From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 19 September 1778
To Major General Israel Putnam
West Point Sepr 19th 1778
Sir,
On consideration it appears to me best,1 that you should incamp with the division under your command on the East side of the River; so as to preserve as easy a communication with the forts, as the situation of the ground will permit. This position will be most convenient both for the benefit2 of water and for the greater facility with which you may form a junction with the rest of the army in case of emergency.3
Col. Malcolm will continue in the immediate command of the forts and garrison; and in the immediate direction of the several works carrying on, for the defence of the river.4
You will discharge the New York Militia; and the two regiments of Connecticut militia under Cols. McClellan and Enos.
You will furnish dayly such fatigue parties from your division as shall be found necessary to aid the Garrison in carrying on the works.
You will, from time to time, relieve the troops you were directed to leave at Hawes landing that one regiment may not be too long detached from the Brigade to which it belongs, which is always attended with inconveniences.5 I am Sir Yr most Obedt servant.
Df, in Alexander Hamilton’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
1. At this place on the draft manuscript, Hamilton first wrote: “On a full consideration of the matter it appears to me proper.” He then changed the wording to read as it does here.
2. At this place on the draft manuscript, Hamilton first wrote: “The Ground on the East side will be most convenient for your incampment both on account.” He then changed the wording to read as it does here.
3. Putnam’s brigade camped in the vicinity of Robertson’s Landing on the east side of the Hudson River about three miles below Fort Constitution.
4. At the end of this paragraph on the draft manuscript, Hamilton wrote and then struck out the following phrase: “subject to your general superintendency.”
5. On the draft manuscript Hamilton first wrote and then struck out the following version of this paragraph: “You will relieve the regiment you were directed to leave at Hawes’ landing with an equal number from the troops of the Garrison, in order to keep your Brigades compact and together.”