George Washington Papers
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To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 19 April 1782

April 19th 1782.

In order to answer the several Questions Stated by your Excellency on the 15th it will be necessary to fix some Certain Number to the strength of the Regiments that are to Compose the Northern Army this Campaign; at the time of its begining to operate; and I hope we shall be safe in Calling them. 12000.

And that if the Enemy evacuate the Southern States

we may expect from thence 2000
And suppose the french troops 4000
Our regular troops will then be 18000
S.I.v6 24000 In order to Undertake the Seige of New York in the first supposed Case I think it will be necessary to have of Militia at least 20000
W6v6 14000
38000
In the Whole 38000

In the Second Supposed Case.

I think it ought not to be undertaken
SIv6 20000 with less than 32000
W6v6 12000 our regular force will be 18000
32000 Millitia necessary to be Called 14000

The third Supposed Case.

Can only result from the Second and therefore I conceive no allowance ought to be made for it, in the preparations: However when the Case happens, it may perhaps be proper to dismiss apart of the Militia, but this will depend on Circumstances.

On the Supposition that the Enemy, should not reinforce New York with their Southern Troops, and that none should arrive from Europe, I am of Opinion that the Seige in the first Supposed Case should not be undertaken

SIv6 20000 with less than 30000
W6 10000 Our regular force in that Case will be 16000
30000 Militia Necessary to be Called 14000

In the Second Supposed Case.

SI.v6 16000 I think it will be necessary to have 26000
W6 10000 our regular force will be 16000
26000 Militia Necessary to be Called 10.000

the third Suppose Case.

as before can only result from the Second and for the same reason no Allowance for it in the preparations ought to be admitted.

As to the probability of obtaining the Militia, I should have no doubt of it. and more especially if the States of Pensilvania and Maryland, be brought to Contribute their Quota, indeed it would be more Natural and Easy for them to operate on the side of Jersey than to bring the Militia from New England over the North River. Most respectfully Submitted by Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servt

Stirling, M.G.

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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