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General Washington writes to Knox, Chief of Artillery for the Continental Army. Informs Knox he will soon be called to a council of War, and will be asked his opinion on several issues: whether the Continental Army should engage in a general attack against the British; if not, what stance the army should take; where Continental troops should be stationed in reference to the British occupation of Philadelphia; how to prevent the British from drawing supplies from the city during the winter, etc.
In the hand of Samuel Shaw. Knox expresses his opinion against a general attack on the British. Writes, It requires the best discipline, the firmest spirit, and good officers, to storm works or to make an impression on British troops. Not that I suppose the Europeans will make better soldiers than the Americans, but that habitual discipline to which they are used and in which all their officers are initiated gives them a superiority over us, which nothing but a similar discipline or superior numbers can counterbalance. Discusses the division in Continental troops between northern (against Burgoyne in New York) and southern campaigns (near Philadelphia). Refers to the possibility of uniting American troops. Suggests that Reading, Pennsylvania serve as the site for a large cantonment. Covers other military matters including, deserters, promotions, and offices. Prepared for George Washington in response to his queries of 26 October 1777. See GLC02437.00676 for a draft in Knox's hand.
Penned by Samuel Shaw, with post-script in Knox's hand. Knox answers the question: ... whether it would be advisable to attack the enemies redoubts and the City of Philadelphia by way of storm ... Knox writes, I exceedingly lament my want of ability and experience to fill properly the important station in which I am, and am more particularly distressed when such important questions are referred to my decision as those which your Excellency gave us in charge the last evening. The happiness or misery of the People of America may be the consequences of a right or erroneous judgment. Admits that America's military knowledge and skill does not equal that of Great Britain. Notes that some mens' desire for military fame has eclipsed their original intentions for entering the war. Deplores Washington's critics. Discusses America's depreciated currency. Explains his reasons for strongly opposing an attack against the British at Philadelphia. Instead, asserts that Continental forces should fortify winter quarters at Germantown, Pennsylvania. Proposes that with quarters fortified, they can invite an attack along enemy lines. If the British accept the attack and win, the Americans will be able to retreat to fortified quarters. If the British decline the attack, Knox argues Continental forces may be assured of their superior strength. Under text of page 6, place of writing, date and address added by Knox, with his autograph manuscript additions on page 7. The signature was added later, and does not appear to be in Knox's hand.
My sentiments are against a general attack of the enemy strongly posted as they are except upon the clearest principles of superior numbers to counterballance their superior discipline. I am fully of the opinion that we have no experience of our troops that will justify the supposition of their being able to storm redoubts defended by British troops... Argues that the possible advantage gained by the Continental Army in taking Philadelphia will not equal the cost. Prepared for George Washington in response to his queries of 26 October 1777. See GLC02437.00660 for a draft in Shaw's hand.
First part includes a printed letter from George Washington asking the Secretary of War (Henry Knox) to publish a statement regarding the United States' attempts for the re-establishment of peace and friendship with the Indians. The second part is Knox's response to this request in which he states the The causes of the existing Hostilities between the United States, and certain Tribes of Indians North-West of the Ohio, stated and explained from official and authentic Documents... Noted as written at the War department and that it was printed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by David C. Claypoole.
Transmits a letter (not included) and asks Knox's advice regarding the Society of the Cincinnati. Notes that all papers of the Society are in the care of the Society's Secretary General, thus he cannot answer Mr. Jefferson's questions (possibly Thomas Jefferson, who was critical of the Society). Notes that some Society members obtained badges from Major [Pierre Charles] L'Enfant's Agency. Criticizes the badges L'Enfant created, noting that L'Enfant overcharged for the badges and misused the money he received. Has not seen L'Enfant since a Society meeting in 1784.
Discusses War Department matters that, in his opinion, should be mentioned to the legislature at the next session. Notes that arsenals are needed in the middle and southern states. Transmits a letter from Governor Lee. Proposes to travel east the following day to see his family. Knox's retained draft.
Offers his opinion as to the position proper for Winter Quarters. Argues that winter quarters are indispensably necessary for Continental troops. Suggests that quarters be established at a distance from the British (who occupy Philadelphia). Writes, Could a place be found about 30 miles distant from & North or NW of Philadelphia in which it was possible to quarter the troops I should prefer it to a greater distance, or different direction as by it we should be able to cover a greater extent of Country than by taking post at Wilmington ... Hopes to establish winter quarters in such a position as to prevent the British from drawing supplies from the countryside. Suggests that Lancaster should be right of, and Reading left of, winter quarters. Notes that General [John] Muhlenberg also has a proposal for a winter location. In the hand of William Knox. Retained copy.
Knox answers Washington's queries from his 6 September 1780 council of war (refer to GLC02437.00838). Discusses the siege of New York and how the lack of supplies and stores is affecting their campaign. Knox's retained draft.
Later copy of a letter from Washington to Knox, informing Knox that he will arrive later than he expected to or had hoped for in Philadelphia. States that his later than expected arrival means he will have very little time to prepare for his meetings with other officials. Asks Knox to be ready for his arrival. Copied from original 1 February 1854 according to note at top of first page.