26261George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 21 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Colonel Dey’s [ New Jersey ] July 21, 1780 . Reports rumor that English are embarking troops in order to attack French fleet and army. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26262From Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, [22 July 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
I take the liberty my Dear Sir to request your interest for a friend of mine and a member of the family, Dr McHenry. He wishes to quit a Station which among foreigners is not viewed in a very reputable light and to get into one more military. He will go into the Marquis’s family as an aide. He has been in the army since the commencement of the War—first in the medical line, since the 15th of...
26263From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Henry Knox, [22 July 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
The alliance is not come nor our arms, nor our powder. They probably will come with the second division we want to know what we can do in the meantime in the article of arms without those; will you send us immediately a memmorandum of what we have to your knowledge? Do you know whether the Eastern States can furnish any on loan and in what proportion. We must borrow of them and borrow of our...
26264George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 22 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Preakness [ New Jersey ] July 22, 1780 . Has sent “definitive proposals of co-operation to the French General and Admiral.” Is proceeding on assumption that the states “will ultimately consult their own interest and honor; and not suffer us to fail for want of means which it is evidently in their power to afford.” Reiterates need for transportation. Df , in writing of H, George Washington...
26265George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, 22 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Bergen County, New Jersey ] July 22, 1780 . Regrets that the Chevalier de Ternay objects to entering the harbor. Asserts need for arms and powder. Regrets inability to visit Rochambeau. Urges Lafayette to impress on the French difficulties involved in a siege of New York. Sends rumor of British embarkation for Rhode Island. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26266George Washington to the States of Massachusetts and Connecticut, 22 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Bergen County [ New Jersey ] July 22, 1780 . Requests loan of two thousand arms and as many “Cartouch Boxes” as can be spared. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26267From Alexander Hamilton to Baron von Steuben, [23 July 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
I have received My Dear Baron your two letters of the 16th. and 18th. On the formation the light infantry, The General has already written to you. I presume it will be ultimately nearly as you have proposed. Smith set out some days since to join you. Bradford, I am told is undecided about entering into the office. Col Scammell has promised to bring him to me, and if he accepts we will forward...
26268From Alexander Hamilton to Major General William Alexander, Lord Stirling, [24 July 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
By His Excellys. command I am to request you will be pleased to put General Hands brigade under marching orders to move by break of day tomorrow morning. He will see General Greene and take orders from him. An impress of waggons is the object. I have the honor to be with the truest attacht. Yr Lordships Most Obedt. serv. ALS , MS Division, New York Public Library. Brigadier General Edward...
26269George Washington to Major Henry Lee, 24 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Bergen County, New Jersey ] July 24, 1780 . Directs Lee to drive off all horses “fit for waggon or riding service” and “fat Cattle” in Monmouth County, New Jersey, and to deliver them to the quartermaster general. After executing this business Lee is to proceed to Easton, Pennsylvania, to impress teams. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26270George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 26 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Bergen County, New Jersey ] July 26, 1780 . Transmits plan for conducting the quartermaster’s department. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26271George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, [27 July 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
[ Preakness, New Jersey, July 27, 1780. ] Believes that shortages of arms makes Lafayette’s plan to take New York impractical. Reports that British embarkation is still rumored. Hopes to take advantage of Sir Henry Clinton’s move to Rhode Island. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26272George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 27 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Bergen County, New Jersey ] July 27, 1780 . Repeats rumors concerning British plans to attack French fleet and army. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26273George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 27 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Bergen County, New Jersey ] July 27, 1780 . Discusses plans for arrival of second French division. Repeats rumor of proposed attack on French fleet and army. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26274George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 27 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Bergen County, New Jersey ] July 27, 1780 . Confirms report of British embarkation. States that the Army is ready to march to New York to endeavor to take advantage of Sir Henry Clinton’s absence. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26275To Alexander Hamilton from Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 30 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Philadelphia ] July 30, 1780 . Has executed Hamilton’s commission by arranging for a tailor to make a hat for him. ALS , Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress.
26276George Washington to George Clinton, 30 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
General Howe’s Quarters, Robinson’s [ New York ] July 30, 1780 . Asks Clinton to attend an interview. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26277George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 30 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Robinson’s, Highlands [ New York ] July 30, 1780 . Empowers Greene to impress in Pennsylvania and New Jersey as many teams as are necessary. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26278George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 30 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Paramus [ New Jersey ] July 30, 1780 . Requests Congress to take measures to induce Major General Nathanael Greene and other officers of the quartermaster department to continue their services. Explains that unless this is done “we not only must cease the preparations for the campaign; but shall in all probability be obliged to disperse, if not disband the army for want of subsistence.” LS ,...
26279George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 30 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
General Howe’s Quarters, Robinson’s [ New York ] July 30, 1780 . Orders Malcom to proceed immediately to West Point with militia under his command. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26280From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, 31 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Here we are my Betsey on our way to New York. I hope we shall take it and hasten the happy period of our restoration to each other. Have no fears for me; for I can and will take care of myself. Since my last I have received three letters from you, the sweetest ever dictated by a fond heart. Banish your uneasiness my love; I discard for ever, every idea injurious to your tenderness which every...
26281George Washington to Moore Furman, 31 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Robinson’s [ New York ] July 31, 1780 . Empowers Furman to impress teams in New Jersey. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress. Furman was deputy quartermaster general.
26282George Washington to Colonel Morgan Lewis, 31 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Robinson’s [ New York ] July 31, 1780 . Empowers Lewis to impress “Boards, plank and scantling” in Albany. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress. Lewis was deputy quartermaster general of the Northern Department.
26283George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 31 July 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Highlands [ New York ] July 31, 1780 . States again that the British fleet has sailed to Rhode Island. States that the army cannot march to Rochambeau’s aid, but that it will try to be useful by menacing New York. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26284George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 1 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Peekskill [ New York ] August 1, 1780 . Writes that Lafayette is to be given command of the Corps of Light Infantry. Asks St. Clair to assume command until Lafayette returns. Df , in writings of George Washington to H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26285George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 3 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Peekskill [ New York ] August 3, 1780 . Informs Congress that Sir Henry Clinton has returned. Describes resultant movements of Army. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26286George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, 3 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Peekskill [ New York ] August 3, 1780 . Asks Lafayette to present the situation as it exists to the French commanders and let them decide what course of action they wish to follow. Believes that a major siege must await arrival of second French division. Believes that “a communication may be secured with Long Island by Land batteries.” Reports that the British expedition has returned to New...
26287From Alexander Hamilton to New-York Packet, [5 August 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
Certain intelligence having been received that Sir Henry Clinton had embarked the principal part of his force, and had proceeded to Huntington bay on his way to Rhode Island to make a combined attack upon the fleet and army of our allies now there, His Excellency General Washington marched from his camp at Prackness the 29 of July and crossed the North River the 31st; where a junction was...
26288George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, 5 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Peekskill, New York ] August 5, 1780 . Regrets that the Chevalier de Ternay is adverse to entering New York harbor. Entreats Lafayette to “ascertain the probability of a succour coming from France and the West Indies.” Df , in writings of James McHenry and H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26289George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 5 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Peekskill [ New York ] August 5, 1780 . Sends description of naval force under the command of Admiral Arbuthnot. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26290George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 5 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Peekskill [ New York ] August 5, 1780 . Approves of measures taken by Rochambeau. Describes movements of British and American armies. Is awaiting arrival of second French division. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26291George Washington to the Board of Admiralty, 6 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Peekskill, New York ] August 6, 1780 . Inquires about putting the “Continental Frigates” under his orders. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26292George Washington to Chevalier de Ternay, 6 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Peekskill, New York ] August 6, 1780 . Requests advice about employment of Continental frigates. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26293From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, [8 August 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
Immediately after dinner, I stole from a croud of company to a solitary walk to be at leisure to think of you, and I have just returned to tell you by an express this moment going off that I have been doing so. You are certainly a little sorceress and have bewitched me, for you have made me disrelish every thing that used to please me, and have rendered me as restless and unsatisfied with all...
26294George Washington to Brigadier Generals Anthony Wayne and William Irvine, 11 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Tappan [ New York ] August 11, 1780 . Explains why appointment of Major William Macpherson cannot be revoked. Df , in writings of George Washington and H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26295George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 12 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Orangetown, New York ] August 12, 1780 . Instructs Greene to retain the teams mentioned in Greene’s letter. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26296To Alexander Hamilton from Major Sebastian Bauman, 13 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
I cannot help laying before you a few of my thoughts which lately have engrossed my whole attention on the review of our changeable government at West Point. However I hope you will make no other use of them, but such as may be of advantage and whatever may be improper or improperly stated, impute to my inability only, and there you’ll please to let it rest, and take in good part of what I...
26297George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 16 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Orangetown [ New York ] August 16, 1780 . Encloses letter from Rochambeau. States that Rochambeau approves of engaging the German deserters. Writes that the Chevalier de Ternay has asked that a vessel loaded with flour be conveyed to Boston and that the sloop Saratoga be sent to the West Indies with dispatches. Has written to Board of Admiralty for its compliance in these matters. Df , in...
26298George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 16 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Orangetown [ New York ] August 16, 1780 . Is pleased that “our ideas are substantially the same.” States that another British expedition is reported. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26299From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, [17 August 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
In the present state of affairs I know of no certain mode for procuring the release of your Brothers, unless there are naval prisoners in the French department whose situations will apply to theirs. I have however directed our Commissary of Prisoners to use all his influence at least to obtain permission for them to make you a visit at Philadelphia—to ascertain in what light they are...
26300George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 17 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Orangetown [ New York ] August 17, 1780 . Describes present situation of Army. Recommends a new appeal to the states. LS , in writing of H, Papers of Continental Congress, National Archives.
26301From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Clement Biddle, [20 August 1780] (Hamilton Papers)
Mr. Laurence who will deliver you this, is I am informed, a character that by his attachment to the cause, his suffering, &c. has a claim to all the indulgence we can show him with consistency. All his grass is gone. He expects soon to have his hay taken away and then he says his cattle and his family in consequence must starve. If you can manage to spare him without incurring the charge of...
26302George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 20 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Orangetown [ New York ] August 20, 1780 . Thanks Congress for increase in powers. Describes situation in Army. Discusses position of Great Britain both here and abroad. Reviews European situation. Argues for establishing a draft either for duration of war or for three years. Reiterates need of “ample and equal provision for the Army.” Repeats need for half-pay provision for officers. Urges...
26303To Alexander Hamilton from Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, 21 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Philadelphia, August 21, 1780. Asks if there is any information concerning his brothers, who are British prisoners. ALS , Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress. This letter is in French.
26304George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 21 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Orangetown [ New York ] August 21, 1780 . Agrees that it will be best to defer the debarkation on Long Island. Considers various plans for attacking New York. Inquires into the possibilities of an interview. Reports rumor of new British expedition. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26305George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 24 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Teaneck, New Jersey ] August 24, 1780 . Questions manner in which Howe’s baggage was guarded. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26306George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 26 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Teaneck, New Jersey ] August 26, 1780 . Is concerned that Captain Pierre Landais failed to bring more arms; trusts they will arrive on the Ariel . Hopes that the second French division will not be held in blockade. Fears that internal troubles in Ireland and England will not directly aid American cause. Sends news of the Comte de Guichen’s plans to sail to Jamaica. Agrees that the British...
26307Circular to the States from George Washington, 27 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Teaneck, New Jersey ] August 27, 1780 . Discusses lack of provisions in Army. Writes: “Either the Army must disband, or what is, if possible, worse, subsist upon the plunder of the people.” Asks the states to requisition enough food to set up winter magazines. Df , in writings of Tench Tilghman and H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26308To Alexander Hamilton from Marquis de Lafayette, 28 August [1780] (Hamilton Papers)
I wish, my dear Hamilton, you will please to invite your father in law to come and dine tomorrow with me. Mr Duane has engag’d he would do me that honor. I Beg you will also come. Be so kind as to write to me if any intelligence is come to hand, and when the General has determin’d to leave this place. Don’t forget what I told yesterday to you. I request, my dear Sir, you will Beg the General...
26309George Washington to James Bowdoin, 28 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
[ Teaneck, New Jersey ] August 28, 1780 . Believes an operation against New York no longer possible. Regrets that at present the Army cannot repay its loan of arms. Approves of resolutions of the convention of the four eastern states. Reviews European situation. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
26310George Washington to James Bowdoin, 28 August 1780 (Hamilton Papers)
Liberty Pole [ New Jersey ] August 28, 1780 . Thanks Bowdoin for loan of arms. Reports that Rhode Island Militia except for those at West Point have been dismissed. Mentions need for supplies. Urges completion of Continental battalions. Df , in writing of H, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.