To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 2 January 1781
Mount Kemble 2nd Jany 1781 9. OClock. A.M.
Dear General
The most general and unhappy mutiny suddenly took place in the Pennsa Line about 9. OClock last Night—it yet subists—a great proportion of the troops with some Artillery are Marching towards Phila.
every exertion has been used by the Officers to Divide them in their Determination to revolt—it has succeeded in a temporary manner with near one half—how long it will last God knows.
I have ordered the Jersey Brigade to Chatham—where the Militia are also Assembling—least the Enemy should take advantage of this Alarming Crisis--Indeed the alarm Guns have been fired—& the bakens kindled towards Elizabeth town—perhaps it was Occationed by our Unhappy Affair.
I am this moment with Colos. Butler & Stewart—taking Horse to try to halt them on their March—towards Prince town, as a last resort, I am advised to collect them & move on Slowly towards Pennsa.
What their temper may be I can not tell—we had our escapes last night—perhaps we may be equally fortunate to day. If not adieu my Dear General & believe me yours Most Affectionately
Anty Wayne Major
Capt. Billing is killed Capt. Tolbert Mortally wound, some Others are also Hurt. Major Fishbourn who carries this—will be able to give your Excellency a particular Acct of the last Night’s & this Mornings transaction’s—I am happy to Inform you that not an Officer was absent on this Occation—nor have any of the Soldiers gone towards the Enemy their General cry is to be Discharged—& that they will again enlist & fight for America a few excepted. A.W.
Genl Potter & Colo. Johnston who were eye Witnesses of the Whole as far as it is yet gone—go express to Phila.
DLC: Papers of George Washington.