To George Washington from James Caldwell, 10 January 1780
From James Caldwell
Eliz. Town Jany 10. 1780.
Sir,
In consequence of an application made to me last week by Genl Irwin I did interest myself to procure grain for the Troops in this District.1 The principle difficulty was to obtain money. This I overcame by promising Loan office Certificates2—And have succeeded in pro[c]uring grain far beyond my most sanguine expectations. I believe I have already enganged three thousond Bushels, which I can deliver in a few days if the money does not fail. I expected the Grain procured here Woud be reserved for the Troops upon duty in this district. If your Excellency directs part of it to be sent up it shall go to the place the Comy will direct—We can at least spare the six hundered bushels which I find is the quota requested of this County. Excuse the inaccuracy of this hasty scrawl from Your Excellencys most obedt & most huml. Sert
James Caldwell
ALS, DLC:GW. A note on the cover, in Caldwell’s writing, indicates the letter was sent “By Express.”
1. In his letter to GW of 9 Jan., Brig. Gen. William Irvine had made a brief report on Caldwell’s efforts (see also GW to Irvine, 4 Jan.).
2. In a notice dated this date at Springfield, N.J., Caldwell advertised in the local newspapers for “MONEY WANTED”: “Having engaged, by particular desire, to procure grain for the immediate supply of the troops now on duty in this district, the great success I have met with calls immediately for a very large sum of money to discharge the contracts already made, and more to continue those necessary purchases a little longer. Those who have money to spare, are therefore requested to bring it, for which they shall have certificates in a little time from the Continental Loan Office” (New-Jersey Journal [Chatham], 18 Jan.).