George Washington Papers

From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 14 July 1779

To Major General Alexander McDougall

Head Quarters New Windsor July 14th 1779

Sir,

The arrangement you have made with respect to the detachment from Nixon’s brigade is agreeable to me.1 But I would have Major Hulls light infantry to join General Wayne, at all events, this evening or tomorrow morning early—Orders have been given for the execution of the enterprise tomorrow night;2 and though the want of tents is an objection to those with you going down,3 I have several reasons that make me averse to delay. An idea may be thrown out, that I am anxious to have the whole infantry organized as soon as possible; and that tents will follow in a day or two. I should hope this circumstance if it is passed lightly over will have no ill effect. I am Dr Sr Yr Most Obedt ser.

Go: Washington

LS, in Alexander Hamilton’s writing, CSmH; Df, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.

1GW is responding to McDougall’s letter to him of this date.

2See GW to Anthony Wayne, and Wayne to GW, both this date.

For the American success at Stony Point, N.Y., on the night of 15-16 July, see GW to Anthony Wayne, 1 July, n.2; see also Wayne to GW, 17 July, and GW to John Jay, 21 July.

3At this place on the draft manuscript, also in Hamilton’s writing, a passage was written and then struck out: “Cant you contrive to furnish them from those in possession of the other troops, if there be any vacant barrack to receive them for a day or two.”

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