the Order must be signed by the Officer then Commanding at the post.
7thly. All soldiers acting as Servants with Arms, shall draw with their Corps, and all such soldiers who are annexed to Officers and are without Arms shall be drawn for by the Officers respectively with whom they serve.
8thly. As all victualling Returns are to be examined and checked at the War Office, in all the returns of Regiments and independent Corps, the absentee will be accounted for on the back of the returns.
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A return of public boats specifying the different Species, condition, where and in whose Possession or care they are, is positively to be given in by the 6th. of May. The acting Quarter Master with the Army is directed to have all the Boats from Kings ferry to Wappings Creek inclusive collected immediately at the last mentioned place, except such as are so Necessary for the common purposes of the Army, that the duty cannot be done without them; He will Consult with Major General Heath and the Commandant of West Point to determine this, the preservation of the Boats in use must be attended to more strictly and the Officers or persons in whose charge they are left, must give their receipts, and will be held personally responsible
for them; such flatt bottomed boats and Batteaux as are not fit for service are to be repaired without loss of time.
It is expected the Company of Watermen under the direction of the Quarter Master will at least be Competent to take care of the Boats; If more aid is necessary it will be granted, but no excuse for Negligence or Waste in such an important Article shall in future be admitted.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve.
By the United States in Congress Assembled, April 22, 1782.
Resolved, That from and after the first day of May next, all resolves of Congress, heretofore passed relative to rations, subsistence or allowances to officers over and above their pay, and what they are intitled to from the quarter master department, except the allowance to the general commanding the southern army, be, and they are hereby repeal'd: that from and after the first day of May next, each officer shall be intitled to draw daily the number of rations, and to receive monthly as subsistance the number of dollars and parts of dollars, affixed to their several ranks, viz.
All officers in the line of the army employed in any of the staff departments, shall be entitled, while acting therein to draw the same number of rations and like subsistance to which they are entitled by their ranks in the army; and when any persons, not in the line of the army, are employed in any of the staff departments, they shall be entitled to draw the same number of rations and subsistence as officers of the line, acting in similar stations in the staff with them, are entitled to draw. No compensation shall hereafter be made to those officers who shall neglect to draw rations to which they are entitled.
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Returns of the Number of recruits Joined the Several States Lines to the 30th, of the last Month inclusive, in consequence of the requisition of Congress of December last are to be made to the Adjutant Generals Office as soon as possible.
Untill further orders Returns of a Similar Nature are to be given in on the first of every Month, setting forth the Number of Recruits Joined the preceding Month.
At a Brigade General Court Martial held at the Jersey Hutts near Morristown April the
4th 1782 by order of Elias Dayton whereof Lieutent Colonel John Noble Cummings is
President; Captain Abel Wayman,
“The Court having duly considered the evidence against Captain Wayman, Ensign Hyer and Doct. Moses G. Elmer with their defence are of Opinion that Captain Wayman is not Guilty of the charge
84. Capt. Abel Weyman (Waymen), of the First New Jersey Regiment. He served to April, 1783.
85. Of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He served to April, 1783.
86. Surgeon's mate. He served to November, 1783.
exhibitted against him and do acquit him; but find Ensign Hyer and Doctor Moses G. Elmer Guilty and according to Art. 5th. Sec. 18th. of the rules and Art. of War sentence them to be reprimanded by the Commander in Chief in General orders.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court Martial. He thinks the conduct of Ensign Hyer and Doctor Elmer in the highest degree reprehensible and that the Court has Treated them with great lenity.
Captain Weyman, Ensign Hyer and Doctor Elmer are released from their Arrest.
At a General Court Martial whereof Major Darby is President, Ensign Philip
Corey,
The Court after mature consideration are of Opinion that the reasons offered by Ensign Corey in his defence for exceeding the limitts of his Furlough are insufficient and do sentence him to be mulcted of his pay and subsistence for the ten days which he exceeded the limitts of his furlough and to be repremanded in General Orders.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court. Ensign Corey should not have overstayed his leave of absence without applying for and obtaining leave.
Ensign Corey is released from his Arrest.
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The following Arrangement of the Captains in the Massachusetts Line being fixed by a
board of General and field Officers duly authorised, is approved of by the Commander
in Chief and is to be considered as conclusive:
87. He resigned in May, 1782.
88. The arrangement of the 86 captains, showing rank number, regiment number, and date of commission, is given in tabulated form in the Varick Transcripts in the Library of Congress, but is omitted here.
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The different Brigades and Corps composing the Army in the Highlands and New Jersey, will be inspected and Mustered on the following days viz. The New Jersey Brigade on the 10th. the York on the 12. The first Massachusetts Brigade on the 18th. the 2d Brigade and Cranes Regiment of Artillery on the 19th, and the 3 Massachusetts Brigade on the 20th. The 10th Massachusetts regiment on the 21st. The first Connecticut Brigade on the 22d. The 2d Connecticut Brigade on the 23d and the Commander in Chiefs Guards on the 24th Instant.
The several Corps are to be excused duty on the days
they are Mustered, if the nature of the service they are employed on will possibly admit of it.
The Artificers and the Water Guard under Captain Prey
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Untill further orders no flagg from the Enemy at New York is to be received at any other place or post but Dobbs ferry on any business or pretext whatever, nor is any Flag from us to them to be sent from any other place. Officers or others bringing despatches from the Enemy are to be Stoped at Dobbs Ferry and their despatches immediately forwarded to Head Quarters. It is expected that all Officers Commandg on the lines or else where will pay the strictest attention to this order.
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A board Consisting of Major General Lord Stirling, Brigadier General Hand and Colonel Nichola will assemble at such time and place as may be agreed by them, to examine into the principles of the late Arrangement of the Subalterns in the Connecticut Line and to report their Opinion whether the principles are Consonant to those pointed out as the basis of such settlement by the board of General Officers convened at Dobbs ferry in August last, and whether the said Arrangement ought to be conclusive or not. The papers relative to this business at Head Quarters will be laid before the board and all persons concerned
10. Capt. John Pray (Prey), of the First Massachusetts Regiment. He was in command of the water guard on the Hudson River at Dobbs Ferry, and served to June, 1783.
are notifyed to exhibit such other representation and testimony as they shall think proper.
A state of all the guards and Detachments from the different Regiments is to be delivered in at the orderly Office by Wednesday next, in order to observe whether any alteration of the position and strength the guards &ca is Necessary, and to make provision for doing duty by Corps.
The regimental Surgeons are desired to make regular Weekly returns of the Sick of their respective regiments to Doctor Craick, Chief Physician with the Army.
AFTER ORDERS
At a General Court Martial held at West Point by order of Major General Heath whereof Colonel Greaton is president, the following Prisoners were tryed:
George Willson, a soldier belonging to the late 12 Massachusetts Regimentt, charged with deserting from a Detachment when on Command at White Plains.
The Court adjudge the prisoners guilty of the charge against him in breach of Article 1st sect 6 of the rules and Articles of War, but as the prisoner surrendered himself under the Proclamation of his Excellency the Commander in Chief offering pardon to Deserters, they are of Opinion he should be excused from punishment and released from confinement.
Elijah Kelly a recruit raised for the Massachusetts Line charged with Desertion, found Guilty in breach of the above mentioned Articles of War and sentenced to receive One hundred Lashes on his bare back.
Serjeant Gerred Bunce and Wyman Parker of the third Connecticut Regiment and Lud Gaylord, soldier of the first Connecticut regiment charged severally with endeavouring to excite a Mutiny in the Connecticut Line and also not discovering an intended Mutiny to their Officers when they knew a plan was laying and a Combination forming to carry it into execution.
The Court having Considered the Charges and Evidence against
the Prisoners, serjeant Gerred Bunce, are of Opinion that the charge of endeavouring to excite a Mutiny in the Connecticut. Line is not supported and do acquit him of it. They are also of Opinion that the Evidence respecting the Charge against him of not discovering an intended Mutiny to his Officers when he knew a plan was laying and combination forming is insufficient to Convict him of it and they do acquit him of it.
The Court respecting the Charges against sergeant Wyman Parker are of the same Opinion that they are of respecting serjeant Bunce and do acquit him of the Charges against him.
The Court having considered the Evidence respecting the Charges against Lud Gaylord are of Opinion that he is Guilty of endeavouring to excite a Mutiny in the Connecticut Line, and that he is also guilty of not discovering an intended Mutiny to his Officers when he knew a plan was laying and Combination forming to carry it into execution, which is in breach of the latter part of Art. 4. Section 2d. of the rules and Articles of War and the Court (upwards of two thirds agreeing) do sentence him to suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief approves the Opinion of the Court Martial and orders the execution of Lud Gaylord on Monday the 13th of May instant.
Serjeants Jerred Bunce and Wyman Parker and George Willson to be released from Confinement.
Elijah Kelly to receive his punishment at such time and place as shall be convenient to the Officer Commanding the regiment he belongs to.
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Mr. Nathaniel Sackett has obtained permission from the Commander in Chief to suttle to the Army untill further orders, upon conforming to the regulations for Conducting that business which will be pointed out to him by the Quarter Master General.
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The pay Masters of the several regiments will apply to the assistant Clothier General for shirts and Harts. As there is not at present a full Supply of Harts for the Army, two regiments in the Massachusetts Line and one in the Connecticut must remain unsupplied untill Hatts can be procured: which will be as soon as possible. The Commandants of regiments are to determine by Lott or consent what regiments shall receive the Hatts in store. The regiments of the Massachusetts Line which have lately received shirts and Harts from their state Clothier are not to be considered in the present distribution.
As there may be some little difference in the size of Hatts the several regiments which are fortunate will cast Lotts who shall have their first choice. It is expected the Commanding officers of the Corps which shall be completed with Hatts will be extremely attentive to give them a military and Uniform appearance by cutting, cocking or adding such other decorations as they think proper. The Clothier will use his utmost efforts to obtain Harts or caps for the three Regiments which cannot be furnished from the stock now on hand.
Previous to every inspection, the Clothier General or his assistant will furnish the inspector with an abstract of the cloathing which has been issued to each regiment since the last inspection: that by comparing these accounts with the Company Book and the Articles actually in possession of the soldier, the œconomy of the regiment may be evinced; and all kinds of negligence or irregularity be prevented.
The Clothier is, if practicable, to obtain worsted shoulder Knotts for the Non-commissioned Officers. The serjeants are to be distinguishd by one on each shoulder, and the Corporals by one on the right. In the mean time it is proposed that a piece of white Cloth should be substituted by way of distinction.
Major Bailies
46. Major Hodijah Baylies.
in Chief, and is to be respected accordingly.
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The General is extremely concerned to learn that an Article so salutary as that of distilled Liquors was expected to be when properly used, and which was designed for the comfort and refreshment of the troops has been in many instances productive of very ill consequences. He calls the attention of officers of every grade to remedy these abuses and to watch over the health of their men, for which purpose he suggests the expedient of keeping liquor Rolls in every Corps, from which the Name of every soldier shall be struck off who addicts himself to drunkenness or injures his Constitution by intemperence; such soldiers as are Struck off are not to draw liquor on any occasion, but are to receive other articles in lieu thereof. The Quarter Masters upon receiving such commuted Articles are to receipt for the full amount of the rations included in the returns: that there may be no irregularity in the Accounts.
The vile practice of swallowing the whole ration of liquor at a single draught is also to be prevented by causing the Serjeants to see it duly distributed daily and mixed with Water at stated times; in which case instead of being pernicious it will become very refreshing and salutary. An object so essential to the health of the Men ought not only to be super-intended by the Officer of Police, as it is worthy to attract the attention of every Officer who is anxious for the reputation of the Corps to which he belongs, the welfare of individuals and the good of service. But it rests principally with the Commandants of Corps to have so useful
a regulation carried effectually into execution, as well as to preserve cleanliness, Oeconimy and good order, within the spheres of their respective commands.
Major General Heath will be pleased to settle with the Brigadiers and Commanding Officers of Brigades the quantity of liquor proper to be drawn in kind by the troops, after which he is authorized to commute by agreement with the Contractors the rations of Whiskey or such proportions of them as may be Judged Necessary, for Vigitables or other articles agreeably to the prices fixed in the Contracts to the component parts of rations.
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The Commander in Chief proposes to take an early Occasion of reviewing the Army again; previous to which the Commandant of Artillery will have a sufficient Number of blank Cartridges made to give ten rounds to every man.
Major General the Baron Steuben will be pleased to point out the Manoeuvres to be performed and give the Necessary directions to the Troops Accordingly. The Light Infantry Companies are to be completed to the establishment out of the First Recruits of a proper discreption for that service which shall be received in the several State Lines. None but men enlisted for the War or three years are to be comprehended in this order.
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Upon a late visit to the Hospitals the General was pleased to find them in such good order. He is happy in persuading himself the most tender and assiduous attention will continue to be paid to the sick and wounded; and that the circumstances of the Public will enable them to be amply Supplyed with Medicines, refreshments and accomodations.
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The General did not make any public remarks on the last inspection Returns, because at that time several Corps had not received their New Cloathing and consequently a difference of appearance was unavoidable. He cannot however conceal the pleasure he received from finding the Two regiments of New York in the best order possible: by the report of the inspector General, which also concured with his own observation.
As on the one hand it will afford the highest satisfaction to the Commander in Chief to have frequent opportunities of giving honorable Testimony to Military merit, so on the other, he is convinced the good of the service and the faithful discharge of his duty requires that every remarkable instance of demerit, want of attention, or Negligence should meet with reprehension. He will not therefore hesitate to commit to the Records of the Army what shall appear to him to be the destinguishing characteristick of any particular Corps.
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At a General Court Martial held in Albany the sixth day of May instant by order of
Col. Tupper, whereof Major William Scott
93. Of the First New Hampshire Regiment. He had been wounded at Stillwater N.Y., in September, 1777. Heitman states that he retired in January, 1781.
On May 23 Col. Benjamin Tupper, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment, commanding at
Albany, N.Y., wrote to Washington that Shem Kentfield had disclosed that General
Haldimand had sent two men from Canada to Portsmouth, N.H., to burn the
Continental ships at that place. One was a Lieut. Simpson Jenney and the other,
one Balding. Washington forwarded this information to President Meshech Weare in a
brief note dated May 27, the draft of which is in the Washington Papers.
the King of Great Britain against these United States.
The Court having duly considered the charges, with the circumstances for and against the Prisoner, are unanimously of Opinion that the prisoner Shem Kentfield is guilty of the charges exhibited against him being a breach of Art. first sect. 6 of the Articles of War and do sentence him to suffer Death, by Hanging by the Neck untill he is dead.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the above Court Martial and orders it to be put into execution at such time and place as may be ordered by the officer commanding at Albany.
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The First Brigade of Massachusetts is to Encamp on the ground formerly occupied by the Pennsylvanians near Moores House. The Deputy Quarter Master will furnish straw for the Troops when they go into Tents.
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The Commander in Chief, happy in the Opportunity of announcing to the Army the birth of a Dauphin of France and desirous of giving a General Occasion of testifying the satisfaction which he is convinced will pervade the breast of every American Officer and soldier on the communication of an event so highly interesting to a Monarch and Nation who have given us such distinguishing proofs of their attachment, is pleased to
order a fue de joye on thursday next and requests the Company of all the General, Regimental and Staff Officers of the Army (who are not Necessarily detained by duty) at West Point on that day at four OClock. Commanding Officers of Brigades and Corps will receive particular instructions for their Government.
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The troops are to be supplied with an extra Jill of rum pr. man Tomorrow.
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The celebration of the birth of the Dauphin of France which was to have taken place this day is postponed till tomorrow the 31st. Instant.
AFTER ORDERS
The tenth Massachusetts Regiment is to go into tents as soon as possible on the most convenient ground, near Nellsons Point.
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The inspection and Musters of the different Corps composing this Army will take place for the Month of May on the following days viz. The New York Brigade on the 4th. June; The Jersey Brigade and the first Massachusetts on the 6th; The York Artillery and Corps at Burlington on the 9th; The Rhode Island regiment and Corps at Phila, the two New Hampshire regiments and the tenth Massachusetts regiment on the 12th; The Second Massachusetts Brigade on the 8th; The third Massachussets Brigade on the 10th; The first Connecticut Brigade on the 14th; The Second Connecticut Brigade on the 16th; The Massachusetts Artillery on the 18th and The Corps of Invalids for the Months they have not been Mustered on the 23d. Instant.
The Officers in making out their Rolls will be careful not to insert in the Column of Mustered any men but those who will actually be present and the Adjutant will make out the proof from that Column alone. It is expected the Books of the different regiments by that inspection will be compleatly Opened and the different entries made as were directed last year.
Rolls scratched and blotted in future will not be received and the different returns directed to be made are to be handed to the Inspector, on the parade signed and ready for examination.
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One regiment of the second Massachusetts Brigade is to Encamp on some convenient ground on the West side the river, to make room in the Barracks. Two Artificers from each Regiment are to be employed under the direction of the Brigade Quarter Masters in repairing the regimental Waggons.
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The detachment on the Lines is to be releived by entire Companies of Light Infantry in rotation; all other Guards and Detachments (except the Water Guard) are to be furnished by Corps as far as the nature of the Service will possibly admit.
All Guards and Detachments are to draw Provisions with their Regiments sufficient to serve them during their Tour if possible; when Provisions will not keep the length of time they are detached for, or when there is a probability of their being victualed at any other Post; they are to carry with them certificates shewing the time they have been victualed to with their Regiments, and carry back to their regiments Certificates shewing for what time they have been victualed during their absence.
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By the last inspection Returns the Commander in Chief with pleasure Observes the Army is in a much better state than it was in the preceding Month. The Regiments of the New York Line, the first regiment
of Jersey commanded by Colonel Ogden, the third Regiment of Artillery Commanded by Colonel Crane and the seventh Regiment of Massachusetts Commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Brooks, are reported to be in excellent order. The General hopes any little irregularities which have crept into service may be immediately remedied; and that the few regimts. which are reported to be deficient in attention, Method of Discipline will by unremitted exertions prevent their being Noticed in an unfavorable manner at the succeeding inspection, and in consequence thereof held up to view in a disagreeable point of light.
At a General Court Martial held at Lancaster the 23d. May 1782 by order of Brigadier
General Hazen, Lieutenant Colonel North
The Court after considering the Evidence for and against Capt. Van Heer, of the Light Dragoons, are of Opinion that he is guilty of the latter part of the charge “Beating Owen MGlochlin, a soldier under Captain Selens immediate Command, without a sufficient cause to justify such correction, being a breach of Art. 5th. section 18th. of the rules and Articles of War and sentence him to be reprimanded in General Orders.
The Court acquit him of the preceding part of the charge.
The General approves the sentence and at the same time he expresses his dissatisfaction at any instance of conduct where violence is made use of without sufficient cause, he is sensible that the laudable motive of preserving the public property from abuse which seems to have influenced Captain VanHeer is a palleation for the Deed.
Captain VanHeer is released from his Arrest.
At a general Court Martial held at the Barracks in Philadelphia May 18 1782 by order of the Honorable Major General
38. Lieut. Col. William North.
39. Capt. Bartholomew von Heer.
40. Capt. Anthony Selin.
Lincoln, Minister of War, Major Olney president, were tried William Robinson aleas Taylor for “repeated desertion and reinlisting.
The Court are of Opinion the prisoner is guilty of the charges against him in breach of Art. first section the 6th of the Art. of War and do sentence him to suffer Death, two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto.
Corporal James Bruce, of the Artillery Artificers, for “exciting Mutiny in said Corps.
The Court are of Opinion the prisoner is not Guilty of the charge and do acquit him.
Serjeant Samuel Castleton of the 6th Pennsylvania regimt. for “re inlisting John Pierce who he knew was inlisted some Weeks before, and for Neglect of duty.
The Court are of Opinion the prisoner did not know that John Pierce was inlisted before by Colonel Humpton, therefore do acquit him of the first charge, but are of Opinion that he is guilty of disobedience of Orders and do sentence him to be reduced to the Ranks.
The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing sentences.
At a General Court Martial held at Philadelphia by order of the Honorable Major General Lincoln, Minister of War,—May 21st. 82 Major Olney President, was tried Sharp OGamie, soldier in the Rhode Island regt., charged with “Quitting his Post, Deserting unto the Enemy and entring into their service.
The Court are of Opinion the prisoner is Guilty of the charges alledged against him, which they are of Opinion are a breach of the 12 Article of the 13th. section of the Articles of War and do sentence him to suffer Death, two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto.
The Commander in Chief approves the Opinion of the Court.
At the same Court were tried James Marrines, soldier in the Delaware regiment, charged with “Desertion, Joining the Enemy and passing by a wrong Name.
The Court are of opinion that the prisoner has been Guilty of a breach of the first Article of the 6 section of the Articles of War. The Court in consideration of the Youth of the Prisoner at the time of his Desertion only sentence him One Hundred Lashes.
Michael Moran, charged by Lieutenant Dungan
James Haines a Recruit of the Pennsylvania Line for “Desertion.” The Court are of Opinion the prisoner has been Guilty of a breach of the first Art. of the 6. section of the Articles of War and sentence him One Hundred Lashes.
The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing sentences.
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The General was highly pleased with the appearance of the first Massachusetts Brigade yesterday under Arms, and was very well satisfied with their Manœuvering: the firing might have been better, and he fears the Locks or flints of the Musketts were in bad order, as many of them missed fire; the Officers commanding the Light Infantry should impress upon the men the necessity of taking deliberate Aim whenever
41. Lieut. Thomas Dungan, of the Sixth Pennsylvania Regiment. He was transferred to the Second Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
they fire and see that they do it when it is in their power. It is the effect of the shot not the report of the Gun that can discomfort the Enemy and if a bad habit is acquired at exercise it will prevail in real Action and so vice versa.
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Some doubts having arisen respecting the nature and extent of Major General Heaths Command since the order of the 4th of April last, the General thinks proper to direct that all the troops in the State of New York, at and below Fish Kill, are to be considered as under the immediate orders of him or the senior Major General present, till the Army is drawn together and the order of Battle formed.
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The General was as well satisfied with the appearance and Manoevring of the 2d Brigade of Massachusetts as he was Two days before at the review of the first Brigade. He does not think he ever saw men in any service make a more respectable and soldier-like figure than the Light Company of the eighth Regiment did under Arms.
At a General Court Martial held at Carlisle the 16th of May 1782, Colonel Richard
Butler president, Thomas Glenn, soldier in the first Pennsylvania Regiment, charged
with repeated Desertions was tried and found guilty in breach of the first and third
Art. 6th. section of the rules and Articles of War and sentenced to suffer Death , (more than two thirds of the Court agreeing
thereto).
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court.
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The Board of Officers assembled pursuant to the orders of the 12th. of May last to examine into and report on the principles of the late Arrangemt. of the subalterns of the Connecticut Line, have made the following Report, which the Commander in Chief approves of. He therefore directs that the officers who constituted that board proceed as soon as conveniently may be to a final determination of the relative rank of the subalterns of the Connecticut Line agreeably to the principles laid down in their late report; to facilitate this business it is ordered that a return wherein the dates of the several Commissions by which the subalterns of that line have served shall be specified in the proper hand writing of each individual and which the Commanding Officer of the Line shall certify to be correct, be without delay made to Major General Lord Sterling. The Adjutant General will furnish the form of the return.
The board of Officers appointed to examine into the principles of the late Arrangement of the subalterns in the Connecticut Line do report it as their Opinion that the principles followed by the board of Feld Officers in forming that Arrangement are widely different from those pointed out as the basis of such settlement by the board of General Officers convened near Dobb's ferry in August last, and which they apprehend the said field Officers mistook the meaning of; as they have disregarded the distinction between first and second Lieutenants, intended to have been kept up by the Arrangement of June 1778 and which the General Officers were of Opinion should not be departed from.
this Board are therefore of Opinion that the said late Arrangement ought not to be conclusive but that it ought to be revised and made consonant to the principles laid down by the General Officers in August last, by which this Board do not conceive it was intended that the rank of Second Lieutenants continued by Brevet should Operate after promotion to a Lieutenancy, except in cases where a second Lieutenant and Ensign have been promoted on the same day.
Altho the third Brigade of Massachusetts which was yesterday reviewed did not in all respects make so good an Appearance under Arms as the other Brigades have done yet the Commander in Chief is disposed to give every favorable allowance on account of the circumstances. He does not impute it as a fault to the third regiment that the men are not supplied with Hatts without which it is impossible for a regiment to make a truly Military figure, he attributes want of exactness in performing some of the Manoevres of the Brigade to the badness of their position in the Mountains which has prevented their exercising except in detail, he remarked however with pleasure that the Platoon and Batallion firings were performed with more regularity than in the other regiments, and he flatters himself he shall have Occasion at a future review to give the testimony of applause to which the unceasing efforts of both Officers and men shall justly entitle them.
The honorable the Congress have been pleased to promote Brigadier General Knox of Artillery to the rank of Major General in the Army, to take rank from the fifteenth of November last.
Captain Lillie
82. Capt. John Lillie. He was aide to Maj. Gen. Henry Knox to the close of the war.
83. Capt. Samuel Shaw, of the Third Continental Artillery. Heitman gives his appointment as aide to Knox as of June, 1782.
Lieutenant Hunt
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Great credit is due to the Officers and men of the tenth Massachussetts Regiment for their attention to the preservation of their cloathing, and for the Military appearance they made yesterday under Arms. The Light Company attracted the Generals particular Notice.
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The first Connecticut Brigade appears to be composed of as fine a body of men as any in the Army, but as they have laboured under the same disadvantages for want of proper ground to exercise upon as the third Brigade of Massachusetts, the General suspends his final Judgement of their comparative Merit with the rest of the Army untill a fairer Opportunity of establishing their Discipline can be afforded, by collecting the whole together in the field. The General in the mean time is pleased to declare that some of the Manœvers were yesterday performed with precision, but he is sorry to find Notwithstanding the recomendation contained in the order of the 8th. instant that the men of the Light Companies do not take so good aim as he expected; he hopes by great attention and frequent practice so useful a habit will soon be acquired. The General cou'd not avoid feeling some concern that all the cloathing did not appear to be perfectly fitted to the men; particularly the Overhalls;
84. Lieut. Ephraim Hunt. He served to the close of the war.
he wishes these defects may be remedied as early and fully as possible.
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The General informs the Army he had great Occasion to be satisfied at the review of the second Connecticut Brigade yesterday, especially with the soldierlike veteran appearance of the men and the exactness with which the Firings were performed; he felt a particular pleasure in observing the cleanliness and steadiness of the second regiment under Arms. The activity and emulation displayed by the Detachments of Artillery during the late reviews deserve encouragement and applause.
The review of this Army by Brigades being now completed the Commander in Chief is happy in having this Opportunity to present his thanks to Major General the Baron Steuben for the indefatigable assiduity and singular attention exhibited in the late Inspections and reviews, and for his eminent services in promoting the discipline of the Army on all Occasions, and at the same time to express his approbation of the present laudable disposition and pride of Corps which seem to be diffused throughout the Army. From this spirit of emulation and a consideration of the amazing contrast between the past and present appearance of the troops the General anticipates the happiest consequences: but being persuaded that appearance alone is not sufficient to establish the reputation and ensure the success of our Arms, and that frequent and repeated Exercise is absolutely necessary to constitute the perfection of Discipline, he requests in the most pointed terms that the Commanding Officers of Divisions and Brigades will punctually exercise the troops alternately every other day in brigade and by detail. In the course of the Exercises the Officers are permitted to vary the manoevres
as time, circumstances and inclination may prompt: provided they do not deviate from the established principles, but in all cases the General intreats the Officers to pay the most minute attention to the soldiers method of priming and loading as well as of levelling and taking aim, this is an article of the greatest consequence, he hopes therefore that the utmost pains may be taken to instruct every individual in this essential part of his professions. The honorable the Secretary at War has requested the Commander in Chief to communicate to the Army the very singular satisfaction he enjoyed in the Military appearance and regularity of disciplinee so observable in the troops he had the honor to review; and at the same time assure the Army he will not fail to represent their distinguished merit to Congress.
By a General Court Martial held at West Point the 15th instant Captain
Williams,
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence, Captain Williams is released from his Arrest.
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The Court of enquiry held at the Barracks of Philadelphia 11 May 1782. by order of the honorable Major General Lincoln, Secretary at War, to enquire into the cause of a complaint exhibited by the Citizens of the State of Pennsylvania against the Officer and soldiers belonging to a
17. Capt. Abraham Williams, of the Second Massachusetts Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
18. Capt. Elnathon Haskell, of the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment. He was aide to General Howe in September, 1782, and served to June, 1784.
Guard boat going to a flagg of truce in the Delaware by special orders from the
Minister.
The Commander in Chief having at the United sollicitation of the Officers of this
Army presented the following Congratulatory Address to his Excellency the Minister of
France…
19. Of France.
20. Hubbard(?).
21. The text omitted here does not vary from the original. (See Washington's
letter to Chevalier de la Luzerne, June 5, 1782, ante.)
To which his Excellency the Chevalier de la Luzurne was pleased to return an answer of which the following is a Translation
To His Excellency General Washington, Commander in Chief: The Generals and other Officers of the American Army on the Hudsons River Gentlemen: I shall transmit to his Majesty the Address you have been pleased to send me on the birth of an Heir to his Crown. It will afford him infinite satisfaction to find with what joy this event has inspired you, and he will see with pleasure that the same Army which has
Given so many proofs of courage and Patriotism, and which has in the most perfect harmony and concert with his own Troops fought the common Enemy now hastens to shew that nothing which affects the French Nation can be indifferent to them. The young Prince whose birth is the object of your congratulations will from his infancy hear recounted the glorious actions by which you have effected the independence and happiness of a vast Continent, and when they wou'd cite to him examples of disinterestedness, Constancy, Courage and every other Military virtue they will repeat to him the names of your illustrious Chiefs.
He is born at a moment when victory has Crowned both our Nations. This circumstance
is a happy presage of his future glory and promises that he will one day be the
support of your Independence as well as of the alliance which unites France with the
thirteen United States. The venerations that your Actions and your Virtues have
inspired me with Gentlemen augment the pleasure that I have in conveying your
sentiments to the King my Master. I beg you to be persuaded that no one is with more
sincere respect Gentlemen Yr. very Hble and very Obt. Servt. Le Chevalier de la
Luzerne.
22. The original, in French, and a translation by Benjamin Walker, are in the Washington Papers under date of June 10, 1782.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
The Troops may go into Tents as soon as the Quarter Master can furnish the necessary Camp Equipage, at such convenient places as Major General Heath shall direct, who in pointing out the position for encampment will be pleased to have regard to the conveyance of supplies by water as well as to the ground for Manovring in the vicinity. Those Corps which are most incommoded in their present quarters will take the field first. Great attention must be paid to the preservation of private property, to prevent throwing open inclosures or the wanton distruction of Grain, Grass or any other produce whatever.
The Commanding Officers of Brigades and Regiments will make return of all officers who were on furlough last winter and have not return'd to their duty, specifying the reasons (if any are known) for their absence.
Parole —.Countersigns —.
There having been great irregularity in the mode of bringing Captain McCurdy of the Pennsylvania Line before the Court Martial holden at Carlisle the 16th. of May last, whereof Col. Richard Butler was President, the General disapproves the proceedings and orders the Court to be dissolved.
The honorable the Secretary at War has been requested
to order a Court Martial at Philadelphia for the tryal of Captain McCurdy
At a Brigade General Court Martial held in the Jersey Line the 13th. instant, Major Forman President, George Cook a soldier in the 2d Jersey Regiment was tried for Desertion, found Guilty being a breach of the first Article of the 6th. section of the Articles of War and sentenced to suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve:
In Congress, April 23d, 1782.
Resolved, That all sick and wounded soldiers of the armies of the United States, who shall in future be reported by the inspector general, or the inspector of a seperate department, and approved by the Commander in Chief, or commanding officer of a seperate department, as unfit for farther duty, either in the field or in garrison, and who apply for a discharge in preference to being placed or continued in the corps of invalids, shall be discharged, and entitled to receive as a pension five dollars per month,
45. See General Orders, Nov. 21, 1782, post.
in lieu of all pay and emoluments.
Resolved, That it be, and is, hereby recommended to the several states to discharge such pensions annually, and draw on the superindant of finance for the payment of the money.
In order to prevent unwarrantable and fruitless Applications in consequence of the foregoing Resolve, the Commander in Chief informs the Army that those men only who have been maimed, or who have actually contracted infirmities in the service of the United States will be admitted to the benifit of the Pension which Congress have been pleased to grant to discharged Invalids.
Tomorrow being the Anniversary of the Declaration of the Independence of the United States of America, the Commander in Chief is pleased to order that the remembrance of that auspicious Event shall be Celebrated by a Fue de joye. The Adjutant General will communicate the necessary Directions, the Army is to be served with an Extra gill of Rum per man on the Joyful Occasion.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
It is with no small degree of astonishment the Commander in Chief has heard, since his return from the Northern Posts that he issuers of Provisions to the Army still give a short allowance of flour when they do not issue bread. The continuance of this practice is not less unacountable than it is astonishing after Mr. Sands's acknowledgiment in his presence to the Secretary at War that it was well understood at the time of Contracting that where bread cou'd not or was not delivered a full sound of flour was to be issued in lieu of it, the General in possitive terms orders that this shall be the case invariably, and that the ration of spiritt where it is
not commuted by mutual agreement be regularly served; also Vinigar agreeably to the engagements which the Contractors have entered into with the Public.
All returns for Arms, Accoutrements and Ammunition are to be countersigned by the Inspector General, or the Inspector of this Army. Returns for six days Oats for all the riding Horses of the Army to be sent to the Forage Magazines at Newburgh Tomorrow. Bags are to be sent and the Brigade Forage Masters to attend the drawing.
To prevent the accidental communication of fire to the powder Magazines which would endanger the lives of many persons and total demolition of the fortifications, besides the inconvenience that must arise from the loss of the Powder, the Commander in Chief directs that the Quarter Master or Commissary of Military stores may as soon as possible have grates fixed to the air holes of the Magazines and that Lantherns made of Transparent horn or Glass be immediately provided instead of those made of pierced tin which are at present very imprudently used. Untill the horn or glass lantherns are provided the greatest care is to be taken not to open the door of the lantherns in the Magazines, and at all times to have water in the bottom to extinguish sparks. It is moreover positively ordered that no person whatever be permitted to enter a Powder Magazine without first pulling off his shoes.
The General having observed inconveniency and loss of Ammunition to attend the practice of carrying Cartridges loose or in bundles in the men's pocketts or in the bottoms of their Cartridge boxes, directs that the troops carry about them no more ammunition than the number of cartridges their boxes are pierced for, in general twenty Nine rounds, except when parties or Corps are ordered
on a particular service detached from their Ammunition Waggons. He persuades himself this rule will not be attended with any bad consequence as men cannot be considered unprovided with Ammunition when the Conductor has a sufficiency in Camp ready to issue at a moments warning.
The Brigade Conductors, and Quarter Masters of Corps that have not Conductors are hereby called on to pay due attention to the instructions laid down in the regulations for the order and Discipline of the troops (Page 120 and 121) on this subject proportioning the quantity of spare Ammunition to the number of Men to be supplied.
The first Massachusetts Brigade will be inspected and mustered for the month of June the 10th. instant; the second Massachusetts Brigade the 12th; the 3d Massachusetts Brigade the 14th; and the 10th. regiment of Massachusetts the 15th. instant. The first Connecticut Brigade the 16th, the second Connecticut Brigade the 18th, and the third or Massachusetts regiment of Artillery and the Corps of Sappers and Miners the 20th. instant.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
That the invalid regiment may be enabled to keep up the Detached guards lately assigned them, the men of that Corps on duty at West Point except such as are necessarily imployed as Artificers are immediately to be relieved.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
By a General Court Martial of which Colonel Butler is President, Lieutenant Crocker
Sampson
The Court are of opinion that Lieutenant Sampson is guilty of the first and second charges in breach of Article 4th. sect. 13th. of the Articles of war for which they do sentence him to be reprimanded in General orders. The Court are of opinion the third Charge is not supported and do acquit him of it.
The General approves the sentence and is extremely sorry to find when officers of all ranks appear to be vying with each other in attention to duty and every military virtue there should be a single exception from such a laudible line of conduct.
Lieutenant Sampson is released from his Arrest.
Amos Bennett of the 1st. Connecticutt regiment was tried by the above court for “repeated desertion and going to Long island and joining the enemy” found guilty of repeated desertion and going to Long island
95. He served to June, 1783.
and sentenced therefor to suffer Death. The Court are of opinion that part of the charge of the prisoners going to the Enemy is not supported and do acquit him of it.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
The Commander in chief is singularly happy to be confirmed in the favorable opinion he had entertained of the rapid progress which would be made in the decipline of this Army, by the Inspection returns which are just handed to him by the Baron Steuben; from which it appears that the troops in general have greatly improved since the preceeding inspection in order and discipline; and that the spirit of emulation, which is universally to be seen among all ranks of officers and soldiers leaves no room to doubt but that the few regiments which are yet a little defective will by following the laudable example before them, soon attain an equal point of Military perfection.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
The Inspector General having reported that many of the locks where the flints are good and well fastened do not give fire and that the fault is in the softness of the Hammers, which must be remided by having them properly hardened. The Touch holes of some of the new arms require also to be enlarged. Commanding officers of regiments and companies will see that these, and any other
small repairs which may be necessary are immediately effected, and that the arms are put and kept in the most perfect order for actual service.
To accomplish these purposes the regimental Armorers now retained at work in the
publick shops are without delay to join their respective corps and to be employed
under the direction of the brigade Quarter Master to whose particular charge the
Travelling Forges are committed and who are ordered in the most explicit and positive
manner to consider themselves responsible that the Armorers
are made use of in no other business whatever but the reparation of Arms.
The Board to whom was recommitted the dispute of rank between Captn. Lieutenant
Jonathan Carey,
That Lieutenant Nathaniel C. Allen is entitled to the rank of Captain Lieutenant from the 30th. of October 1779 and that Captn. Lieutenant Jonathan Carey ought only to be considered as a Lieutt. and take rank from the date of his Commission.
The Commander in Chief approves the report and Major General Heath will be pleased to direct that the Lieutenants of the Massachusetts line may
20. Capt.-Lieut. Nathaniel Coit Allen. He was promoted to captain in October, 1782; transferred to the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783; served to November, 1783.
21. He retired in April, 1783.
be numbered accordingly.
AFTER ORDERS
The farther Inspection and Mustering of this Army is postponed untill Monday the 15th. instant, when it will recommence with the 2d. Massachusetts Brigade, the 3d. Brigade on the 17th. and the 10th. regiment on the 19th. The 1st. Connecticut Brigade the 21st., the 2d. ditto the 23d. and the 3d. regiment of Artillery and Sappers and Miners, the 25th.
The Inspector will see the troops Manœuvre the morning after their Inspection.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolves.
By the United States in Congress assembled April 23, 1782
22. The Varick Transcripts in the Library of Congress here notes: “No Orders were issued from Thursday July 11th. untill Tuesday, July 30, 1782.”
Whereas the most strict economy in the public expenditures is absolutely necessary for a vigorous prosecution of the war; and whereas to that end it is requisite to discontinue the practice of filling some of the places in the staff departments with persons not of the line of the army, which places may, with great savings to the public, be filled by supernumerary officers from the line.
Resolved, therefore, That in future there be only ten lieutenants to each regiment of infantry, to be employed in the regimental line and staff, the regimental paymaster to be considered as not attached to any company.
That the supernumerary junior lieutenants, beyond the number of ten in each regiment of infantry, be reduced; unless the officers of the regiment shall otherwise agree, as to those that shall retire according to the resolutions of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780, and shall accordingly retire on, or before the first day of June next, if in the main army and the first day of July next, if in the southern army, except such of them as shall accept of employments in the staff departments, with the approbation of the heads of the respective departments, in which case they shall severally retain their respective ranks in the army and be entitled to the full pay and subsistance belonging to their rank in the line, as a compensation for their
respective services in the staff, without any other allowance whatsoever: provided always, that nothing contained in the above resolution, shall effect the pay or rank of any officers in captivity during such captivity.
In Congress July 11, 1782.
Resolved, That junior lieutenants, who were to retire agreeably to the act of Congress of the 23 day of April last, may at their option be retained in their present pay and rank as far as there are vacant ensigncies in their respective corps.
The regimental surgeons are to make a return immediately to the Physician of the army of all the medicines and instruments on hand likewise a return of such Medicines as they want that orders may be issued for their being supplied so far as the stock on hand will admit.
Returns are to be made by the regimental paymasters to the Assistant Clothier general of the Hunting shirts actually wanting in the several regimts. that an equal distribution may be made of those which are expected, in case there should be a deficiency. It is expected that those corps which received a proportion last fall, or have drawn a partial supply from their states will not include the men who are at present supplied in a tolerable manner in these returns.
Should there be a sufficiency, the remainder will afterwards be issued.
As long as the army remains in its present position or untill a more convenient communication of orders can be established, the Adjutant general or one of his Assistants will every day attend at Westpoint between eleven and one o'clock to distribute General orders to the several Brigade Majors, the Adjutants of corps not brigaded and Aids de Camp to General officers, who are punctually to assemble at the Collonade for the purpose.
Major General Heath and the Commandant at Westpoint will be pleased to transmit their orders to the Adjutant general or officer attending for him at the above time and place who will take the trouble of making them public; extraordinary orders they must communicate to the corps they respect by their Aids de camp or in such other manner as the nature of the order may require.
Officers of the Line and Staff of every denomination are to make themselves perfectly acquainted with all General Orders. The plea of ignorance, so far from being admitted as an excuse for their noncompliance with them, will be considered as an aggravation; it behoves every officer therefore who is
in Camp to read the orders daily; and those who are absent to call for and read them the moment they return.
All orders are to be read to the soldiers at the first evening roll call after they issue in the presence of an officer of each company; and properly explained to, and inferred upon them. The Colonel or officer commanding the regiment is to be responsible that this order (which is to be considered as a standing one) is punctually complied with.
Parole America. Countersigns Boston, Charlestown.
The field officer of the day for the Garrison of Westpoint is requested to send a Duplicate of his report of the guards tomorrow at orderly time, to the Adjutant General, for the inspection of the Commander in chief.
The third Connecticut regiment to relieve the detached guards tomorrow to continue on that duty seven days.
For Fatigue tomorrow 2d. Connecticutt regiment.
Parole Holland. Countersigns Amsterdam, Rotterdam.
Major General Howe and the Members of the Courtmartial of which he is president, are to return to their duties in the line untill further orders.
A return of the officers in Arrest who have not had their trials to be given in at orderly time tomorrow specifying the charges exhibited against them.
Captain Lieutenant Freeman,
63. Capt.-Lieut. Constant Freeman, of the Third Continental Artillery. He served to June, 1783.
The Commander in Chief releases Captn. Lieutenant Freeman from his Arrest altho' he does not agree in sentiment with the Court; to do so, would be giving his sanction to the disobedience of a very necessary regimental order where no sufficient cause is assigned for it; an order too, recently reiterated. Whether the Commandant of a regiment does invariably pursue a steady line of conduct in the government of his corps or not, an officer under his command can by no means exculpate himself thereby, for neglect of duty or disobedience of orders. At the same time that the General considers a disposition to carry orders into execution as very laudable he wishes the frequency of arrests may not destroy the efficacy of them.
Lieutenant W. Lament
The General confirms the sentence and orders it to take place accordingly.
At a General Courtmartial assembled at Westpoint by order of Major General Heath: Colonel Zebulon Butler, president,
64. Lieut. William Lamont (Lemont).
Lieutenant Colonel Ezra Badlam of the 8th. Massachusetts regiment charged with “Neglect of duty and unofficerlike conduct in mustering and forwarding to the Army as Recruits for the Massachusetts Line several persons precluded by the Laws of the State and others unfit to perform the duty of soldiers in the field particularly John Costillow and Frederic Sitze, lately deserted from the enemy; John Hoitt and Peter Godfrey, Deserters from the french service; Richard Avery, Benjamin Taylor, Hugh Munroe, and Amos Round, boys undersized; George West an idiot; Cæsar Wyman, a negroe lame in the ancle; Andrew Hobert, and Gilbert Garland, foreigners, who deserted on the road; also with mustering as recruits for the army Samuel Pelham, Jonathan Robins, and William Osborne; was tried, and found guilty of neglect of duty and unofficerlike conduct in mustering and forwarding several persons precluded by the Laws of the State and others unfit to perform the duty of Solo diets in the field particularly John Castallow and Frederick Sitze, deserters from the enemy; John Hoitt and Peter Godfrey, deserters from the French service; Hugh Munroe and Amos Round, boys undersize; Cæsar Wyman, a Negroe lame in the ancle; and that he is also guilty of the additional charge Vizt. Mustering Samuel alias Darius Pelham,
Jonathan alias John Robins and William Osborne; for which they do sentence him to be dismissed the service of the Army of the United States.
The Court are of opinion that, that part of the charge respecting the other persons is not supported and do acquit him of it.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the court.
Brigade Quartermasters and Quartermasters of seperate corps will apply to the store at Fishkill landing on Monday next at Eleven o'clock where they will receive Canvass for the purpose of walling the new French horsemans tents which they have drawn this summer.
For Fatigue tomorrow 1st. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole France. Countersigns Paris, Bourdeaux.
Before baggage teams are allotted to the different regiments the general thinks it
expedient the officers should be informed that he expects the
baggage of the army will this Campaign be contracted
in size and weight as much as possible. He intends his own personal baggage and Cloathing shall be contained in a portmanteau. Commanding officers of regiments and corps will be pleased to pay attention to this article and see that no unnecessary lumber is crouded into the Carts and waggoons assigned to the Troops under their Command; sudden and rapid movements may probably disclose how thoroughly this order is carried into execution; should any of the officers immediately concerned be found delinquent they must not be disappointed to see their regiments recorded for disobedience of orders and themselves noticed by name.
Some of the huts may be made use of as deposites or upon application to the Quartermaster with the army stores will be provided where the superfluous baggage may be safely placed untill the close of the Campaign.
The Men belonging to the marching regiments now imployed in the Laboratory are untill further orders to join their corps a sufficient number of the Recruits joined Captn. Moodies company of Artillery will replace them.
Lieutenant Colonel Vose will
immediately repair to the Lines to relieve Major Keith in the Command of the Infantry. Major Keith is to return to Westpoint as soon as he is relieved.
For Fatigue tomorrow 8th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Williamsburgh. Countersigns York, Glouster.
While the Annals of the Army shall exist, it is the Generals intention it shall be known that he had great reasons to be satisfied at this period of the war with the troops under his command. The inspection rolls for the last month which are now before him, corroberate the favourable sentiments which he had already imbrac'd of the officers and men who composed this army; and afford fresh occasion for bestowing well meritted applause. The Inspector reports that the proficiency in appearance and decipline continues to be surprizingly rapid; that the spiritt of emulation, bordering on enthusiasm, which prevails so remarkably throughout the army has almost removed all preference and distinction, of corps, and superseeds (at this time) the necessity of discrimination. The troops are more collectd., and there appears to be fewer irregularities of any kind at this moment than at any former period.
Happy to find that those regiments which have been noticed as being in excellent order instead of relaxing their exertions continue to improve, and that those which were formerly reported to be in not so good a state, have by uncommon efforts carried their improvements beyond all calculation; the General wishes to convince the troops of his entire approbation and that nothing can tend more to their reputation and the service of their country than the present good dispotion which is so conspicuous throughout the whole Army.
Docter Cochran, directer of the hospital, or Doctr. Craik, physician to the army, with two hospital surgeons, will constitute a board to convene at such time and place as shall be agreed between them and the Inspector of the Army; for the purpose of inspecting all the invalids and debilitated men now in service. They will divide the subjects of their inspection into three classes and report their opinion on each individual accordingly, whether he ought to be discharged without any compensation or suffered to retire on the late provision of congress, or be transferred to, or continued in the corps of invalids, as the time of his service, the occasion and nature of his inability and other circumstances shall dictate.
This business to be compleated in the course of the present month, and the report to be given in with the next inspection returns.
Regimental surgeons are to attend the board with the men of their regiments, and commanding officers of corps are requested to give any information they may judge proper.
The Army will be inspected and Mustered for the month of July upon the following
days: the Artillery regiment, Moodies
The Gentlemen who fill up the Inspection returns are requested to pay more particular attention to the instructions given them for that purpose in April last.
As some of the regiments will shortly after inspection go upon duty, the time for Manœvering will be appointed in a subsequent order.
Parole Hartford. Countersigns Danbury, Newhaven.
75. Capt. Andrew Moodie, of the Second Continental Artillery. He served to June, 1783.
The Commander in chief is so anxiously concerned for the preservation of the health of the Troops (especially at this sultry season) and for the accommodation and recovery of the sick and wounded that he cannot forbear to entreat and enjoin it upon officers of every denomination to pay a paternal and affectionate regard to the men in these interesting points: Cleanliness, prudence in bathing, regularity and Oeconomy in the mode of cooking and manner of living are objects which require attention. Officers should every day visit the tents and kitchens, observe and regulate the Cookery, see the soldiers at their meals and take care that they mess and live properly together.
When sickness cannot be prevented it becomes our duty to alleviate distresses and lull the breast of pain with all the little offices of humanity and kindness in our power. The convenience of hospital tents, which are intended for the accommodation of the sick in the field, and the supply of refreshments and small meats which will be furnished on the hospital contract, give a better oppertunity for exercising these benevolent acts of tenderness than ever we have had before.
In justice to the Medical department the general declares whenever he has lately inspected the
Hospitals he has received from the patients themselves the most satisfactory accounts of the humane treatment and comfortable accommodations they have invariably experienced.
Colonel Greaton and Lieutenant Colo. Olney are annexed to the board ordered yesterday for the inspection of the invalids and debilitated men now in service.
The Rhode island regiment for fatigue tomorrow.
Parole Albany. Countersigns Princetown, Brunswick.
The following alterations in the mode of issues having been agreed upon between the superintendant of Finance and the Contractors for supplying the moving army, are approved of by the Commander in chief and ordered to take place accordingly.
General Officers for themselves and families to draw provisions and stores on their own returns, or those of their Aids de Camp, and to draw any
number they think proper not exceeding the number of rations allowed them; their accounts with the Contractor to be closed at the end of each month and the paymasters to pay the ballance of subsistance money, if any due, on the certificate of the Commissary from whom they have received provisions for the preceeding month.
The officers of regiments to draw as many rations as they are entitled to, if they please, but to draw together, and on the usual days of issues, three pr. cent to be allowed in order to make the weight hold out: the same allowance to extend to soldiers and every person entitled to draw. Regiments and corps to be serv'd in as many draughts as there are Companies and the Contractors to have an allowance of two pr. cent as a compensation for the encrease of draughts.
The issuing commissary shall give to the regimental Quartermasters a return of the number of rations issued to the officers of each regimt. for the preceeding month and the Quartermaster shall be entitled to receive the ballance of the subsistance money due the officers of the paymaster and pay it to the officers entitled to it.
When in the course of service on
Detachments officers cannot draw provisions with their regiments, the returns when they do draw shall specify their rank and the corps to which they respectively belong.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following resolves:
By the United States in Congress assembled July 24th. 1782.
Resolved, That the act of Congress of the 11 day of February, 1778, and all subsequent resolutions, so far as they respect the department of the commissary general of military stores, be and they are hereby repealed.
Resolved, That the Secretary of War be, and he is hereby, empowered to appoint, from time to time, a commissary of military stores, who shall be subject to his orders and instructions, and shall receive a salary of one thousand dollars per annum:
That the Secretary at War be further empowered to appoint, from time to time, so many officers, to be taken from the officers of the army, if agreable to them, as he may find necessary to superintend the business in that department.
The Light companies of the 1st. Connecticut, Rhode island and the 3d. 6th. and loth Massachusetts regiments will march on Thursday the 8th. instant under the command of Major Ashley to relieve the infantry now on the lines.
The 1st. Connecticut regiment will march the same day to releive the 9th. Massachusetts regiment at Dobbs ferry, Stoney and Verplanks point.
For fatigue tomorrow at Westpoint &c. the 4th. Massachusetts regiment.
The Quartermasters of Brigades and Corps are immediately to make their returns for the present month to the Quartermaster generals office agreable to the directions and forms they have heretofore received from him. They will also turn in to the waggon Master general, all the public waggon horses in their respective corps except those for general officers.
Parole Westpoint. Countersigns New Windsor, Fishkill.
Lieutenant Boss
A return of the number of men
7. Lieut. George Boss, formerly of the Fourth Pennsylvania Regiment. He was discharged in September, 1782.
On August 6 Washington wrote to Lieut. Col. Felix Antoine Wuibert, ordering him to
Fort Pitt. This draft is in the Washington Papers.
now serving in the different State regiments who are engaged for this Campaign only, to be given in at the Orderly office without delay.
The General Courtmartial of which Colonel Putnam is president will meet at Westpoint tomorrow morning 9 oclock for the trial of such prisoners as may be brought before them.
The Commander in chief desires that the soldiers confined in the provost guard who have not yet had their trials may be brought before a Courtmartial with as much expedition as the nature of their cases will admit.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following resolves.
By the United States in Congress assembled July 23d, 1782.
Resolved, That in conducting the business of the general hospital, there shall be an invariable standard of prices established, by which the apothecary shall be charged with every article he shall issue the standard to be established by the medical board, or such person or persons as they shall appoint, which shall only be considered as a certain ratio whereby to keep the accounts; but that, in the settlement of all accounts in that department, all deficient articles, not issued or
returned, shall be accounted for at such real value as shall be estimated by the medical board, and approved of by the Secretary at War.
An account shall be taken as soon as possible, of all the medicines, instruments and property in the apothecary's department belonging to the public, in the hands of the apothecary, the deputies, assistants, and mates, the surgeon of hospitals and surgeons of regiments, for which they shall severally be charged at the standard value as ascertained by the board as aforesaid, and for all they may hereafter receive, but to account for deficiencies at the real value, to be estimated as aforesaid.
The apothecary shall be accountable for all articles in his department to the purveyor throughout the states, until they come into the hands of the prescribers; and all deputies, assistants, and mates, shall make returns, and be accountable to the apothecary for the medicines, instruments, and other property belonging to the public in the department, now in their hands, and of such as they may hereafter be possessed of.
The apothecary shall make up his accounts at the expiration of every year, and settle them as soon after as possible, and before the expiration of six months. He shall, at the same time, make out two returns for the directors of the hospital, one specifying what has been receiv'd
and issued, and the amount of what remains on hand; the other exhibiting a particular amount of the value of the medicines, and other public property, each prescriber has received within the year.
All losses which may happen by the events of war, and other circumstances unavoidable, shall be borne by the public. In cases of losses by fraud or neglect in any deputy, assistant or mate, the apothecary shall not be accountable for such losses, provided the delinquent be convicted thereof before a court-martial appointed to try the same.
The hospital prescribers shall be supplied, upon their own application, with medicines, and instruments necessary for the sick and wounded under their care.
Every regimental surgeon shall receive yearly from the apothecary a supply of medicines to such amount, by the above standard, as the medical board shall judge necessary.
Every prescribing surgeon or physician, either in hospital or with the army, shall be supplied by the apothecary with such a set of capital instruments as the medical board shall judge necessary, and shall be accountable for all losses in the medicines and instruments not arising from the events of war and other circumstances unavoidable. Duplicates of all returns made by the apothecary to the director, shall be lodged in the war office.
Resolved, That in the army of the United States, excepting the southern army, at present under the command of Major General Greene, the offices of assistant purveyor, and assistant apothecary, and the stores keepers
under the purveyor and apothecary (except one storekeeper under the purveyor to keep a store near the army, and all clerks, except two to the purveyor, shall be hereafter discontinued.
That all surgeons of the hospital shall take rank after the director of the hospital, deputy director and physician to the army, in the following order, viz. those surgeons of the hospital, who have been either deputy director, physician general, surgeon general, chief physician or chief surgeon to the hospital or army, shall take rank next to the above mentioned officers: and their relative rank to each other shall be accordingly to the date of their respective appointments to either of the above offices.
That all such as were regimental surgeons, when appointed senior physician or surgeon to the hospital, shall take rank with such senior physicians and surgeons, agreeable to the date of their first appointment, whether to the regiment or hospital.
All surgeons, the date of whose first appointments, either to regiments or hospital, shall have been on the same day shall decide their rank by lot.
That for the more convenient subsistance of the officers of the hospital department, they be allowed, including their former allowance of rations and forage, as follows:
The director of the hospital, four
rations a day for himself and servants, forage for two horses and twenty-five dollars per month subsistance.
The deputy director and physician, each three rations a day for himself and servants, forage for two horses, and twenty dollars per month subsistance.
Hospital surgeons, each two rations per day, for himself and servant, forage for two horses, and fifteen dollars per month subsistance.
Deputy purveyor and deputy apothecary, each one ration per day and forage for one horse, and ten dollars per month subsistance.
Hospital mates, each one ration per day, and five dollars per month subsistence.
Stewards, each one ration per day, and five dollars per month subsistence.
Ward masters, each one ration per day, and three dollars per month subsistence.
That the above allowance of rations, forage, and subsistance to the officers of the hospital department, over and above what they severally were entitled to, at the time of passing this act, shall be charged to them respectively, as advances in part of their monthly pay.
That in future the pay and allowance of the purveyor and apothecary be the same each as that of a hospital surgeon.
That none of the aforesaid officers,
or other persons employed in any of the hospitals, be entitled to rations, forage or subsistence, when on furlough.
That the regulation respecting officers' servants, contained in the Act of Congress of 11th day of March, 1780, shall not be construed to extend to the hospital department.
For fatigue tomorrow the 2d. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Winchester. Countersigns York, Lancaster.
Honorary Badges of distinction are to be conferred on the veteran Non commissioned officers and soldiers of the army who have served more than three years with bravery, fidelity and good conduct; for this purpose a narrow piece of white cloath of an angular form is to be fixed to the left arm on the uniform Coat. Non commissioned officers and soldiers who have served with equal reputation more than six years are to be distinguished by two pieces of cloth set in parellel to each other in a simular form; should any who are not entitled to these honors have the insolence to assume the badges of them they shall be severely punished. On the other hand it is expected those gallant men who are thus designated will on all occasions be treated with particular confidence and consideration.
The General ever desirous to cherish
virtuous ambition in his soldiers, as well as to foster and encourage every species
of Military merit, directs that whenever any singularly meritorious action is
performed, the author of it shall be permitted to wear on his facings over the left
breast, the figure of a heart in purple cloth, or silk, edged with narrow lace or
binding.
The road to glory in a patriot army and a free country is thus open to all. This order is also to have retrospect to the earliest stages of the war, and to be considered as a permanent one.
A surgeon from the 2d. Connecticutt and a mate from the 3d. Massachusetts Brigades to
march with Major Ashleys
18. This decoration, now known as “The Purple Heart,” was revived by the President of the United States, Feb. 22, 1933, and thrown open to all who served in the Army of the United States. As established by Washington, “The Badge of Military Merit” was unique, in that it was obtainable only by privates and noncommissioned officers.
On August 7 Washington wrote to David C. Claypoole, requesting him to send a
“sett” of The Pennsylvania Packet and General Advertiser to “Mrs. Washington, at
Mount Vernon in Virginia.” This draft is in the Washington
Papers.
On this same date (August 7) Washington also wrote to Brig. Gen. John Glover that
as he had retired “the servants, public Waggons &c. allowed you whilst in the
Army will now no longer be necessary I have to desire you to order them on to the
Army as soon as possible.” This draft is in the Washington
Papers.
19. This “Book of Merit” is not now found in the Washington
Papers.
20. Maj. Moses Ashley.
On August 7 Washington wrote briefly to the Secretary at War, forwarding Dr. John
Cochran's letter of August 6, detailing the hospital wants. “You are too sensible
of the Importance of having Hospitals supplied with every Necessary to need a
single Argument of mine to recommend his Request to your Attention.” This draft
and Cochran's letter are in the Washington Papers.
The 6th. Massachusetts regiment will give the guards and fatigue parties on the east side of the river for seven days commencing tomorrow.
For fatigue tomorrow at West point &ca. the 10th. Massachusetts regiment.
A captain from the 10th. Massachusetts regiment will attend the court martial of which Colonel putnam is president, as a member tomorrow.
Parole Providence. Countersigns Bristol, Greenwich.
The Inspector of Music will see that exact uniformity in the different beats prevail throughout the army. The signals of the drum as pointed out in the regulations are to be continually made use of and pointedly attended to; the Drum and fife majors of the several corps composing this army will every day assemble to receive the instructions of the inspector of music at such convenient time and place as he shall point out. This order to continue in force untill the inspector of music shall report them perfect in their duties.
To keep the horses and teams in perfect condition for service through the Campaign is an object of great
consequence; as on this single circumstance not only the supplys and movements but
even the success of any army may depend. The Waggon master general and all the
Conductors must be answerable that the cattle
Major Cogswell, Waggon Master General will make a weekly representation to the Quartermaster general or acting Qr. Master with the army, who will report to Head Quarters, the number, condition, casualties, employment and station of all the teams of the army; and also a return of the waggoners and drivers under his direction.
For Fatigue tomorrow the 5th. Massachusetts regt.
Parole Jersey. Countersigns Trenton, Princetown.
The acting Quartermaster with the army will have a sufficient number of Espontoons made to furnish each platoon officer who has never received one.
Commandants of corps will make returns of that deficiency immediately. The general expects those officers who have once been supplied will keep themselves equipp'd with that useful and ornamental Weapon.
21. That is, the horses.
For Fatigue at Westpoint tomorrow 7th Massachustts regiment.
The regiment which is on garrison duty, will in future furnish the orderly serjeants for the Courtmartial on West point.
Parole Hudson. Countersigns Hackensack, Passaic.
Commanding officers of the several state lines which compose this army will cause descriptive Lists of all the men who have deserted from the regiments of their lines since the commencement of 1777 to be made out, so as to designate the deserters as accurately as can be done, at this time, noting particularly the places they belong'd to, towns they enlisted for and the time they deserted; these lists are to be by them transmitted to the Governors of the states with such further particular information as may be necessary for recovering those men. The general will also use his influence with the Executives of those States that effectual measures may be taken for reclaiming the Deserters within their limitts. Duplicates of the descriptive lists must be lodged at the orderly office.
The attendence now given by the Adjutant general having superseded the necessity of a Deputy for this Army, leaves Captn. Haskell at liberty
to attend solely to the duties of the Garrison of Westpoint as formerly.
Parole Amsterdam. Countersigns Belhaven, Cumberland.
In order to prevent misapplication of the honorary badges of distinction to be conferred on the Noncommissioned officers and soldiers in consequence of long and faithful service, through any mistake or misapprehention of the orders of the 7th. instant the general thinks proper to inform the army that they are only attainable by an uninterrupted series of faithful and honorable services. A soldier who has once retired from the field of glory forfeits all pretentions to precedence from former services; and a man who has deservedly met an ignominious punishmt. or degredation cannot be admitted a Candadate for any honorary distinction, unless he shall have wiped away the stain his reputation has suffered by some very brilliant achievement, or by serving with reputation after his disgrace the number of years which entitle other men to that indulgence. The badges which Noncommissioned officers and soldiers are permitted to wear on the left arm as a mark of long and faithful service are to be of the same colour with the facings of the corps
they belong to and not white in every instance as directed in the orders of the 7th. instant.
The pay rolls of the army are in future to be sent in regularly with the Musters; and those corps which have not already sent in their pay-rolls for past musters are to do it immediately.
AFTER ORDERS
At a general courtmartial held the 2d. instant near Morristown by order of Colonel Dayton, Corporal Gibbs of the 1st. Jersey regiment was tried for desertion. For selling and spoiling some of his regimental cloths, and for forging or procuring a forged discharge: found guilty, and sentenced to suffer death by hanging.
Sylvester Young soldier of the 1st. Jersey regiment was tried at the same court, for Desertion, and for spoiling a part of his regimental Clothes found guilty and sentenced to suffer death by hanging.
Commander in chief approves the foregoing sentences.
The Muster rolls expected for the army not having arrived the further inspection and muster of it for the month of July is postponed.
The board appointed for the inspection of Invalids will meet on tuesday the 13th. instant at 9 o'clock under the Collonade, at which time and place the surgeons of the different regiments in the
first and second Massachusetts Brigades and the Artillery will assemble the men of their respective corps who come under the cognisence of the board; they will also obtain the best information they can of the character and circumstances of every individual.
Parole Dorchester. Countersigns Essex, Falmouth.
The General notices with great complacency that strict obedience which has been paid to his recommendations, respecting fitting and putting on the clothing, cocking and decorating the hats, as well as giving almost every other article a martial and uniform appearance. Notwithstanding the troops are verging so near to perfection some small improvements may yet be made; to wear the hair cut or tied in the same manner throughout a whole corps would still be a very considerable ornament. Where it cannot be done in a regiment simularity in a company would add extremely to the beauty of it.
At general inspections and reviews two pounds of flour and half a pound of rendered Tallow per hundred men may be drawn from the Contractors for dressing the hair, upon returns of the number and
certificates of the use, signed by commanding officers of brigades, countersigned by the inspector, and an order given thereon by the general next in command to the commander in cheif, shall be a sufficient voucher for the Contractor for the delivery. This gratuitous supply to cease when ever the troops shall be enabled to procure it in another way.
For Fatigue tomorrow the 9th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Georgia. Countersigns Hanover, Ireland.
The 4th Connecticut regiment will give the guards &ca. on the east side the river for seven days, commencing the 15th instant; the same regiment will furnish the fatigue parties tomorrow.
Parole Lancaster. Countersigns Monmouth, Norfolk.
The several regiments and corps composing this army under the immediate direction of the
Commander in chief, are desired to send their Annual returns to the orderly office without delay agreably to the forms which the Adjutant general will furnish, that a general return may be made to congress by the 1st. of September next conformable to their order.
The 5th Connecticutt Regiment for fatigue Tomorrow.
Parole Oporto. Countersigns Portsmouth, Quebec.
For fatigue tomorrow, third Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Rochambeau. Countersigns Viominel, Chattellux.
Two captains, four subalterns, eight serjeants and one hundred rank and file from the Rhode Island regimt to march this evening to Fishkill to assist in removing the Barracks. They will receive their instructions from Colonel Hughes Deputy Quartermaster; and continue on this
duty untill relieved.
The Quartermaster of Brigades are to make a return immediately to the waggon master general of all public horses, waggons, carts, Tumbrills, and travelling forges with their respective brigades, noting in whose possession the public horses are, also distinguishing the covered Waggons, open ones, carts, tumbrills, two horse waggons and travelling Forges each in seperate collumns. And also a return of the waggoners of their Brigades, noting whether enlisted as such or draughted from the Line, and how employed.
The regiment which mounts the weekly guards on the east side of the river will also furnish a fatigue of one serjeant, and eight privates for the well and one corporal and six for the hospital hutts; they will continue on that duty untill relieved.
For garrison fatigue tomorrow the 6th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Richmond. Countersigns Somersett, Taunton.
Doubts having arisen how far a Colonel, or Lieutenant Colonel Commandant, is supposed to give up the superintendence or command of his own regiment or Corps
while commanding a brigade as senior officer of it, detach'd upon a temporary duty, upon courtmartial, or absent upon Furlough. The Commander in chief is pleased to make the following determinations which are to be observed in future:
While a colonel, or Lieutenant colonel commandt. commands a brigade in which his own regiment or corps is included, he is to issue his regimental orders as usual; he is to sign all regimental returns and is to order and make all general regulations for the internal police of the regiment or corps so far as they may be consistent with the regulations for the order and Disipline of the troops of the united states. The same will apply when a colonel, or Lieutenant colonel commandant is upon courtmartial in camp or garrison with his regiment or corps, but when a colonel or Lieutenant colonel commandant is detached upon a temporary duty, or absent upon furlough the command of the regiment or corps will naturally devolve upon the next senior officer, who will issue regimental orders and sign all returns which may be called for in the absence of his Colonel, or Lieutenant Colonel commandant; but he shall on no account whatever presume to make any material alteration in the police which may have been established for the internal goverment of the regimt. or corps: without first consulting his colonel or Lieutt. colonel commandant, except he should be detached to
such a distance, or absent for such time and at such a distance that he cannot communicate with him without permitting the regiment or corps to suffer for want of such alteration in the mean time. The same rules may in some degree apply to the conduct of general officers under simular circumstances: should a Major General commanding a division be necessarily absent, the eldest Brigadier will of course command the division during his absence; but he is notwithstanding to retain the superintendence of his own brigade, issue Brigade orders and sign all returns relating to it.
Untill further orders there is to be no exchange of arms but such as may be condemned at the monthly inspection, the inspector will then give orders for such numbers to be exchanged as may appear to him unfit for service; the inspector general will review two regiments of the ist. and one of the 2d. Massachusetts Brigades on monday the 19th. instant, they are to be under arms for that purpose on the green at Westpoint by eight o'clock in the morning.
The Invalid regiment will be examined by the board of Inspection on tuesday next 10 o'clock.
A serjeant, corporal, and 12 men for fatigue to be sent from the fourth Connecticut regiment to the engineer this day also a corporal and four men for fatigue to be sent to Mr. Buchanan, these parties to remain on duty till relieved.
Parole Newark. Countersigns Princetown, Brunswick.
The General has the pleasure to inform the army of the total recovery of the state of Georgia from the hands of the enemy.
On the 11th. July the British evacuated Savannah leaving the town and works uninjured.
Of the Citizens who have returned to their Allegiance near two hundred immediately inlisted in the Continental Battalion of Georgia, and it was expected the corps would soon be compleated without any expence.
Brigadier General Wayne who commanded in that State appears to have merited great applause by his conduct there.
The regimental paymasters will apply to the Assistant Clothier general for a
further supply of Hunting shirts.
The Inspection and muster of the 9th. Massachusetts regiment will take place tomorrow morning at nine o'clock.
The second Connecticut regiment for fatigue tomorrow.
The Officer who mounts at the East ferry will see that the ferry boats are worked by the party under his command as usual.
Agreeable to Major General Heaths order of yesterday the following brigades and corps will furnish as under:
2d. Massachusetts brigade three smiths and three carpenters, 3d. Massachusetts brigade three Carpenters; 10th. Regiment, four Colliers.
Parole Ringwood. Countersigns Dresden, Meathe.
The honorable the Congress having thought it necessary at this juncture to pass the following resolutions, the Commander in chief takes occasion to com
municate them to the Army:
By the United States in Congress assembled, August 12th. 1782.
Whereas from the late publications the people throughout the United States may be induced to believe that Congress have received authentic communications upon the subject of an approaching peace:
Resolved, That the letter of August the ad, 1782, from Sir Guy Carleton and Admiral Digby to the Commander in Chief be made public.
Resolved, That Congress consider the above letter as mere matter of information, inexplicit as to the nature and extent of the independency directed to be proposed by the British plenipotentiary; and as Congress have received no information on this subject from their ministers for negotiating a peace, therefore no public measures can or ought to be taken upon it in its present form.
Resolved, That it be, and it is hereby recomended to the several states in the union, not to remit of their exertions for carrying on the war with vigor, as the only effectual means of securing
the settlement of a safe and honorable peace.
The sentiments contained in the foregoing are too just and obvious to need discanting upon; the General therefore flatters himself that both officers and soldiers so far from relaxing in the least from that laudable spirit which at present actuates them, will rather increase their endeavors to render themselves perfect in the duties of their respective stations. They may be assured, that the readiest way to procure a lasting and honorable peace is to be fully prepared vigorously to prosecute War.
NB The Letter alluded to in the above resolutions is that of the 2d. of August from Sir Guy Carleton and Admiral Digby to the Commander in Chief which having been already published in most of the Newspapers it is thought unnecessary to transcribe into General orders.
Two Captains, four subs, eight serjeants and one hundred Rank and file from the 10th. Massachusetts regiment will tomorrow releive the fatigue party from the Rhode island regiment now assisting Colonel Hughes, Deputy Quarter Master, in removing the Barracks from Fishkill; they will continue on that duty untill the work is compleated or untill relieved.
The Rhode island regiment to hold itself in readiness to march on Thursday the 22d. instt.
for the relief of the posts of Dobbs ferry, Stoney and Verplanks points.
The Light Companies of the second, third fourth, and fifth Connecticut and eighth Massachusetts regiments to march for the relief of the infantry now on the lines the same day. Lieutenant Colonel Newhall will command them. A surgeon from the first and a Mate from the second Massachusetts Brigades will march with this party.
Joshua Warren of the 5th. and Ebenezar Bird of the 9th. Massachusetts regiments artificers are to be sent to the Engineers in the room of Zebidiah Wallace and John Curtis of the same regiments discharged from the works.
For fatigue the first Massachusetts regimt.
Parole Westpoint. Countersigns Peekskill, Verplanks.
At the general court martial of which Colonel Micheal Jackson is president, Ensign
Abbott
59. Ensign Josiah Abbot. He was transferred to the Second Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
60. Capt. Daniel Lunt, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the First Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
61. Capt. Othniel Taylor, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment. He retired in January, 1783.
a certain soldier who was brought before the Court would have been punished if there had not been partiallity used (meaning by the members of the said court).
The court on consideration are of opinion that Ensign Abbott in conversation said that a certain soldier who was brought before a courtmartial would have been punished, had there not been partiallity used. And that in so saying he conveyed a reflection on the courtmartial which tried the said soldier, which from the evidence appears to have been the Court of which Captn. Taylor was president, in breach of article 5th. section 18th. of the rules and articles of war, and sentence that Ensign Abbott be repremanded in regimental orders.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the Court. It is to take place accordingly.
At the same Court Ensign Daniel Parker
The Court on consideration are of opinion that the charges against Ensign Parker are supported, that he has been notified agreable to the resolve of Congress of Dec. the 6th. 1779, to join his regiment and that he has
62. Ensign Parker had been transferred (according to Heitman) to the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781.
neglected so to do, or to give satisfactory reasons for his remaining absent therefrom and therefore sentence him to be cashiered.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and directs that Ensign Parkers pay cease from the expiration of the date of his furlough.
At the same Court Stephen Witt a soldier was tried charged first with having deserted
the three years service, being inlisted and mustered as one of the Massachusetts
quoto in Colonel Lee's
The Court on consideration are of opinion that the several charges against the prisoner are supported and that he is guilty of a breach of the first and third articles of the 6th. section of the rules and articles of war, and sentence him to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back, and that he undergo stoppages, not exceeding half his pay till he pays the sum of Fourteen pounds eleven shillings and four pence Massachusetts Currency, being the expence which incurred in apprehending and bringing him to trial.
63. Col. William Raymond Lee's Additional Continental regiment.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence and orders it put in execution.
The 3d. Massachusetts regiment will releive the guards and fatigue parties now on duty from the 4th. Connecticut regiment for seven days commencing the 22d. instant.
For fatigue tomorrow the 4th. Massachusetts regiment.
A subaltern and twenty men to be sent from West point this day to remove the barracks from Fishkill landing and two gun boats from Wappings creek, the Garrison Quarter master will give the necessary directions.
Parole Danbury. Countersigns Milford, Nile.
The Light infantry of this army is to be organized and commanded in the following manner:
The four flank companies of Massachusetts from the 1st. to the 4th. regiment inclusive to compose a battallion under the orders of Major Oliver, four others from the 5th. to the 8th. to compose another battallion under the orders of Major Ashley; these two battalions
to form a regiment and to be commanded by Colonel Henry Jackson.
The two remaining flank companies of Massachusetts, the flank company of the 5th.
Connecticut and that of Rhode Island is to form a Battalion under the command of
Major Dexter.
The four light companies of the York and Jersey line to form a battalion under the
command of Major Forman.
Those of the Newhamshire and the Canada regiment will do duty with their respective regiments untill further orders.
The Corps of Light infantry to encamp forthwith on the high ground in front of Peekskill and to be commanded by the senior officer 'till further orders.
The duty on the Lines is to be done by them as usual.
Major General Knox will be pleased to annex two pieces of Light artillery to this corps.
The Brigades of Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey are to hold themselves in readiness to march at an hours warning. Those at Westpoint and in the vicinity of it will move by water.
65. Maj. John Singer Dexter.
66. Maj. David Smith.
67. Col. Samuel Blatchley Webb.
68. Maj. Jonathan Forman, of the First New Jersey Regiment. He was made lieutenant colonel of the Second New Jersey Regiment in February, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
The Quartermaster General will without Loss of time make a proportionate distribution of all the boats in repair (and not appropriated to other indispensably necessary uses) to the several brigades according to their strength, the Quarter masters of which are without delay to remove them to the nearest convenient Landing to their respective brigades, place guards over them, and are to be responsible for the safe keeping and care of them till further orders; so soon as this order is complied with report thereof is to be made at Head quarters, together with the number and kind of boats delivered to each brigade. In this distribution the brigades of York and Jersey are to receive a due proportion.
The relief of the infantry on the Lines is postponed untill it can take place agreable to this days orders of which Major Ashly is to be informed.
The Commanding officers of Infantry regiments will please for the present to appoint an Adjutant and Quartermaster to for their respective regiments from the subalterns of the infantry.
The Director of the hospitals or Physician to the Army is requested to appoint a Surgeon and Mate to each regiment of infantry from the regimental surgeons and Mates.
Such men of the Invalid corps as have not been Inspected will be collected on fryday next
by eight o'clock in the morning at Fishkill landing where the Gentlemen composing the board will be.
Colonel Nicola will releive the guards at Wappings Creek.
For fatigue tomorrow 2d. Massachusetts Regiment.
Parole Massachusetts. Countersigns Boston, Salem.
Corporal Henry Beels and James Hill of the 1st Massachusetts regiment Lemuel Smith 2d. do. Thomas Fisher, James Clark, and James Anderson 3 do. Barnabas Potter, and Daniel Blanchard 9th. Massachusetts regiment, Blowers, are to be sent to Major Villefranche commanding Engineer at Westpoint to follow his directions untill further orders.
A surgeon from the third and a Mate from the second Massachusetts regiment will join Colonel H. Jacksons regiment of Light infantry.
A Surgeon from the 5th. Connecticut regiment, and a Mate from the 1st. Massachusetts Brigade will join Colonel Webbs regiment.
The Mate of the 1st. New York regiment will join Major Formans Battallion of Light Infantry.
The 5th. Massachusetts regt. for fatigue tomorrow.
Parole Rhode Island. Countersigns Providence, Newport.
The Army being now to assemble and take the field in the immediate presence of their general, He announces his resolution that perfect dicipline shall be observed, as well on parade, in the duties of the Camp and service of the guards, as in the general œconomy and order of the Line.
The General expects the same unabating ardor and attention will be seen in perfecting the troops in their exercise and Manœvres which have already been productive of such astonishing effects; relying on the ability, experience and zeal of his officers, the patience docility and fortitude of the soldiers, he promises himself the good conduct of this army will hereafter be cited as a pattern of imitation for Military men, and that their past service and atchevements are but a presage of a richer harvest of glory in prospect; under such auspicious circumstances he contemplates with infinite pleasure the moment which shall again unite our stand
ards with those of our generous and gallant Allies in the face of the common enemy; that happy moment he flatters himself is not far distant.
The General courtmartial of which Col. Putnam is president is dissolved.
For fatigue tomorrow 8th. Mass Regt.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
Major General Knox will please to order a field piece to each brigade The Light infantry are to receive no more notwithstanding the order of the 21st. for two.
No more Artillery is to be taken into the feild, 'till further orders. But the remainder of that corps, the Sappers, and Miners, 10th. Massachusetts regimt, and corps of Invalids are for Garrison and other duty at Westpoint the command of which for the present is given to Major General Knox.
The 10th. regiment and regiments of invalids are to remove to the point; the guards of the latter are to remain 'till releived from the Garrison. When the Army march the regiment then next for
fatigue is to remove to Westpoint to be relieved weekly, and as the object of it is to aid the Garrison in the execution of the very necessary and important works which are carrying on at that place, the Commander in Chief most earnestly exhorts the Commanding and other officers of it and those which follow in succession to use their best endeavours to facilitate them as the season is advancing fast when the work must cease.
As the Troops at and in the vicinity of West point are to move by water the general desires that as few horses as possible may be brought to the Army because it will be very difficult as well as expensive to provide for them, and those which must of necessity be there will be injured in proportion as the number is encreased. This restriction extends also to Waggons of which there can be occasion but for very few as the Camp will be near the water.
The Quarter Master General will provide Straw for the Army and have it deposited (under a Guard) at Verplanks point without delay.
Parole Poland. Countersigns Holland, Denmark.
The Board of officers appointed to settle the rank of the Subaltern Officers of the
Connecticut Line have reported the following Arrangement, which the Commander in
chief is pleased to approve and declare to be final.
98. The names of 79 lieutenants in the order of the rank and the number of their regiments follow, but is here omitted.
Doctor Noyes
Those regiments that have not already compleated their infantry companies to three Commissioned officers are desired to do it immediately.
For fatigue tomorrow the 7th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole New York. Countersigns Albany, Poughkeepsie.
The Inspector of the Army having reported that the shoes delivered the troops are of very bad quality; the Clothier general thinks himself aggrieved thereby and has solicited that an inspection of the shoes now in store may take place. The Commanding officers of regiments and corps will therefore assemble at the Colonade tomorrow at 10 o'clock and appoint three persons for that purpose; the gentlemen appointed will attend to that business immediately, they may call in to their assistance any shoemaker or other persons acquainted
99. Dr. John Noyes. He served to November, 1785.
with Leather and not interested in the Contract and the Clothier may do the same.
The report of the Inspection to be made to Head Quarters before the Army
moves.
For fatigue tomorrow 3d. Connecticut regiment.
Parole Bermuda. Countersigns St. Kitts, Nevis.
The Brigade and regimental Quartermasters except those for Garrison duty with the Camp colour men are to meet the Quarter master general at Verplanks point tomorrow morning at nine o'clock with such tools as he shall direct.
An Engineer will attend to measure the ground and make a sketch of the camp. The Quartermaster general will be furnished with the order of encampment.
Each brigade is to have a seperate landing, within the point, in the order of their encamping to which boats at all times of the tide can have free access, with these landings they are to open good communications for the purpose of removing their baggage and embarking and debarking the troops with facility.
1. Col. Walter Stewart had written to Washington (August 22) complaining of the
poor quality of shoes furnished the army and inclosed copies of similar
complaints, from seven officers. Stewart's letter and the complaints are in the
Washington Papers.
The Brigade Quarter Masters will make a proportionate distribution of the boats which they have received to the regimental Quartermasters, and these again to the respective companies that every thing may be properly arranged previous to the order of embarkation. The Brigadiers will assign four good oarsmen to each boat, and an officer who has some skill in the management to take charge of them till further orders. They will see that scoops are provided for freeing the boats of water in case they prove leaky.
The boats designed for the Jersey and York brigades may be lent to other corps which require them most but must be delivered up when the army gets to its ground.
The amunition in the hands of the brigades is to be critically examined and compleated; the bad and indifferent to be exchanged.
Each soldier is to have a good flint in his musket, and another in his Cartouch box; this order extends equally to the Light infantry.
The regimental sick (unable to march and improper to be taken into the field) are to be reported to the director general who will order them to proper Hospitals.
Before the troops remove to their new posi
tion it will be proper for the mens baggage and effects to be thoroughly inspected and the articles pointed out which they are to carry with them; they may take all their regimentals into the field; but when they are compleated with hunting shirts it is expected the uniform coats will not be worn so long as the warm season continues, except on particular occasions, such as on guards formed on the grand parade, Inspections, reviews &c.
To keep the Cloathing in the best possible order has become an object of so much attention that the general thinks it almost superfluous to repeat his recommendations especially as it is now universally considered that not only the comfort and conveniece but even the reputation of a corps depends essentially upon keeping every article belonging to the soldiers in the most perfect state both for service and appearance.
The Quartermaster general, the Engineer, and the person having the superintendence of the public Armoury at Westpoint are called on to make immediate return of the men drawn from the infantry regiments to serve as Artificers, Lime burners, colliers, blowers, &ca. in their several departments, specifying their names, the regiments they belong to, how long they have been under their direction, when and how employed.
Congress having by an act of the 23d. of
July last made a new arrangement of that branch of the Medical department in which Docter Ledyard was employed and that Gentleman being by such arrangement no longer in public service is not subject to trial by court martial. All further proceedings against him are therefore to cease and the court are immediately to proceed to the Trial of the officers in Arrest.
All prisoners in provost whose Crimes in the opinion of the judge Advocate are cognizable before a regimental Court martial are to be ordered to their respective regiments for trial.
The Adjutant general having agree'd to spare Captn. Carlile
The Commanding officers of Light infantry Companies while they are detached are directed to make regular weekly returns, on thursdays, of the state of their companies to the Commanding officer of the regiment they are draughted from.
For fatigue tomorrow the 9th. Massachusetts regiment.
9. Capt. John Carlisle (Carlile), of the Second Canadian Regiment. He retired in January, 1783.
Parole Tunbridge. Countersigns Upton, Warwick.
At a General court martial whereof Major general Howe is president held at Westpoint by order of the Commander in chief:
Major General McDougall was tried on the following charges Vizt.
1st. For Ordering the distribution of a quantity of boards (said to be about 1300 which were brought to Westpoint the 6th. day of December last in a sloop commanded by Captn. Van Alstyne, designed for the use of the department) to the Troops at Westpoint only when their arrival ought to have been reported to the Commanding general, or Deputy Quartermaster of the Department, that an equal distribution might have been ordered, and other troops, who equally needed them, some of whom were suffering with the small pox, might have received relief.
2d. For not reporting to the Commanding general the escape of upwards of 30 prisoners from the provost at Westpoint on the night of the 4th instant that orders might have been sent to the outposts to take measures to interupt them on their way to the enemy,
and it being an occurence which ought to have been reported.
3d. For drawing Orders on the Clothing store at Newburgh particularly on October 2,
5, 8, 11, 18, 19, 27, 28, 29, and November 7, 10, 12, and 18, and one for a servant
of Ensign Davis
4th. For writing a letter to the Commanding general on the 16th. of December last injurious to command and unbecoming an officer, the Letter as follows
West Point, Dec. 16, 1781 7 P. M.
Sir: To be prepared for every contingency which might happen on the river, to intercept our transportation Colonel Putnam was out several Days to reconnitre the country on both sides the river for the most practicable routes to open roads to bring in our provisions and forage; he had not compleated it when he was ordered on Court-
19. Ensign Ebenezer Davis. of the Third Massachusetts Regiment. He was brigade quartermaster to January, 1783; lieutenant to March, 1783; served to June, 1783.
martial altho he was for that important object kept of duty in garrison. The distress we now suffer is owing to his not being able to complete his observations there being a supply of flour above the mountains, but neither the roads nor the river was practicable.
This is one of the disorderly effects of detailing the officers of tiffs garrison
with the Army, nor is this the only instance of disorder from that Practice. An
Officer who was on Main guard for a week was detailed for other duty; I shall not
enter into any further discussion on this subect 'till the Commander in chief comes
on, when I shall apply to him to have this and several other unmilitary practices
determined in a more solemn manner that can now be obtained, For sir, give me leave
to tell you I know my own rights and those of the Garrison, not in
speculation , but in as long and as attentive service as my superiors. In the
mean time sir that service may not be injured and that the distressing and pressing
calls of humanity may be relieved I beg Colonel Putnam may be relieved and suffered
to go on that service, I have the honor to be sir, etc. Alexr. McDougall.
Major Generl. Heath.
5th. For directing Colonel Crane commandant of Artillery in this department to deliver arms and accoutriments on the 16th. instant contrary to the general order of the 4th. instant and threatning to send him to the provost in case of refusal.
6th. For conversing before the Field officers of the several Corps stationed in the Garrison of Westpoint who were convened his request on the 16th. January last, and in a manner unbecoming an officer, by bringing into question General Heaths right to command the garrison of Westpoint, representing his orders as unmilitary, saying that an officer was not bound or obliged to obey orders if he thought them improper or unmilitary, telling Colonel Crane that he had ill advisers, he believed that General Heath had advised him; desiring Col. Crane to take the advice of the officers present who he said were his Countrymen and many other things in the course of the said conversation, tending to excite sedition create divisions, subvert good order and decepline and wound the service.
7th. For conversing before officers of different ranks particularly on the evening of the 7th. January last in a manner unbecoming an officer saying that General Heaths orders were subversive of all good order and Discipline
and enjurious from the Centenel to the eldest Major Genl. in service, that he sent
private commands to Colonel Crane without enforming him (General McDougall) for the
removal of a considerable quantity of Amunition from the Magazine and that if such a
practice prevailed in the army it would be in the power of an Arnold at any time to
dismantle and sell the Garrison and publicly relating some matters that passed at a
Council of war at Mr. McGowans
20. John(?) McGowan.
additions and erecting buildings at Westpoint without the knowledge or consent of the Commanding general particularly the additions to the house in which General McDougall quarters and the building for the provost Guard when General McDougals command at the post was of a temporary nature only and such measures not warranted either by his instructions or Military principles.
The Court on mature consideration of the charges against Major General McDougall, the evidence in the case and the observations both by General McDougall and the Judge Advocate, are of opinion:
On the first charge that Major General McDougall did order the distribution of the boards mentiond in the charge to the troops of Westpoint only, and that he is justifiable in so doing, because though the boards in the first instance might have been designed for the army at large, yet as the manner in which they were applied for the Quartermaster was agreable to the custom of commandants of Westpoint and specified the particular purpose for which the boards were intended, were sent to the post on such
application and receipted for by the officer who received them to be delivered at Westpoint, he was warranted in such distribution, without a report being made to the Commanding general or Deputy Q. M. of the Department.
On the second charge it appears to the court that general McDougall is justifiable in not reporting the escape of the prisoners to Major General Heath because the provost martial of the army was at the post by order of General Heath whose duty it was to make such report.
On the third charge it appears to the court, that General McDougall did draw orders on the Cloathing store on October 8th. 18th. 19th. 28th. November 7th. and 10th. and an order for cloathing or Ensign Davis's servant and that he is justifiable in so doing because it has been customary and was requisite to service for officers of different grades to draw Cloathing from the Cloathing store for necessitous soldiers, detached issues have been accordingly constantly made and there has appeared to the Court no orders to the contrary; it does not appear that General McDougall drew the other orders mentioned in charges.
On the fourth charge the Court are of opinion that General McDougall is justifiable.
On the Fifth charge it appears that General McDougall did order Colonel Crane to deliver arms and accoutrements on the 16th. January last, and threatned upon his refusal to send him to the provost, or confine
to his room. But as Colonel Crane was a member of the Garrison, and being senior officer of Artillery at that time had the Keys of the Military stores for the defence of the Garrison, and under the orders of General McDougall as Commandant thereof; the Court are of opinion that General McDougall was justifiable for giving the orders and threatening to confine him for a disobedience of them notwithstanding the orders of General Heath of the 4th. of January last, relative to the Grand Magazine.
On the sixth charge the embarrassments Major General McDougall laboured under by the order of Major General Heath of the 4th. of January last and other orders mentioned in evidence, his official rights as Commandant of the Garrison being thereby invaded the Magazine shut against his orders which disenabled him from drawing forth the necessary means for its defence in case of any emergency, the garrison officer, through whom, Arms, Ammunition &ca. were attainable, refusing obedience to his legal orders, and directing no returns to be made to Major General McDougall of the state of the Magazine, where stores were deposited for its defence, are in the opinion of the court, sufficient to justify Major General McDougall in convening the Field officers of the several corps stationed in the Garrison on the 16th. Jany. last and for the whole of his conversation with them at
that time; that part of the charge bringing in question Major general Heaths right to command the Garrison of Westpoint, saying that an officer was not bound or obliged to obey orders if he thought them improper or unmilitary is not supported.
On the seventh charge the Court find that General McDougall did converse before officers of different grades accidently met at his quarters on the 7th. of January last and did say that General Heaths orders were subversive of all good order and discipline, and injurious from the Centinel to the eldest Major General in service; that he sent private commands to Colonel Crane without informing him (Genl. McDougall) for the removal of a considerable quantity of Amunition from the Magazine; and that if such a practice prevailed in the Army, it would be in the power of an Arnold at any time to dismantle and sell the Garrison and publicly related some matters that passed at a Council of war at Mr. McGowans in 1776 respecting the retreat from Newyork and said that none were opposed to it but a fool, a Knave and an obstinate, honest man and that General Heath was the Knave.” and are of opinion that the time, the place, the manner of expressing what is set forth in the charge and the persons before whom he did express it, render such conversa
tion unjustifiable and in breach of Article 5th. sectn 18th. of the rules and articles of war.
On the last charge it appears to the court, that the Bake house was pulled down on an application from Major General McDougall to Colonel Hughes the Deputy Qr. Master by his direction, that the other building was ordered by General McDougall on the 18th. Decr. last to be pulled down, but was not pulled down on that order, but by order of Colonel Pickering Quarter Master General and that the materials were removed to Westpoint. That General McDougall did erect a building for a Provost Guard and made additions to the house in which he quartered but it appears to the Court from a Letter produced in the case, that General Heath knew and approved the building the provost guard house; therefore that General McDougalls erecting the same was not as is said in the charge without the knowledge or consent of the Commanding general. The Court are of opinion that from constant usage of Commandants of Westpoint never yet interdicted General McDougall is justifiable in making additions to the house in which he quarters.
The Court agreable to their opinion on the several charges, do fully acquit Major Genl. McDougall on
the first, second, fifth and sixth charges, on the fourth they acquit him, on the third and last charges they fully acquit him, and think the charges vexatious.
On the seventh they sentence him to be repremanded by the Commander in chief in General Orders.
By the United States in Congress assembled
August 15th. 1782.
The Proceedings and sentence of a General Courtmartial on the trial of Major General McDougall having been ready, Resolved, That Congress approve the sentence of the said court.
It is with extreme reluctance the Commander in chief finds himself under the necessity of carrying the sentence of the court upon the seven fix charge into execution more especially as it concerns an officer of so high rank and generally acknowledged merit.
The ill consequences arising from a too free censure of the conduct of officers of superior by those of inferior rank are too obvious to need enumerating. The Commander in cheif cannot however help remarking particularly upon the impropriety of one Member
of a Council of war divulging the opinion of another (except in cases of criminality
which could not fail of being imediately noticed) and undertaking to reflect publicly upon him for it; such a liberty if allowed, would
very often tend to prevent an officer of coolness and deliberation from giving his
opinion in favour of cautious measures, lest the army and the world at large should
attribute his reasons to other than the real motive.
Major General McDougall is released from his arrest.
The General court martial of which Major General Howe is president is desolved.
The second Connecticut regiment will releive the guards and fatigue parties now on duty from the 3d. Massachusetts for seven days unless sooner releived commencing tomorrow.
For Fatigue tomorrow the 4th. Connecticut regiment.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve.
By the United States in Congress assembled August 14th. 1782.
Resolved, That the resolution of the 5 day of October, 1780, directing a court of enquiry on the conduct of Major General Gates, be repealed; and that he take command in the main army, as the Commander in Cheif shall direct.
The general order of Encampment, and the order of Battle for the Main army this Campaign will be in one Line, with a reserve, organized and commanded as follows:
The Reserve for the present to consist of the second Connecticut and third Massachusetts Brigades commanded as above. They are to encamp when the ground will admit
of it 200 paces in the rear of the line.
The park of Artillery with the corps of Sappers and Miners (on their left) between the two brigades which compose the reserve.
When the reserve for want of depth of ground is obliged to encamp in the center of the Line the park and Corps of Sappers will do the same.
The Light infantry and Sheldons Legion will have no particular places assigned them in the general order of encampment or in the order of battle, the orders of the general will point these out occasionally.
As Colonels Greaton, Dayton, Sheppard and Swift are to have permanent commands of the brigades to which they belong and as Colonel Cortlandt will have the same of the York brigade 'till a senior officer of that State shall join it, they are therefore releived during such permanent command from executing the regimental duties of their respective regiments as pointed out by the order of the 17th. instant. They are notwithstanding to retain the general superintendence of them.
Major General Lord Sterling will be pleased to repair to Albany and take the immediate command of that brigade of his Division which is to the Northward together with
the state troops in that quarter.
The Non commissioned officers and soldiers of the several regiments who have been invalided by the late board of officers and surgeons are not to take the field with their respective regiments but to join the corps of invalids. They will receive proper certificates for that purpose from the inspector of the Army, who will also furnish Colonel Nicola with a List of them.
For Fatigue tomorrow the 5th. Connecticut regiment.
At a general courtmartial held at Philadelphia 27th. July 1782 by order of the Honorable the Secretary at War, Major Thomas L. Moore President.
Serjeant Nicholas Bourge of the Pennsylvania line was tried for Desertion and advising others to desert found guilty of both charges and sentenced to suffer death.
The Commander in cheif approves the above sentence, but in consideration of the recommendation of Colonel Humpton he is pleased to pardon the said Nicholas Bourge.
Parole Congress. Countersigns Successful, Campaign.
Precisely at five o'clock tomorrow morning the general is to beat, on which the tents and baggage of the two Connecticut, and three Massachusetts Brigades are to be put into the batteaux; at seven o'clock the assemble will beat, when these brigades are immediately to march and embark by the right, proceeding in one Collumn to Verplanks point in the following order: First Connecticut, Second Connecticut, Third Massachusetts, Second Massachusetts, First Massachusetts.
The leading regiment of the first Connecticut Brigade is to advance two hundred yards as a Vanguard and detach one company, which is to keep about a hundred yards in front of it.
The boats of each regiment are to keep a breast and far enough a part to prevent interference; the Companies will embark as they are formed on the parade, and observe that order. The Colonel to be on the right and the Lieutenant Colonel on the left.
Between each regiment there is to be a space of seventy five yards; between the brigades one hundred and fifty yards; and between the Divisions two hundred and fifty yards. The General and officers
commanding Divisions and Brigades are to be at the head of their respective corps; the Major General fifty yards and the Brigadiers twenty five advanced of them.
As soon as the troops have embarked and taken their distances (the Van being nearly opposite to little Dicks ferry or Meig's redoubt) the rear brigade will beat a march which will be repeated to the front as a preparitive; three Cannon will then be fired from the park at Westpoint and the Collumn will immediately get in motion; the Musick of different regiments playing alternately, if the situation of the boats will admit of it: the inspector of Musick will regulate the beats.
If any boat shall prove too leaky or break its oars, or from any other cause is unable to keep the line it is to turn out and follow after in such a manner as the prudence of the officer commanding it shall judge best. No batteau is to be without a commissioned officer in it.
The General Staff of the army except the inspector, Adjutant, and Quarter Master generals who may assist in preserving regularity and order in this movement and all the baggage that is not in the batteaux with the troops are to follow at the distance of half a mile in the rear agreably to orders which they may receive from the Quarter Master general.
General and Staff officers Guards are not to join their corps on this movement but may assist in transporting the baggage by water in order to prevent the necessity of waggons, this by no means to be drawn into president in future. No women to be admitted into the boats with the troops on any pretence whatsoever. If the boats are ensufficient to transport the troops (with their baggage) without crouding or overloading them the surplusage must march by land under proper officers. The soldiers will take care to fill their Canteens before they embark as there will be no landing for water afterwards. The Artillery annexed to the brigades will proceed by land and join their respective corps at Verplanks point.
SIGNALS (BY DAY)
1st. If any Brigade or regiment in the rear is unable to keep up, the Brigadier commanding it, is to be informed of it, and will cause a white flag to be hoisted in the boat where he is; which is to be repeated by every brigadier a head, on which the leading Brigade is to move slower.
2d. If the rear would have the front move faster a blue flag is to be hoisted and repeated as above.
3d. For landing the regimental colours will be hoisted by the leading regiment; repeated thro' the line, and kept displayed untill the landing is effected, and the troops get to the ground.
4th. If a halt should be found neccessary on the passage by the Commander in chief, or officer at the head of the Collumn, it will be communicated by hoisting both flags (the white and blue) on board the boat of the brigadier a head, so as to be distinctly seen, and repeated as quickly as possible to the rear. Upon which the boats will lye upon their oars, and take great care to preserve their places, and distance in the line.
SIGNALS BY NIGHT
1st. For moving slower: a musket is to be fired and repeated by the brigadier as in the day signal; allowing a minutes interval between each discharge.
2d. For moving faster; two guns in like manner.
3d. For landing three Do.
4th. For halting; a halt must be called begining in the front and repeated from one Colonel to another distinctly, three times to the rear, to prevent mistakes, and the confusion which would consequently follow.
When the signal for landing is given, the boats are to close up without crouding and row for the shore, falling in upon the left of each other, in which order they are to debark at their respective landing places, ascend the bank, and form as fast as they get up into brigade Collumns. In this order the head of each Collumn will be conducted by the brigade Qr. Master to the right of its encampment, where it will display to the left, and each regiment take its own ground, Stack their arms, bring up their tents and baggage and establish their camp.
The Quartermaster General will furnish the Commanding officers of brigades with the signal flaggs; which are to be carefully preserved by the Brigade Quarter masters.
The General persuades himself that the officers will exert themselves to have this movement made with great order and regularity.
Major General Knox will be pleased to direct all the boards, bunks &ca. which have been removed out of the barracks, and used by the officers and soldiers to lay upon, to be collected this afternoon and deposited safely. If any Sutler or trader is found purchasing any of the foregoing articles from
the soldiers they may depend upon not only having their licenses taken from them but being otherwise punished.
For Fatigue at Westpoint &ca. for seven days commencing tomorrow the 3d. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole New York. Countersigns Verplanks, Stoney point.
The Commander in cheif cannot help expressing his thanks to the officers commanding divisions, brigades, and corps, and to the Adjutant and Quartermaster generals for their very punctual attention to the orders of yesterday, by which the first considerable move that has been attempted by water was made with the utmost regularity and good order.
The Brigade Quarter masters will see that the boats of their respective brigades are moored at their own landings in such a manner as to be perfectly safe in all weather. The stakes to which they are fastened, must be so well driven as to yield to no wind.
The Quartermaster general will furnish materials for repairing the boats, and the
Brigade Quartermasters are to see that it is immediately done by men of their own brigades.
The rear guards of the Camp are to have a charge of the boats and not to suffer any of them to be used without orders in writing from the brigade Quartermasters, countersigned by the Brigadier, or officer commanding the brigade. All persons to whom boats are delivered agreable to these orders are to be responsible for them.
No Noncommissiond Officer or soldier except those having the badge of Military merit is to go off the Island or peninsula on which we now are encamped without a pass in writing from the Commanding officer of the regiment to which he belongs. If any should be found off it contrary to this order they are to be deemed Deserters and tried accordingly; or if any soldier is discovered attempting a passage over the Creek any where but at the bridges on the public roads leading to Peekskill and Tellers point it will be considered as disobedience to this order, and he will be punished accordingly.
Twenty men properly officer'd are to be placed as a picquet at each of the above bridges and will
see these orders duly executed: after the publication of which it is hardly necessary to forbid marauding or injury of private property in any shape whatever; but if there are soldiers so lost to all sense of duty and the rights of Citizens, that they will in defiance of orders attempt these things they may rest assured of being brought to a summary trial and exemplary punishment.
This order is to be read at evening roll call every saturday during the Campaign.
The Light infantry are to advance in front of the army, and take the best ground at or near the fork of the roads leading to this place and peekskill, they will keep out proper picquets and small scouts to patrol as far as Croton independent of the battalion on the lines.
A Sub serjeant, two corporals, a drum and fife and twenty privates from the first Connecticut regiment for picquet at the bridge on the right: the same from the first Massachusetts regiment for Picquet at the bridge on the left.
Parole Bedford. Countersigns Northcastle, Phillipsburgh.
Regiments and corps which have lately
Joined are to make themselves acquainted with all standing and other orders issued in their absence that may be interesting to them.
The General is desirous the troops should make themselves as comfortable as possible while in the field; the encampment itself is very pleasant and healthy, straw will be issued at the rate of two bundles pr. tent, of this with the flaggs and leaves which may be procured, convenient Matts or bedding may be formed; shades or bowers should also be erected in front of the tents in the construction of which regularity will be extremely pleasing to the eye. Vaults must be made in the rear of the line and covered every day. The slaughtering penns must be placed at a proper distance; and every other precaution should be taken which may contribute to cleanliness and health. No soldier or other person is to bathe at the public ferry or within the basin contiguos to it on either side the river. The sentries at the ferry stairs will see this order executed. The men are not to be suffered to go into the water at other places between the hours of nine o'clock A.M. and five in the afternoon; nor are they at any time, to continue in but a few minutes.
At the general court martial of which Colonel Micheal Jackson is president, Captn.
Thomas Arnold
39. Formerly of the First Rhode Island Regiment. He had been wounded at Monmouth land served to April, 1783.
the 20th. of July: altho he had the following extracts sent him as early as the 26th. of march last,
Extract from General Orders Philada. Jany. 10th. 1782.
No officer or soldier is to be permitted to be absent on furlough after the 10th. day of april next on any occasion whatever. The court finds that Captain Arnold did not join his regiment agreable to general orders; but considering his peculiar situation, do acquit him of criminality.
The Commander in chief approves the opinion of the court. Captain Arnold is released from his arrest.
A general and two field officers of the day are to be appointed, they will with the Adjutant and Quarter master general be pleased to reconitre the approaches to this Encampment and the whole extent of the creek: They will report what picquets and guards they think necessary.
The Commander in Chief expects the pleasure of the company of the officers of the day at dinner, the day they are relieved from duty.
The inspector of music will be answerable that the different beats of the drum are performed agreable to the 21st. Chapter of the regulations for the order and decipline of the Army.
For the present the Troop is to beat at 8 o'clock A.M. and the Tattoo at 8 oClock p.m.
The Grand parade in front of the first Connecticut brigade.
The orders of the day will be issued at the Adjutant Generals Markee at 11 o'clock A.M. untill further orders.
The first New York regiment will relieve the picquets at the bridge on the right this evening.
The 7th. Massachusetts will relieve the picquets at the bridge on the left at the same time.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Heath
Colonel Greaton
Lt. Col. Van Dyck
B. M. Jersey Brigade
For the day tomorrow
Major General Howe
Lieutt. Colonel Barber
Major Fish
Major Hicks
Parole Penobscot. Countersigns Hallifax, St. Johns.
The Jersey and York brigades are immediately to send for the boats assigned them.
Three Cannon fired successively from the Block house will be the signal of an alarm, at which the troops will parade under arms in front of their respective Encampments and wait the orders of the Commander in Cheif.
The troops will hasten to complete their bowers and accomodations as soon as possible; untill thursday next their
42. Capt. Benjamin(?) Hicks, of the First New York Regiment.
time may be devouted to this purpose. The general by frequently passing along the line will have an oppertunity of Judging which corps are most remarkable for their attention to regularity and even elegance.
The Vaults should be shaded with interwoven boughs so as to cover them as much as possible from view.
Brigade and regimental Quartermasters will wait on the Quartermaster general tomorrow morning at nine o'clock, they will make a thorough examination of the springs about camp and report whether there will be a sufficiency of water for the army.
Captain Haskell
The 1st. Jersey regiment will relieve the picquet at the bridge on the right and send a guard of a Corporal and six men to the Quartermaster generals this evening.
The 4th. Massachusetts regiment will relieve the picquet at the bridge on the left; and the guard at the forage magazine at the same time.
All the Drummers and fifers off duty will assemble on the grand parade tomorrow morning 9 o'clock to receive the instructions of the Inspector of Music.
Parole Westmoreland. Countersigns Bergan, Tappan.
43. Capt. Elnathon Haskell, aide-de-camp to General Howe to November, 1783. He served to June, 1784.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Dayton
Major Maxwell
Brigade Major Walker
For the greater security of the present encampmt. the Commander in chief directs that in addition to the picquets Posted at the two bridges, one of equal strength be posted on the Isthmus between the heads of the two Creeks and a chain of sentinels form'd from the beach on Haverstraw bay passing in Front of Head Quarters near the Marsh as far as the ground is open, thence along the heights on the Margin of the cleared land untill the Line strikes the road leading to Lents bridge; thence through a small orchard and road in the wood to a Landing on the North river. When the number of men necessary to form and keep up the Chain of Centinels round the Camp is ascertained they are to be formed into picquets properly officered and posted at convenient distances.
The second Newyork regiment will give the picquets for the bridge on the right and the Isthmus tomorrow; it will also furnish the Quarter Master Generals guard; the guard for the Quarter master generals stores and half the picquets necessary to form
66. Maj. Joseph(?) Walker, of the Third Connecticut Regiment. He served to June, 1783.
the Chain round the Camp. The eight Massachusetts regiment will give the Picquets at the bridge on the left the guard for the forage yard, half the picquets for the Chain, and a serjeant, corporal and twelve fatigue for the enspector. The whole of these regiments except the fatigue which may march from the regimental parade will form on the grand parade immediately after troop beating: from the grand parade, having first detached the established guards and picquets, they will march, the second Newyork regiment to the place where the Chain begins on the right and the eight Massachusetts to where it strikes the north river on the left. Colonel Greaton and Lieutenant Colonel Van Dyck who yesterday rconitred the ground are requested to conduct them till they meet in the center, posting sentinels at proper distances as they goe on; having ascertained the number of men necessary to complete the chain; the officers of the day with the Adjutant genl. will draw a picquet or picquets in proportion from each regiment sufficient to keep up the chain and post them as already directed, after which the remainder if any there be may return to camp.
Returns of all horses public and private with the army to be made to the Quartermaster general tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. No forage will be issued for any horses not mentioned in these returns.
The Inspection and Muster of the Army for the month of August to take place on the following days. Jersey Line the 6th. instant; York do. 7th.; 1st. Connectt. Brig. 8th.; 2d. Connectt. do. 9th.; 1st. Massa. do. 10; 2d. do. 11th.; 3d do. 12th. The regimental mental Quartermasters to call at the inspectors Marque (upon the right of the army) for the necessary rolls.
Parole Albany. Countersigns Orange, Ulster.
For the day tomorw.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Sheppard
Lieutenant Colonel Sproat
Brigade Major Converse
At a general courtmartial held at Westpoint whereof Colonel Michael Jackson is president the following prisoners were tried:
Dennis Clemeshaw, a soldier, charged with Desertion from the regiment late Colonel Lee's, also Job Repley of the 3d Massachusetts regiment, Jason Makepeace of the 5th. Massachusetts regiment; Thomas Grant, and James Johnson, recruits for the Massachusetts Line: severally charged with “Desertion” were found guilty and sentenced each to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Caleb Fetch, soldier of the 2d. Connecticut regiment, charged with desertion found guilty and sentenced to receive Twenty-five lashes each morning for four mornings successively amounting to one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Job Smith of Colonel Lee's Legion for “Desertion and joining the enemy” found guilty of Desertion but acquitted of joining the enemy sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Timothy Becket of the 5th. Connecticut regt. charged with “deserting and attempting to go to the enemy.” The Court on consideration arc of opinion he is guilty of the charge yet considering his youth and former good behavior they only sentence him to receive twenty five lashes each morning four mornings successively amounting in the whole to one hundred
lashes on his naked back.
Hugh Jones of the 3d. regiment of artillery, charged with deserting to the enemy in December 1779. The court are of opinion the charge is not supported and do acquit him.
The Commander in chief approves the opinions of the Court martial and orders that the prisoners belonging to the regiments now on this ground be sent for, and brought to their respective regiments, and their sentences executed at such time as their respective commanding officers shall direct.
Hugh Jones to be released from confinement and return to duty in his regiment.
The Commander in chief upon visiting the different landing places yesterday was sorry to see the General orders of the 31st. ultimo respecting mooring the boats totally neglected by the Jersey, York, and 1st. Connecticut brigades, and but partially attended to by all the remainder except the first Massachusetts; the Jersey and New York brigades having but just received their boats were somewhat excusable; he is pleased to direct that the following mode of mooring be hereafter observed: each boat by both head and stern, to a strong well driven stake, at such
distance from the shore that they cannot ground at low water. This will prevent them from falling foul of each other in rough weather. The Quartermaster General will furnish rope for the purpose; till it can be obtained, Grape vine or hickery withs may be used. The General expects an immediate and punctual compliance with this order and assures the Brigade Quarter Masters that if he again finds it neglected he shall call upon them in a more disagreable manner.
The Boats are not to be taken from the landing places but upon the most emergent and necessary occasions.
Untill further orders the Camp guards may be discontinued and in their room such small guards established as the officers commanding brigades and Divisions find necessary for the security of their boats, furnishing Sentries for their Colours, Commanding officers of corps &ca.
As there is such a scarcity of water in the camp all persons are forbidden to wash or cook at the springs in front of the line. These may be done with equal if not greater convenience in the river.
A Noncommissioned officer and eight Dragoons from Captn. Vanheers Corps will mount every day with the guards untill further orders, for the purpose of scouring the environs of the camp, the Noncommissioned officer commanding the party will receive particular instructions from the Adjutant general.
As the Commander in cheif proposes reviewing the Line on Saturday next, the relief for Dobbs ferry and the fatigue at Westpoint will not march untill Sunday.
For duty tomorrow: 5th. Connecticut and 5th. Massachusetts regiments.
Parole Sussex. Countersigns Easton, Bethlehem.
For the Day tomorrow
Major General Heath
Colonel Cortlandt
Major Woodbridge
Brigade Major Cushing
For duty tomorrow 3d. Connecticut and 9th. Massachusetts regiments.
91. Brig. Maj. Nathaniel Cushing, of the Massachusetts brigade. He served to the close of the war.
The Quartermaster General will establish such regulations as he thinks proper respecting sutlers and persons who sell Liquors to the army; taking the Licenses from such as do not conform to them, and surpressing all tipling houses in the neighbourhood of camp which by their irregularities shall prove detrimental to service. He will also point out one or more market places at which and no other Boats bringing Vegetables, and other useful articles to dispose of to the army, will be suffered to land and expose their Cargoes to sale.
The Forage master will point out pastures to which the draught and other horses not immediately employ'd may be sent to feed; the Artillery horses must always be brought back to camp in the evening.
The Picquets posted at the bridges and on the pass between the heads of the two creeks are to prevent horses or cattle straying out of camp.
Captain Vanheers corps of Cavalry, the Commander in chiefs guard the corps of Light infantry (except a small guard for the security of their Camp) and the several regiments now in camp will be review'd by the Commander in Chief on Saturday next, the whole to be drawn up as shall hereafter be directed,
ready to receive the general precisely at seven o'clock in the morning, the Artillery annexed to brigades will form with them.
All the Colours presented by Major Gen. the Marquis de la Fayette to the Light infantry are to be emmediately lodged at the Orderly office.
Captain Reily
The Invalid regiment will furnish a Captn. to sit as member of the General
courtmartial of which Colonel Micheal Jackson is president, vice Captn. Story
pointing out the hour for giving out the parole and Countersign furnishing the Adjutant General with the daily orders, and requiring the attendance of the General officers, Heads of Departments &ca. at Head Quarters is revived, and to be punctually attended to untill
92. Capt. John Reiley, of the Third Pennsylvania Regiment He had been wounded at Bonhampton, N.J., in April, 1777; transferred to the Invalid Regiment in August, 1780; served to June, 1783.
93. Capt. William Story. He served to January, 1783.
further orders.
The General learns from good authority that many of the soldiers have fallen into a scandalous and pernicious practice of disposing of their cloathing to Country people, for vegetables and other articles. He expects every officer will exert himself to put an effectual stop to this very heinous offence and bring offenders to punishment. When market places are established a Subaltern officer with a small guard is to be stationed at each who will see that no violence is offered to the persons or property of the Country people coming to Market, he must at the same time be very careful to prevent their receiving from the soldiers or women of the camp, any article of cloathing in exchange for such wares as they have to dispose of.
The first article of 18th. section of the rules and Articles for the better government of the Troops &ca. is to be duly observed and attended to throughout the army, the General thinks that at or immediately after the Inspections will be the most proper time.
Captn. Smith
94. Capt. David(?) Smith.
A Corporal and six oarsmen are to be drawn from the Line to man the Quartermaster generals barge untill further orders.
Parole Philadelphia. Countersigns Wilmington, Chester.
For the Day tomorrow
Major General Howe
Lieutt. Colonel Mellen
Major Throop
Brigade Major Williams
For duty to morrow 2d. Connecticut and 6th. Massachusetts regiments
The regimental Surgeons to send the returns of the sick every saturday to the flying hospital where on application they will receive a proportion of bandages and degestive ointment.
The Commandery officers of Divisions and Wings are desired to meet the Inspector and Adjutant general at 4 o'clock this afternoon on the grand parade.
The Brigade Majors are expected to dine at Headquarters the day they are relieved from duty.
95. Brig. Maj. Abraham Williams.
Parole Heath. Countersigns Howe, Steuben.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier Genl. Patterson
Colonel Swift
Lieutenant Colonel Sherman
Brigade Major Cushing
Quarter Master of the Jersey brigade
For duty tomorrow 4th. Connecticut and 1st. Massachusetts regiments.
The appearance of the army to day afforded the Commander in chief the most sensible pleasure. He cannot too often repeat his thanks to the officers of all ranks for their unremitted care and attention to their respective duties.
Untill further orders there shall be a brigade Quartermaster of the day whose duty shall be to see that the duties enjoyned the regimental Quartermaster by the 18th. Chapter of the regulations for the order and Decipline of the troops are duly attended to, and that all dead carcasses and every other nuisance in the environs of camp be removed. He must see that good communications be opened between the guards and picquets of the Camp and have a general
superintendence of all fatigues ordered for general purposes in or near camp, he may call on the Adjutant General for such fatigue parties as he finds necessary and draw tools from the Quarter master general occasionally but he must before he is relieved return the tools at the place they were drawn from or deliver them to the Quarter master who relieves him taking his receipt which is to be lodged at the Quartermaster generals office. The Quartermaster of the day will attend the grand parade every morning and report to the General officer of the day. He is requested to dine with the general the day he is relieved from duty.
The first Jersey regiment will tomorrow relieve the 3d. Massachusetts regiment on fatigue at West point; it will also relieve the small fatigues from the 2d. Connecticut regiment employed at the New hospital if their continuance be necessary. This tour is for seven days exclusive of the day the regiment marches.
This days review having prevented the Inspection of the New York brigade, it will be enspected tomorrow and the other brigades in succession a day later than directed by the order of the 3d instant.
A fatigue for cutting wood for the Garrison of Westpoint is to commence on monday. The Quarter master Genl. will apportion the quantity demanded and distribute the axes on hand to the several brigades according to their strength. Commanding officers of brigades are requested to have the wood cut, transported to the river and loaded on board of vessels, or boats, if sufficient can be procured or otherwise corded at the landing places in the shortest possible time. The waggon master general will furnish teams for hailing the wood. The Quarter master general will be pleased to make the Quarter masters of brigades responsible for the return of the axes delivered to them, he will also have an officer of his department to see the wood measured before it is put on board the water craft, whose certificates that the full quantity assigned has been procured shall excuse any brigade from further fatigue.
Lieutenant Osgood Carleton
AFTER ORDERS
A detachment from the 1st. New York regiment
98. Lieut. Osgood Carlton (Carleton), of the Fifteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to Invalid Regiment in December, 1778, and served to April, 1783, as regimental quartermaster.
99. Lieut. William Honeyman, of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment. He had been wounded at Iron Hill, Del., in September, 1777, and was transferred to the Invalid Regiment in July, 1778. Heitman dates his resignation as July, 1781.
will relieve that from the Rhode island regiment stationed at Stoney point, tomorrow after the inspection, to remain on that duty seven days.
Parole Alexandria. Countersigns Dumfries, Colechester.
For the day tomorrow
Brigr. Genl. Huntington
Lieutenant Colonel Vose
Major Trescot
Brigade Major Cox
Quartermaster York brigade
For duty tomorrow 2d Jersey and 7th. Massachusetts regiments
The present mode of encampment, tho' extremely ornamental and convenient, may, without the utmost care subject us to the loss of our tents by fire. The Boughs of which the Colonade is composed being so very dry, that a spark of fire or a candle falling among them would not fail to set them instantly in a blaze. The Commander in chief therefore recomends the gratest circumspection to the officers in their Masques and tents, and directs the officers of police to see that the soldiers do not make use of fire or Candles carelessly in theirs.
4. Capt. Richard(?) Cox.
As there is many orders for checking irregularities with which the women, as followers of the army, ought to be acquainted, The serjeants of the companies to which any women belong, are to communicate all orders of that nature to them, and are to be responsible for neglecting so to do.
That out posts and guards may be reduced as much as possible, and the expences and abuses attendant upon them reformed, the Commander in chief orders that the public stores of every kind in this state shall be collected and deposited at Westpoint and Newburg, except such as may be indispensably necessary at Albany for the support of the Northren military posts. If circumstances require the continuance of magazines at any other places than those above mentioned, the Departments concerned are to report, with their reasons at large to the Commander in Chief.
A court of enquiry of which Colonel Tupper was president, sat at Westpoint by a
Garrison order of the 4th. instant to enquire into the sufficiency of the reasons
alledged by Lieutenant Barber
The Commander in chief accepts and approves the opinion of the Court.
5. Lieut. Isaac R. Barber, of the Third Continental Artillery. He resigned in October, 1782.
Parole Charlestown. Countersigns Georgetown, Savanna.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. Howe
Colonel Vose
Lieutenant Colonel Newhall
Brigade Major Hicks
Quarter Master 1st Connect. brigade.
For duty tomorrow 1st. New York and 4th. Massachusetts regiments
The General in visiting the landing places to day was perfectly satisfied with the manner in which the boats are now moored.
The regiments warned for duty are to have their Arms, accoutriments &c. inspected on the regimental parade before troop beating, so as to march immediately after, to the grand parade.
The Inspector General (or in his absence the inspector of the Northern army) the Adjutant general, Brigadier General Huntington, Colonel Greaton and Lieutenant Colonel Barber or any three of them are appointed a Board, to examine the pretentions of the noncommissioned officers and soldiers who are Candidates for the Badge of Merit. The Board will report their opinion to the Commander in chief.
10. Lieut. Col. Ezra Newhall, of the Fifth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
All Certificates and recommendations will be lodged with the Adjutant General, who will occasionally summon the board to assemble.
The Commander in Chief recommends to the officers to pay particular attention to the carriage of their men either upon parade or marching, more especially in the latter as the time of passing the reviewing officer or the officer of the day, nothing contributes so much to the appearance of a soldier, or so plainly indicates discipline, as an erect carriage, firm step, and steady countenance.
At the particular interception of Colonel Putnam, the Commander in Chief is pleased to pardon Jason Makepeace soldier in the 5th. Massachusetts regiment now under sentence of Courtmartial and order him to join his regiment.
The Quartermaster general in compliance with the order of the 5th. instant has fixed on the ferry landing at Verplanks point, and the landing on the left of the line a little in the rear of the 1st. Massachusetts brigade for market places, at which alone, boats bringing vegitables and other useful articles may dispose of them to the army. Marketing brought by the Causway on the left of the camp is to be disposed of in front of the 2d. Massachusetts brigade, and that brought by the bridge, on the right, at the ferry landing.
The officer commanding the guard at the blockhouse on Verplanks point will be answerable that the orders of the 5th. instant, so far as they respect the regulation of the Markets
be complied with at the ferry landing. The officer commanding the Picquets in front of the second Massachusetts brigade will do the same at the Market held near his post. A subaltern will be appointed purposely to attend to that held at the landing on the left, and the Noncommissioned officers commanding the contigious Boat and Commissarys guards are directed to give him the necessary assistance.
MORNING ORDERS
Major Darby
Parole St. Albans. Countersigns, Bagshot, Carlile.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Z. Butler
Major Wyllis
Brigade Major Walker
Qr. Mr. 2d. Connecticut Brigade
For duty tomorrow 2d. New York and 2d. Massachusetts regiments.
The Commander in Chief directs that when General or Field officers, Majors of Brigade, and Brigade Quartermasters obtain leave of absence they inform the Adjutant General of the time they are to leave camp and immediately on their return acquaint
11. Maj. Samuel Darby, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
him of it. Field officers are to give like notice to their Major of Brigade, and company officers to the Adjutant of their regiments.
As serjeants and corporals are sufficiently distinguishable by the badges of their respective Grades, when the latter are under arms and not in rank and file they are to carry their arms as the serjeants do.
The Assistant Clothier General at Newburgh will continue to issue shoes to the regiments which have drawn the proportions allowed them by the public charging the same to their accounts. The general is persuaded the greatest œconomy will be made use of in this article according to his former recommendations.
The Board appointed for the inspection of Invalids will meet on tuesday the 17th. instant at nine o'clock A.M. at Colonel Olneys Marquee.
Parole Dartmouth. Countersigns Eaton, Fairfield.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier General Huntington
Brigade Major Converse
Brigade Qr. Mast. Williams
For duty tomorrow 1st Connecticut regiment and 5th. Connecticut for 8th. Massachusetts
Captain John Doughty
Parole Gosport. Countersigns Darnford, Illford.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Heath
Lieutt. Colo. Gray
Major Graham
Brigade Major Smith
Brigade Qr. Mr. Ripley
For duty tomorrow
5th. Massachusetts and
8th. Massachusetts for 5th. Conn. regt.
The post for the Southward will set out every Thursday morning at 11 o'clock and return from thence every Sunday at one o'clock P.M.
The post for the Eastward and Northward will set out every wednesday morning at 11 o'clock, and return from thence every Thursday at Twelve.
Parole Kendall. Countersigns, Leeds, Malden.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Howe
Lt. Colonel Cochran
Major Pittingall
Brigade Major Williams
Brigade Qur. Master Tuckerman
26. Of the Second Continental Artillery. He served to the close of the war; was major of U. S. Artillery in August, 1784, and September, 1789; appointed lieutenant colonel of the Second U.S. Infantry in March, 1791, which he declined, and retired from the service.
On September 11 Washington wrote to the President of Congress inclosing “the
Return of Recruits which have joined the Army up to the 31st of August last.” This
letter is in the Papers of the Continental Congress. The
return, which accompanies it, shows a total of 1,958 recruits.
27. Hezekiah Ripley. He was quartermaster of the Second Massachusetts Regiment and served to June, 1783.
For duty tomorrow 3d. Connecticut and 3d. Massachusetts regiments
At a General Courtmartial of which Colonel Micheal Jackson is president:
Lieutenant Boss,
The Court on consideration are of opinion that, that part of the charge against Lieutenant Boss “being repeatedly drunk for two or three days at a time” is not fully supported, yet they think he has been repeatedly drunk. They are of opinion that the other parts of the charge are supported and that he is guilty of conducting himself in a manner unbecoming an officer and gentleman in breach of article 21st. section 14 of the rules and articles of war, and sentence that he be discharged from the service.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the court.
By the same General court martial, Ensign Bloodgood,
38. Lieut. George Boss, formerly of the Fourth Pennsylvania Regiment.
39. Ensign William Bloodgood. He resigned in December, 1782.
of the widow Charity Jacobus in a Clandestine manner and when publicly charged therewith, not to clear up his Character to the officers of the regiment when brought to an account for such conduct. The Court on Consideration are of opinion that Ensign Bloodgood did take some money from the widow Jacobus without her knowledge and consent and though they do not think he took it with an intention ultimately to defraud her of it yet they his conduct highly reprehensible and unbecoming the Character of an officer; On the other part of the charge the court are of opinion that Ensign Bloodgood took the measures that were in his power to clear up his Character to the officers.
The Court sentence Ensign Bloodgood to be repremanded by the Commander in chief in General orders.
From a consideration of the circumstances the Commander in chief cannot but think Ensign Bloodgood is much indebted to the lenity of the court for the mildness of their sentence he hopes this will prove a warning against practices of the like nature in future which tho perhaps committed without a criminal intention have too much the appearance of it.
Ensign Bloodgood is released from his arrest.
By the same General courtmartial, Captn. McFarland
40. Capt. Moses McFarland, formerly of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. He had been wounded at Bunker Hill in June, 1775; transferred to the Invalid Regiment in March, 1779; served to close of the war.
“Disobedience of orders in not joining his regiment 'till the 20th. of July last although he had the following order sent him for that purpose from Colonel Nicola.
Fishkill, April 21st. 1782.
In consequence of his Excellencys the commander in chiefs order communicated to me by Maj. Genl. Lord Sterling I am to direct you to march all the Invalids under your command to this place, and expect you will commence your march in forty eight hours after the receipt of this.
Fishkill 19. June 1782.
As your disobedience a second time upon express order to march here will probably be much construed to your disadvantage and when enquired into which it certainly will when you arrive your reasons may not be thought valid, you must be mustered and returned absent without leave and that I may not be censured am under the disagreable necessity of ordering you to loin the regiment immediately.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that Captn. McFarland is not guilty of the charge against him and do acquit him.
The Commander in chief approves the opinion of the court.
Captn. McFarland is released from his arrest.
At the same Genl. courtmartial, Nathan Potter, a soldier of the 3d. Connecticut regiment was tried for “Desertion.” The Court upon consideration are of opinion
that the prisoner is guilty of a breach of Article 1st. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and do sentence him to receive fifty lashes on his naked back.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court and directs that Nathan Potter receive his punishment at the head of the regiment he belongs to at such time as the commanding officer of it shall direct.
The first Massachusetts regiment to releive the first New Jersey regiment now on fatigue at Westpoint on Sunday next the 15th. instant for seven days exclusive of the day it marches.
AFTER ORDERS
At half after seven o'clock tomorrow morning the several Brigades will parade in front of their respective encampments, wheel to the right by platoons, and (except the second Jersey regiment which is to stand fast) march to the right in open Columns untill they have their distances, when they will halt; Order firelocks, and wait for orders.
As the intention of drawing out the troops tomorrow is to complement his Excellency
the Count de Rochambeau; The troops as he passes them will pay him the honors due the
Commander in chief. On this occasion the tallest men are to be in the front
rank.
41. In the Historical Register for May, 1858, p. 132, is
printed a brief note from Washington, undated, but written Sept. 14, 1782, to
Lieut. Levi Holden, of the Commander in Chief's Guard: “Mr. Holden: Have the Guard
clean and ready to receive Count de Rochambeau who is to be here to breakfast this
morning” and also, another brief note, dated “Saturday”, which was September 14,
“The barge is to go over for the Count. One of the gentlemen of the family will go
over with it. You will therefor know when he is coming.” Copies of these notes are
in the Toner Transcripts in the Library of Congress.
The Comte reached Washington's quarters on September 14. Rochambeau in his Memoires states that out of respect and gratitude for
France the Comte was received through a double line of troops, equipped, armed,
and clothed partly from supplies brought from France and partly from the British
stores captured at Yorktown, which the French had generously given up to the
Americans. General Washington had his drums beat the French march during the whole
time of the review. Thatcher's Military Journal thus
describes the occasion: “The whole army was paraded under arms this morning
(September 14) in order to honor his Excellency Count Rochambeau on his arrival
from the southward. The troops were all formed in two lines extending from the
ferry where the Count crossed, to his quarters. A troop of horse met and received
him at King's ferry, and conducted him through the line to General Washington's
quarters, where sitting on his horse by the side of his Excellency, the whole army
marched before him and paid the usual salute and honors. Our troops were now in
complete uniform and exhibited every mark of soldiery discipline. Count Rochambeau
was most highly gratified to perceive the very great improvement which our army
had made in appearance since he last reviewed them, and expressed his astonishment
at their rapid progress in military skill and discipline.”
Parole Kingston. Countersigns Lynn, Margate.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier Genl. Patterson
Majors Spurr
Brigade Major Cushing
Brigade Qr. Mast. Appleton
For duty tomorrow 2d. Connecticut and 9th. Massachusetts regiments
The 2d. Newyork regiment will relieve the men of the first on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat tomorrow.
One hundred men from the several Brigades properly officerd to be at the Quartermaster generals office precisely at seven o'clock tomorrow morning for fatigue.
The general Courtmartial whereof Col. Micheal Jackson is president is disolved.
Parole Louis 16th. Countersigns Rochambeau, Chattelux.
For the day tomorrow
Brigr. General Huntington
Major Olney
Major Reading
Brigade Major Cox
Brigade Quartermaster Morrill
For duty tomorrow 4th. Connecticut and 6th. Massachusetts regiments.
A Field officer, two captains, two subs, eight serjeants, one Drum one fife, and one hundred and twenty rank and file to be
42. Maj. John Spurr. of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. He served to January, 1783.
43. Maj. Samuel Reading, of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
44. Ensign Joseph(?) Morrill, of the First New York Regiment. He served to June, 1783.
at the ferry on the right tomorrow morning by sunrise they are to man the boats and assist in crossing the French army. The first Newyork regiment for this duty to be relieved by the second Massachusetts regiment tomorrow at sunset.
Parole Paris. Countersigns Brest, Nantz.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Heath
Major Wright
Major Warner
Brigade Majr. Hicks
Brig. Quartermaster Judson
For duty tomorrow the Rhode Island and 7th. Massachusetts regiments
A Field officer, two captains, two subs, eight serjeants one drum one fife and one hundred and thirty rank and file from the 1st. Connecticut regiment to relieve the party on fatiugue at the ferry from the 2d. Massachusetts regiment at sunrise tomorrow morning; to be relieved by the like number from the 3d. Massachusetts regiment at Sunset tomorrow evening.
A General courtmartial whereof Col. Cortlandt
58. Maj. Joseph Allyn Wright, of the second Connecticut Regiment. He was transferred to the Third Connecticut Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
59. Maj. Robert Warner, of the First Connecticut Regiment.
60. Capt. David Judson, of the Fourth Connecticut Regiment. He was transferred to the First Connecticut Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
is appointed president to assemble tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock at the Judge Advocate Marquis Lieutt. Colonel Johnson, Major Maxwell, one Captain from the Jersey, one Captain from the York, one Captain from each of the Connecticut and two Captains from each of the Massachusetts brigades are to attend as members.
All evidence and persons concerned are requested to attend.
An orderly serjeant from each Division to attend the court martial daily.
Untill further orders the Drummer and Filers of the different regiments will every day practise between the hours of ten and twelve.
MORNING ORDERS
Five flatbottomed boats man'd with five men each, from each brigade except the Jersey which will furnish three boats man'd as above, to be sent immediately to Kingsferry and there wait for orders.
Parole Boston. Countersigns Newport, Providence.
For the Day tomorrow
Major Genl. Howe
Colonel Greaton
Major Fish
Brigad Major Walker
Brigade Quartermastr. Williams
For Duty tomorrow 1st. Jersey and 4th. Massachusetts regimts.
The 2d. Connecticut regiment to furnish the relief for the fatigue from the third Massachusetts regiment at the ferry, tomorrow morning at sunrise, to consist of a Field officer, two captains, 2 sub, 8 Serjeants, one drum one fife and one hundred and thirty rank and file, to be relieved by the like number from the 8th. Massachusetts regiment tomorrow evening at Sunset.
A serjeant, corporal and twelve men for fatigue tomorrow to parade at troop beating at the Quarter master generals where they will receive directions.
The same number of flatbottomed boats from each brigade man'd as directed by the morning orders of this day to be at the ferry on the West side of the river tomorrow morning at nine o'clock precisely.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following resolves.
By the United States in Congress assembled.
September 3, 1782.
Resolved, That all resolutions heretofore passed respecting the pay and emoulements of the field Commissary of military stores, his deputies, conductors, and clerks, be, and they hereby are repealed.
Resolved, That the pay and emoluments of the field commissary of military stores shall be fifty dollars per month, two rations per day, forage for two saddle horses, and one bat horse. He shall also be allowed six dollars and two thirds of a dollar per month for a servant, for whom he shall be entitled to draw one ration per day and the cloathing allowed to a private soldier.
That the pay and emoluments of a deputy field commissary of military stores for the southern army, shall be forty dollars per month, two rations per day, forage for two saddle horses and one bat horse. He shall also be allowed six dollars and two-thirds of a dollar per month for a servant, for whom he shall be entitled to draw one ration per day and the cloathing allowed to a private soldier.
Resolved, That the pay and emoluments of the deputy field commissary of military stores at West Point, shall be forty dollars per month and two rations per day.
That the pay and emoluments of the conductors or clerks shall be thirty dollars per month and one ration per day.
Resolved, That there shall be one field commissary of military stores and two conductors or clerks, for the main army in the field; one deputy field commissary of military stores and two conductors or clerks for West Point; one deputy field commissary of military stores and two conductors or clerks, for the southern army; and one conductor for the post at Fort Pitt, who shall be appointed by the commanding officer of the artillery, with the approbation of the Commander in Chief; excepting for the southern army, in which department the appointment shall be made by the commanding officer of artillery there, with the approbation of the commanding officer of that department.
The American officers of every grade will endeavor to make themselves acquainted with
the persons of the general officers of the french army, in order that the honors due
to their respective ranks may be paid to them. Sentinels must be extremely vigilent
and attentive on their post and guards very alert in parading. The officers of the
day will be pleased to see that all picquets and guards are properly posted and that
sentries when they salute front in the same direction as
their Guards; they will also see that the regulations in this Article are strictly
attended
to with respect to the officers of the French as well as the American Army. Report is to be made immediately to the Judge Advocate of all prisoners whose crimes are cognizable by a General Court Martial.
In consequence of the foregoing Resolve of the Congress Major General Knox having appointed Richard Frothingham, Field Comy. of Military stores for the Main Army; Asa Copeland, conductor; John Hoff, clerk; John Ruddock, Deputy Comy. at West Point; John Banks, conductor; William Herriot, clerk and Mathew Parvin, conductor at Fort Pitt.
The Commander in cheif is pleased to approve the above appointments.
Parole Marseilles. Countersigns Ostend, Dunkirk.
For the Day tomorrow
Brig. Genl. Patterson
Lt. Col. Barber
Major Rice
Brigade Major Converse
Brigade Qr. Master Ripley
For Duty the 2d. Jersey and 2d. Massachusetts regiments.
The fifth Connecticut regiment to furnish the relief for the fatigue, from the 8th. Massachusetts regiment at the ferry tomorrow morning at sunrise.
A serjeant and ten men to be sent daily on fatigue to the flying hospital untill further orders.
74. Maj. Nathan Rice, of the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment.
75. Lieut. Hezekiah Ripley, of the Second Massachusetts Regiment. He was regimental quartermaster in June, 1779, and served to June, 1783.
At a Brigade General courtmartial held at the Park of Artillery at Burlington, August 8th. 1782, whereof Major Bauman was President, William Salman and John Brown in the 2d. regiment of artillery were tried for desertion and attempting to go to the enemy; found guilty in breach of Article 1. Section 6 of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to suffer death, two thirds of the court agreeing thereto.
The Commander in chief is under the necessity of disapproving the proceedings on account of the illegal constitution of the court, it being neither held by his order nor by that of a General officer commanding in the state of New Jersey; a new trial is ordered before a proper court.
From particular intercession and in consideration of peculiar circumstances attending his crime. The Commander in chief is pleased to remit the punishment assigned to Nathan Potter a soldier in the third Connecticut regiment, and orders him to be released from confinement and return to his duty.
The flat bottomed boats furnished by the several Brigades to assist in transporting the French army are to be continued untill further orders.
There will be a general review on saturday next: no officer (or soldier who has a uniform suit and ought to appear in the ranks) is to be absent. The commander in chief gives this early notice that the men may appear clean and to advantage. The general has discovered at some of the late Manoeuvreings in some instances an inattention in marching; for, besides the loss of step, which alone is sufficient to give an awkward movement, to a division or platoon, he has remarked that many of the soldiers do not step boldly and freely; but short and with bent knees. The officers commanding platoons and divisions will see that these defects are remied and that their men while marching by the reviewing officer carry their bodies erect, look well up, incline their heads to the right and look full in the face of that officer; this last to be considered as a standing order.
Parole Louis 16th. Countersigns Rochambeau, Chattelux.
For the Day tomorw.
Brigadier Genl. Huntington
Colonel Shepard
Lieutt. Colo. Sproat
Brigade Major Smith
Brigade Qr. Master Tuckerman
For duty tomorrow 1st York and 8th Massachusetts regiments.
The Board of officers appointed in the orders of the 9th. of Septr. to examine the pretentions of the Candidates for the badge of Merit will be pleased to inquire into the grounds on which the badges for long and faithful services have been conferred in the different corps; they will correct any errors they shall discover to have taken place, and ascertain the most unexceptionable rules for introducing uniformity of principal and practice in extending these honorary distinctions to all who merit them and to no others agreeably to the original intention. The Board will decide any questions that may be referred to them on the subject and report their proceedings from time to time to the Commander in Chief.
Captain Vanheers troop will give a noncommissioned Officer and four Dragoons only for the Grand parade.
Parole Rochambeau. Countersigns Bourbonnois, Soissonnois.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. Heath
Lieutenant Colonel J. Millen
Major T. Woodbridge
Brigade Major Williams
Brigade Quarter Master Appleton
77. Brigade Maj. David Smith.
79. Lieut. Col. James Mellen.
80. Lieut. Abraham(?) Appletin, of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
For duty tomorrow the Levies of the New York, first and second Connecticut regiments.
The second Jersey regiment will relieve the first Massachusetts regiment on Fatigue at Westpoint the 22d. instant.
The Rhode island regiment will relieve the men on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat at the same time.
AFTER ORDERS
The troops are to be peraded and ready to receive the general precisely at nine
o'clock tomorrow morning. As the ground between the New York and first Connecticut
brigades is very uneven, the latter will not close up to the former untill the
general has passed the line; but as soon as he has passed the left of the line the
interval left between these two brigades is to be filled up and the line ready to
wheel on the signal.
81. The “Disposition for the Manœuvre,” in the writing of Hodijah Baylies, is in
the Washington Papers, under date of Sept. 21, 1782.
Parole France. Countersigns Paris, Brest.
For the day tomorrow
Lieutenant Colonel Olney
Major B. Throop
Brigade Major Cox
Brigade Qr. Mastr. Bulkley
For duty tomorrow 1st Connectt. and 3d. Massa. regiments.
By virtue of the powers, vested in the Commander in chief by the resolve of the honorable the Congress of the 24th July last. Lieutenant Colonel Wm. S. Smith is appointed Commissary of prisoners to the Army in the quarter and is to be respected as such.
Parole America. Countersigns Philadelphia, Wilmington.
For the day tomorrow
Colonel Swift
Major Trescot
Brigade Qr. Master Judson
Brigade Major Hicks
For duty tomorrow 5th. Connecticut and 9th. Massa: regiments.
The Brigade Conductors of military stores having been deranged by the late orders of Congress, the Stores, waggons, forges, Tools, &c. in their procession are to be delivered to the Brigade Quartermasters who are in future to be responsible for this duty. A serjeant from each brigade must be appointed to have the special charge of the Forges and stores and to act under the orders of the Brigade Quartermasters. When any arms, Ammunition or accoutriments are wanting regimental returns in the
91. Capt. Edward Bulkley, of the Third Connecticut Regiment. He was made brigade major from February, 1782, and served to June, 1783.
On September 22 Washington wrote to the Secretary at War, forwarding the muster
rolls of the New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts
lines for July and August. “I have this day appointed Lt. Colo. Smith Commy of
Prisoners to the Army in this Quarter.” This draft is in the Washington Papers.
92. Capt. David Judson, of the Fourth Connecticut Regiment. He was appointed brigade quartermaster from December, 1778.
manner prescribed in the regulations are to be made to the Brigade Qr. Masters who will form them into a brigade return and obtain the signature of the commanding officer of brigade and the Inspector general, or Inspector. The commanding officer of artillery will upon this return order the Field commissary of Military stores to make the issues required.
At a general court martial held at the barracks at Carlile, August 13th, 1782, by order of Col. Richard Butler, whereof Lieutenant Colonel Commandant William Butler is President.
Christian Casner of the Pennsylvania Line charged with Desertion and enlisting with
and receiving the bounty from Capt. Bush,
The Commander in Chief approves the sentences of the Courtmartial.
93. Capt. John Bush, of the Third Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in January, 1781.
94. Capt.-Lieut. Matthew(?) McGuire.
95. Capt. John B.(?) Webster.
Parole Martinico. Countersigns Fort royal, Basseterre.
For the Day tomorrow
Lieutenant Colonel Vose
Major Gibbs
Brigade Major Walker
Brigade Quartr. Master Williams
For duty tomorrow 3d. Connecticut and 6th. Massa. regiments.
When Guards march by Platoons it is to be observed as a General rule, that the Drummers and fifers if there be any, dress with the front rank of the first Platoon, the Drumr. on the right of the Serjeant, and the filer on the right of the Drummer.
Parole New hampshire. Countersigns Portsmouth, Piscataqua.
For the Day tomorrow
Lieutenant Colo. Newhall
Major Darby
Brigade Major Converse
Brigade Qr. Master Ripley
For duty tomorrow 2d. Connecticut and Rhode Island regiment.
By the General Courtmartial of which
Colonel Courtlandt is President, September 19th. 1782, Lieutenant Deniston
The Court are of opinion that the Charges against Lieutenant Deniston is supported and that he is guilty of a breach of Article 2d. section 13th. of the rules and Articles of war and sentence him to be repremanded by the Commander in Chief in General Orders.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the Court.
Under the circumstances stated in the trial it is not to be doubted but that Mr. Deniston might have obtained Leave had he applied for it, his leaving Camp without such application shews an indifference to order which is highly reprehensible.
Lieutenant Deniston is released from Arrest.
The Commander in Chief is pleased to pardon Sylvester Young, soldier in the first Jersey regiment under Sentence of Death for desertion &c. and directs that he be released from Confinement and join his regiment.
Six Captains, six Subalterns, twelve serjeans, twelve Corporals, and three hundred privates, are immediately to be draughted, and put under the direction of the Quartermaster General for the purpose of transporting fewel to Westpoint; for the use of the Garrison. The officers and Noncomd. officers are to be taken from the line; the privates are all to be new levies and taken
14. Lieut. Daniel D. Denniston (Deniston). He served to June, 1783.
in equal proportion, from the brigades which have men of that description.
Parole Burgundy. Countersigns Dunkirk, Toulon.
For the Day tomorrow
Colonel Vose
Lieutenant Colonel Grosvenor
Brigade Major Smith
Brigade Quarter Master Tuckerman
For duty tomorrow the 4th. Connecticut and 1st. Massa. regiment.
Ezra Gasco, a soldier of the 2d Massa. Regiment, tried by the General Court martial of which Col. Cortlandt is president, for Deserting from Guard is found guilty of breach of Article 1st. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Caleb Howard soldier tried by the same General Courtmartial for deserting from the regiment late Colonel Lee's and reinlisting in the 1st. New York regiment is found guilty of a breach of Article 1st. and 3d. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Noah Thresher, soldier, tried by the same Genl. Courtmartial for deserting from the late 16th. Massa. regimt. is found guilty of a breach of article 1st. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war, and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
John Frint, soldier, tried by the same Genl. courtmartial for Deserting from the 9th. Massa. regiment is found guilty of a breach of Article 1st. section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Nicholas and Dennis Plugh, soldiers, tried by the same General courtmartial for
Deserting from the 2d. Newyork regiment, are found guilty of a breach of Article 1st.
Sectn. 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to receive one hundred
lashes each on his [ sic ] naked back.
John Lathbee, soldier in the 2d. Massa. Regiment, tried by the same General courtmartial for desertion, going to the enemy and selling or otherwise disposing of his regimental Cloathing, is found guilty of a breach of article 1st. Section 6th. and Arte. 3d. Section 12th. of the rules and articles of war, and sentenced to receive twenty five lashes on his naked back, four successive mornings, amounting in the whole to one hundred lashes.
The Commander in Chief approves each and every of the foregoing sentences and orders that the punishments be inflicted, at such times, as the Commanding officers of regiments the Delinquents belong to shall direct.
The Commanding officers of the brigades from which the Levies were yesterday drawn for the Quartermaster generals service are requested to see, that their arms, accoutriments, and Ammunition are delivered to the Field Commissary of Military Stores.
Parole Massachusetts. Countersigns Boston, Salem.
For the Day tomorrow
Colonel Butler
Major Wyllys
Brigade Major Williams
B. Qr. Master Appleton
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Jersey and 4th. Massa. regiments.
The seventh Massachusetts regiment will relieve the second Jersey regiment on fatigue at Westpoint the 29th. instant.
The 1st. New York regiment will relieve the men of the Rhode island regiment on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat at the same time.
Parole Virginia. Countersigns Maryland, Delaware.
For the day tomorrow
Lt. Col. E. Huntington
Major Graham
Brigade Major Cushing
Qr. Master Morrill
For duty tomorrow 1st. New York and 2d. Massa. Regiments.
Parole Rhode Island. Countersigns Bristol, Providence.
For the day tomorrow
Lieutenant Colonel Gray
Major Pettingall
Brigade Major Cox
Brigade Qr. Master Bulkly
For duty tomorrow 2d. New York and 8th. Massachusetts regiments.
The adjournment of the General courtmartial of which Colonel Cortlandt is president, is continued untill Wednesday, the 2d. of October next when it will meet at the usual place and hour.
Parole Normandy. Countersigns Cherburgh, Calais.
For the day tomorrow
Lieut. Colonel Cochran
Major Spurr
Brigade Major Hicks
Brigade Qr. Master from
2d. Conn. brig.
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Connecticut and 5th. Massachusetts regiments.
The Levies detached for the purpose of transporting the wood will receive from the regiments to which they belong their proportion of Tents, and encamp at the Landing places to which they are assigned or wherever the Quarter Master General shall direct. They are untill further orders to be excluded in the provision returns of the regiments they served in, and to draw
on Returns signed by the Quartermaster genl. or such person as he shall authorize.
By a General courtmartial held at Verplanks point Septr. 23d. 1782, whereof Colonel Cortlandt is president Captain Matchen of the 2d. regiment of Artillery, charged “1st. with Inlisting a Soldier belonging to the 2d. Connecticut regimt. on the 15th. or 16th. of August last and sending him to recruit for him, without the knowledge of the Commanding officer of his regiment 2dly. With Inlisting several men unfit for further Service, particularly Fineas Fountain and John Crump” was tried.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that the first charge against Captain Machin is supported, yet think Capt. Machin did not know that the Soldier did belong to the 2d. Connecticut regiment, but as it appears to the Court that Captain Machin did not take the measures in his power for proper Information they think him guilty of a neglect highly reprehensible.
On the 2d. charge the Court are of opinion that Captain Machin did Inlist two men Vizt. Fineas Fountain and John Crump unfit for service, yet from the circumstances in evidence they think Captn. Machin might have been deceived with respect to Crump and therefore as to inlisting him, they think Captn. Machin excusable, but in enlisting Fountain they think Captn. Machin Guilty of a breach of his recruiting instructions.
The Court Sentence Captain Machin to be repremanded by the Commander in Chief in General orders, to be recalled from the recruiting service and that he be at all the expence incurred by the enlisting and subsisting Fountaine while in service.
The Commander in Chief approves the above sentence.
The paymaster of the 2d regiment of Artillery is to make a stoppage from Capt. Machins pay equal to the expence of Inlisting and subsisting Fountaine while in service.
The Judgement of the Court carries with it so full a censure upon the impropriety of Captn. Machins Conduct while in the execution of one of the highest trusts that can be reposed in an officer that he thinks it unnecessary to add a further reprimand.
At the same General courtmartial, John Williams and Henry Jones, alias Thos. Rock, recruits for the Massachusetts line and Zachariah Custis, a Soldier of the 10th. Massa. regt. severally charged with Desertion were tried and found guilty in breach of Article 1st. section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and each sentenced to receive one hundred Lashes on his naked back.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the Court.
In the orders of the 8th. instant the Commander in Chief pointed out the danger of a carless use of fire in Camp. He now directs that officers on guard may prevent their sentinals or others from making fires in the woods where there
is no encampment; and after the publication of this order it is expected that the Field officers and the Quarter Masters of the day will see that all fires made in or about the Camp except at the usual and necessary places of Cooking and Washing be immediately extinguished, and those who make them confined and brought to trial for disobedience of orders.
Commanding officers of brigades are requested to point out the places where their brigades are to wash and give strict orders that fires made for that purpose are not left burning when the persons who make them return to Camp.
Parole Newhaven. Countersigns Fairfield, Newtown.
For the day tomorrow
Majors Olney and Reading
Brigade Major Walker
Brigd. Qr. Mr. Williams
For duty tomorrow the 5th Connectt. and 3 Massa. Regiments.
At the General Courtmartial of which Colonel Cortlandt is President, Major James Keith of the 8th Massa. Regiment was tried.
First: For presuming to detach a party of armed men
from the Garrison of Westpoint, without the consent or knowledge of the Commandant and putting them under the direction of a person who was not an officer, to the prejudice of good order and military decipline. Secondly: For a palpable contempt and disobedience of General Orders, having connived at and assisted in a pernicious and illicit intercourse of traffic with the Enemy, by furnishing Joseph Brown with a Military Guard, which he made use of for the protection of stores and Merchandise, brought from within the Enemys lines.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that Major Keith as Commanding Officer of the 8th Massa. Regt. had the permission of the Commandant of the Garrison of West Point to detach men as he thought best for feathers, that Major Keith did detach a party for the purpose, with directions at the same time to guard some stores in for the use of the Army which was without the consent or knowledge of the Commandant and that he put the party under the direction of a person who was not an officer to the prejudice of Good order and Military Decipline in breach of Article 5th. section 18th. of the rules and articles of war.
The Court on the second charge are of opinion that Major Keith did furnish Joseph Brown with a Military Guard which he made use of for the protection of stores
and Merchandise brought from within the enemys Lines and think, agreable to their opinion on the first charge, that Major Keith is responsible for the use to which the Guard was put by Mr. Brown and of consequence that Major Keith is guilty of the second charge against him in breach of article 5th. Section 18th. of the rules and articles of War.
The Court Sentence Major Keith to be discharged the service.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the Court.
Parole Champaign. Countersigns Antwerp, Ostend.
For the day tomorrow
Major Wright
Major Warner
Brigade Major Converse
Brigade Qr. Master Ripley
For duty tomorrow the 3d. Connecticut and 9th Massa. regiments.
The Commander in Chief forbids the sending or permitting Boats to go down the river, from this Camp without his leave; Non-commissioned officers or soldiers, who are detected in going down the river by Water, or below the advanced posts of the army, by land without proper authority will be severely punished.
Lieutenant Bradford
Lieutenant John Welch
Lieutenant Greenman
Parole New York. Countersigns Albany, Newburgh.
For duty tomorrow
Colonel Van Scaick
Lt. Colonel Van Dyck
Brigade Major Smith
Brigade Quartermaster Tuckerman
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Connecticut and 6th. Massa. regiments.
32. Lieut. James Bradford. He served to June, 1784; was made captain of U.S. Artillery in September, 1789; killed in action with the Indians on the Maumee in Ohio, in November, 1791.
33. Lieut. James Giles. He had resigned in August, 1782.
34. Lieut. John Welch (Welsh). He retired in June, 1783.
35. Lieut. David Sayles. He had been promoted to a captaincy in May, 1781, and retired in March, 1783.
36. Lieut. Jeremiah Greenman. He served to December, 1783.
37. Lieut. John Rogers (Rodgers). He served to November, 1783.
Parole Marseilles. Countersigns Toulon, Narbonne.
For the day tomorrow
Colonel Greaton
Major Fish
Brigade Major Williams
Brigade Qr. Master Appleton
For duty tomorrow the 4th. Connecticut and Rhode Isld. regiment.
The 2d. New york regiment will releive the men of the 1st. on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat tomorrow:
The 1st. New York regiment will releive the 7th. Massachusetts, on fatigue at West Point the next day.
One trusty able bodied man who is a good oarsman, from each of the Massachusetts brigades, is to be immediately sent to join Captn. Prays command, to replace a like number returned sick.
Parole Burlington. Countersigns Brunswick, Chatham.
For the day tomorrow
Lt. Colonel Barber
Major Rice
Brigade Major Cushing
Brigade Quartermaster Morrill
For duty 1st. Jersey and 1st. Massachusetts regiments.
Lieutenant Colonel Vose is appointed a member of the General courtmartial of which Colonel Cortlandt is President, vice Major Maxwell.
Parole Bordeaux. Countersigns Rochell, Rockfort.
For the day tomorrow
Colonel Shepard
Lt. Colonel Sproat
Brigade Major Cox
Brigade Quarter Mr. Bulkley.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Jersey and 4th. Massa. regiments.
The regimental Paymaster will apply to the Assistant Clothier General at Newburgh for their proportion of the blankets now in Store.
A return of the New Levies serving in the several brigades which compose this army over and above the number lately drawn out for the Quartermaster Generals service to be made to the Adjutant General by 8 o'clock tomorrow morning.
Parole Lancaster. Countersigns York, Carlile.
For the day tomorrow
Lieutent. Col. C. Smith
Major Maxwell
Brigade Major Hicks
Brigade Qr. Master from the
2d. Connecticut brigade
For duty tomorrow 2 New York and 2d. Massachusetts regiments
At the General courtmartial of which Colo. Coutlandt is president, Lieutenant
Hunt
1st. Neglect of duty in not attending the parade on the morning of the 21st. of September last agreable to the Genl Orders of the 18th. of that month directing that no officer should be absent on that occasion.
2dly. With unofficer and ungentlemanlike Conduct in pretending to be unfit for duty by reason of Lameness on the 21st. September last when on that day, and the preceeding day he did walk through the Encampment of the Army and to Peekskill for his pleasure.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that Lt. Hunt is guilty of the Charges against him in breach of Article 4th. Section 13th. and Art. 5th. section 18th. of the rules and
53. Lieut. Col. Calvin Smith, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. He served to June, 1783.
54. Lieut. Ephraim Hunt. He served to the close of the war
Articles of war, but as the Court think Lieutenant Hunt had some grounds for his pretence though not sufficient to excuse him, they sentence him only to be repremanded by the Commander in chief in Genl. orders.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence.
It appears to him from the face of the proceedings that Lieutenant Hunt was probably incapable of undergoing the fatigue of a field day on account of the boil upon his Thigh, and that there was an implied leave of a absence from duty in the manner of Lieutenant Colonel Mellons expressing himself. Mr. Hunt however ought after what had passed between Lieutenant Colonel Mellon and himself to have obtained a more explicit answer in order to have fully justified his leaving his Command.
Lieutenant Hunt is released from his arrest.
The honorable the Congress of the United States having been pleased by their
resolution of the 2d. October to appoint Lieutenant Thomas Edwards
55. He served as Deputy Judge Advocate since April, 1780, and also served to November, 1783.
Parole Providence. Countersigns Alps, Bruges.
For the Day tomorrow
Lieutt. Colonel Mellen
Major Woodbridge
Brigade Major Walker
Quarter Master Williams
For duty tomorrow 1st. Connecticut and 8th. Massa. regiments.
At the General courtmartial whereof Colonel Cortlandt is President, Captain
Staunton
The court on consideration are of opinion that the charge against Captn. Stanton is not supported and is groundless, and they doe acquit Captn. Stanton.
Commander in chief approves the opinion of the Court.
Captn. Stanton is released from his arrest.
72. Capt. William Stanton (Staunton), of the Second Continental Dragoons. He served to the close of the war.
As the Weather has become so cool that the Shades in front of the tents can be of no further utility they are to be taken down—the Leaves and rubbish must be removed and the wood may be made use of for fuel. This is not meant to extend to detached bowers which do not join the tents and which will not endanger them from fire.
The Paymaster of those regiments which have recruits for three years or the war yet uncloathed are immediately to apply to the Deputy Clothier for cloth and materials. If they can be obtained the Commanding officers of the regimts. are desired to direct their Taylors to make up the Cloathing.
The Inspection for the Month of September will take place on the following days Vizt. Jersey and 1st. Massa. brigades the 11th. Instant; 1st. Connecticut and 2d. do. do. 13th; 2d. do. and 3 do. do 15th; York brigade and Command. in chiefs Guards, 16th.
In addition to the Levies already in the Qr. Mr. Generals service the New York brigade will furnish four, the first Connecticut forty four and the second Connecticut brigade Sixty eight; to be commanded by two Captains, two Subalterns four serjeants and four Corporals taken from the Line and employed as the Quarter Master General shall direct: they are to receive a proportion of Tents from, but excluded in the provision returns of their regiments.
The Brigades detailed for officers and noncommissioned officers to command this and the former draughts of Levies, may releive them at their pleasure.
AFTER ORDERS
Lieutenant Colonel Sherman is appointed officer of the day tomorrow, vice Lieutenant Colonel Mellen.
Parole Bethlehem. Countersigns Easton, Darby.
For the day tomorrow
Colonel Ogden
Lieutenant Colonel Olney
Brigade Major Converse
Quarter Master Ripley
For duty tomorrow 5th. Connecticut and 5th. Massa. regiments.
The honorable the superintendant of Finance having by the following
Commission,
73. The text of this commission, which is dated Sept. 19, 1782, is quoted at large in this General Order, but is omitted here.
The Commander in Chief desires that Chimneys may not be built to the tents in the Line untill his further direction shall be made known.
Parole Alsace. Countersigns Montpellier, Breston.
For the day tomorrow
Colonel Swift
Major Troop
Brigade Major Smith
Quarter Master Tuckerman
For duty tomorrow 3d. Connecticut and 3d. Massa. Brigades.
Parole Bethlehem. Countersigns Easton, Darby.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Gates
Lieutenant Colonel Newhall
Major Gibbs
Brigade Major Williams
Quarter Master Appleton
For duty tomorrow 2d. Connecticut and 9th. Massa. regiments.
81. Maj. Benjamin Throop, of the Fifth Connecticut Regiment.
At a General courtmartial held at Philadelphia Barracks, August 15th. 1782 by order of the honorable the Secretary at War whereof Major McPherson was President.
William Taylor soldier in the Pennsylvania Line charged with Desertion and forgery was Tried.
The court after maturely considering the nature of the Crime, the evidence and prisoners defence do find him guilty of the first part of the charge in breach of Article 1st. Section 6th. of the Articles of war and do sentence him to suffer Death, more than two thirds of the court agreeing thereto, and acquit him of the latter part of the charge, no evidence appearing to support it.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the court.
At a General courtmartial held at Verplanks point, October 2d. 1782 of which Colonel Cortlandt is President John McCoy Soldier of the 2d. Connecticut regiment charged with Desertion was tried and found guilty in breach of Article 1st. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war, and sentenced to receive one hundred Lashes on his naked back.
At the same court Wilhelmus Keator of the first New York regiment charged with Desertion was found guilty as above and sentenced to receive fifty Lashes on his naked back and twenty five Lashes each morning after till he shall have received in the whole one hundred Lashes.
82. On October 12 Tench Tilghman wrote to Col. Richard Humpton: “Inclosed you have
the approbation of the sentence against Taylor, which His Excellency does not
however intend shall be carried into execution; but whenever you think proper you
are to deliver him over to any Continental or public Vessel of War.” The draft of
Tilghman's letter is in the Washington Papers.
John Condrick, charged before the same Court with Deserting from the 2d. Connecticut regiment and Inlisting in the 1st. Jersey regiment, was found guilty as before mentioned and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
Micheal Cassady, soldier of the 1St. Massachusts. regiment, charged with Desertion was found Guilty in breach as aforesaid and sentenced to receive one hundred Lashes on his naked back.
The Commander in chief approves the foregoing Sentences and desires they may be carried into execution at such times as the Commanding officers of the regiments the Prisoners belong to shall direct, except the sentence against John Condrick of the 2d. Connecticut regiment who the General by particular intercession is pleased to pardon; he is to be released from confinement and Join his regiment.
The Board appointed the 9th ultimo to examine the pretentions of the Candidates for the Badge of Merit are requested to meet tomorrow morning 10 o'clock at the Inspector Generals Marque.
Parole Lyons. Countersigns Mardyke, Boulogne.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Heath
Lt. Colonel Grosvenor
Major Darby
Brigade Major Cushing
Quarter Master Merrell
For duty tomorrow 4th. Connecticut and 6th. Massa. Regiments.
Major Porter of the 6th. Massachusetts regiment charged, first, “With going beyond Sea without first obtaining proper authority for so doing.
2dly. With Disobedience of the General Orders of the 16th of January last by absenting himself from his regiment beyond the time limited by the Commander in chief in the orders of that day” was tried by the General Court martial of which Colonel Cortlandt is president and found guilty in breach of Article 5th. section 18th of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to be discharged the service.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the Court.
MORNING ORDERS
The Fourth Massachusetts regiment will relieve the 1st. New York regiment, on fatigue at West Point this day.
Parole Georgetown. Countersigns Port Tobacco, Bladensburg.
For the day tomorrow
Major General St. Clair
Col. Z. Butler
Major Wyllys
Brig. Major Cox
Quarter Master Bulkly
For duty tomorrow the Rhode Island and 1st. Massa. Regiments.
The 2d. Massachusetts regiment will relieve the men of the 2d. New York regiment on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat tomorrow.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
For duty tomorrow
Major Genl. Howe
Major Pettingill
Major Spurt
Brigade Major Hicks
Quarter Master 2d. Connt. Brigde.
For duty tomorrow 1st. Jersey and 7th. Massa. regiments.
Major Generals Gates, Heath, and St. Clair and Colonels Greaton, and Ogden are requested to meet at General Gates's Marque tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock in order to settle a dispute of rank between Lieutenant Colonels Huntington and Gray. The Parties are desired to attend and the necessary papers laid before the Board. They will make their report to the Commander in chief.
For a Monoevre to be performed on Thursday next, the disposition for which will be
hereafter communicated.
The Jersey Line will give one, the York line two, the Connecticutt line including the Rhode island regiment two, and the Massachusetts line three battallions; each battallion to consist of two Field and twelve Platoon officers, twenty five Noncommissd. officers, and eight Platoons of fifteen Files each. Four field Pieces to be attached to this Corps.
The Jersey battallion to be furnished with 12, the two Connecticutt and that battalion of Massachusetts which forms immediately on the left of the Connecticut, with four rounds of blank cartridges per man. The Field pieces with ten rounds each the battallions to be provided with colours.
At the General courtmartial of which Colonel Cortlandt is president, Ensign
Covel
95. Ensign Thomas Covel (Covell, Covill).
of December 6th. 1779, to join his regiment, neglecting so to do or to give satisfactory reasons for his continuance of absence” was tried agreable to the resolve of congress of Decr. 6th. 1779, respecting absent officers.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that Ensign Covel has exceeded the limits of his furlough; that he has been notified to join his regiment agreable to the resolve of congress of Decr. 6th. 1779, respecting absent officers, and that he has neglected to join the regiment accordingly or to give satisfactory reasons for his continuance of absence and they sentence that he be cashered.
The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the court.
At the same Court Samuel G. Dyer of the Rhode Island regiment, “charged with Desertion from the regiment in April 1781, and joining the enemy, was found guilty in breach of article 1st. section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to suffer Death (more than two thirds of the court agreing thereto).
The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the court.
Parole Williamsburgh. Countersigns Richmond, Hampton.
For the day tomorrow
Brigadier Genl. Patterson
Major Porter
Major Olney
Brigade Major Walker
Quarter Master Williams
The Jersey and 2d. Massachusetts Brigades will give the Guards &ca for the day tomorrow.
The days being much decreased in length and mornings growing colder, the troop untill further orders is not to beat 'till 9 o'clock.
The Commander in chief directs the army to be informed that in consequence of instructions from the superintendent of Finance, the honorable Mr. Cornell hath entered into a Contract with Messrs. Wadsworth & Carter to supply the Main army, the Garrison of West Point and its dependences with rations of provisions from the 16th. instant until the last day of December next inclusive.
All applications for provisions are therefore to be made to them or their agents; and no receipts, or vouchers for the Delivery of Provisions are to be given except to them or persons issuing under their authority. The aforesaid Contractors Wadsworth & Carter are to have the use of all Commissarys store houses, Scales and weights belonging to the public in this department, they taking care that the property of the former Contractors be as little injured thereby as possible.
Parole Paris. Countersigns Passy, Villers.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. Gates
Majors Reading and Wright
Brigade Major Converse
Quarter Master Ripley
The New York and 2d. Massachusetts Brigades will furnish the Guards &ca. tomorrow.
Thirty Masons and twenty Carpinters to be sent from the several brigades to Westpoint tomorrow morning.
The board to whom were referred the settlement of the dispute of rank between Lieutenant Colonels Huntington and Gray, report, that,
Having examined all the papers referred them by the Commander in chief and having
heard every thing that Lt. Col. Gray and Lieutenant Colonel Huntington had to urge in
support of their respective claims are unanimously of opinion, as the Commander in
chief ordered Colonel Livingstons resignation to be fixed to the 10th. of October
1778, in consequence of his improper conduct in neglecting to procure the proper
vouchers of the settlement of his accounts that Lieutenant Colonel Livingston's
Commission became vacant that day and of course Lieutenant Colonel Huntingtons
Commission is regularly dated, and ought to give rank from the date thereof.
6. On October 17 Washington forwarded this report in a brief note to the Secretary
at War. The draft of this note is in the Washington
Papers.
As the manœuvering battalions will occupy the Grand Parade tomorrow morning, the Guards will be formed on the rising ground between Head quarters and Engineers Marque.
Parole Edenton. Countersigns Hallifax, Newburgh.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Heath
Colonel Van Schaick
Major Warner
Brigade Major Smith
Quartermaster Tuckerman
The Guards &ca. for tomorrow will be furnished from the Line of the Army.
Parole Versailles. Countersigns Ushant, St. Malo.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. St. Clair
Lt. Colonel Shepard
Col. C. Smith
B. Major Williams
Qr. Master Morrill
The Guards &ca. for tomorrow to be furnished as this day.
Parole Charlestown. Countersigns Beaufort, Edith.
For the day tomorrow
Major General Howe
Lieutenant Colonel Sherman
Major Woodbridge
Brigade Major Cushing
Qr. Master Bulkley
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Connecticut and 3d. Massachusetts regiments.
The 2d. New York regiment to relieve the 4th. Massa. regiment on fatigue at West Point tomorrow.
The Commander in Chief not only takes occasion to express his own approbation of the performance of the Manoevre this morning; but has the satisfaction of acquainting the officers who commanded, that the french Gentlemen who were present, have passed the highest encomiums upon their exact attention to, and knowledge of every essential part of Discipline.
Parole —. Countersigns Ostend, Dieppe.
For duty tomorrow
Brigadier Genl. Patterson
Colonel Ogden
Lt. Colonel Olney
Brigade Major Cox
Qr. Master from 2d. Connectt. brigade
For duty tomorrow 5th. Connecticut and 9th. Massa, regiments.
The 1st. York regiment to relieve the men on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat from the 2d. Massa. regiment tomorrow.
All Warrants or Certificates for Commissions from their respective states, of which officers are at present possessed are immediately to be lodged with the Adjutant General, and a return of all those Warrants or Certificates which have been forwarded to the War Office and upon which Commissions have not been issued is to be made to the Adjutant General immediately also.
The Secretary at war has been kind enough to undertake to carry down with him these warrants and returns, and send the Commissions due upon them to the Army.
Parole Georgia. Countersigns Savanna, Ebenezer.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. Gates
Colonel Swift
Major Throop
Brigade Major Walker
Quarter Master Williams
For duty tomorrow the 3d. Connecticut and 6th Massachusetts regiments.
The hospital and regimental surgeons will immediately make to the Director exact returns of all the Medicines, Instruments and Charts, on hand.
Parole Viominel. Countersigns Chattellux, Laval.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. Heath
Majors Trescot and Gibbs
Brigade Major Converse
Quarter Master Riply
For duty tomorrow the 2d Connecticut and Rhode Island regiments.
The Army is to Manoevre on Thursday next the dispotition for it will be previously given out and the troops are to be served with an extra gill of rum pr. man on that day.
The Army is to be in readiness to march at the shortest notice. As the baggage will be transported by water no Waggons or horses are to be brought to camp for the purpose.
In future the serjeants guards for the bridge at the right is to be detached from the Captains Guard on the right of the Chain.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
For the day tomorrow
Major General St. Clair
Lieutt. Colonel Newhall
Major Darby
B. M. Smith
Quarter Master Tuckerman
For duty tomorrow 4th. Connecticut and 1st. Massa. regiments.
Parole Paris. Countersigns Passy, Brest.
For the day tomorrow
Major Genl. Howe
Lt. Colonel Grosvenor
Major Wyllys
Brigade Major Williams
Quarter Master Merrill
For duty tomorrow 1st. Jersey and 7th. Massachusetts regiment.
The tents being too cold for the accomidation of the sick, the regimental Surgeons will send no more to the Flying hospital, but have such as are hospital patients sent to the hutts at New Boston.
At the General court Martial of which Colonel Cortlandt is president, Ensign
Beckworth,
33. Ensign Phineas Beckwith.
For that in the month of February last he gave a receipt to Captain Stephen Smith, of Lyme for Benedict Minard, a recruit inlisted to serve three years in the Continental army by the hire and procurement of a class of which Smith was head and then for a hire and reward discharged Minard from Service or permitted him to remain at home and not join the army “Thereby excusing the Class and defrauding the Public of the service of a Soldier,” was tried.
The Court on consideration are of opinion that the charge against Ensign Beckworth is supported; they are also of opinion from what has been offered by Ensign Beckworth that at the time he permitted Minard to remain at home and received the hire which was for Minard that he had a son mustered in service for during the war, and that he intended his said son should serve for Minard but that on his return to Camp, when he was in. formed his son was discharged that he did not give the Commanding officer of the regiment information of his conduct respecting Minard and therefore think him not justifiable but guilty of a breach of Article 5th. Section 18th. of the rules and articles of war and sentence him to be discharged the service.
The Commander in chief approves the opinion of the Court At the same Court, George Ledween of Captn. Vanheers corps was found guilty of Desertion in breach of article 1st.
Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to receive one hundred Lashes on his naked back.
The General approves the sentence of the Court but in consequence of the recomendation of the Duke de Lauzun and Colonel Dillon of the Legion of Lauzun he is pleased to remit the punishment he will join his corps.
Before the Army marches from this ground the Commander in chief Orders it to be signified to the several corps which have been in the field, that he has been particularly satisfied with ~he internal Police and order the Encampments as well as the perfect regularity with which every species of duty has been performed the present Campaign. The alacrity and dispatch the troops have shown in procuring fuel for Westpoint and its dependences are extremely satisfactory to him.
The honorable the secretary of war having expressed his entire approbation of the splendid and soldierlike appearance the army exhibited this morning in passing in review and performing all the Manoevres with the gratest exactness and celerity, and having requested it might be made known to the officers and men that he entertains the highest sense of their attention, perseverance and zeal, in making such astonishing proficiency in their profession since he had last the pleasure of seeing any part of them under arms.
The Commander in chief directs the Communication to be made and at the same time is
pleased to add, he cannot conceal the satisfaction he experiances in observing that
the last Grand Manoevre that will be performed this Campaign surpassed every other
exhibition of the kind that has been made in the American army.
MORNING ORDERS
The Army will march by the left, by wings; the left wing will march at seven o'clock tomorrow morning and the right wing at the same hour the next day.
The Quarter Master General will give the route and appoint persons to conduct each State Line to its ground or Quarters. The baggage, Sick, and Invalids will move by water.
The Light Infantry, Sheldons Legion and Vanheers Dragoons will receive particular instructions and the officers commanding them will apply at Head Quarters accordingly.
The troops to be supplied with three days provisions when they march.
The General courtmartial of which Colonel Cortlandt is President is desolved.
34. In the Washington Papers is the “Order of Battle for
the Manœuvre October 24th 1782,” in the writing of Maj. John Singer Dexter.
On October 23 Trumbull wrote to Lieut. Joseph Shaylor, of the Fourth Connecticut
Regiment, who had captured a British navy lieutenant and 4 seamen near Nyack,
N.Y., and begged that the officer might be sent into New York at once in exchange
for a lieutenant “Brainerd who hath been a prisoner for a Long time on board the
guard ship at New York,” that Shaylor should send all his prisoners into New York
“takg Care to have a Receipt for them, to be accounted for, with our marine Comry
of prisoners.” Trumbull's draft and Shaylor's letter are in the Washington Papers. Lieut. Joseph G. Brainerd also belonged to the Fourth
Connecticut Regiment.
For the Day tomorrow
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Z. Butler
Lt. Colonel Johnston
Brigade Major Cox
Quarter Master Bulkley
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Jersey and Rhode Island regiments.
That the present disposition of the Guards may not interfere with the approaching movement of the army the Isthmus picquet and the picquets forming the Chain are to be withdrawn as soon as may be and from the proportion which the first Jersey regimt. furnishes for those duties; a picquet for the bridge on the right and another for the bridge on the left are to be formed and mounted this afternoon. The several brigades will at the same time mount such Camp Guards as may be necessary.
As it has been reported to the Commander in chief that Captain Strong
Major Gibbs,
46. Capt. Caleb Strong. He retired in January, 1783.
47. Maj. Caleb Gibbs.
On October 25 (the date is assigned), Trumbull wrote to Lieut. Col. Comdt. Calvin
Smith, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment, that the Commander in Chief had
considered the petitions for the restoration of Maj. John Porter, of the Sixth
Massachusetts Regiment, who had been dismissed by court-martial for overstaying
his leave of absence, and that “the prayer thereof cannot be granted, consistently
with military Discipline and Order.” Trumbull's draft is in the Washington Papers.
On this same day (October 25) Washington wrote to the Secretary at War, forwarding
Baron Steuben's idea of the formation of a regiment: “I agree with him as to the
propriety of having the number of Officers to a Regiment of two Battalions which
he mentions” This draft is in the Washington Papers, as is
also the document giving Steuben's idea.
Parole —. Countersigns —.
As soon as the New Garrison shall arrive at Westpoint the 10th. Massachusetts and 2d, New York regiments will march to the Cantonments of their respective State lines. All the Artificers and other draughts from the Line (except the Levies who are engaged for the Campaign only) now employed at the Garrison of Westpoint are also to join their several regiments.
AFTER ORDERS
The weather being wet and uncomfortable and likely to continue so; the right will not march tomorrow.
EVENING ORDERS
For the day tomorrow
Lieutenant Col. Huntington
Major Graham
Brigade Major Hicks
For duty tomorrow 1st. New York and 4th. Connecticut regiment.
Parole Peekskill. Countersigns Croton, Crumpond.
As it is expected the troops will have sufficient time to cover themselves
commodiously before the setting in of the winter; the General directs that regularity, convenience , and even some degree of elegance should be attended to in the construction of their
hutts; the plan and dementions of which will be furnished by the Quarter Master
General, as soon as the positions for the several corps shall be fixed upon. Any huts
that shall be built irregularly, in violation of this order will be demolished.
Colonel Olney's regiment is to prepare to move to Albany. The Colonel will apply to the Quartermaster General for the means of transportation.
Parole New york. Countersigns Newburgh, New Windsor.
The troops are allowed to put Chimneys to their tents, and make themselves comfortable in them 'till their hutts can be built.
The Quartermaster General will have all the flat boats which now are or can easily be put into repair, secured at some convenient place in Murderers Creek; He is to call upon the Adjutant General for such aid and such guards as are necessary to carry this order into effectual execution: The remaining boats may be sent to Wappings creek and be repaired there.
All the Levies and draughts from the Rhode Island regiment are to join that corps near Newburgh immediately. They will bring their tents and baggage with them.
During the present defused state of the Quarters of the General officers and heads of departments. Their daily attendance at Head quarters will be dispensed with.
Parole Canada. Countersigns Quebec, Montreal.
The General having great reason to believe that a custom begins to prevail among the Soldiers of firing away their amunition at Game he therefore thinks proper to enjoin it upon the officers to prevent so pernicious a practice in the begining. An accurate examination is to be made immediately into the situation of the amunition, and a report will be given in on Saturday next to the orderly office, of the number and state of the Cartridges now actually in possession of each regiment specifying whether they are perfectly fit for use or if otherwise, whether any powder has been taken out of them, or by what means they have become unfit for service. Duplicates of these reports arc to be furnished by the Commanding officers of corps to the Commandant of Artillery, that the regiments may account properly for the Amunition now on hand before any more shall be drawn.
The Inspecter will have an opertunity of comparing his monthly inspections of this article with the reports at the Orderly office.
It is with sensible pain the General finds the country covered, and the Farm houses crowded with soldiers who are committing wanton instances of plunder and outrage, to the great inconvenience and injury of the Inhabitants as well as relaxation of decipline. He expressly forbids these unsoldierly practices and calls upon officers of every rank and corps to put a stop to them by causing prompt and exemplary punishment to be inflicted on the Guilty.
All regimental officers are to encamp and Hut with their respective Corps.
A guard of a corporal and six men from the second Massachusetts regiment to be sent immediately to the Contractors Magazine at Newburgh to continue for two days. Colonel Stewart will give them directions.
The court of inquiry held at Vetplanks point Octr. 26th. 1782, whereof Lieutenant Colonel Sherman was president to enquire into the conduct of Captain Strong of the 2d. Connecticut regt. who commanded the Picquet on the left of the Chain the 23d. instant reported to have been very remiss in his duty and his guard in bad order; report
That having previously viewed the ground where the guard was posted: the rout by which Major Gibbs approached the guard and the dispotition of the Sentinels, they are of opinion that tho Captain Strong may have been in some degree remiss and perhaps in a doze at the instant the rounds came, yet considering
the whole of his Conduct while on Guard, visiting his sentinels &c. he was not in such a degree remiss as to render necessary his being brought to a Courtmartial.
The Commander in chief approves the opinion of the court.
AFTER ORDERS
The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following act
By the United States in Congress assembled, August 7, 1782.
Resolved, That the Secretary at War, on or before the first day of January next, cause the non-commissioned officers and privates belonging to the lines of the respective States, including soldiers prisoners with the enemy, to be arranged in such manner as to form complete regiments agreeably to the acts of congress of the 3 and 21 of October, 1780, or regiments of not less than five hundred rank and file as circumstances and the good of the service may in his judgment require. That for this purpose the junior regiments shall be draughted to fill the senior regiments, and the surplus, should any remain after such draughts, shall be formed into a complete company or companys, as near as may be according to the said establishment, with a proper allowance of field officers to two or thoro companies; the said regiments and companies shall be commanded by officers belonging to the
respective States, to which the non-commissioned officers and privates so arranged shall belong.
Resolved, That the Commander in Chief, and commanding officer of the southern army, directs the officers of the line of each State respectively to meet together, and agree and determine upon the officers, who shall remain in service to command the troops arranged as aforesaid; provided that where it cannot be done by voluntary agreement, the junior officers of each grade shall retire so as to leave compleat corps of officers in proportion to the number of men, and to be adjusted upon the principles of the acts of the 3 and 21 of October 1780, and the 5th resolution of the act passed the 23 day of April, 1782.
Resolved, That the Commander in Chief, and commanding officer of the southern army, as soon as the said arrangement shall have taken place, transmit to Congress a list of officers whom they may deem proper to be employed in the several staff departments and other necessary duties in the army, to be taken from the list of retiring officers and upon being approved of by Congress, and accepting such appointments, such officers shall retain their rank in the army with the pay and emouliments therto annexed.
Resolved, That the officers retiring under the foregoing resolutions, and not employed in the staff departments as aforesaid, shall, until called into service with their proper command, be entitled to
all the emoulements to which the officers are entitled, who retired under the resolutions of the 3d and 21 of October, 1780; that the said officers shall retain their rank in the army, and be called into the service, from time to time, according to seniority, in case of deficiencies of officers, upon the principles of the foregoing resolutions.
Resolved, That in arranging the non-commissioned officers and privates of the army, each Stare shall be credited for all the men, except deserters and such as may have died, who shall have been duly mustered to serve during the war, or for three years. in compliance with the requisitions of Congress of the 3d day of October, 1780, or the 10th of December, 1781.
Resolved, That the preceding arrangement shall take effect on the 1st day of January, 1783, and that copies thereof be immediately transmitted by the Secretary at War, to the executive authority of the respective States.
The honorable the Secretary at War has given the following explanation of the 4th. resolve of the above act, that the deranged officers are not to be called into service in order to fill vacancies which may happen in the regimts. which remain in service: But that should the States to which
they belong hereafter augment the number of their regiments the deranged officers shall in that case have a preferance in officering such regiments. It is to be considered and acted upon accordingly. And he has thought proper for the present only to extend the operation of the above act, in the Northern army to the Lines of Massachusetts and Connecticut; the first of which is to be reduced to eight regiments of five hundred rank and file each or as near as may be to that number, and the last to three regiments consisting of the like number officerd as follows
Three field officers, Nine captains, Nineteen subalterns, One surgeon and One Mate to each regiment.
The reason why the foregoing act does not at present operate upon the Lines of New Jersey, New york, Rhode Island, and Newhampshire are That the Line of Newyork already forms two regimts. of five hundred rank and file each.
The others are so near that number that it is hoped their respective States which are pressingly called upon to fill them up will do it. The reform of them is therefore suspended untill the further pleasure of congress be known.
All regimental Promotions in the Lines of Massachusetts and Connecticut are to be considered as compleated up to this day.
Major General Heath and Brigr. Genl. Huntington will be pleased to cause the reform of their respective Lines agreably to the second resolve of the before recited act to be carried into execution by monday next, and make report to the Commander in chief.
The deranged officers will be at liberty to retire immediately if they think proper: they will never the less be considered as entitled to full pay and subsistance up to the first of January next and to prevent irregularity or confusion, in the Musters they are to be borne upon the rolls of the first regiment of each line untill that time.
Parole Dorchester. Countersigns Essex, Falmouth.
The Commander in chief requests the officers to be very attentive in seeing that the tops of the
Chimneys are carried above the tents, to prevent their being scorched by the heat or fired by the Sparks.
There being a necessity for keeping the Light Companies of the Army advanced, the regiments to which they belong are to make provision for building hurts for them.
Parole Kingston. Countersigns Leeds, Malden.
The Jersey Brigade will be mustered for the month of october the 5th; the York line the 6th; the first Massacht. the 7th; the second the 8th and the 3d Brigade the 9th inst.
Parole Newark. Countersigns Oxford, Plymouth.
A Sub, serjeant, corporal, drummer and fifer and twenty four privates from the 1st Jersey regiment to parade at Ellis's Wharf, New windsor, at eleven o'clock on thursday, the 7th. instant to conduct Prisoners of war to Philadelphia.
The officer commanding will receive his instructions from the Adjutant General.
That part of the Connecticut line encamped on the east side the river are to consider themselves under the immediate orders of Major General Knox untill further orders.
Four men from the 10th. Massachusetts regiment to assist Major Rochfontaine in surveying the environs of the Camp; they will be sent to the Adjutant generals quarters tomorrow morning at 8 o'clock.
Parole Xerxes. Countersigns Yarmouth, Zeland. For duty tomorrow the Jersey brigade.
The Quarter Master general having represented his inability to procure forage during the Winter for the whole number of horses allowed to the General and other officers of the Line and Staff who remain with the troops in the New Windsor Cantonments, has
proposed to supply in the following proportion, which has been approved by the Commander in Chief: To a Major Genl. Rations for three horses; each of his Aides, 1. Brigr. and Adjutant Genl., 3. Brigr. General, 2, His aid, I. Inspector of the Northern army and Assistant Inspector, each 2. As they will have to visit and Muster Detachts. Each field officer, 1. Captain of Engineers, 1. Brigade Major, 1. Brigade Qr. Master, 1. Regimental Pay Master, 1. Assistant of Adjt. General etc, 1. Geographer and Assistt. together, 1. Judge Advocate, 1. Director of Hospitals, 2; each hospital Physician, 1. Apothecary, I. Purveyor or Steward, 1. Chaplain, 1. Commissary of Prisoners, 2. His business often requiring his absence. Quarter Master Genl., 2. Each of his Assistants, 1. Commissary of forage, 2; each of his Assistants who are employed riding in the country, 1. Waggon Master Genl., 2; Each of his assistance employed on duty of riding, 1.
It will be optional in those who are entitled to keep a greater number of horses than are allowed in the foregoing, to deliver up the surplus to the Quarter Master General who will send them to some distance from Camp and keep them at public expence, or they may keep them at their own charge and he will pay them the amount of the rations which such horses would have drawn had they remained with the army.
Parole Andover. Countersigns Bath, Cambridge. For duty tomorrow the 1st. Newyork regiment.
Brigadier General Patterson, Cols. Greaton and Shepard, will be pleased to meet at
General Pattersons Marque tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock in order to settle a dispute
of rank between Ensigns Sawyer
75. Ensign James Sawyer, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783, and served to June, 1784.
76. Ensign Frederick Frye (Frie), of the First Massachusetts Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
The Army in Quarters will be commanded as follows: “The Cantonment in the vicinity of Newburgh will be under the orders of Major General Gates.
Major General St. Clair will command the Troops of Marylang, New Jersey, New York, and New Hamshire.
Major General Howe those of Massachusetts.
Major General Lord Sterling will command the Continental and State Troops at and above Albany on the Hudson and Mohawk rivers.
Major General Knox will command the Garrison of West Point including the works on both sides of the river in that vicinity and the Connecticut troops advanced of them.”
As the duty upon the Lines and at Verplanks and Stoney points and Dobbs ferry will be done by rotine by troops from the Cantonment of Newburg after the Light Infantry are withdrawn, the releived officer will always make his report to the Commander in chief of all occurrences which happen during his tour of duty and of the state of the Amunition and stores in those posts. But the Commanding officer of the advanced troops and those commanding either of the three posts below will make
it an invariable rule to communicate with the greatest dispatch any information they may receive of movements of the enemy or intelligence of designs which may affect the posts of West Point or its dependencies to Major General Knox or the commanding officer at Westpoint.
This is to be considered as a standing order while the Army remains in its present position.
Parole Deal. Countersigns Exeter, Farmingham.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Newyork regiment.
One active trusty man from each regiment in this Cantonment (who is an old soldier) to be sent to the Adjt. Generals Quarters at 9 o'clock tomorrow morning to be employed in conveying orders to Westpoint, and in such other manner as he finds necessary, they are to bring their arms and necessaries with them.
The Maryland Detachment commanded by Major Lansdale is annexed to the Jersey brigade.
A Captain from the 10th. Massachusetts regt. will releive Captn. Benton
80. Capt. Selah Benton.
intendent of New Windsor hospital tomorrow.
Parole Gravesend. Countersigns Hampton, Ireland.
For duty tomorrow 1st. Massa. Regiment.
Parole Kingsbridge. Countersigns Lincoln, Manchester.
In order to prevent irregularities in the proceedings of Courtsmartial which may be held at a distance from the Main army, the Commander in chief orders, that in future the Proceedings of all such General courts martial as shall be referred from any of the different Cantonments, Garrisons or posts of the army to his dicision shall in the first instance be transmitted to the Judge Advocate, who will as soon as may be, report them to the General, with his opinions in writing, Whether the court has been properly constituded, and whether the proceedings appear by the records, to have been consonant to the Articles of war.
The General flatters himself the occasion for Courtsmartial will be daily diminished in proportion as the principles of decipline become better understood and practic'd he hopes for the honor of service there will be no instance where vexatious charges shall be exhibited by one officer against another through petulance or personal animosity.
While the General considers it essential to the existance of an army that the severest and most exemplary punishments should be inflicted on atrocious offences, He wishes that a proper distinction may always be made between enormous and premeditated crimes and slight offences, which are committed through Levity and inconsideration.
To correct the latter and reclaim those who are not lost to all sense of virtue and military pride, it is conceived that modes of punishment may be introduced which by awakening the feelings of honor will have a better influence than corporal.
Lieutenant Samuel Cogswell of the 9th Massachusetts regiment is appointed Deputy Judge Advocate and is to be respected accordingly.
Major General Knox will be pleased to order a General courtmartial to set at the Garrison of Westpoint on friday the 15th instant for the trial of all such prisoners as shall be brought before them. All persons concerned will attend.
The Deputy Judge Advocate will also be present and conduct the prosecutions, and is to reside at Westpoint untill further orders.
Lieutenant Crook
87. Lieut. Joseph Crook. He was transferred to the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and to the Second Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783; served to November, 1783.
On November 12 Washington wrote briefly to Marquis de Vaudreuil that he had
forwarded his letter to Las Luzerne. “I regret exceedingly, that during your stay
in this Country no opportunity has offr'd of personally assuring you of the esteem
and regard with which I have the honor etc.” This draft is in the Washington Papers.
A serjeant and ten men for a three days tour of Fatigue to put up a Penn and slaughter house at Newburgh. They are to be at the Contractors Magazine at Newburgh by 10 o'clock tomorrow and take their instructions from Mr. Vansandt.
For Duty tomorrow the 7th. Mass. Regiment.
Parole Newbury. Countersigns Oxford, Pembrooke.
For duty tomorrow the 4th. Massachusetts regiment.
In the absence of the Quartermaster General the Assistant Quarter Master with the advice of the General officers and commandants of brigades will fix upon a spot for erecting a Provost guard house and also a hut for the Provostmartial. He will likewise settle with the Judge Advocate the place for building a courtmartial room.
Detachments are to be made from the Line for compleating these buildings as early as possible.
The Assistant Quarter Master will give the Dimentions and furnish such materials as may be in his power for the speedy execution of the work.
Parole Quebec. Countersigns Rockingham, Shrewsbury.
For duty tomorrow the v.d. Massachusetts regret.
The enormities which have been committed, and daily committing by the soldiery since we have quitted the Field are scandalous beyond description and a disgrace to any army; they must and shall be corrected, or the greatest severity take place. To effect this purpose the commander in chief desires that Major General Gates, the other General officers and commanding officers of brigades, in this Cantonment, will meet at General Gates's quarters tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock and having examined the situation of the camps they will establish such Picquets and Guards, and order such patrols as in their Judgment shall be sufficient to restrain the Soldiers within proper bounds, and every officer from the Major General, to the lowest grade is hereby called upon, for his own credit, as well as the reputation of the service to exert all his abilities to check an evil which is not less dishonorable to tile troops than oppressive to the Inhabitants.
The disorderly custom of suffering soldiers for whose conduct the officers cannot be responsible, to ramble about the country contrary to tile practice of all well regulated Armies, must be abolished; and the mode of giving passes restricted and put upon a proper footing. none are to be from Camp after retreat beating.
The rolls are frequently to be called at irregular hours during the night.
A Grand provost will be appointed by the General and there will be two field officers of the day to superintend the police of this army, who will see that the duties here enjoyned are regularly performed and that summary and exemplary punishments shall be inflicted on offenders. This order is to be read at three several evening roll callgs, and the Colonels or Commanding officers of regiments will be responsible that every soldier under their orders, is made acquainted with it that none may plead ignorance. It was much the Generals wish to have made the duty, not only while the hurts were in building but through the winter as easy and light as possible to the troops; they must therefore consider that this depends entirely upon their own behavior, for they alone must abide the consequencies, if their irregular conduct shall render an increase of duty and rigour indispensable.
Congress having been pleased to set a part Thursday the 28th. instant as a day of Solemn thanksgiving to god for all his Mercies, The General desires it may be most religiously observed by the army; and that the Chaplains will prepare discourses suitable to the occasion.
The regimental Surgeons are desired to make weekly returns of their sick, to Doctr.
Townsend
Parole Torrington. Countersigns Uxbridge, Winchester. For duty tomorrow the 8th. Massachusetts regiment.
1. David Townsend, Hospital Physician and Surgeon of the Continental Army. He served to the close of the war.
Parole Xenophon. Countersigns Yerk, Zembla.
For duty tomorrow the 5th. Massachusetts regiment.
The 10th. Massachusetts regiment will be inspected and mustered on monday next the 18th. instant and the Newhamshire Line and Maryland Detachment the next day.
Parole Alexandria. Countersigns Bedford, Colchester.
For duty tomorrow the 3d. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Dartmouth. Countersigns Hartford, Inverness.
For duty tomorrow the 9th. Massachusetts regiment.
The Board appointed to settle a dispute of rank between Ensign Sawyer and Frie of the Massachusetts line whereof Brigadier General Patterson is President, Report: That it appears that Mr. Frie was returned and accepted for as a recruit for the town of Andover, but that his being returned was without his knowledge and his being receipted for was contrary to his consent. It does not appear that he ever enlisted or took a bounty. The board are therefore of opinion that Mr. Frie is entitled to his rank from
the date of his Warrant.
Parole Goshen. Countersigns Hartford, Inverness.
For the day tomorrow
Colonel Vanschaick
Major Fish
For duty tomorrow the 6th. Massachusetts regiment.
To suppress the practice of marauding which has of late so scandalously prevailed in this Cantonment. The rolls are to be called at least four times in every twenty four hours not at any stated hour but as the commanding officers of regimts. shall direct. If the Commanding officer of a regiment suspects that soldiers have left their companies in the night to go marauding he will order a Catchroll to be called turning all the men out upon the regemental parade, such as are absent to be punished at troop beating.
The Granting passes permitting noncommissioned officers and soldiers to goe beyond the limits of the camp to be confined to the Generals and officers commanding regiments.
The commanding officers of regiments lately arrived in this Cantonment will be answerable that all the orders issued since the army left Verplanks point be read to their respective corps.
Each brigade will furnish a Patroll consisting of one Captain one Subaltern two Serjeants and twenty four rank and File one half to march to the right the other to the left. The officers to agree where they are to rendesvous upon the rounds they take. When all the prisoners they have apprehended are to be examined and if found delinquent punished immediately on the spot with any number of lashes not exceeding one hundred to each Delinquent: Such as are detected with the Goods and property of the Inhabitants in their possession are to be reserved to be tried for their Lives by a General Courtmartial.
The officers commanding these patroles are as soon as relieved to report to the Field officer of the day.
Parole Kendal. Countersigns Lancaster, Montmouth.
For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Colonels Barber and Sprout.
For duty tomorrow the 10th Massachusetts regiment. Lieutenant Reab
Parole Norwalk. Countersigns Overton, Pompton.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Shepard and Major Scott.
For duty tomorrow the Maryland Detachment.
24. Lieut. George Reab. He was transferred to the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
The Commander in chief in consideration of the long and disagreable restraint he has laboured under and the many difficulties which would attend the assembling a General Courtmartial for his trial is pleased to release Captn. William McCurdy of the Pennsylvania Line from his arrest to return to his duty. He at the same time thinks proper to declare that Captain William McCurdy is as free of any imputation of misconduct as if his arrest had not taken place, or had been acquitted on the fullest investigation of his case by a General Courtmartial.
Parole Quibbletown. Countersigns Roxbury, Somerset.
For the day tomorrow
Lieutenant Colonel Mellen
Major Trescot
For duty tomorrow the 1st. New Jersey regiment.
Captain Jeremiah Fogg
On account of the distance of head quarters from Camp, the Commander in chief dispenses with the attendance of the Field officers of the day, the day they are on duty; but expects the pleasure of their company the day they are relieved: when they may give in their reports.
38. He served to June, 1783. (Heitman states that Fogg was transferred from the Second to the First New Hampshire Regiment in March, 1782.)
39. Capt. Caleb Robinson. He had retired in March. 1782. (Heitman states he ranked as major of the Second New Hampshire Regiment from October, 1781.)
The several Brigades are desired to open the front of their encampments, and the communications by which they are to receive their provisions and other stores, as soon as possible.
Parole Tunbridge. Countersigns Ulster, Windsor
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Reid and Major Darby.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Jersey regiment.
At a General courtmartial held at Westpoint. By order of Major Genl. Knox, the 18th. instant. Lieutenant Colonel Huntington, President:
John Abel, John Cogdon and Philip King, soldiers belonging to the 1st. Newyork regiment charged with being out of camp at an unseasonable hour and killing an ox belonging to an inhabitant, on the night of the 11th. instant, were tried and found guilty in breach of article 1st. section 13th. and Article 5th. section 18th. of the rules and Articles of war and sentenced each to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
The commander in chief approves the Sentence of the court.
It is observed that there are a number of Hutts erecting for Sutlers in the vicinity of the camp, some of whom for improper conduct have already been driven from the Post of Westpoint. The General requests Major General Gates will be
pleased to call upon the Commanding officers of brigades (who are previously to consult the commanding officers of regiments) and fix with them upon the number and names of those who are to be allowed to suttle that they may be reported to the Quarter Master Generals office and regularly licensed. Any persons presuming to retail Liquors to the soldiers without such Lincense will have them seized and confiscated for public use, and their houses, if they have any, instantly pulled down, upon conviction before the field officers of the day, who are authorised and directed to attend to the execution of this order.
The Assistant Inspector having reported that officers and others who have drawn men from the Line for Servants and other purposes do not send them to their corps to appear at the Monthly inspection although they are sufficiently near the army to do it. The Commander in chief directs in the most positive manner that it be complied with in future when the distance will admit and desires the Inspector, or Assistant to report the names of those who do not pay a proper attention to the order.
Parole Xantippe. Countersigns Yelverton, Zebulon.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Newhall, Majr. Knapp.
For duty tomorrow the first Newyork regiment.
AFTER ORDERS
A Serjeant, Corporal and twelve men from the 10th. Massats. regiment to be sent to Fishkill landing tomorrow morning to assist in removing Military stores from that place and Fishkill to Westpoint. They will receive Instructions from Mr. John Ruddock D. C. M. S. and are to carry with them what provisions they have on hand as it is likely they may be kept on that duty five, or six days.
Parole Arlington. Countersigns Baltimore, Chatham.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Vose, Major Graham.
For duty tomorrow 2d. Newyork regiment.
The order of the 2d. instant respecting making Provision for covering the companies of Light infantry having been differently understood, the General directs that the respective regiments shall go on compleating the hutts of their Light companies.
This cannot be looked upon as a hardship as those troops continue to undergoe severe duty on the Lines. As soon as the hurts are in a greater degree of forwardness the Light Troops will be releived from the Lines.
Parole Dublin. Countersigns Caton, Fairfield.
For the day tomorrow
Lt. Colonel Dearborn
Major Pettingill
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Newhamshire regiment.
The Honorable the Congress of the United States having been pleased to pass the following resolve confirming the explanation given by the Secretary at War of the 4th. section of the resolve of the 7th. of August last published in the after order of the 30th. of October and making an addition to the number of Subalterns allow'd by the resolve of the 7th. of August, the same is to be observed in compleating the arrangement of Massachusetts and Connecticut Lines.
By the United States in Congress assembled, Novr. 19, 1782.
On the report of the Committee to whom was referred a report of a Committee on a Letter of the 30th. of October from the Secretary at War.
Resolved, That the senior officers of each grade, sufficient to form corps agreable to the act of the 7th of August last, (the regiments to have their compliment of officers, as established by the acts of the 3 and 21 of October, 1780, except as to the therein proposed supernumerary subaltern for receiving the recruits, who shall be omitted,) shall be retained in service for the command of the said corps; and the redundant junior officers of
the several grades shall retire from immediate service, agreeably to the said first recited act, but the said junior officers, so retireing shall retain their rank in the army, and be liable and entitled to be called into actual service, only when regiments or corps shall be raised for them by their respective states. But any senior officer, entitled to remain in service, shall have the liberty of retiring, with the emouliments of officers retiring under the acts last recited, for reasons satisfactory to the Commander in Chief, or the commanding officer of the southern army, on such retiring officer relinquishing his command and future right of promotion in the army, and signifying the same, on or before the 1st day of January next, to the Commander in Chief or the commanding officer of the southern army, who shall duly transmit lists of such retiring officers to the Secretary at War; any act or resolution of Congress to the contrary hereof notwithstanding.
Senior officers who are entitled to remain in service but who may choose to retire with the emoulements allowed by the before recited resolve will return themselves as directed on or before the 1st. day of January next.
The army will be mustered for the month of November upon the following days: Maryland and Jersey troops, 30th. Inst.; York, 1 December; 1st. Massachusetts brigade, 2d; 2d. do. and 10th. Regiment, 3d; 3d. ditto, 4th; Garrison at Westpoint, 5th. and 6th; Newhampshire, 8th.
Parole Gibraltar. Countersigns Hannover, Ilchester.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Hull, and Major Morrill.
For duty the 2d. Newhampshire regiment.
The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve.
By the United States in Congress assembled November 12th. 1782.
Whereas no provision has been made by Congress for the geographers to the armies of the United States; therefore,
Resolved, That the geographer to the main army and the geographer to the southern department, be each of them allowed sixty dollars per month, three rations per day, forage for two saddle horses, one two-horse covered waggon, six dollars and two-thirds of a dollar per month for a servant, for whom they shall be entitled to draw one ration per day, and the cloathing allowed to a private soldier.
That the assistant geographers if such officer shall be judged necessary by the Commander in Chief, be allowed thirty dollars per month, one ration per day, and forage for one saddle horse.
That when chain-bearers shall be employed, not being soldiers, they shall each be allowed half a dollar per day.
The Cloathier general having reported that he can make a distribution of shoes, stockings, and a few blankets to the troops, the regimental Paymasters are directed to call for their respective proportions.
The Commander in Chief has the pleasure of announcing that a delivery of two shirts per man will shortly be made to the whole Army.
Tomorrow being thanksgiving day a Gill of West India rum per man is to be delivered to the troops.
The Fatigue party from the 10th. Massa. regimt. employed in removing Military Stores from Fishkill landing and Fishkill are to be relieved this afternoon by a like number from the 9th. The 10th. regiment being to march to Verplanks point tomorrow to assist in repairing the Fortifications at that post. Colonel Tupper will please to apply at Head Quarters this evening for instructions.
Parole Kellington. Countersigns Litchfield, Marblehead.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colo. Cochran, Major Wait.
For duty tomorrow 1st. Massachusetts regiment.
54. Maj. Jason Wait, of the First New Hampshire Regiment. He resigned in December, 1782.
Parole Newhaven. Countersigns Ormond, Petersborough.
For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Colonel Cummings, Lt. Col. Maxwell.
For duty tomorrow the 7th. Massachusetts regiment.
The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following resolve.
By the United States in Congress assembled, Novr. 20, 1782.
Resolved, That commissions issue, on promotions properly certified, for all regimental officers entitled to fill vacancies happening before the first day of January next, excepting vacancies occasioned by senior officers retireing, agreeably to the resolve of the 19 instant, any resolution of Congress to the contrary hereof notwithstanding.
By a General courtmartial held in Lancaster the first of November last, of which
Colonel Richard Butler was president, Serjeant Louis Soso, of General Hazens
regiment, was tried “for drawing his sword on Lieutt. Sullivan
56. Lieut. John Sullivan, of the Fourth Continental Dragoons. Sullivan was one of file prime movers in the Pennsylvania mutiny of 1753, and on June 27, 1786, Congress approved the action of the Paymaster General of the Continental Army in refusing to comply with Sullivan's request for his pay and commutation, he having “left the service in June, 1783, without leave.”
The Commander in chief approves the Sentence but in consideration of all circumstances is pleased to remit the corporal punishment.
Parole Queenhope. Countersigns Richmond, Sheffield.
For the day tomorrow Major Lansdale,
For duty tomorrow the 4th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Torrington. Countersigns Underwood, Wakefield.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Greaton, Majr. Fish.
For duty tomorrow 3d. Massachusetts regiment.
Brigadier General Patterson is appointed to the command of the first Massachusetts brigade; the other brigades in that line are to be commanded by the senior Colonel in each.
Parole Antwerp. Countersigns Bladensburgh, Chester.
For the day tomorrow Lieutt. Colo. Brooks,
For duty tomorrow 9th. Massachusetts regiment.
The General being informed that the Patroles have in some instances been guilty of irregularities in the houses where they rendezvous: desires that the officers
58. Maj. Thomas Lansdale, of the Third Maryland Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
59. Maj. Samuel Reading, of the Second New Jersey Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
65. Lieut. Col. John Brooks, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He served to June, 1783.
66. Maj. William Scott, of the First New Hampshire Regiment. He retired in January, 1783.
commanding them may not halt at houses or suffer any of their Party to go into them except merely to search for Soldiers that may be concealed there and that such search may be always made under the direction of a Commissioned or Noncommissd. Officer.
Parole Denham. Countersigns Epsom, Falkland.
For the day tomorrow Major Trescot, Major Darby.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. instead of the 6th. Massachusetts regiment.
A General courtmartial, of which Colonel Greaton is appointed president, will assemble tomorrow morning at the Presidents Quarters, or such place as he may appoint, for the trial of all prisoners that may come before them; the Judge Advocate and all persons concerned to attend.
Lieutenant Colonel Mellon, Major Scott, one Captain from the Jersey brigade, one from the York brigade and two from each of the Massachusetts and Newhampshire brigades will attend as members.
The Abstracts of the subsistance of the army, up to the time the Contracter settled with the officers (whose certificates is then to be taken) are to be sent to the Deputy paymaster at the Forge near Murderers creek, as soon as possible.
Parole Garland. Countersigns Hadley, Islington.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Reid, Lt. Colonel Newhall.
For duty tomorrow the 6th. for the 2d. Massachusetts regt.
The first Jersey regiment will march for the relief of the Infantry on the lines tomorrow; the Commanding officer will please to call at Head Quarters for Orders, and apply to the Deputy Quarter Master for boats.
The Infantry companies when relieved will join their respective regiments.
A Courtmartial room with Quarters for the Judge Advocate, a Provost guard-house with an officers Guard room and quarters for the Provostmartial are as soon as may be to be erected.
The troops composing Major General St. Clairs command are to build the Courtmartial room and Judge Advocates quarters, those of Major Generals Howe's the Provost Guard house, the officers guard room, and quarters for the Provost-martial.
The Deputy Quarter Master will on application furnish tools &ca. and shew the Ground on which the buildings are to be erected. His plan is to be seen at the Orderly office.
AFTER ORDERS
Major Graham is appointed Field officer of the day for tomorrow vice Lt. Colonel Newhall indisposed.
Parole Kent. Countersigns Lemerick, Morefields.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Vose, Lt. Colonel Dearborne.
For duty tomorrow the 8th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Nantucket. Countersigns Oporto, Portsmouth.
For the day tomorrow Major Pettengill, Major Morrill.
For duty tomorrow the 5th. Massa. regiment.
The Honorable the Secretary at war having been pleased to direct that the Uniform of the American Cavalry and Invantry shall in future be blue ground with red facings and white Linings and buttons; The General gives this early notice that provision may be made accordingly before the army shall receive their cloathing for the present year. the Corps of Artillery is to retain its present uniform, and the Sappers and Miners will have the same.
Parole Quantico. Countersigns Raway, Salem.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colo. Hull, Lieutt. Colo. Cochran.
For duty tomorrow the Maryland Detachment.
At the General courtmartial of which Lt. Colonel Huntington is President, Novr.
10th., William Salmon, Matross in Captain Reidsdeath . At the same court John Brown, Matross in the
first company of the Newyork regiment of Artillery “charged with Desertion on the
21st. of July last and attempting to go to the enemy” was found guilty of a breach of
article 1st. Section sixth of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to suffer
death.
The Commander in chief approves the foregoing sentences.
Parole Truro. Countersigns Upton, Wallingsford.
For the duty tomorrow the 2d. Jersey regiment.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Cummings, Major Wait.
95. Capt. Jacob Reed (Reid), of the Second Continental Artillery. He secured to June, 1783.
96. Maj. Jason Wait, of the First New Hampshire Regiment. He resigned in December 1782.
Major General Gates certified to the service of a Major Dubouchet, who was his aide-de-camp during the Saratoga campaign. Washington added to this certificate one o{ his own in general terms, as “an officer of Zeal, Intelligence and Bravery.” This and Gates's certificate are both dated Dec. 8, 1781, and are in the possession of Judge E. A. Armstrong, of Princeton, N.J.
The General desires that the 10th. Massachusetts regt. and Light Infantry companies may deliver the boats they brought up with them to the Assistant Quarter Master and that he may have them put under the care of the boat guard, and drawn up so as to be perfectly secure.
Parole Albany. Countersigns Brattleborough, Colchester.
For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell, Major Lansdale.
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Newyork regiment.
At the General Courtmartial of which Col. Greaton is President, Dec. 6th. Captn.
Ebenezer Frye of the 1st. Newhampshire regt. “charged with absenting himself from his
regiment beyond the limitation of his furlough and neglecting to join his regiment
after being notified so to do, or to give satisfactory reasons for his continuance of
absence.” was tried, found guilty and sentenced to be Cashierd .
At the same Court James Patten, a soldier “charged with absenting from the 2d. Newhampshire regimt. and reenlisting as a recruit for the Massachusetts Line, and deserting from the same” was tried, found guilty of a breach of Article 1st. and 3d. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war, and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing Sentences.
Lieutenant Colonel Sproat, Lt. Colo. Cummings, Major Fish, Doctr. Cochran, Director of the hospitals, with an Hospital Surgeon, will constitute a board to meet at such time and place as they and the Assistant Inspector of the Northern army shall agree on to examine a number of men transferred to the corps of Invalids in the course of last Campaign and also those returned unfit for service in the several regiments, and report their opinion on each Individual whether he ought to be discharged without any recompense or suffered to retire on the late provisions of Congress.
Regimental surgeons are to attend the board with the men of their regiments and Commanding officers of corps are requested to give any information they may Judge proper.
The General is very well pleased with the Industry and dispatch of the 10th. Massachusetts regiment in compleating the repairs of the works at Verplanks point, and orders that the regiment be served with an Extra Gill of rum Pr man.
Parole Dover. Countersigns Enfield, Farnham.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Van Schaick, Lt. Colo. Brooks.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Newyork regiment.
At the General Courtmartial whereof Colo. Greaton is President, Corporal Dun of the Maryland Detachment charged with having premeditated a plan to Desert
endeavoring to get others to go with him was tried.
The court on mature consideration are of opinion that the charge against the prisoner is not supported.
Corporal Dunn is ordered to be released from confinement and join his corps.
Levin Clarage and Joseph McCallister, soldiers belonging to the same corps charged with plotting and persuading a Soldier to desert, were tried.
The Court on mature consideration are of opinion the charge is not supported against either of the prisoners.
They are to be released from confinement and join their corps.
Lieutenant Colonel Farnald and one Captain from each of the Massachusetts brigades
will attend as members of the General courtmartial of which Colonel Greaton is
President vice Lieutenant Colonel Mellon, Captains Dix,
Parole Gloucester. Countersigns Halifax, Ilford.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Mellen, Major Trescot.
For duty tomorrow 1st. Newhamshire regiment.
11. Capt. Nathan Dix, of the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Third Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
12. Capt. James Tisdale, of the Third Massachusetts Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
13. Capt. John Fuller, of the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment. He served to June. 1783.
14. Capt. Phineas Bowman, of the Fifth Massachusetts Regiment. He served to the close of the war.
A proper attention to the police and decipline of the troops (which is not to be effected without a sufficient number of officers) is, as it ought to be, the first object of the General; that of allowing them every indulgence conformably thereto is his next wish and warmest inclination: the following proportion of officers and soldiers may therefore be absent on furlough and no more at the same time, between this and the 15th. of April next, beyond which no furloughs are to extend, vizt.
One Field officer from a regiment; One officer, one Noncommissioned officer (Serjeants corporals and musick being included in that denomination) and two privates from each Company. Regimental Staff only when they procure an officer to do their duty from a company with which there are actually two officers present.
In granting furloughs to noncommissioned officers and privates the General recommends that preference should be given to those who have merited the badges of distinction for long and faithful services, and that the intention of this order may not be eluded under the idea of passes (as has heretofore been practiced in some instances) after the full proportion of furloughs have been granted in the regular mode he declares that upon the discovery of any such attempt the officer concerned shall be arrested and tried for disobedience of orders.
Furloughs to officers are to be granted by Majors Generals Gates, Lord Sterling, and Knox and Brigadier Hazen in their respective commands. Printed furlough s (the blanks for which are to be furnished by the Quarter master) will be given by the Commanding officers of brigades to the noncommissioned officers and privates in their commands.
Agreeably to the foregoing regulations the officers may accomodate each other with respect to the time and length of their Furloughs: but if they cannot agree on those points themselves the General officers commanding the different Cantonments or posts are to determine for them according to circumstances.
The Furloughs of officers whose names are upon the General roster, are to be registered at the Orderly offices. All others together with the noncommissioned officers and privates are to be entered in the regimental books; a strict compliance with the terms of absence will be expected from all.
The Board of officers appointed for Inspection of the Invalids of the army will meet at the hospital hutts near New-Windsor tomorrow at eleven o'clock for the examination of the Invalids of the Massachusetts infantry regiments and patients of the hospital. They will meet on Friday at the same hour at the York brigade for the examination of those of that line Maryland, Jersey and Newhampshire. And on Saturday at Westpoint. The persons concerned to attend the board at the several places mentioned.
The Light companies of the Massachusetts line to be prepared for Muster tomorrow, and those of the York the next day.
Parole Kidderminster. Countersigns Leith, Maidstone.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Cortlandt, Major Darby.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Newhampshire regiment.
At a General courtmartial of which Colonel Greaton is president, Silas Rodgers a soldier of the 3d. Massachusetts regt. charged with desertion from the said regiment and John Murrow, soldier of the 9th. Massachusetts regiment also charged with desertion, were found guilty in breach of arte. 1st. Section 6th. of the rules and articles of war and sentenced each to receive twenty five lashes each morning four mornings successively, amounting in the whole to one hundred lashes on his naked back;
Also Benjamin Fisk, soldier of the 9th. Massachusetts regiment, was found guilty of Desertion and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked back.
The Commander in chief approves the sentences of the Court.
The Levies for the Campaign who have cornpleated the task assigned them by the Quartr. mastr. Genl. and obtain'd Certificates thereof from his office, are to be discharged by the commanding officer of the line to which they belong.
Parole Normandy. Countersigns Okeham, Pool.
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Massachusetts regiment.
For the day tomorrow Colonel H. Jackson, Lt. Colonel Reid.
Parole Quebec. Countersigns Radnor, Salthill.
Officers for tomorrow Colonel J. Vose, Major Graham.
For duty tomorrow the 7th. Massachusetts regiment.
One Captain from the first Massachusetts brigade to attend the Courtmartial of which
Colonel Greaton is President in the place of Captain Hastings
Parole Thomas. Countersigns Uppingham, Warwick.
Officers for tomorrow Colo. Tupper, Major Pettingill.
For duty tomorrow 4th. Massachusetts regiment.
By the order of the 6th. instant respecting uniformity of cloathing for the army the General did not propose that the coats should all be made in the same mode; on the contrary he wishes Commanding officers of the different lines and corps would agree among themselves on such distinctions as may be deemed proper in the fashion of the Lapels, Cuffs, buttons, &ca.
40. Capt. John Hastings. of the Ninth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
The Board appointed to inspect the Invalids of the Army not being able to meet at Westpoint the 14th. agreable to appointment will attend there on Wednesday next.
Major General Knox will be pleased to order a Field officer from his command to sit on the board, vice Lieutenant Colonel Sprout who has obtained leave of absence.
Parole Annopolis. Countersigns Brunswick, Cadiz.
For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Colonel Hull, Major Morril.
For duty tomorrow 3d. Massachusetts regiment.
A Board of General officers consisting of Major Generals Gates, Howe and Knox and
Brigadiers Patterson and Hand, to meet at Hortons, near Murderers Creek on thursday
next at eleven o'clock A.M. to decide the dispute respecting numbering the regiments
of Connecticut in the reformation of that line which is to take place on the first
day of January 1783. The Papers relative to the matter in dispute now in possession
of the Commander in chief will be laid before the board; and the parties concerned
may attend to give any further information they shall think proper; the report of the
board is to be delivered at Head Quarters as soon as conveniently may be.
55. On December 18 Humphreys wrote to Brigadier General Hand that “The Commander
in Chief is pleased to authorize any three of the Board…to proceed to the decision
of that dispute, and to report accordingly.” Humphreys's letter is in the Washington Papers.
Parole Danbury. Countersigns Easton, Frederick.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Cochran, Major Lansdale.
For duty tomorrow 6th. Massachusetts regiment.
The first Massachusetts regiment to relieve the first regiment of Jersey on the lines tomorrow. The Quarter Master Genl. to furnish boats on application from the Commanding officer.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolves
By the United States in Congress assembled, December 3d. 1782.
In the report of a committee to whom was referred a letter of the 22 November from the Superintendant of Finance and Secretary at War:
Resolved, That after the last day of December instant, in lieu of the rations hitherto allowed to the officers of the army, including those for servants, they shall be allowed subsistance money at the rate of four dollars per month for each ration; provided, that where circumstances in any case shall not permit the payment of such subsistence money, they shall draw their rations as heretofore.
Resolved, That after the fore-mentioned period, in lieu of the pay and rations allowed to the officers of the hospital department, including rations for servants, they shall be entitled to the following monthly pay and subsistance; provided in like manner, that where the said subsistance money shall not be paid, they shall be entitled to draw an equivalent number of rations, at the rate of four dollars for each ration per month, viz.
The director, one hundred and two dollars pay and sixty dollars' subsistance.
The deputy director, and physician, each one hundred dollars pay and forty-eight dollars subsistance.
The surgeons, each ninety dollars pay and forty dollars subsistance.
Apothecary and purveyor each ninety-two dollars pay and thirty-two dollars subsistance.
Deputy apothecary and deputy purveyor, each fifty-nine dollars pay and sixteen dollars subsistance.
Mates, each forty-two dollars pay and twelve dollars subsistance.
Stewards, each thirty-one dollars pay and eight dollars subsistance.
Ward masters, each twenty-one dollars pay and eight dollars subsistance.
Parole Gosport. Countersigns Halstead, Illinois.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Van Schaick, Major Reading.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Kittlerwell. Countersigns London, Malwood.
For the day tomorrow Major Fish, Major Oliver.
For duty tomorrow the 8th. Massachusetts regiment.
At the General courtmartial of which Colonel Greaton is President, Lieutenant
Meacham
The Commander in chief approves the opinion of the Court.
70. Lieut. John Meacham (Meachem).
Parole Newcastle. Countersigns Orangetown, Philadelphia.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Putnam, Lt. Col. Mellon.
For duty tomorrow the 5th. Massa. regiment.
All the Marques, Wall and other tents in the line are to be delivered to the Quartermaster General as soon as the troops have removed into their hutts; particular attention must be paid by the regimental Quartermasters to see that the Marques and tents are perfectly dry and in good order when they are returned in. The Quarter Master General will make an exact return by the 20th. January to Head Quarters of the number and quality of the tents issued last Campaign to the several regiments reporting at the same time the number and condition of those returned in by each corps; measures are then to be taken to repair them compleatly for the next Campaign.
Parole Quakertown. Countersigns Ringwood, Simsbury.
For the day tomorrow Major Trescot, Majr. Gibbs.
For duty tomorrow, the Maryland Detachment.
Parole Tavistock. Countersigns Unity, Windham.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Cortlandt, Majr. Darby.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Jersey regiment.
Colonel Putnam, Colonel H. Jackson and Major Gibbs are to constitute a board and meet
tomorrow at such place as shall be agreed upon by them, for the purpose of
ascertaining the facts relative to an agreement said to have been made between
Captain Jackson
All concerned are directed to attend. The Board will report the circumstances, and their opinion thereon before the 25th. instant.
A party proportioned to the number of Tools which the Quarter Master General can supply is to be employed daily in opening a communication between Head Quarters and Camp, untill that necessary business is compleated. The Assistant Quarter Master with the army will direct a proper person to superintend the work.
Parole Aylesbury. Countersigns Brookland, Coventry.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Tupper, Major Graham.
For duty tomorrow the first Newyork regiment.
The board of General officers appointed in the orders of the 16th. instant to determine the dispute respecting numbering the regiments of Connecticut in the reformation of that Line which is to take place on the first day
76. Capt. Simon Jackson. He was transferred to the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and to the Second Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783; served to June, 1784.
77. Capt. Daniel Pilsbury. He retired in January, 1783.
of January next, having reported unanimously as their opinion that the rank of the regiments ought to continue the same it has been since the first of January 1780.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the board.
Returns are to be immediately made to the Assistant Clothier of the number of men entitled to cloathing for the year 1783, agreably to the resolution of Congress of the 18th. June 1781. The returns are to be very accurate and seigned by the Paymaster, and countersigned by the officers Commanding the regiment and brigade. The men whose term of service expires before the first of November next to be enserted in three seperate Collumns, the first containing the men who have three, the second who have six, and the third such as have nine months to serve from the first of November last.
The difficulty of transportation having delayed a considerable proportion of the Shirts which are ready made in Philadelphia and which may now soon be expected; those which have arived are to be drawn for by lot, by the several regiments, for which purpose the regimental Paymasters will attend with their returns at the cloathing store in Newburgh at three o'clock on Wednesday next. The Assistant Clothier has instructions on the subject.
Parole Derby. Countersigns Epping, Fredericksburgh.
For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Col. Hull, Major Morrell.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Newyork regiment.
The Board assembled for the purpose of ascertaining the facts relative to an agreement said to have been made between Captains Jackson of the 3d. and Pillsbury of the 6th. Massachusetts regiments, report it as their opinion that an exchange was fully effected before the promulgation of the resolution of Congress of the 19th. November last; and that Captain Jackson ought to continue in service in room of Captn. Pillsbury.
The Commander in Chief, approves the opinion of the Board.
Parole Groton. Countersigns Haverhill, Ilchester.
For the day tomorrow Lt. Colonel Cochran, Major Lansdale.
For duty tomorrow the 1st. Newhampshire regiment.
Untill further orders the old and New field officers of the day and commanding officers of Patrolls are to meet every morning at 10 o'clock on the left of the third Massachusetts Brigade; when the officers to be relieved will make their reports and communicate every material occurrence to those who relieve them. The field officers for the day will at the same time regulate the routs for the Patrols and give the officers commanding them their instructions.
The General highly approves the proposal made by the Revd. Doctr. Evans
Parole Killingsley. Countersigns Lebanon, Milford.
For the day tomorrow Major Forman, Major Reading.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Newhampshire regiment.
Major Morrell is appointed a member of the Genl. courtmartial of which Colonel Greaton is president, vice Lieutenant Colonel Fernald.
The honorable the congress have been pleased to pass the following resolves vizt.
By the United States in Congress Aug. 1, 1782.
Resolved, That the adjutant general be appointed by Congress from the general officers, colonels, lieutenant colonel commandants, or lieutenant colonels in the army; his pay shall be one
95. Rev. Israel Evans, chaplain of the New York brigade. He retired in June, 1783.
hundred and twenty-five dollars per month; he shall receive four rations per day, and twenty-five dollars and one-third per month subsistence. The adjutant general shall also be allowed forage for four riding horses, and be furnished with two four-horse and one two-horse covered waggons for the transportation of his official papers, his own, his assistants' and clerk's baggage. He shall have two assistants and one clerk, to be appointed by himself, and approved of by the Commander in Chief. The assistants shall be majors or captains in the army; the pay of each shall be fifty dollars per month, one ration and a half per day, eight dollars per month subsistance, and forage for two riding horses. The assistants shall be allowed each six dollars and two-thirds of a dollar per month for servants' wages, and the cloathing and rations allowed to a private soldier. The clerk shall be a subaltern or volunteer in the army; his pay shall be forty dollars per month, he shall draw one ration per day, and receive six dollars and one-third of a dollar per month subsistence.
That there be as many deputies adjutant general of the rank of field officers as there may be seperate armies in the United States, that consist of one or more divisions, to be appointed occasionally by the commanding officer of such army, whose names shall be returned to the Commander in Chief for his approbation.
That the deputy adjutants general shall each receive seventy-five dollars per month pay, two rations per day, and twelve dollars and two-thirds per month subsistance, forage for three riding
horses, one four-horse and one two-horse covered waggons, for the transportation of the official papers, there own and assistants' baggage.
The deputy adjutants general shall each appoint one assistant, of the rank of major or captain, who shall be approved of by the commanding officer under whom they serve. The assistants appointed and approved as aforesaid, shall each receive the same pay and allowances as are given above to an assistant of the adjutant general.
That there be one major of brigade to each brigade in the armies of the United States, whether of cavalry, artillery, or infantry, who shall be appointed by the Commander in Chief or commanding officer of a seperate army as occasion may require, upon the recommendation of the adjutant general, or the deputy adjutant general as the case may be, and they shall each receive the same pay and allowances, as is given to the assistant of the adjutant general by the foregoing resolutions:
That the provisions hereby made for the respective officers aforesaid, shall be in full compensation for their services, and of all pay and allowances to which they may be entitled from their rank in the army: These regulations shall take effect on the first day of January next, and from thenceforth that all acts, resolutions, pay and appointments heretofore made in any wise respecting the department of adjutant general and brigade majors, shall cease and are hereby repealed.
Parole Newport. Countersigns Oysterbay, Pompet.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Vanscaick, Major Fish.
For duty tomorrow the 7th. Massachusetts regiment.
Commanding officers of Brigades and Regiments are desired to meet the Contractors, who are to supply the army with Provisions from the first of January, at Majr. General Howes Quarters, on Sunday next, at 11 o'clock A.M. in order to agree upon some points relative to the issues.
Regulations for the Quarter Master Generals Department.
By the United States in Congress Assembled October 23, 1782.
Resolved,…
14. The omitted portion, being the long resolves of Congress. and to be easily
found in the printed Journals of the Continental Congress
of Oct. 23, 1782, is not repeated here.
In Congress October 29, 1782.
Resolved,…
15. The omitted portion, being the concluding resolves of Congress, regulating the
Quartermaster General's Department, and easily found in the printed Journals of the Continental Congress of Oct. 29, 1782, is
not repeated here.
Parole Quebec. Countersigns Rutland, Stockbridge.
For the day tomorrow Colonel Putnam, Major Oliver.
For duty tomorrow the 4th. Massachusetts regiment.
The Superintendent of Finance and the Secretary at war having taken into consideration, the difficulties which have arisen in the modes of Issuing Provisions under the Contracts and also the intricases which have taken place in the stating and setling of accounts by reason whereof the Army have been in some instances injured; and if timely remedy be not provided, frauds might be committed. for the prevention whereof in future, they have determined on the following Plan.
OFFICERS
The Superintendent will put into the hands of the Paymaster Genl. the full amount of the Subsistance money allowed by Congress of which a List is annexed, either in money
or notes, payable at a month from the time of delivery, and the Paymaster shall cause to be paid to every officer, the amount of his subsistance money at the commencement of every month in advance for that month, so that the officer may be furnished with the means of supplying himself according to his rank, the Contractors shall receive those Notes as Cash, and shall furnish the Articles of the ration at the prices stipulated in their Contracts respectively to the officers for such Notes, or money, subject nevertheless to the conditions which may be expressed in their Contracts, of consequence no rations will be drawn by the officers.
NON-COMMISSIONED AND PRIVATES
To obviate any difficulties which may arise on this subject it is to be considered as a general rule that the Contractors issue Provisions on Returns in the form for that purpose annexed marked No. 4 A, provided they be signed by a Commissioned officer, who after his name shall specify his rank and the regiment or corps to which he belongs, and if under the rank of a Field officer the Company also; and provided that the regiment or Corps and the several dates be inserted in the proper blanks left for that purpose, that the names of the companies, the number of days drawn for, and the number of rations drawn by each company be also inserted in the proper Columns; and that the whole number of rations drawn be written at length in the order for Provisions at the bottom of the return, on which return shall be a receipt by the person receiving them, specifying the place and time of the issue, the Contract under which it was made, and the number of rations delivered, which last shall be written at full length.
But for the greater order regularity and simplicity in conducting the business, Provision returns of the whole regiment or corps are to be made out together wherever circumstances will permit, and countersigned by the Commanding officer of such corps, the above regulation for Issuing on the Order of every commissioned officer being made to provide for the contingencies of service and from a conviction that no officer will draw provisions improperly. But for the better prevention of those frauds which a variety of signatures might give occasion for, If any of the Issues of Provision or others should be tempted to commit them; the Contractors must make out, from these returns, a Monthly Abstract of the Issues, in the form annexed marked No 4 B, this abstract is to exhibit to the Commanding officer of the regiment or corps, who is to compare it with the returns and receipts and if supported by them to sign the Certificate (any over issues notwithstanding, and retain the several vouchers), but it be his duty to examine whether more provisions have been drawn for than are allowed, and if so to call the delinquents to account in such manner as by General orders shall be from time to time provided; and in order that the most clear and certain rules may be established, it is further provided that, on every fifteen men actually in a regiment or corps, there shall be allowed a draught for sixteen rations, so as to supply the women of the regiment or corps, that is to say the rations drawn may exceed the number of Noncommissioned and privates one fifteenth. The Commanding officer of the regiment will apportion this excess as circumstances shall require.
It is further to be observed that the men in Hospital are to be provided there, that
the Servants not bearing arms are to be provided by their Masters, to whom an
adequate allowance of subsistence money is made for that purpose, and that men
employed in the civil departments, are to be drawn for in those departments. for these therefore, as well as for the absent on furlough, no
rations are to be drawn in the manner prescribed for Noncommissioned and
Privates.
When a Detachment from any regiment or corps is marched beyond the limits of the Contract, in which the commanding officer is stationed, the officer of the Detachment is to certify to him the number of days drawn for and under what Contracts, so that the monthly Abstract may be checked by such certificate, a copy whereof, seigned by the Commanding officer of the corps is to be transmitted to the war office, to check the accounts of the Contractors against such Detachment. Officers commanding regiments, will observe that the care of public property is by this regulation confidentially committed to them, and they will undoubtedly justify this confidence by their vigilence and attention.
CIVIL DEPARTMENTS
The rations to be drawn for in the Quartermasters Commissary of Military stores, and Hospital Departments shall be according to the form annexed No. 5 A, the several blanks are to be filled up as is already mentioned under the title of Noncommissioned and privates and further the name of the Departmt., the particular denomination of persons employed in it, and the number of such persons are to be inserted in the proper places as well as the number of days and rations: and also the regiments and companies to which any soldier belongs who may be employed in such department. The Returns for the Quarter Masters Department are to be seigned by the Quarter or Deputy Quarter Master General, Waggon master or his Deputy, Commissary or Deputy Commissary of forage, Director or Deputy Director of a Company of Artificers, those for the Commissary of Military stores department are to be seigned by the principal officer at that post or place, and those for the hospital Department by the
principal Medical officer at the post or place, and every person seigning a return is to add his rank station or employment.
From those returns respectively and the receipts thereon, the Contractors are to make out a monthly abstract for each Departmt. in the annexed form No 5. B, in which is to be inserted the number of soldiers employed, and the regiments to which they belong, but not the companies, These abstracts are to be compared, examined and certifyed by the principal of the respective departments, within the limits of the Contract, whose duty it will be to retain the Vouchers and compare them with the state of his department; and if any frauds have been committed, to detect and report them.
SICK AND CONVALESCENTS
Provisions and stores for the sick and Convalescents are to be drawn on returns of which duplicates shall be seigned by the principal Medical officer of the hospital at which they shall be, of which returns the Contractors shall reserve the original to support his accounts, and shall transmit the duplicate to the director of the hospitals. These returns shall be in the annexed form No 6, in which shall be inserted the place at which the hospital is kept, the Contract under which the draught is made, and the dates within the blanks for that purpose: within the proper columns shall be inserted the rank of the persons, the Company and regiment to which they belong,
the number of days drawn for, the number of sick and the number of Convalescents and, in the Collumns for that purpose designated shall be inserted, the quantities of the several articles of Provisions and stores drawn for, and on each of these returns shall be given a receipt by the steward of the hospital, for all the articles actually drawn, containing the quantities of each in words at Full length.
PRISONERS
Full rations for Prisoners are to consist of the following articles of the Soldiers rations—Bread, Beef or Pork, soap, salt and Vinegar these are to be drawn on returns in the annexed form No. 7.—in the first Collumn is to be inserted the rank, in the second the number of persons in the third the proportion of the ration (whether the whole or only a fractional part) in the fourth the number of days and in the fifth the number of full rations, these are to be seigned by the intendent of Prisoners, and by some Commissioned officer in the British service and counterseigned by the Commanding officer at the post. The receipt indorsed on the return is to contain the quantities of the Articles actually issued in words at full length. When prisoners shall be at places where there is no intendent, the American officer who has the care of them shall countersign the return which shall be seigned by some British Commissioned officer; and when no British officer is present, the American officer shall certify that there is not, and the Return shall be seigned by some other of the prisoners.
CONTRACTORS
The Contractors shall issue provisions and Stores in the manner herein before mentioned, but they are not to expect any allowances for issues on informal or defective returns or receipts, there accounts shall be made out as follows from the abstracts in the form annexed No 4. B, and No 5. B, shall be made out the account of rations in the annexed form No. 1. which shall contain in the first Collumn the names of the regiments or corps and of the Departments, in the second the number with which they shall have endorsed the abstracts by which the account is supported and in the third Collumn the number of rations vouched by the particular abstract referred to; from the returns, in the form annexed No 6, shall be made out the account of Provisions and Stores issued to the sick and Convalescents in the annexed form No. 2 in the first Column of which shall be inserted the name of the Hospital for which the issues were made, in the second the number indorsed by them on the returns by which the account is supported, and in the succeeding Column the several articles vouched by the particular returns referred to, from the returns in the form annexed No. 7 shall be made out the account of Provisions issued to Prisoners of war in the annexed form No 3 in the first column of which shall be inserted the name of the place at which the issues were made, in the second the number indorsed by them on the returns, and in the succeeding columns, the several articles vouched by the receipts on the particular Returns referred to. From the three subordinate accounts last mentioned
made out in the forms annexed No. 1. 2. and 3 shall be made out the general account in the form annexed for that purpose, which general and subordinate accounts, with the several vouchers to support them shall be exhibited in an orderly and regular manner to the Treasury for settlement. The Contractors are on no account to issue any due bills, they are to provide the articles contracted for, and where that shall not be in their power, the deficient articles, if not otherwise provided at the expence of the Contractors, shall be paid for in money at the Contract price.
16. The letters “D. N.” meaning dollars and ninetieths of a dollar.
At
Return of following
articles, to wit—
Parole Turnbridge. Countersigns Utrecht, Woodford
For the day Tomorrow Lieutenant Colo. Mellen, Major Trescot.
For duty tomorrow the 3d. Massachusetts regiment.
A General courtmartial whereof Colonel Putnam is appointed President, will assemble
at the Presidents quarters tomorrow morning for the trial of Major Reid
AFTER ORDERS
Major Gibbs is appointed officer of the day tomorrow vice Lieutenant Colonel Mellen.
Parole Armiens. Countersigns Brest, Claremont.
For the day Tomorrow Col. Cortlandt, Major Darby. For duty tomorrow the 6th. Massachusetts regiment.
Parole Dieppe. Countersigns England, Fishkill.
For the day tomorrow Colonel H. Jackson, Major Graham.
For duty tomorrow the 2d. Massachusetts regiment.
The Contract of Messrs. Duer and Parker for furnishing the Army with rations of Provision is to take place tomorrow. The Officers and Contractors, convened at Major Genl. Howes Quarters, the 29th. instant in consequence of the Commander in chiefs
24. Maj. James Randolph Reid.
order have agree'd that to accomodate service, the officers will for the present apply to their respective Commissaries on the after-noons of Tuesday, thursday, and saturday in every week, commencing their draught for the first of January on tuesday the 31st. instant, which rule will be observed except on special occasions, when for the convenience of officers in that situation the Contractors have agreed to dispence with it.
A return of the number of women in the several regiments which compose this army, certified by the Commanding officer of the corps they respectively belong to, is to be given in at the Orderly office on thursday the second of January next.
The second Jersey regiment will march for the relief of the first Massachusetts on the Lines on thursday the second of January next.
AFTER ORDERS
The notes for the subsistance of officers not having arrived, the Contractors are to proceed in issuing to them in the same manner as was practiced under the former Contract, until further orders.