From George Washington to William Denny, 23 October 1757
To William Denny
Fort Loudoun Octr 23d 1757.
Sir
Your favour Inclosing Sir William Johnson’s Letter,1 I had the Honour to receive Yesterday between four & five P.M.2—at which time the Indians therein spoke of3 arrivd here. About the same hour to day they depart; Escorted by an Officer whom I have chargd with the care of conducting them to the first Garrison in Carolina.4
I have bought of the bearer, Mr James Innis, the Horses which conveyd them hither, and which he tells me, he was Instructed to sell.5 All other necessary Expences arising in their March through this Colony, I shall pay in behalf of this Government.6 I am Sir, with great respect Yr most Obedt Hble Servt
Go: Washington
ALS, PHi: Gratz Collection; LB, DLC:GW. The differences between the two copies, which are noted, are typical of the changes GW made when in later years correcting his letter books for the copyist. See the Preface in volume 1 of .
1. In the letter-book copy “enclosing . . . letter” is in parentheses. Denny’s letter was dated 9 Oct. 1757.
2. The letter-book copy substitutes “4 & 5 of the clock, P.M.”
3. The phrase “therein spoken of” is enclosed in parentheses in the letter-book copy.
4. See GW to James Roy, this date.
5. GW in his letter book substituted “dispose of” for “sell.” On this date James Ennis was paid £14 “for 4 Horses bought to bring the four Cherokee deputys to Winchesr by order of the Pensilva Comissrs” (Va. Regimental Accounts, 1755–58, DLC:GW). James Ennis (Innis) was employed by the colony of Pennsylvania as an express rider and was used upon occasion as a guide for parties of Indians.
6. In the letter book it is: “on behalf of the Government.”