From George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 27 May 1779
To Brigadier General Henry Knox
Head Quarters Middlebrook 27th May 1779
Dr Sir
I herewith transmit you an extract of a letter from the board of war of the 24th inst.;1 by which you will perceive, that the factory at Philadelphia turns out 60 or 70 cartridge boxes per day; and that the armory is in a situation to enter upon the repairs of arms. You will be pleased to have the old cartridge boxes now in store, and those returned on the distribution of new ones sent forward to Philadelphia for the purpose which the board mentions—and such arms as want repairs to the armory, agreeably to the recommendation of the board.
Brigadier Gen: Clinton writes me the 13th, that, “the ammunition I applied for at Fish Kill by virtue of Gen: Knox’s order, could not be all procured; the small quantity which could be spared, is on the way up. I am informed by letters from Col. Chevers that it is not to be had at Springfield; but that he had sent to Boston for it; I have sent an express to hasten it up tho I am affraid it will not arrive in time.”
I have given you this extract, that you may take the proper steps to have a supply at fish kill or its vicinity to answer any exigencies that may arise in this quarter. I am Dr Sir Your most hble servt
Go: Washington
P.S. It is not my intention that you should send all the arms out of repair; but retain what you think our camp armorers may be able to repair—Nor all the cartridge boxes. I wish to have a proportion of both for any occasional demand.2 In executing the order you will have reference to this restriction.
Go: Washington
LS, in James McHenry’s writing, PPRF; Df, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
Adjutant General Alexander Scammell had written to Knox for GW on 24 May, reflecting GW’s concern that all of the troops should be well supplied with arms and equipment in light of indications that the British were planning an advance up the Hudson River: “His Excellency from some late intelligence wishes that no time may be lost in completing the several Brigades with arms and accoutrements, and that the conductors be sent as soon as possible to enter on their duty. The Commanders of Brigades are desired to use all possible expedition in having their proportions &c. brought to camp. Wish you’d inform me how many arms, &c. and to whom you have given orders, that those who have neglected to send may be directed to forthwith, and also that I may inform the General, who is very anxious about the matter” (DLC: Peter Force Papers).
1. See the Board of War to GW, 24 May.
2. On the LS, McHenry first wrote “sudden demand,” then crossed out “sudden” and wrote “occasional” in its place. He also wrote and then marked out the following additional text at this place: “should the militia be unprovided that may at any time join this army.”