George Washington Papers

From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 28 September 1778

To Major General Stirling

Head Quarters [Fredericksburg] Sepr 28th 1778

My Lord,

I have just received letters from Generals Maxwell and Winds, that the Militia of Jersey are ordered out in very considerable force.1 A part has already collected. Besides the Militia, there will be two Continental brigades under Generals Maxwell and Woodford. This makes it necessary there should be some officer of higher rank than any now there to take the direction of the whole.2 Your knowlege of the country will give you a peculiar advantage for this purpose.3 I send you herewith your instructions. I am Your Lordships Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington

I wish your Lordship to set out as early as you can in the morning—You will advise me of every thing material that happens.4

LS, in Alexander Hamilton’s writing, CtLHi; Df, DLC:GW; copy, NHi: George and Martha Washington Papers; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. The copy at NHi is dated incorrectly “Sept. 20, 1778.”

1See William Winds’s letter to GW of 26 Sept. and the enclosed letter from William Maxwell to Winds of that date, which is printed in note 2 to Winds’s letter.

2At this place on the draft manuscript, Hamilton first wrote and then struck out the following phrase: “in order to keep the incursions of the enemy.”

3At this place on the draft manuscript, Hamilton first wrote and then struck out the following sentence: “I should wish you to set out tomorrow morning; in your way, You will be pleased to call at Head Quarters.”

4On the draft and the Varick transcript the postscript reads: “Your Lordship will advise me punctually of every thing material that happens.”

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