From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 5 February 1779
To Major General Israel Putnam
Head Quarters Middle Brook 5th Feby 1779
Dear Sir
I have your favr of the 5th and 30th ulto.1 In one of my late letters I desired that you might take such Steps with the mutineers of Genl Huntingtons Brigade, as you, upon consultation with the principal Officers, should judge most proper.2
I am pleased to hear of the success of the two Whale Boats against the victualling transport. such strokes are beneficial to us, and at this time highly distressing to the Enemy.3
Be pleased to take the first opportunity of forwarding the inclosed letters to Major Talmadge, and Capt. Stoddard, particularly to the latter, as it is of immediate consequence to him.4 I am Dear Sir yrs &.
Df, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
1. Putnam’s letter to GW of 30 Jan. has not been found.
2. See GW to Putnam, 18 January.
3. A report in the Connecticut Gazette; and the Universal Intelligencer [New London] for 5 Feb. says “that a Sloop bound from New-York to Newport, was a few Days since taken in the Sound by two Whaleboats and carried into a Harbour at the Westward.”
4. GW enclosed his letter to Benjamin Tallmadge of this date. The other enclosure has not been identified, but see GW’s letter to Josiah Stoddard of 27 January.