To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 4 December 1777
From Major General William Heath
Head Quarters Boston Decr 4 1777.
Dear General
I am this moment informed that a Ship is arrived at portsmouth with a valuable Cargo of Ordnance & ordnance Stores for the use of the United States.1 as soon as we are fully ascertained of it measures shall be taken to secure, and forward them to the Arsenals.
A large Quantity of Lead is on the Road, which with upwards of one Hundred Thousand Musket Cartridges, will be forwarded from Springfield with all possible dispatch. I have the honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Most Obed. Servt
W. Heath
LS, DLC:GW; ADfS, MHi: Heath Papers.
1. For additional information about the arrival of the Flamand at Portsmouth, N.H., on 1 Dec., see Heath to GW, 7 Dec., and note 1.