George Washington Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-15-02-0347

From George Washington to the Board of War, 6 June 1778

To the Board of War

Head Quarters Valley Forge 6th June 1778

Gentn

I have lately recd 1900 Stand of Arms from the Eastward,1 which will nearly, if not quite, compleat the number of Men who are at present in want—But we are exceedingly distressed for Cartouch Boxes. By an exact return made a few days ago 1700 were wanting for the new Recruits, and to replace the old ones worn out in the last Campaign.2 Since this a number of Recruits from N. Yk & Maryland have arrived. The deputy Commissary of Stores informs me that Lebanon will furnish about 150 ⅌ week.3 The supply from that quarter will be so slow that we must not put any dependance upon it. I do not know what quantity has been made at Springfeild; but Genl Knox informd me that the manufactory there would be considerable. I shall be much obliged by your dispatching an Express to that place, with orders to send forward, what are ready, with the utmost dispatch. In the mean time, if you have a number of the thin Iron Cannisters finishd, be pleased to have them sent down, as they will serve as a substitute for leather Boxes. I am with Respect Gentn Yr most obt Servt.

Df, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.

2GW apparently drew these figures from a “Return of Ordnance & Military Stores Received & Delivered by Samuel French Comy Mily Stores with the Army, from the 1st of May 1778 to 31st inclusive, as shewing the Balance Remaining on hand 1st June 1778” (DNA: RG 93, War Department Collection of Revolutionary War Records, Miscellaneous Numbered Records no. 21008).

3See “A Return of Sundry Articles Received and Delivered out by Major Jonathan Gostelowe Comy Mily Stores, (to the different Places & Artificers) Under the Command of Coll Benjamin Flower Comy Mily Stores from the 1st of May to the 31st Instt (inclusive) 1778” (DNA: RG 93, War Department Collection of Revolutionary War Records, Miscellaneous Numbered Records no. 21095).

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