To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 22 August 1780
From Jonathan Trumbull, Sr.
Lebanon [Conn.] 22nd August 1780
Dear General
On the receipt of yours of the 8th instant—Majr Murnan came and informed me that as I had orderd the men to cut fascines, gabions &c. on Norwich River,1 he thought his presence would be necessary to instruct them further in the business of their employment. I accordingly directed him to remain with them untill he thought they had obtained sufficient knowledge.
Colo. Wyllys, Commandant of those troops by his letter of yesterday says—“Major Murnan hath endeavored to instruct the officers and soldiers in the business he was appointed for, to the utmost of his abilities, and I doubt not, but what they have acquired a sufficient knowledge”2—The Major is now on his way to Head Quarters. I am, with every sentiment of Esteem and Consideration your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant
Jonth; Trumbull
LS, DLC:GW. GW’s aide-de-camp Tench Tilghman wrote on the docket: “by Majr Murnan.”
1. Trumbull is referring to the Yantic River, which joins the Shetucket River near Norwich, Conn., to form the Thames River.
For the orders issued on 11 Aug. for the militia to cut fascines and gabions in the vicinity of New London, Conn., see , 3:146.
2. This letter from Lt. Col. Hezekiah Wyllys to Trumbull has not been identified.