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Georgia Historical Society.

VOT.. Y. Part 2.

I. Order Book of SAMUEL ELBERT, Colcnel and Brigadier General in the
Continental Army, October 1776, to November, 1778.

2. Letter Book of Governor SAIMUEL ELBERT, from January, 1785, to No-
vember, 1785.

Published by Wymberley Jones DeRenne
as a Contribution to Georgia History . .

SAVANNAH, GA :

TH MOIINING KEWS PKINT.

1902.

ZPI^EIF^i^CIE].

It gives me great pleasure to publish in book foim the Order
Book and Correspondence of General Samuel Elbert, now in pos-
session of the Georgia Historical Society, and to add this volume
to the Georgia Historical Society's collections.

The MS. viras the property of the late Wdliam Neyle Habersham,
Esquire, of Savannah, who became its possessor through the con-
nection existing between the Elbert and Habersham families by the
inter-marriage of both with the family of Rae.

Mr. Habersham presented this valuable manuscript to the Geor-
gia Historical Society in 1894.

To the Hon. Wm. Harden, Librarian of the Society, belongs the
credit of preparing a copy of the MS. for publication, and of cor-
recting the proofs, for which I am. deeply indebted to him.

WYMBERIvEY JONES DeRENNE.

The original from which these pages are printed is in the hand-
writing of several persons, presumably clerks at headquarters, and it is
closely followed in the reproduction, the only changes made being such
as to render the meaning intelligible in many places.

W. H.

ORDER BOOK

OF

SAMUEL ELBERT,
Colonel and Brigadier General in the Continental Army.

SIGNALS BY BEAT OF DRUM FOR MANOUVERING.

Face to the right one single stroke and flam;
To the Left two single strokes and flam;
To the Right about face three single strokes and flam;
To the Left about four single strokes and flam;
Wheel to the Right Roll, one single stroke and flam.
Wheel to the Left ditto, two single strokes and flam.
Wheel to the Right about Roll, three single strokes and flam.
Wheel to the Left about Roll, four single strokes and flam.
Front Strong double flam.
Make ready Preparative.
To cease firing the General.
Slow march a March.
Quick pace Quick march.
To Charge Bayonettes Point of War.
To form Battalion To Arms.
To Ease arms Ton-ron-don.
To Secure ditto first part of Tat-too.
To Shoulder last part of Tat-too.
To call the Adjutant first part of the Troop.
To call the Sergeant and Corporal of each Company three Rolls
and six flams.

To call all the Sergeants and Corporals thirty-nine flams.
Assemble pioneers pioneers march.
Assemble pioneers and fifers drummers.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Savannah, State of Georgia, 2d Oct., 1776.

Lieut. Col. John Stirk & 1
Maj. Seth John Cuthbert j

Gentlemen: The Honorable the Continental Congress having voted
two additional Battalions of foot to be raised for the Defence of
this State, our convention have done me the honor to appoint me
Colonel of the Second or musket battalion and have greatly added to
that honor by the appointment of two such Gentlemen of Character
and veracity to be my Field Officers, an appointment, be assured
Gentlemen, which gives me infinite satisfaction. Let us then un-
animously determine to bring into the field as soon as possible a
Regiment of brave fellows who may be the Salvation of their
Country. For this purpose you are, Gentlemen, to use all expedition
in going to the state of Virginia where you will find that Mr.
Wereat has distributed all the Commissions in our Regiment to
such persons as were capable of raising men. Your first business
will be to find out the neighborhood where most of the Officers are
and in the nearest village capable of containing and providing lor
troops establish Head Quarters, then Issue orders for all recruits
to be immediately marched thither. Where you find expert clever
fellows at recruiting keep them constantly out; you will find many
others, I mean officers, fit for nothing but to go to the Drill, which
I earnestly enjoin you to keep them constantly at observe that the
terms of enlistment are altered and that the men are to be enlisted
to serve during the present War unless they should be sooner dis-
charged by Congress. The men have a Bounty of Seventy dollars
and one hundred acres ot land who enlist on the above terms; they
are to pay for their clothing. Try to get good Muskets; we shall
want in the whole Regiment One hundred and twenty good Riflemen
to make two flying companies. Do what you can to get good drum-
mers and fifers, at any rate buy some good drums and as none are
to be had here you may have the Dragoons marked i to 8 with
battalion upon them, but no more paint it spoils the sound of a
Drum. If you want money in either North Carolina or Virginia the
inclosed order from our Government will procure it, but should that
fail loose not a moment in sending word to our Delegates in
Philadelphia informing of your situation, and I venture to say it
will be forwarded to you without Delay, taking care and a sufficient
sum at once in that case. You and Major Cuthbert can divide and
take different routs after you arc there provided you think your
presence among the Recruiting Officers will in the least expedite the
business; but after they begin to assemble one of you must be con-

Colonel and Brigadier General.

stantly with them and introduce subordination as soon as possible
but not with so much severity at first. If my health is sufficiently
recovered I intend to follow you in a fortnight, but if I should not
your discretion will be sufficient to embody and march the regiment
here. Loose not a day in coming when you have upward five hundred
men, taking care to leave good recruiting Officers behind you in or-
der to complete.

Let me desire that by every week's post you furnish me with a
return of your Strength and Situation and at the same time write
your sentiments fully. I wish you success and an agreeable Tour.
I am, Gentlemen, very respectfully your most Obedient Servant,

S. E., Col. 2nd Battalion.

25th October, 1776, this date appointed Mr. John Bard, Adjutant to
the second Battalion; he ranks as a first Lieut, and receives Captains
pay-

In Congress, 7th October, 1776.

Resolved, that as a further Encouragement for Gentlemen of abil-
ities to engage as Commissioned Officers in the Battalions to be
furnished by the Several State to serve during the War, their
Monthly pay be increased as follows, viz:

Colonel 75

Lieut. Col 60

Major .. .. 50

Captain 40

Lieutenants 27 ^ '^^^^'^'

Ensign 20

Quartermaster 27^

Adjutant 40

October 8th,

Resolved, that for the further encouragement of the non-Comniis-
sioned Ofificers and Soldiers who shall engage in the service during
the War, a Suit of Clothes be Annually given each of the said Of-
ficers and Soldiers, to consist for the present year of two linen hunt-
ing Shirts, two pairs of Overalls, a Leathern or woolen Waistcoat
with Sleeves, a pair of Breeches, a Hat or leathern Cap, two shirts,
two pair Hose, two pair shoes, amounting in the whole to the value
of Twenty dollars, or that sum shall be paid to each Soldier who
shall procure those articles himself and Produce a Certificate there-
of from the Captain.

Order Book of Sanmel Elbert,

Regimental Orders, Second Georgia Battalion.

15th March, 1777.

The Regiment to be on the Parade at half past nine o'clock, when
they are to be reviewed by the General; the Officers are to be parti-
cularly careful to make the men appear well under arms. As the
Regiment stands greatly in need of being well disciplined, they are
to be exercised every morning from six to eight o'clock, the most
awkward to be in squads by themselves, with the most expert Offi-
cers to drill them; the Regiment to be exercised in Battalion every
afternoon, to be on the Parade at four o'clock. The Adjutant to
attend at ten o'clock in the morning for orders.

Orders by Gen. Howe.

15th March, 1777.
Parole-Georgia.

Officer of the day to-morrow. Captain Ashby.

A Main Guard to be mounted to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock
consisting of i Sub., 2 Sergeants and 30 Rank and file. The Guard
to be taken from Captain Motte's Detachment until further orders.
Col. Elbert will fix upon some proper place for this Guard and di-
rect the places at which Sentries ought to be extended. Command-
ing Officers of every Corps in Town will order an Adjutant or some
person acting as such to attend at Head Quarters every morning by
twelve o'clock to receive Orders, they will also make an exact Re-
turn to-morrow morning of the Strength of their Several Corps; this
Order extends only to such men as they have in Town. Adjutant
Elliott will see that this Order is Served on the Commanding Of-
ficers of the different Corps.

Orders by General Howe.

Head Quarters, Savannah, i6th March, 1777.
Parole-Mclntosh.

Officer of the day to-morrow, Capt. White.

The Guards to be relieved every morning at 8 o'clock and Officers
of Companies to be careful that the men do no Injury to the Houses
where they are in Barracks, or to any other property of the Inhabi-
tants. Gen. Howe hopes every soldier will consider himself as Or-

Colonel and Brigadier General.

dained to protect and defend his fellow Citizens from Injury r:\\<\
insult, to act contrary to this end will disgrace the Character of a
Soldier, and will certainly meet with punishment. Captains, Lieut-
enants and Ensigns will be attentive that Orders are communicated
to their men, that they may not through Ignorance Transgress or
have a pretext to plead in Excuse Col Sumpter will prepare to
follow the former Detachment of his Corps and march the moment
the Waggons arrive, the Col. will have a report immediately made
to the General, what Ammunition he wants, that it may be ordered.
The Commissary will furnish the Col. with what provissions he
thinks necessary for his March, take care that they are sufficiently
provided in Sunbury, the Commissary to attend the General at
Head Quarters to-day at half past Twelve o'clock.

Orders by Gen. Howe.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 17th March, 1777.
Parole-Elbert.

Captain of the day to-morrow, Capt. Vandross.

The military and other Stores on board the Transports to be
examined and Aired as immediately as possible and the Vessels
properly cleaned out. Col. Marion will appoint the Officer and men
for this Service and take care that it is done when the weather is
fair. An exact return of the Military Stores and Provissions re-
ceived on board each Transport and also a return of their present
State to be made to Col. Marrian who is to report to the General.
Doctor Harris is to talce direction of the Hospital and is to regulate
it properly; he is, and till a purveyor is appointed, to furnish the
Commissary with a list of such Articles as are Necessary for the
Sick, who is to proceed Accordingly.

Orders by General Howe.

Head Quarters, Savannah, i8th March. 1777.
Parole-Motte.

The Main Guard to be relieved to-morrow from Col. Elbert's Bat-
talion; the detachment under the Command of Col. Motte are to
prepare for their retvirn to Charles Town as immediately as possible;
they will embark to-morrow on board the Transports under the
Command of Lieut. Col. Marion, who is ordered to issue the Neces-
sary Orders.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Regimental Orders, Second Battalion.

19th March, 1777.

By Virtue of General Orders yesterday a Subaltern, two Sergeants
and thirty two Rank and file are to relieve the Main Guard at 8
o'clock this morning, care must be taken that the men have their
Arms in proper Order, with a Sufficient Quantity of Ammunition.
All the Taylors are to be kept constantly at work making Coats,
as the Colonel is desirous of having the Battalion in some uniform
as soon as possible. As some of the Inhabitants complain of the
Soldiers going too often to their wells for Water, a party are im-
mediately to be set about cleaning the Well in the Barrack yard, the
water whereof being very good; and if any Soldiers are found Drunk
they are to be sent to the Guard House and Confined the vile prac-
tice of hard drinking is more the cause of Fevers in Savannah than
the Climate.

Regimental Orders.

2ist March, 1777.

A Regimental Court-Martial to sit immediately for the Trial of
those men confined in the Barrack Guard; Col. Stirk, President.
Edward Jones, Esq., is Appointed Seller to the Battalion; any other
Person found Selling Liquors to the Soldiers may expect to be
treated as the Law directs.

Regimental Orders.

22nd March, 1777.

An Orderly Sergeant to be immediately sent to Gen. Mcintosh,
who is to be relieved every day, a Sentry is likewise to be posted
at the General's door, the Col. is sorry to find it has been hitherto
neglected.

General Orders.

Head Quarters, 22nd, IMarcli, 1777.
Parole-Motte.

General Mcintosh orders the Lieut. Col.. Major and two Captains
with fifty men of the Second Battalion to be ready to March to-
morrow Morning for Fort Howe upon Alatamaha and relieve Lieut.

Colotiel and Brigadier General.

Col. Harris; all the Captains and the Men belonging to the first
Battalion whose times are expired, who are to March immediately
to Head Quarters at Savannah to Recruit their Several Companies
with all possible expedition and settle the Accounts of those Men
who are entitled to their discharge N. B. Major Roberts instead
of Major Cuthbert.

After Regimental Orders.

22nd March, 1777.

Lieut Col. Stirk, Capts. Pannel and Porter, three Sergts., three
Corporals and fifty Rank and file are to be ready to march at Ten
o'clock;" the Men are to be put in the best Order possible and some
means fallen on to carry their Ammunition as the Pouches are not
j'ct arrived; the Surgeon's Mate is to March with this party who is
to be provided with a few Necessary Medicines, &c. Two Waggons
with as much Indian Meal as possible, with camp Equipage, Nine
tents included, goes with this party. The Col. Recommends it to
Lieut. Col. Stirk to have particular attention paid to his men, to
keep them in as high spirits as possible, by all means to make them
incamp on a dry spot of Ground, and that together, and to let no
time be lost in teaching the men discipline.

General Orders.

Head Quarters, Savannah, i8th March, 1777.

Parole-Howe.

It is General Mcintosh's positive Orders that no Officer shall En-
list cr carry away any Man of any other Corps belonging to the
Continental upon any pretence whatever, and if such a thing is at-
tempted that the Soldier be taken from him and the OfBcer put
under Arrest.

General Orders.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 26th March, 1777.

Parole-Moultrie.

General Mcintosh Orders a General Court-Martial to be held to-
morrow morning at 8 o'clock for the Trial of such Prisoners now

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

in Confinement whose Crimes are not Cognizable by a Regimental
Court-Martial.

General Orders, by Gen. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 28th March, 1777.

Parole-Unanimity.

The General Court-Martial held yesterday whereof Col. Screven
was president, is approved of and the Court dissolved, but the punish-
ment of the Several delinquents defered till further Consideration, ex-
cept John Suttle of Capt. Porter's Comp'y in the Second Battalion,
whose Corporal punishment is remitted and himself to be released,
in expectation of his good behavior for the future. A Subaltern Of-
ficer and fifteen of the best boat-men that can be got are ordered
to hold themselves in readiness whenever Commodore Bowen re-
quires them, and the Main Guard now Kept by the Milita in Town
is to be relieved by the Continental Troops to-morrow morning.

Regimental Orders.

28th March, 1777,

Agreeable to the General Orders just come out, John Suttle of
Capt. Porter's Company is to be immediately released and the Con-
ditions made known to him. A Subaltern Officer with a Sergt. and
fifteen Rank and file who are best acquainted with water work are
to be ready to march at a moment's warning. A Subaltern Officer
with two Sergts., two Corporals, a drum and twenty four Rank and
file, are to relieve the Main Guard to-morrow morning at eight
o'clock, to be relieved at the same hour every morning till further
orders. This Guard is to furnish a Sentry at the General's door, in
place of the Barrack Guard.

General Orders, by General Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, 30th March, 1777.
Parole-Freedom.

All the Continental Troops in or about Savannah are ordered
to be ready to March at any time to-morrow, three or four Miles
out of Town, where they are to remain in Camp till further Orders-

Colonel and Brigadier General. /j

the Corporal's Guard who have charge of the Barracks are to re-
main, and every Military person entitled to Vote at the ensuing
Election are allowed to appear as Citizens in Town during its Con-
tinuance. The prisoners of Col. Habersham's Regiment whose lives
are exposed are ordered to be released, unless the Crime either of
them is charged with was committed before and the Corporal pun-
ishment only (directed by the Court-Martial to be given to Thomas
Lewis and John Nicholson of that Battalion and James Sutton, John
Sutton and Henry George of the Second Regiment) is pardoned by
the General in Expectation, that, from a principle of Gratitude, they
will behave themselves like good Soldiers for the future.

Regimental Orders, 2iid Battalion

30th March, 1777.

The whole of the Regiment except the sick and a Sergt. Guard to
take care of the Barracks are to march at Ten o'clock to-morrow
morning the Waggons are to attend in Order to carry the Camp
Equipage, and the Commissary is to furnish three days' provissions
and a proper Conveyance to about four miles out of Town. James
Sutton, John Sutton and Henry George are to be immediately
brought to the Colonel's Quarters.

General Orders, by General Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, 31st March, 1777.
Parole-Carolina.

The General desires that the Commanding Officers of each Corps
shall make an accurate return of all the Men they have within this
State as soon as possible to Raymond Demere, Esq., who is ap-
pointed to act as Brigade Major during his stay here.

Ten Men more are Ordered to Assist Commodore Bowen in car-
rying the boats round under the Command of Lieut. Ward, with
the 18 Men formerly Ordered.

Regimental Orders, 2nd Battalion.

3rd April, 1777.

A Regimental Court-Martial to sit Immediately for the Trial of
the three Men, now in Confinement, belonging to the second Bat-

/^ Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

talion Capt. Mosby, president. The Officers of each Company are
to see that every man under their Command is Immediately furnished
with a good powder Horn; after a reasonable time, no excuse will
be received for a breach of this Order, as any reasonable expense in
procuring them will be allowed.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

4th April, 1777.

The Court-Martial of which Capt. Mosby was president is approv-
ed and dissolved, their Sentence of Corporal Punishment on Thos.
Sack and Patrick Lacy to be inflicted this afternoon when the Reg-
iment is paraded ^John Sack is likewise to be brought on the Pa-
rade in Order to be reprimanded by the Colonel.

General Orders, by General Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, 4th April, 1777.

The Continental Troops are ordered to relieve the Militia on the
Main Guard in Savannah this day and a Captain, two Subalterns and
fifty Men to be ready to March early to-morrow Morning to Sun-
bury to relieve a party of the first Battalion on board the two
Gallies, Washington and Lee, in order to be paid ofif, and those of
them whose times are expired discharged.

Regimental Orders.

4th April, 1777.

A Subaltern, two Sergts., two Corporals a drum and Tv/enty four
Rank and file are to mount the Main Guard immediately they are to
relieve the Militia.

General Orders, by General Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, 8 April, 1777.
Parole-Rutledge.

The Sentence of the last General Court-Martial whereof Col.
Screven was president, upon Wm. Anderson of the ist Regt. and

Colonel and Brigadier General. 15

Sam'I Poe and John Lacy of the Second Regiment, being Cognizable
by a Regimental Court-Martial is Ordered to be put in Execution
to-morrow Morning, and afterwards the prisoners to be released.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

9th April, 1777.

Agreeable to the General Orders of yesterday, Sam'I Poe and
John Lacy are to be immediately carried to the usual place of pun-
ishment to receive the Sentence of the last Gen'l Court-Martial.
Capt. Porter having used his Interest with the General to have the
Corporal punishment remitted, who has left the matter to the Col.
to act in as he thinks proper, and the Officers of the Regiment hav-
ing made application to the Col. in their behalf, the Col., being un-
willing to refuse complying with their request, Ordered that they be
released without the Corporal punishment after being carried to the
place aforesaid and made Acquainted in the presence of the Regi-
ment, the Cause of their being forgiven.

General Orders, by General Mcintosh.

Savannah, 9th April, 1777.
Parole- Washington.

The first and Second Battalions of Continental Troops are Order
ed to be ready to March to the Alatamaha to-morrow Morning with
Arms, Accoutriments and thirty six rounds of Ammunition in Order,
and their Waggons with a Week's Provissions and what Spades and
Axes they have or can procure.

Savannah, nth April, 1777.

To Col. Elbert, or Commandg. Officer on the March:

Sir: The first and Second Battalions just marched out of Town,
one to go to Sunbury, instead of the Alatamaha, as was given out
in Order where I expect there are Vessells enough for them to Em-
bark this I mentioned to some of the Officers, but that there may
be no misunderstanding have sent Mr. Berrien with this I wish you
a pleasant March.

I am. Sir, Your most Hble, Servt.

LACHN. McINTOSH.

t6 Order Book of Samuel Elberf,

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Sunbury, 13th April, 1777.

Capt. Mosby as Major and Lieut. Mosby as Adjutant are to act
till further Orders; Accurate reports are to be regularly made to
the Colo, every morning; orderly time at Ten o'clock; the Major
is to appoint a trusty Sergeant to Act as Quarter-Master Sergt. till
the one belonging to the Regiment Joins it; the Quarter Guard
and Picquet to mount as they did on the Road with an Officer of
the day. The Colo. , anxious to preserve the Honor of the Regiment,
begs that both men and Officers will ever have it in View and make
it their Study to act in such a manner as to gain the Esteem of the
Inhabitants, where ever it may be their lot to be on duty. The Of-
ficers of the Different Companies are to set a Sufficient Number of
Cartridges made to-morrow for their men to fit the different pieces
and made so as to go down the Barrell easy and not too great a
quantity of Powder those men who are without Powder Horns
are to get them made to-morrow.

General Orders, by Gen'l Mcintosh.

Head Qrs., Sunbury, 16 Aprl., 1777.

All the Continental Troops now here are Ordered to parade this
afternoon at three o'clock, when the Officers are to take the Oath
of Fidelity, &c., to the United States of America, before a Civil
Magistrate Lieut. Berrien is appointed to act as Aid-de-Camp to the
General, with the Rank of Captain during his continuance in that
Office. The General Expects every Officer in their Several depart-
ments will be ready either to imbark or March at a moment's warn-
ing; to be careful the Arms, Ammunition, Accoutrements and cloth-
ing of the Soldiers are in the best Order possible.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

i6th April, 1777.

A Regimental Court-Martial to sit immediately for the Trial of
such Men as are under Confinement, Capn. Mosby, President; the
Regiment to parade at half past two o'clock the Officers are to be
particular in making the Men Appear well under Arms; the Quarter
Guard with the detachment on bd. the Gallies are to out with

Colonel and Brigadier General. //

the Regiment except such as are Sentrys; the Colonel is sorry to
find very great Irregularities in Camp, particularly that of firing
Guns without leave he therefore Orders that the Quarter-Guard
do Keep a patrole out in Order to detect and Confine them.

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Sunbury, 17th April, 1777.

Parole-St. Mary.

The first and Second Regiments are ordered to Embark this morn-
ing on board the Transports, as the Commodore will direct, and to
make a Return of the strength of those Battalions to the General.

Regimental Orders, Second Battalion.

Headquarters, Sunbuij', 17th Apr., 1777.

The Regiments are to be ready to imbark on board the Transports
in a minute's warning, the Tents not to be struck till the Colo, di-
rects it to be done. Capt. Mosby with his Company are to go on
board the Schooner Dolphin, Capt. Nichols, the remainder of the
Regiment goes with Lt. Colo. Stirk on board the Sloop Hope, Capt.
Harrison; the Colo, desires that the Officers take the greatest care
that the Men have the best accomodations possible, and, to prevent
disorder, they must be particular in frequently examining the Men's
Arms and Accoutrements. The Court-Martial of which Capt. Porter
was president is approved and dissolved; their sentence of Corporal
punishment on Richd. Easton and reducing George Hardwick to the
Ranks, is remitted by the Colonel on a presumption of their be-
having better in future.

General Orders, hy S. E.

Headquarters, Sunbury, 21st April, 1777.

Parole-Georgia.

Of the Guard that mounts to-day a Subaltern with a Sergt., Cor-
poral and thirteen rank and file are to be sent to the Battery to re-
main there till relieved to-morrow Morning; the Officer will en-
quire of Capt. Morris what his duty there will be. which he is to at-

i8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

tend strictly to; the Main Guard will likewise detach a Sergt. and
six Men to take post on the Savannah road in some of the Buildings
without the Lines; their duty will be in the day to Stop any Soldiers
going out of Town without a pass, and after tattoo beat to stop any
persons who have not the Countersign at this time all the Sentries
are to do the same Officer of the day Capt. Moore, who is to go
the Grand Rounds at what hour in the night he pleases between
Tattoo and revallie beat the Town Major goes the rounds immed-
iately after Tattoo beat the Officer of the Main Guard at Twelve
o'clock; the Main Guard is to send a Patrol of a Sergt. and six Men
at different Hours to see that there be no unlawful Assemblies or
Rioting the Countersign will be given at retreat Beating to the
Officer of the day, who will give it to the Officer of the Main Guard,
who is to send it Sealed up to the Officers of the different Guards.
Colo. Elbert insists on it '.hat the Officers pay due respect to those
Orders and that they go through the regular forms of Relieving
Guard, going and receiving rounds and Patrols, &c.

After Orders.

2ist Apr. 1777.

The Court-Martial of which Capt. Moore was president is ap-
proved and dissolved, their sentence of Corporal punishment on
Thomas Hodge to be inflicted this afternoon on the Parade.

General Orders, by S. K. ''These Orders shotdd have been
Copied before those on the other side of this leaf. ' '

Head Quarters, Sunbury, 20th April, 1777.

Parole-Mclntosh.

A Subaltern, with a Sergt. two Corporals and 21 Rank and file
of the Second Regiment are to March to-morrow Morning to
Darien with two days' Provisions and thirty-six rounds of Powder
and ball pr man; this party are to relieve Capts. Pannel and Porter
who are to March with all the men of their Detachment to Sunbury;
the Officer who commands on this post is to give Immediate in-
formation of the approach of an Enemy who he is to Oppose with
all his might; five of the Tents are to be left with them and the
rest brought to Head-Quarters. This party are to join the Southern
Expedition when sent for; Capt. Mosby is to Act as Major to the
Second Regiment who will likewise do the duty of Town-Major for

Colonel and Brigadier General. ig

a few days; a Garrison Court-Martial to sit to-morrow morning for
the Trial of all prisoners, Capt. Moore, President; a Captain's
Guard to Mount to-morrow morning 9 o'clock to Consist of i Capt.,
two Subalterns, three Sergts, three Corporals and forty four Rank
and file with a Drum and fife; all the Continental Troops in Town
give a proportion of Men agreeable to the Town-Major's Detail; the
first Regiment furnishes the Captain to-morrow.

Sunbury, 24th April, 1777.

Dear General: Inclosed I send you per Express copies of a
Letter and Instructions Just received from his Honor the president
of Council ordering to proceed immediately on the Southern Ex-
pedition. After what passed between the President and self Just be-
fore he left this place I am astonished at not hearing from you
and having your particular Orders and Instructions for my Justifi-
cation. I told him that without your Orders I could not Act and
Intreated that if I was to Command, all Orders of recommendations
of the Councel Should be sent me through you, particularly so far
as was necessary to my undertaking the Expedition, what Number
of Troops to be Employed and the Different posts to be left Guard-
ed; for God's Sake let me hear from you Immediately and if you
think proper that I should proceed On the Expedition let me have
your Orders of directions as full as possible. I am sure you wish
well to the Undertaking and therefore will occasion no delay on
your part. Inclosed is a Letter for his Honor the president which,
after perusing, please Seal and deliver, and at The same time inform
him when you Intend Returning The Express. I am told that Sump-
ter's Regiment is Ordered home. I am sorry for it. I think it high
Time some of Colo. Screven's Men were arrived. They may serve
to occupy that post if in time If my Quarter Master with the
Pouches or any more of my Men have arrived to-day send them
on. I am. Dr. Sir, Your Most Obedt. Servt.,

S. ELBERT.
The Honbl. Brigadier General Mcintosh

General Orders.

'Head-Quarters-Sunbulry, 2Sth April, 1777

Parole-Washington.

The Court-Martial of which Major Mcintosh was president is ap-
proved & Dissolved George Hardwick & Charles Clifton are to be

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

taken out on the Parade at four o'clock this afternoon, the sentence
of the Court-Martial to be read to them in hearing of the Regi-
ment and then to be informed that the Colo., Considering their
youth & unexperience, and in hopes of their having seen their Error,
has thought proper to remit their Punishment, with this reserve
only, that they both be reduced to the Ranks and Act no longer
as Corporals till their future good Conduct entitles them to pre-
ferment; the Commanding Ofificer desires that the Articles of War
be read this afternoon to all the Continental Troops in Garrison.

Sunbury, 27th April, 1777.

Colo. Baker.

Sir: Inclosed is a Letter from the General for you by which you
will find that the Expedition is at last to go forward. I request the
favor of seeing you here to-morrow to consult on the proper mode
of Proceeding; I think to loose no time you had best march all your
Men Immediately to fort-Howe with directions to be ready to pro-
ceed as soon as you Join them; the General writes me that a
Sergts. Command of such of your Regiment as have no Iforses
will be Sufificient to leave at that post, but we can fix that when
we meet. The Inclosed Letter from the General to Colo. Sumpter,
please forward to him by Express as it is to ingage him to Join you
on the Southern March. I am, Sir, Your Most Obedt. Servt.

S. ELBERT.

Sunbury, 27th April, 1777.

Colo. Sumpter.

Sir: By the Inclosed letter from General Mcintosh you will find
that the Expedition to the Southward is to go on Immediately; I
hope & request that you will Join us, as we are too few without
you; I expect to leave this place with the Fleet & Troops here on
Tuesday & have Ordered Colo. Baker's light Horse to Join you at
Fort Plowe with all possible speed. I expect to see Colo. Baker to-
morrow, with whom will fix on the proper place of Rendezvous in
Order to have a Junction of the Forces. I am, very respectfully, Sir,

Your Most Obedt. Servt.

S. ELBERT.

Colonel and Brigadier General.

Sunbury, 27th April 1777

Lieut. Strother.

Sir- On receipt of this and your being relieved by the Sergts.
Party you are to procure boats & Pilots and proceed without a
Moment's delay with the whole of your party to Frederica, where
you are to remain till further Orders. Take care not to sufTer any
boats to go to the Southward without a pass & use every means in
your Power to prevent the Enemy geting Intelligence or Supply. I

^"^ ^^^' ^'' S. ELBERT.

GenL Orders.

Head Quarters, Sunbuiy, 27th April, i777-

Parole-Liberty.

A Sergt. with a Corporal & ten Men of the first & Second Battal-
ions to be picked from amongst those who are sick & unable to
March a distance, are to proceed Immediately to Darien & then
take post and remain till further orders; they are to take Thirty-
Six rounds of Ammunition & as much Provissions as will serve them
till they get there; a waggon is to attend; they carry no tents as
they will get a House to remain in; they relieve Lieut. Strother
who goes with his Party directly to Frederica with all his Tents
& baggage; as all the men of the first & Second Battalions are to
prepare to March at a moment's warning, the Guard to be relieved
by Capt. Morris' Artillery Company in the morning who are to
continue duty by themselves as Capt. Morris shall direct; the Com-
manding Officer will review the Troops intended for the Expedition
at three o'Clock to-morrow afternoon at which Hour they are to
be ready, & drawn up in a Rank intire, that he may be the better
able to examine the Arms, Accoutrements & Clothing of their men
who are to turn out with their blankets and Knapsacks at their backs;
he expects that some pains will be taken to make the men appear
clean & neat; each man to have Six Rounds of Blank Cartridges &
a good flint in his Piece.

Head-Quarters, Sunbury, Wednesday, 30th April, i777-

All the Troops for the Expedition to imbark on board the Trans-
ports this Afternoon; the Signal for Sailing will be given by the
Commodore at High water to-morrow-morning.

Sailed from Sunbury early in the Morning on Thursday, ist May,
1777, came to anchor off St. Katherines in the Afternoon.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders to the Troops.

On board the Polly Transport, off St. Katherines.

Thursdajs ist Majs 1777.

The Commanding Officer orders that a Subaltern's Guard do
mount regularly every day on board each Transport, the Strength
of each Guard to be proportional to the Number of men onboard;
the Officer Commanding onboard each Transport to have all their
Troops Exercised at some convenient Hour every day, the Arms
and Ammunition examined & Kept in the best Order and the Men
Stationed to their proper Quarters, so that they may the more readi-
ly, without confusion, defend themselves, should they be attacked by
an Enemy, as it is very Possible an attempt may be made to surprize
one of the Transports in the Night, as we have an Enterprizing
Enemy to encounter; the method of Challenging & receiving vessells
& boats will be given on in Orders. Lt. Colo. Harris is Officer of
the day to be relieved by Lt. Colo. Stirk, in which Character those
two Gentm. will act Alternately till further Orders; as the fleet goes
inland reports from the dififerent Transports to be made to the Of-
ficer of the day, who is to report to Commanding Officer; Capt.
Mosby who acts as Major to the 2nd Regiment, will likewise act in
Character of Brigade-Major to the Troops on the Expedition; he
is to attend regularly for Orders & see that they are distributed;
The Commissary of Stores & the Officer of the Artillery are as soon
as possible to make exact returns of Quality & Quantity of every
thing they have in charge; Mr. Seeds is appointed Armourer to the
Troops on the Expedition, any of the Soldiers who are capable are
to be sent to Assist him he must be constantly employed in repair-
ing the Arms.

General Orders.

Polly Transport, St. Catherines, 2nd May, 1777.

A Sergt, with a return from each Company to attend Mr. Lang-
ford who will serve out Provissions agreeable thereto taking a re-
ceipt on the back of the same, which returns & receipts are to be
taken care of in Order that it may be known how the Provissions are
Expended; the Commanding Officers onboard the Several Trans-
ports are to see a proper distribution of Provissions & that they
are not wasted; all the Troops to be under Arms at Two o'Clock
drawn up on the Beach, when their Arms & Accoutrements will be
Examined; the first regiment forwards a Subaltern & a few expert
Riflemen to Join Capt. Pannell with the Light Troops.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 23

General Orders.

Polly, Transport, 3rd May, 1777.

All the Troops to be under Arms at Eleven o'Clock, the Rifle-
men with Pikes as yesterday; if the Detachments under Lt. Colo.
Stirk arrive in time they are to be turned out with the rest, each
of them to be served with Cartonet Pouches; every man to have
powder in their Horns & wadding in their Pouches in Order to per-
form firing with blank powder & to preserve Cartridges dry black
Moss is excellent Wadding each soldier is to provide himself with
a Sufificient Quantity; the Commanding Officer is sorry to be once
more obliged to mention the unsoldier like practice of firing Guns
without leave, the great risque of killing one another, added to the
uneless expendition of Ammunition, makes it necessary to be observ-
ed that an Example will be made the first man that is detected in
breaking this positive Order against it, not only of the Person him-
self but of the Officers of the Company he belongs to, as it must
in a great degree proceed from their remissness in duty; Colo.
Elbert will be extremely sorry to be obliged to take notice publickly
of Officers for carelessness, but as his duty requires it he must and
will punish those who deserve it, without favor or partiality.

Polly Transport, 4th May, 1777, St. Catherines.

The Commanding Officer desires that particular attention be paid
to the Order of yesterday & that of the first Instant; he will take
an Opportunity of going onboard the different Transports in Order
to examine the men's Arms & Ammunition; by Applying to Mr.
Seeds a little Oil will be obtained to oil the Arms & Keep them
from rust; each Soldier is to have powder in his Horn & look to
all in their Pouch with proper Wadding, exclusive of the Cartridges
in their Pouch, which are to be Kept full with three spare flints pr.
man; the Quarter- Masters of the first & Second Regiments are to
apply to Capt. Langford for a Hogshead Rum each and serve out
to their regiments a Gill pr man pr day; they take care to
have exact returns. Certified by the Officers Commanding the re-
spective Companies and Serve agreeable blanks, the Officers are to
take care to see an equal distribution.

Sunday, 4th May, 1777. Sailed from the North End of St. Cather-
ines, and on account of the Congress Galley geting on Ground we
did not get to the South End till Monday, the Sth, when we came
to Anchor oflf the Indiaa Narrows; sent Capt. Foster with his pilot
boat ahead to get fresh beef at Sapola Island, but he got a ground.
Tuesday, 6th, came a Cross the Sound & Anchored a little above

24 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Mrs. McKays House on Sapola. Just when the Galley was burnt by
the Enemy, observed on Shoar when a Number of their Shot struck
the Trees, that were fired at our people. '

Wednesday, 7th, Made sail about 6 o'Clock in the Morning in
Order to go with the flood to the dividing leading to the South end
of Sapola, where Mrs. McKay sent her Hunters to meet us with
some fresh Beef, but having over-stayed our time, after turning up
about 3 Miles to the Ebb meeting us, we came to Anchor; at the
flood made Sail, worked up to the dividings; on the next Ebb, the
Congress worked down to Wolfs Island & we came to Anchor ofY
the mouth of little Sapola Creek.

Thursday, 8th. Remained here all day & in the Evening got six
Beeves onboard from Sapola.

Friday, 9th, at high water worked down to Wolfe Island; Saw a
Schooner at Anchor near Egg Island, Supposed it to be the Hinch-
inbrooke; at flood got under way & worked up to her, she proves
to be a Schooner from Providence bound to Sunbury, McKenzie,
master.

Saturday, loth. While we lay at Anchor a little above Rackoon
point in the mouth of Alatamaha, heard Several Cannon fire to the
No'Ward, which we supposed to be the Dolphin in Distress; the
Washington Galley returned to her assistance. Sunday, nth. Came
to Frederica, where we were Joined by Lieut. Strother & his party
and likewise by Capt. Maxwell with twelve Volunteers from Liberty
County to Act with us on the Expedition; Landed & Air'd out men;
Frederica was once a pretty little Town as Appears by the Ruins,
having been burnt down some years since; the port at this place
with a little expense might be made Defensible and might, if Proper-
ly Garrisoned, be a means of Protecting great part of our Southern
Frontiers; there is about twelve Men, that bear Arms here, in my
opinion all Tories their Capt. Ditter says otherwise of himself and
informed me that about 6 or 8 of the Inhabitants had lately gone to
Florida for Protection.

Wednesday, 14th May, 1777, Frederica.

All the Troops to be on the Parade exactly at 5 o'clock this After-
noon, each man with Six blank Cartridges, the Riflemen with loose
powder in their Horns; the Cartridges to be made of half the
Quantity of Powder usual, no man to be excused from Parade but
such as the Doctr. makes a return of to the Commanding Officer,
at the same time an Exact return to be made of the Number of
each Corps on the Expedition; such men as will be at the Trouble
to make Mockasines for themselves will be furnished with raw Deer

Colonel and Brigadier General. 25

Skin for the Purpose by applying to Lt. Colo. Stirk, who will pro-
cure them.

Thursday, 15th May, 1777.

Gave Mrs. Mary Club a Certificate for Six Head cattle rec'd of
her; came to-day to the North End of Jeykill where we were in-
formed by Capt. Pannell that he saw two Sail Vesseils Standing ofif
and on since Sunday last, he having been sent a head on this Island
to procure fresh Beef, without success; Friday he came to the South
End of Jeykill; we observe large fires in the Woods between Saintil-
la & St. Marys, which we suppose to be Colo. Baker; a Woman came
onboard the Congress last Night from Amelia, says that they were
informed of our approach & that they were preparing to receive us;
that Hester's Bluff was fortifying with Cannon & that a large Ship
with Guns lay at the Bluff & that Marbury was on a cruise; that Capt.
Brown on his return told the Floridians that the Georgians were
coming against them with 2,000 Men, that he saw part of the Fleet;
a boat from Frederica came to us in the Night with Six Carcasses
Fresh Beef.

Saturday, 17th. In the Evening crossed the Sound to Cumberland.

Sunday, i8th. In the Night Arrived at the North End Amelia im-
mediately despatched Lt. Bard with a party men to Secure all the
Inhabitants on the island & a party to bring Mills onboard.

South End, Cumberland, i8th May, 1777.

Lieut. Ward: You are immediately to pick from amongst the Men
onboard the Lee Galley about 20 of the most active and Expert that
are well armed with about 50 rounds Ammunition & any Volunteers
that choose to go with you, & with this Party you are to pro-
ceed without a moment loss of time to Amelia Island, in boats
Capt. Woodruft will furnish you for the Purpose, and there make
Prisoners & Secure any Person on the Island & do all in your
power to prevent the Enemy getting intelligence of our Approach;
you are to take Samuel Maines as a Guide. S. E.

North End, Amelia, Monday 19th May, 1777.

Early this Morning we were Joined by fifteen of Colo. Baker's

party who gave us the disagreeable accounts of the whole of that

party being routed by a Number of Regulars. With the Florida

Scout & Indians on Saturday last about 10 o'clock in the forenoon

26 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

it seems that they were drawn into an Ambuscade & from what we
can learn the brave Colo Baker's men deserted him on the first on-
set, notwithstanding his calling to them to stand & fight, which had
they done it would have been no difficult matter to defeat the others
as the Indians & Scout ran on a few of our men returning the fire;
the boat has just returned with Mr. Wm. Mills, his overseer &
School-master; about lo o'clock this morning heard two Cannon fire
towards St. John's River; as they fired at a minute's interval tis
supposed the Enemy are apprized of our Approach.

Polly Transport, Amelia Island, 19th May, yy.

A Subaltern wth a Sergt. & fourteen Rank & file of the first Regi-
ment to March Immediately with Lieut. Ward & Join his party on
the South end of the Island, a Strict lookout to be kept to prevent
a Surprize and Stop all Communication with the Enemy; they are
to Kill & Salt all the Beef & Hogs they can get, this they are
strictly Ordered to do as the fleet is Short of that Article Lieut.
Ward must be careful & not 111 treat any Prisoners he takes, par-
ticularly women & Children the party are to be furnished with 50
rounds of Ammunition pr man.

Thursday, 20th May, Nth. End Amelia.

Landed our Men this forenoon & Ordered them onboard again;
the Dolphin has just come up; at 4 P. M. as the Fleet was Getting
under way to work up to the Narrows, two of Lieut. Ward's party
returned & informed that as the Lieut, was hunting Beef he was
fired on & Killed & two of his Party wounded, but that our People
has beat the Enemy back, who they Judged to be the Island In-
habitants; exasperated at the loss of so fine an Officer and being
well informed that yesterday morning a Wm. Pryce went from the
Island, informed the Enemy of our approach, I dispatched Lieut.
Winfree with Twenty good men with Orders to Burn every house on
the Island & destroy all the Stock; a Party has Just come in with
Seven Negroes who say they belong to a Mr. Moore; their names
are Peter & Nanny, two old ones, & five young named, George,
Sally, Lena, Phillis & July.

General Orders.

Amelia Narrows. Wednesday, 21st May, 1777.

A Captain with a Sergt. & fifteen men to march immediately to the
South End of Amelia where he is to Join the Troops already there

Colonel and Brigadier General. 2j

& take upon him the Command; he is to be careful in keeping a
strict lookout to prevent a Surprize and should he find too great a
Number of the Enemy to oppose he must retreat slowly before
them, and send an intelligent man wth a small party to the Com-
manding Officer for a Reinforcement; no pains is to be spared in
Collecting all the Beef and Hogs on the Island which he is to have
Jerked and cured with the Salt takea by the Party now on the
Island.

About three o'clock this afternoon, heard several Cannon fired
towards the South End of the Island which we suppose to be at our
People, two Sails of the Enemy's Vessells, being seen to-day in
Nassau Sound; went in Com.pany with Capt. Nielson to view the
Narrows, which at some places is not above Six feet wide and dry
at a quarter flood, the turnings being at the same time so short that
I Judge it Impossible to get the smallest Galley through them with-
out first taking out her Guns & all the Stores which will be attended
with the greatest difficulty, if Practicable at all; some men returned
to-day with a few Prisoners, they Confirm the account of our un-
fortunate Lieutenant Ward being Killed; 8 o'clock; we hear more
Cannon, which we suppose to be at Capt. More & his brave fellows
who are exchanging a few Rifle Shot with their Armed Vessells in
return for Cannon Bullets.

Amelia Narrows, Thursday, 22nd May, 1777.

Wrote the following note to Commodore Bowen: Colo. Elbert pre-
sents his Compliments to Commodore Bowen, and will be glad to
be informed as soon as Possible whether there appears a probabili-
ty of his being able to get the Galleys & Transports through Amelia
Narrows, in any reasonable time; the Colo, would recommend to the
Commodore to have a Council of all the Captains of the Galleys &
Transports immediately, and to take their Opinions respecting the
matter, each subscribing his name thereto; the Colo, is the more
anxious to have this matter determined without loss of time as the
Provissions in the Fleet are nearly Expended; that in case the pas-
sage of the Narrows should be inpracticable, some new mode of
Operations should be adopted before tis too late.

Dated, Thursday Morning.
To-day three more of Colo. Baker's men Joined us who say that
Eight of them were made prisoners by some of the Florida Scout
& Indians, that after a few Hours the Indians fired on them &
Killed five in Cool blood, that they took their Heels & made their
Escape; they say one McGirt told them that all the Creek-Nation

28 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

were coming to their assistance against us, that they knew of Colo.
Baker's coming by land & his Number & that they likewise knew of
the force by water & that they were prepared for us; that a Frigate
wth Several Armed Vessells were waiting for us at the mouth of
St. John's; sent Capt. Mosby with Sixty Men to land on the Main
and reconnoiter the Country for a few Miles round.

Amelia Narrows, 22nd May, '77.

Sir: On receipt of this you are to Collect your party together
and March without loss of time to the Northern End of Amelia
Island, two boats are sent to bring what Provissions you have Col-
lected wth other Articles. I think you had best march on the beach
next the Sea. Yours, &c.,

S. ELBERT.
To Capt. Moore, or Officer,

Commanding on the So. End, Amelia Island.

Lay from Tuesday Night to Sunday forenoon at Amelia Narrows,
which we attempted to pass w^ithout success, and on Sunday after-
noon returned to the North End Amelia Island.

North End Amelia, 25th May, 1777.

Dear Sir: After many delays we arrived at this place on the Night
of the i8th Inst. I immediately landed Lieut. Ward of the 2nd Regi-
ment with a party of Men with orders to march directly to the
South End of the Island and in his way to Secure all the Inhabitants
to prevent the Enemy geting information of our approach, being
well informed that they had a lookout for us; in this we were not al-
together successful, as one man made his escape in a padling Canoe
which we were soon convinced of by hearing the Enemy nre their
alarm Guns about Eleven o'clock the next morning; this party was
fired on the next day by a party of the Enemy, poor Ward killed
dead on the spot and two of his men badly wounded; our Brave
fellows returned the fire and soon put the others to the rout, the
Woods being very thick they could not come up with them; on
the morning of the 19th we were Joined by thirteen of Colo. Baker's
men, soon after by two more, & two Days after by three others,
who all agree in the account of that unfortunate Gentleman being at-
tacked on Saturday, the 17th, by a Superior Number of Regulars who
were assisted by the Florida Scout and a *

* The two pages following are what remain on the original manuscript of a leaf,
just one-half of which is torn out from top to bottom.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 29

Number of Indians

for Safety. I have

account of this u

that Colo. Baker

& Resolution I ha

a safe Retreat wi

back; the last th

they with five ot

of the Florida Scou

Joined by a party

time treated them

that while on their

unexpectedly, Killed

Hurry & Confusion,

tho closely pursued

that McGirt told

a large Number of G

well I know of Colo.

men he had with

of our coming by Wa

prepared to receive in

As I have had the sa

a fact, that they have

with a 10 Gun Ship &

passage of St. Johns Riv

South-End of this Island

oflf and on no doubt in Expect

JO Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

well knowing
or us to pass the
attempting that
o get the smallest
t Cutting through
dred Yards, even this
, but when we
e at least a Months
sideration, and not
ther Beef or Pork
termination of return
e I am determind
Power to prevent the
geting Supplys.
et Beef for the Soldiers
ofif but should Necess
or as Saint, Illas when
nd where you
remain till I here
ecessary for us to-
by L,and pray let me
Enemy Know where we
of Surprizing them
ective Men including those
ined us the Galley imploy
St Regiment Horses & Pack
abrigs for Bags we cant do
without, send me 2 or 3 Thousand Gun flints, being almost without,
and if to be had some Swan Shott.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 31

Up St. Marys, 26th May, 1777.

I wrote the above yesterday with intent to forward to you by re-
turn of Capt. Maxwell with some Volunteers who have been some
time with us. I am Just now favored by a Letter from Colo. Screven,
wrote at your Desire; I lament the Behavior of Colonel Baker's Men,
but it will always be the case where Subordination is wanting; this
little Success will make the Enemy very Impudent, particularly the
Indians; I think from every Information we can get that the Enemy
are at present on their Guard, that little can be done, unless by a
formidable Invasion, which I Judge to be rather too much for Geor-
gia to undertake till her Forces are put on a more respectable foot-
ing, and therefore would recommend confining our Operations in-
tirely to the defencive till a more favorable opportunity; we have too
many Secret Enemies amongst us who Keep up a regular corre-
spondence with our Florida Neighbors, and until they are put a Stop
to it will be impossible for us to enter Florida without their having
timely notice of our approach. I shall send flying Parties of my
Virginians on both Sides the River in hopes of their meeting some of
the Florida Scouts and Indians, in which case I will answer for it
that they give a good account of them; our opperations up this River
will answer the good purpose of Keeping those Rascals out of
Georgia, and at the same time prevent the Floridians geting Supplys
and Keep them in Continual alarms and by that means the Grass
will be enabled to carry on its approaches against their Corn &
Indico with some Success. I find it will be prudent in us for want
of Beef to leave this place in a Day or two and retire to St. Ilia;
this River I intend to fix a Post on, say, Saint Ilia, should I find
a good spot on the North side Accessable by Land & Water; pray
let me hear your opinion and have your Orders whether I am to
remain there, return to Alatamaha, or proceed Southwardly; you can
readily convey your Orders by Sending them to us from Fort Howe
with a Scouting party of Horse who must fall in with parties I
shall Keep Constantly out. If those who have Cattle southward of
the Alatamaha are not at this time Busyed in Hunting them they
Deserve to loose them, but as they are a Magazine for our Enemies
I think the Assembly should direct proper persons to drive them
away. If a post is to be continued on St. Ilia it can always be Sup-
plied by the Galleys if not established too high up. Yrs., &c,

S. E.
To Gen. Mcintosh.

26th. Sent Colo. Stirk on shoar to penetrate as far as Rain's with
about 90 men, to begin his march 10 o'clock at night, & returned
next Evening without making any Discovery.

J 2 Ordei' Book of Samuel Elbert,

St. Marys River, Tuesday, 27th May, 1777.

A Field Officer wth two Captains, four Subalterns, Six Sergts., a
Drum & fife and One Hundred Rank & file to be ready to march
this Evening with three days' Provissions and Sixty rounds Ammu-
nition pr. man, with each a Spare flint; Lt. Colo. Harris who is to
take Command of this Detachment will receive particular Instruc-
tions from the Commanding Officer at the time he has Marching
Orders.

St. Marys River, 27th May, 1777.

Sir: I have reason to Suspect that the Enemy have parties of
their Scout & Indians at present to the Northward of this River,
perhaps between St. Ilia & Alatamaha, hunting Beef; I have the best
information that they seldom go but in small parties, say from 15
to about 20 to 25 Men; you will land the Detachment under your
Command this Evening, at Wright's place on the North side of the
River and proceed with the greatest Expedition & Secrecy up the
River as far as the ford, and from thence to St. Ilia, keeping parties
out, to act in such a manner as may effectually prevent the Enemy
geting into Florida without faling into your Hands; We shall pro-
ceed with the fleet up St. Ilia immediately and as soon as we come
to a proper place on the North side for a post, shall make a Stand,
at which time I shall expect to hear from you; should we arrive
at this place without seeing you, we will fire a Cannon for your In-
formation; if you discover us, hoist a Soldier's Coat on a pole till
you see the Polly answer the Signal by hoisting a Jack at the main
topmast head; we expect to be in the River in three days at which
time 'tis probable you will be there. I need not recommend your
having strict duty done; wish you success, and am, Dr. Sr., Yrs.,

S. ELBERT.

To Lt. Colo. Harris, Commanding Officer of the Detachment, be-
tween St. Marys & St. Ilia.

P. S. take Gilder & Lassiter, with you as Guides.

Wednesday, 28th, May.

On Monday Night two Men deserted from the Congress Galley
and went over to the Enemy and Last Night two Men from the

Colonel and Brigadier General. jj

first Battalion deserted and went likewise to the Enemy; left St.
Marys to-day & as we came on the Sound, observed a white flag
on a pole, we ran over with the Polly and found it to be three of
Colo. Baker's men, of four left on the Island Sunday last by the
others who returned home, the fourth was in the woods Hunting
& we could not get him, his name is Clark, the others say, he told
them he would rather stay where he was, than come onboard the
Vessells.

Cumberland Island, 30th May, 1777.

Dear Sir: Your letter pr Mr. Netherland I reed, two days since;
a violent Nth East wind has prevented his sooner return nor was I
anxious in sending him back in haste, as in this my letter pr return
of Colo. Screven Express to the General must have come to hand, by
which the Assembly will be informed of our present situation, and
of my Determination with regard to our future operations, which
I am glad to find from their Resolves enclosed to me by you, will
be nearly agreeable to their wish; I dispatched Lt. Colo. Stirk last
Monday Night wth 90 men to make a forced march under cover of
the Night and Penetrate as far as the Rains's where I was in hopes
he might surprize and make Prisoners of some of the Enemy, by
which means I expected to get some information of their Situation,
which I am much at loss for; he returned the next evening, with-
out having been able to do any thing; on his return he got another
of Colo. Baker's men, who one Mr. Loften was kind enough to
Protect & Secret till an Oppy. should ofifer for him to make his es-
cape. The same Night two men belonging to the Congress and on
Tuesday Night two men of your Regiment deserted and are gone
to the Enemy; this determined me to loose no time in retreating to
St. Ilia, as the Enemy will from them be informed of our Strength
and what is worse, of our having had nothing but Rice to Eat for
five days past; Lt. Colo. Harris with one Hundred Rank & file is
gone up the North Side St. Marys as far as the Fort, from which he
is to march a Cross to St. Ilia & Join us, I am in hopes he will
be able to fall in with some of the Florida Scout & Indians in
which case I will answer for it, he gives a scurging to double his
Number, should there be as many; our brave fellows are in high
spirits and wish an opportunity of a Tiial of Skil with the Floridians
which I would have given them, had I gone to the banks of St. Johns
river, did I not too well know the Defenseless Situation of the State
to risque so many of the Troops on the Turn of a Die; could we
have got the Galleys into St. Johns River, I would, with the men
I have with me, made the whole Province of East Florida tumble,

34 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

but with the Assistance of Vessells to command the river I dout think
it would be prudent to cross it with fifteen Hundred Men; How-
ever if I am commanded I dare attempt it with half the Number; I
am well convinced that a post properly established on St. Ilia, where
it can be secured by water, will be a great means of Protecting &
securing our Southern frontiers; tis my opinion as the Enemy are
so well prepared for us, that we should lay by a while & if Carolina
will assist us. Join our forces by & by and then with the united
force of our Galleys & their Privateers make a powerful Invasion of
that Province; in the mean time we can be Arming, Clothing &
Disciplining our Men, in each of those they are at present very difi-
cient; I have consulted Commodore Bowen on every Occasion, who
has agreed with me in all matters and has ever shown the greatest
readyness in forwarding the Expedition. He seems a little disap-
pointed at not having an Opportunity of Exchanging a few shot with
Marbury; the Galleys will do well inland, but I cant help thinking
that two or three such Vessells as the Hinchinbrook would, if they
got them at Sea, give them a Hearty drubbing, this our Enemy was
in eager Expectation of, as they knew it to be Impossible for us to
Pass Amelia Narrows; I hope soon to see a party of Horse-men
from Fort-Howe at St. Ilia, with an Answer to my Letter to the
General; if we are to proceed immediately, a quantity of Salted Pro-
vissions must be sent us by water; pray tell Mr. Clay I will be glad
he would apply to the Assembly, now they are sitting, for payment
of the 40 prs. Arms I had of him for my Regiment; my respectful
Compts. to the General, I am. Dr. Sir. &c. S. E.

To Colo. Habersham.

Cumberland Island, 31st May, 1777.

Dear Sir: Just as I had Closed my Letter to you Lt. Skinner of
the 16 Regiment arrived with a flag of Truce demanding a Second
Time, that the Articles of Capitulation made at Fort Mcintosh
should be fulfilled. Inclosed is a Copy of Major Prevost's Letter to
me on that had & my answer thereto, which I beg you will lay be-
fore the General and request of him to consult the Assembly on
the proper mode of Conduct to be Observed respecting it; every
Ofificer holding a Commission in the Continental Service is in
structed in this matter, for if no respect is paid by ourselves to those
engagements, it cant be expected that the Enemy will pay any; let
me beg that something be immediately done in the matter. I think
So. Carolina in some degree convinced; inclosed are some open let-
ters from our Captive friends which may serve to give some Light;

Colonel and Brigadier General. J5

I fancy the flag was sent for Intelligence, particularly as no time
but this would do; I find some of the letters dated 21st May, they
did not know of our arrival in Florida till 20th, therefore you see
it was soon determined on. I wish they had not the present pretext;
and I am, Dear Sir, Your Most Obedt. Servt.,

S. ELBERT.
To Colo. Habersham.

Cumberland Island, 31st May, 1777.

Sir: I am Honored by the receipt of your Letter by Lieut. Skin-
ner of the i6th Regiment and in answer can only say, that I am
sorry there should be a necessity for a Second Application respect-
ing the Capitulation of Fort Mcintosh, which I think would have
been unnecessary had the application by Capt, Brown gone through
the Proper Channell; you may rest assured that I will do all in my
power to have this matter put on a proper footing Immediately.

That Humanity with which you mention our people taken by you
have been Treated, is what Americans can never depart from, but
Sir, it hurts me, as I am sure it must you, to be informed that some
of the unfortunate men of Colo. Baker's Detachment who fell in
your hands, were cruelly Butchered by the Savages, in cool Blood,
and in the presence of some of your people; if Savages cant be
restrained, why are they Employed?

Lieut. Skinner being detained at a post some miles distant from
me I am sorry to have been deprived the pleasure of seeing him, 1
have the Honor to be,

Sir, Your Most Obedt. Hum. Scrvt.,

S. ELBERT,
Colo. 2nd Regiment of Continental Troops for the State of Geor-
gia & Commang. Officer of the Troops on the Southern Expe-
dition.

To Major J. M. Provost, or Officer Commanding the British
Troops on St. Johns River & posts beyond same.

Sunday, ist June, 1777, Arrived at the old Town on St. Ilia where
we were Joined by Colo. Harris with his party; the men begin to be
very Clamorous for want of Provissions.

Monday, 2d June, A Capt., two Subalterns, 3 Sergts., and forty-
five rank and file with 24 Hours' provissions & 36 rounds of Ammu-
nition pr. man to be ready to march at an Hour before sun Set; the
Capt. to wait on the Commanding Officer for Orders, who strictly

j<$ Order Book of Satnuel Elbert,

forbids that any Guns be fired about the Camp, on any account
whatever; all the men are to be landed and Encamped on Shoar as
soon as possible; a Subaltern with two Sergts. & 30 Rank & file to
mount Guard at Sun Set, to be relieved every Evening at that Hour;
he is to post such Sentries as will effectually prevent a Surprize &
have them frequently visited in the course of the Night; all the
Troops to parade at 9 o'clock to-morrow morning; the Commanding
Officer Orders that for the Future every Soldier not having his
Arms in his Hand shall, while speaking to the Commission Officer,
take off his Hatt & if he has his Arms about him he is to speak with
them recovered with his Hatt on; any Officer who may be observed
speaking to a Soldier without puting this Order in Execution will be
Immediately put under an Arrest for disobedience of Orders; a Gar-
rison Court-Martial to Sit to-morrow for the Trial of all Prisoners.

By Major Mark Provost of his Majestys Sixteenth Regemt. Com-
manding the Troops on St. Johns River & post beyond the same.
To Lieut. Skinner of the 16 Regemt. of Foot: You are to Proceed
with a Party of a Corporal & Eight Men under your Command, to-
gether with a Guide, to the nearest posts of any Consequence to
the Enemy when, if stoped, you will require the name of the Commg.
Officer & deliver to him the Letter herewith sent, as Humanity is
the chief motive of your Errand. You will apply for an answer to
My Letter together with the compliance with the Terms of the Cap-
itulation of Fort Mcintosh desiring that as many Prisoners as are
now in Georgia may be sent Immedy., that the Public may be Con-
vinced, Notwithstanding all the reports to the contrary, that a Capi-
tulation of said Fort is to be observed in every point on the side of
the Enemy, as it has been on ours, such Necessarys & other things
as may be given to you for the use of the prisoners you will observe
to take an Exact Account of, and that ihey are not Embaziled by any
Person under your command. You will be pleased to represent to
the Commanding Officer that in future all small parties found in
Arms beyond the Limmits of Georgia, Agreeable to an order of
His Excellency Sir Wm. Howe, shall be looked upon as Robbers &
Murderers; it is indecent that Harmless & Innocent Planters should
find themselves the object of these Excursions, & that the Sending
of any Parties to take or assassinate any Particular Individuals is
never Countenanced & is Contrary to the rules of war, Dictates of
Humanity, and when ever they are taken no quarter given to them.
Its expected that our Prisoners shall be sent & prisoners found for
them at the first post on the Frontiers of this Province; in particular
you will apply for Lieut. Beecher, a sergent & some men taken at
Saint Johns ferry on the Cowford, all the Creek Indians now Con-

Colonel and Brigadier General. J7

fined in Georgia or any other which are detained & can be looked
upon as Prisoners of War. You will be pleased to Explain that any
Complaints of Cruelty and lUtreatment to prisoners cannot with any
shadow of right be laid to any of his Majesty's Troops who upon all
occasions are distinguishable for their Humanity & Kindness to all
of them that fall into their Hands, and that notwithstanding their
treatment received by Many of his Majesty's Subjects in the Colony,
none are Suffered of that Kind, & if the Indians were suffered to fall,
on the Colonies Adjacent to this, as they are very desirous of doing,
it is obvious what would be the Consequence, & Nothing but Self
preservation has Induced the Govournor of this Province to Permit
some of them to make War upon them as no parties Amg. the
Creeks have made their appearance in Georgia till after this intend-
ed invasion of this Province by General Lee.

I have further to desire that you will not Suffer Yourself to be
detained beyond the Necessary time to refresh Yourself and Party
without the most Earnest representation to the Contrary.

Given at Grahams redoubt
27th May, 1777, M. Provost

Left St. Ilia on Friday. 6th June, & arrived at Fort Plowe the
Monday following & on Tuesday marched to Darien, got Letters
ordering my return to Savannah, dispatched Lieut. Winfree with
Letters to Commodore Bowen to proceed with the Fleet to Sunbury;
on Sunday, 15th, arrived in Savannah.

Orders by Gen. Mcintosh.

Savannah, i8th June, 1777.

Parole-Congress.

The Colonels or Commanding Ofificer of each Regt. are re-
quired by General Mcintosh to use <heir utmost Endeavours, &
try every means to get their Regemt. full, pointing out such of
their respective Ofificers as are best calculated for the Recruiting
Service, leaving a Sufficient Number of them in proportion to their
men for the Necessary Duty of the State and as all the first Battal-
ion has been obliged to be upon Continual hard Duty, this Six
Months past without any rest, by which it has been much reduced
as well as the Expireation of the men's times, therefore to en-
courage the Ofificers to Keep up a Regemt. which has done so
much Service, the General appoints Captain Jno. Mcintosh Major
of that Regemt. to take Rank since he first Acted in that Necessary

j8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

office, and Lieut. George Walton to be Cap. in the said Regmt. in
the Room of Capt. Jno. Mcintosh; and the Colo, is Desired to ap-
point the Subaltern Officers in their turns agreeable to Resolve of
Convention, and leave the vacant Commissions for such as can re-
cruit most men for the Regmt.

Head Quarters, Sav., 21st June, '77
Parole-Glen.

The Commanding Officer of each Regement Infantry & Cavalry
& Independent Companys are ordered to make exact returns of the
Continental Troops under their respective Commands without de-
lay to General Mcintosh, & this order to be transmitted immediate-
ly to Colo. Scriven of the 3rd Regmt. & Lieut. Colo. Baker of the
Light Horse, by any Officer of either of these Corps now in Savan-
nah. The General also orders a Court of enquiry to Morrow Morn-
ing 8 o'clock to inquire into the Conduct of Capt. Ths. Scott &
Lieut. Hancock, now under arrest.

Whereof Lieut. Colonel Harris is president; Mr. Saml. Stirk is
appointed Judge Advocate for the Continental Troops in this State.

In Congress, the 14th April, 1777.

Resolved: That from & after the Publications hereof the second
article of the 8th Section, the first article of the Eleventh section,
the 8th article of the 14th Section & the 2d article of the 18 Sec-
tion of the Rules & articles for the better Government of the Troops
raised or to be raised & Kept in pay by & at the Expense of the
United States of America, passed in Congress the 20th Day of Sept.,
1776, shall be & they are hereby repealed & that the four following
articles be substituted in the place and stead thereof.

Article ist. All Officers & Soldiers shall have full Liberty to
bring into any of the Forts or Garrisons of the United American
States any quantity of eatable provissions except where any Con-
tracts are or shall be entered into by Congress or by their order
for furnishing such Provisions & with respect only to the species
of Provissions so contracted for.

Art. 2d. If any officer shall think himself to be wronged by his
Colo, or the Commdg. Officer of the Regiment, and shall upon Due
application made to him be refused to be redressed, he may com-
plain to the Continental General commanding in the vState where
such Regiment shall be stationed, in order to obtain justice, who is
hereby required to examine into the said complaint and take proper

Colonel and Brigadier General. jg

measures for redressing the wrong complained of & transmit as
soon as possible to Congress a true State of such Complaint with
the Proceeding had theron.

Art. 3d. No Sentence of a General Court-Martial shall be put
in execution 'till after a report shall be made of the whole proceed-
ings to Congress, the Commander in Chief or the Continental
General Commanding in the State where such a General Court
Martial shall be held, and their or his orders be issued for carry-
ing such sentence into execution.

Art. 4th. The Continental General commanding in Either of the
American States for the time being shall have full power of ap-
pointing General Courts Martial to be held and of pardoning or
Mitigating any of the Punishment ordered to be inflicted for any
of the offences Mentioned in the afore-mentioned Rules and Arti-
cles for the better Government of the Troops, except the punish-
ment of offenders under sentence of Death by a General Court
Martial, which he may order to be suspended until the pleasure of
Congress can be Known; which suspicion, with the Proceedings of
the Court Martial, the Said General shall immediately transmit to
Congress for their determination. And every Oflfender convicted by
any Regimental Court Martial may be pardoned or have his punish-
ment Mitigated by the Colo, or officer Commandg. the Regemt.

By order of Congress
JOHN. HANCOCK. President.

Sir: In Compliance with an order from General Howe I send you
inclosed a copy of the Resolutions of the Honorable Continental
Congress dated at Philadelphia, April 14th, 1777, relative to the
articles of War & inform you at the same time that tis the General's
orders, that the Said Resolutions be immediately made publick, in
order that no Soldier may be ignorant thereof.

I am, Sir,

Your Most Obedt. Servt.,
NICHS. EVELEIGH.

To The Commanding Officer of the Army in the State of Georgia.

General Order, by Gen. Mcintosh.

Head-Quarters, Savannah, 23d June, 1777.

Parole-Glen.

A General Court Martial is Ordered to sit to-morrow Morning
at 8 o'clock for the Trial of Officers under Arrest & other prison-

40 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

ers whose Crimes are not Cognizable in a regimental Court-
Martial. President of the Court-Martial Colo. Elbert, six members
from the ist & Six from the Second Battalion.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 25ih June, 1777.

Colo. Elbert desires that the Officer Commanding each Com-
pany in the Regiment do immediately apply to the Quarter-Master
for as much Osnabirgs as will make Coats & Kilts for their Men;
which they are to have made up without delay; a Captain of the
Regiment is to be ready to march tomorrow for the Westward to
take on him the Command of what men are on duty there, Capt.
Walton being ordered to Head Quarters; in future all the Officers
of the regiment are to make a point of being present whenever
the men are under Arms, as those who stand in no need of being
any further instructed in the Art Military will be of great Service
in teaching others; in order that the Vacancies in the Regiment
may be immediately filled up, the Rank & date of all Companies
are to be made known to the Colonel; the Quarter-Master is to
have all the Ammunition except Six rounds pr. Man called in, &
those Cartridges that want it made over; he is likewise to have a
quantity of Cartridges made.

Savannah, 26th June, 1777.

A Regimental Court-Martial to Sit Immediately for the Trial of
all Prisoners now in Confinement, belonging to the Regiment.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battn.

Savannah, 27th June, 1777.

The Regimental Court Martial of which Lieut Mosby was
president is approved and dissolved, Fagan & Hodge to be released;
the Colo, being in Hopes that they will in future behave better, but
desires that Hodge may be made Acquainted with the Sentence of
the Court-Martial; the Quarter Master to call in all the ball Car-
tridges and serve out Nine Rounds of blank pr. man for parade
this Afternoon.

After Orders. 2nd Battn.

A Court-Martial to sit Immediately for the Trial of all Prison-
ers.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 41

Savannah, 29th June. 1777.

Sir: I must confess it Surprized me a little on being informed
that you intended returning to Virginia immediately, without ever
giving me an Oppty. of seeing you. The Young gentn. Mr.
Netherland, vi^hom you put under Arrest, has Applyed to the Gen.
for his Trial, in consequence of which I am directed to Order you
to come to Head-Quarters to Exhibit a Charge against him, but
as you cant leave the Command you have, you are to stay there
till an Officer is sent to relieve you, I am sir.

Your Very hum. Servt.
S. ELBERT, Colo. 2d Reg.
To Colo. Walton, 2d Regt.

Savannah, Saturday, 28th June, ^^.

The Court-Martial of which Capt. Mosby was president is ap-
proved & dissolved, the Sentence of Corporal Punishment on the
Prisoner for abusing Lt. Duval to be put in Execution on Monday
Morning.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Monday, 30th June, 1777.

Colo. Elbert is distressed by having almost Hourly complaints
from the Inhabitants against the Men; he therefore begs that the
Officers will exert themselves in preventing further Irregularities in
future. The Adjutant is Strictly ordered not to suffer any Company
to Join in Battalion whose Arms have any rust on them or their
Accoutriments deficient. The Colo, being determined to have proper
notice taken of those who neglect their duty in this Particular.

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head-Quarters, Savannah, 2d July, 1777.

Parole-Wilkes.

The Main Guard is ordered by General Mcintosh to be Aug-
mented this morning by a Subaltern Officer & Six Men, that two
Sentinels may be placed at his Honor the Governor's door, a
Court of Six Commissioned & Lt. Colo Harris, president, are
Ordered to sit to-morrow morning to settle a dispute of rank be-
tween some Officers of the 2d Regiment, also to enquire of a Com-
plaint made to the General of Capt. Berrien of the ist Regiment
for speaking disrespectfully of the Legislature of this State. The

^2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Court-Martial of which Colo. Elbert is president is to con-
tinue until all the Prisoners are tried.

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Savh., 3d July, 1777.
Parole- Richmond.

All that are in Town of the Georgia Brigade, with those on-
board the Galleys & the Artillery Conipys., are to be reviewed to-
morrow Morning, 10 o'clock, on the Parade near the Garden Battery,
by General Mcintosh, and it is Expected their Cloathes, Arms, Ac-
coutriments & the field Artillery will be in the best Order & Eighteen
rounds of blank Cartridges, to Celebrate the Anniversary of the
most Extraordinary & glorious Revolution in the History of man-
kind, the Declaration of Independency of the United States of
America; the Commissary is ordered to provide a quarter Cask
Rum, a Beef, a Hog & a Weather to Barbecue upon the Occasion.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 5th July, 1777.

Mr. Thomas Payn, Mr. John Rae & Mr. Daniel GofTe are Ap-
pointed Ensigns in the Regiment; they are Immediately to do duty
in that Character, in those Companies that want Officers, till the
Rank of some Officers in the Regiment is settled, when they will
get their Commissions appointing them to the proper Companies
to which they belong; the Regiment to parade at Ten o'clock
to-morrow Morng. without Arms, in order to be Marched to Church.
Their Colo, desires that the Men may be clean Dressed with their
Hair Combed & beard shaved, they are to be led into the Gallery
& are not to enter any of the Inhabitants' Pews, that have any body
in them; he hopes for the Honor of the Regiment that the Men
will behave with decency.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 7th July, 1777.
A Regimental Court-Martial to sit Immediately for the Trial
of those belonging to the Battalion now in Confinement whose
crimes are Cognizable by them. Capt. Bard, president; the Regiment
must be Encamped to-day under the Cedar Trees to the Eastward
of the Town. Officers Commanding Companies are to apply to the
Quarter-Master and get Blankets for those Men who have never
had any. The Quarter Master is Immediately to procure as much

Colonel and Brigadier General. 43

ravens duck as will make a Bell Tent for each Company large
enough to contain all their Arms, those with a Light Ammunition
waggon and two handy Chests for Cartridges he is to have made
without loss of time.

General Orders, by Genl. Mclutosh.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 9th July, 1777.

Parole-Richmond.

The Genl. Court Martial, whereof Colo. Elbert is president, is
Desolved. As many of the Officers are said and appears unfortun-
ately for the Service to have taken Sides in the affair between Colo.
Habersham & Capt. Scott & Lieut. Hancock, it is impossible with-
out Objections from One or other of the parties to have the Trial
in this State, and as these Gentlemen have mutually agreed to have
it removed to some other, which was approved of and recommended
to the General by their Court, it is ordered, therefore, that the
matter be referred to Brigd. Genl. Howe to Determine the manner
and place of trial, and that the Gentlemen repair to him as soon a.=>
they conveniently can with any evidences they may think necessary.
The prison in the Guard House is ordered to be put in repair and
well secured, as it is impossible to Keep any prisoners in it in
the State it is now in.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 12th July, 1777.

The regiment to parade precisely at four o'clock this afternoon,
each man with as much loose powder in his Horns as will make
Nine rounds, with black moss for wadding; the Colo, can have no
doubt but that every man in the Regiment has a powder Horn slung
to his pouch after so many repeated orders for the Purpose, as
the Companies are all informed they are in future when ever under
arms to appear in them; a Court Martial to Sit to-day for the
Trial of such Prisoners of the Battalion whose crimes are cogniza-
ble by them, Capt. Pannell president.

These Certify that Messrs. AB & CD of the State of Georgia

and County of have furnished an able bodyed Man who has

enlisted in the Second Battalion of Continental Troops for the State

of Georgia to serve for ! , ^nf^th^ war agreeable to a Resolve of the
Honbl. Continental Congress dated the 14th April last, by virtue of which
Inlistment they, the said AB & CD, are Exempted from duty agreeable
to the Spirit of the said Resolve; given under my hand at Savannah,
I2th July, 1777. E. F. Colo.

^^ Order Book of Samuel Elbett,

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 14th July, 1777.

By Virtue of Orders reed, from Brigadier General Howe, the
Colo, desires an Exact return of the Arms of each Company, speci-
fying the Kind & quality, whether fit or unfit for Service, with
Bayonettes & Accoutrements reed, of Mr. Hall & Mr. Skinner fro.
Mosby.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, i6th July, 1777.

The Court Martial of which Capt. Pannell was president is ap-
proved & dissolved; a Regimental Court Martial to Sit Immediate-
ly for the Trial of Prisoners Cognizable by them, Capt. Mosby
president.

Reed, of Mr. David Zubly & Mr. P. la Bard 20 stg.

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 12th July, 1777.
Parole-Burk.

The Court of Inquiry ordered Sence the 2nd Inst., whereof Lieut.
Colo. Harris is president, to settle the Rank of Captain Porter &
Capt. Mosby of the 2nd Battalion, and also to enquire into the
reason of a Complaint made against Capt. Berrian of the first
Regemt. for Speaking Disrespectfull of the Leguslaters of this
State, Report as follows: It is the opinion of the Court that Captain
Porter ought to take Rank of Captain Mosby; Captain Berrian
attended the Court, Met and adjourned from Day to Day, but no
Evidence appeared against him. Mr. Wood who prefered the Charge
against Capt. Berrian was repeatedly sent for to appear in Person
which he would not do, therefore Genl. Mcintosh Discharges Capt.
Berrian And Orders him to his Duty as formerly, untill proof ap-
pears against him, and the Rank of Captain Porter and Captain
Mosby is Defered till further Consideration, in the mean time to
Remain as usual.

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 17th July, 1777.

Parole-Efifingham.

At an Earnest request of Lieut. Roche of the first Battalion,
a Court of Enquiry is ordered to be held to-morrow morning at 8

Colonel and Brigadier General. 45

o'clock to enquire into the Conduct of the Said Lt. Roche on the
late Expedition to the South ward, and also at the same time to
examine further into and settle the Rank of all the Officers of the
Second Battalion, and as the General is informed that a matter
of Considerable Consequences to the Service as it affects many-
Gentlemen in that Regiment and has not been fully inquired into or
converssed before the Court ordered the Second Instent, he directs
it to consist of 13 Commanding Officers in just proportion from the
Several Corps at Head Quarters of which Colo. Habersham, One of
the Number, is to be President, and after that business is done to
Set as Genl. Court-Martial upon the Several Prisoners now con-
fined.

Savannah, i8th July, 1777.

Dear General: Your very obliging letter of 27th May I reed,
on my return to Fort Howe, that of gth of June on the Road to
Savannah & the last a few Days since; did not my Duty require it
I should think myself wanting in every particular were I to neglect
answering them, nor was it fro want of Inclination that I have been
thus late; a continued Interruption, by some means or other, added
to the unavoidable Necessity of Examining & Certifying my Officers'
Accots. which they were obliged to have ready by the 15th Inst., has
been the cause. That You should be Kept in the Dark respecting
the Military operations in this State, I am not a little surprised.
Those, whose duty it was to give you the Necessary and timely In-
formation are alone Culpable. I always thought I did my Duty by
reporting to the Officer Commanding here. After my return to Saint
Ilia and waiting there a few days without the Supplys I had reason
to Expect from the letters I wrote ai Saint Marys & Cumberland,
which you had copies of, and my men for want of provissions in a
State of Mutiny, I found myself reduced to the Necessity of march-
ing over land to Fort Howe with such of them as were able to
undergo the fatigue, the Galleys and Transports with the remainder
returned to Frederica, from which place they have since come here;
the day after my arrival at Fort Howe I Marched to Derrian,
where I met Colo. Screven with between two and three Hundred
of his Regiment coming to join me. Being left to do as I thought
best, I recommended to him to proceed with his detachm.ent as far
as Saint Ilia and there continue and cover the Cattle drivers, who
were Just then preparing to go out; this he did. and I believe nere
a Thousand Head Cattle were collected and brought over when he
returned to Fort Howe, since which no post has been occapied to
the Southward of the Alatamaha by our Troops ; after Colo. Scri-

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

ven crossed that River, I marched my detachment to Savannah
where the most of them now are.

On conversing with Colo. Habersham I find that you had every
paper necessary to lead you into the particulars of the Southern
Expedition, except so far as Explained the Authority I had for tak-
ing the Command and proceeding thereon, for which purpose I in-
close Copy of General Mclntoshes letter to me of the 26th April
last which I hope will set that matter in a Clear point of View.

Our new Troops begin already to be Sickly which I am well
convinced could be remidied by marching them about 140 miles
back, where they could be Kept ready to return on any Emergency,
and in that case be of Service; on the other hand, if they remain
in the lower Settlements they will become a burthen to the State
without the least probability of advantage from them; it is my
opinion as the first Battalion are Seasoned men they would be suf-
ficient to remain here during the Sickly months, but the General
thinks different with me in this matter. I received the Inclosed
letter from Colo. Scriven yesterday. I send you a return of my Re-
gemt. together with as Exact account of their Arms and Accoutri-
ments as could be procured at this time, many of them being on out
Commands. Could you by any means furnish me with good Muskets
and Bayonetts for my men it would make me Happy, the Sorry
trash I have at present being such a medley of Rifles, old muskets
& fowling pieces, with a few French Traders, that I have no faith
in them, not above fifty of the three Hundred Stand French Arms
bought the other day in South Carolina, but what are either Bursted
or otherwise totally unfit for Service.

You may rest assured that I shall pay due respect to your Re-
commendations of Mr. Bradly. I am with much respect, Dear
General,

Your most obedt. Servt.,

S. ELBERT.
General Howe.

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 21st July, 1777.
All the small smooth bore pieces are to be sent to Mr. Richards
the Gun Smith, who will fit them with the best of the Bayonetts &
Iron Rods of those French Guns that were landed, the Officers by
applying to Mr. Cooper will get Horns for their men, the Colo,
will order payment for what may be bought, frequent complaint be-
ing made that the Soldiers destroy Horns in Town for want of
Firewood; the Quarter-Master is ordered to take such steps as to
have a regular supply of that article in future.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 47

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Savannah, 22d July, 1777.

Parole-Chatham.

A Guard of a Corporal & six men is ordered to be placed
at the Plantation of Jonathan Bryan, Esqr., this morning & to be
relieved weekly to intercept boats & search the same and if any
goods, wares or merchandize are found onboard without a special
pass, they are to be seized and reported to the Commanding Officer.
The General Court-Martial whereof Colo. Habersham is President, is
dissolved and the proceedings approved, the prisoners John Rice
& Nathaniel Jackson are ordered tc have one Hundred lashes &
William Wiatt fifty lashes well laid on, upon his bare back on the
parade this Evening before the whole line; James Dollison, Steven
More, Allin Bathurst & George Burges are discharged. Capt.
Porter agreeable to the Opinion of the Court of Officers for that
purpose is ordered to take Rank of Capt. Mosby in the Second
Regiment.

Savannah, 25th July, 1777.
Capt. William Lane,
Sir: I should have been glad to have seen you in this State
at the time your Company arrived here; some matters with respect
to the settlement of your account with the Public and making your
people easy about their Bounty-money required it, but as your
private Concerns put that out of your power the inconvenience must
be remedied the best way possible, nor am I sorry it has so hap-
pened as there is a necessity of having some Active person in your
State, to recruit and send to Head-Quarters here the deficiency of
the Regiment, for which purpose I send the Inclosed return of the
same, that is, of such men as have come to Head-Quarters, and the
Number wanting to Complete, which I request that you will spare
no pains to have done without loss of time. I have no doubt but
on proper application, the Governor & Council of Virginia will
grant, not only permission but their assistance in having the Bat-
talion filled agreeable to the Intention of the Congress, as not-
withstanding they were raised for the Immediate defence of Georgia,
they would at all times be ready to Bleed in defence of any of the
United States, particularly that which gave them Existance; should
you not be able to accomplish this matter without, I beg that you
will make application to our deligates at Congress and let me
know their determination thereon, and at all times favor me with
an account of your success which I heartily wish, and am, Sir,

Yours &c.,

S. E.

Order Book of Samtiel Elbert,

Regimental Orders, 2d Battn.

Savannah, 25th July, 1777.

A Regimental Court-Martial to sit Immediately for the Trial
of all Prisoners of the Battalion whose Crimes are Cognizable by
them, Capt. Porter, President.

General Orders by Genl. Mcintosh.

Parole-Chatham.

Head Quarters, Savh., 23rd July, 1777.

General Standing Orders.

General Mcintosh is sorry he is obliged to remind Officers who
should make their Duty their Study, so often of it without Strict
Military Subordination and obedience to orders all other Rules are
artless and Regular Troops no better than Militia. Therefore in
future the Genl. Expects that no Commissioned Officer of the Con-
tinental Forces on any pretence shall leave Head Quarters, or any
Post he is Stationed at without leave first had and obtained of the
Commanding Officer, and upon their return or coming to any part
of the United States where Troops are stationed they are ordered
to wait upon the Officer commanding there for his Command, as
also upon their departure. All Officers upon out posts are ordered
frequently to write to the Commanding Officer giving acct. of all
occurrences and every intelligence he can get on his command, and
if extraordinary by express, the same to be observed by officers
on the recruiting or any other service. The Genl. also expects here-
after to have regular, fair and exact returns with duplicates of the
same at the end of every month of each regiment, and independent
companies, in this State signed by their respective commanding of-
ficers, who for that purpose are to issue standing orders, to make
reports in time of any part of such regiment or companies who may
be upon out posts; an Orderly Sergeant is to attend daily upon
the General.

LACHN. McINTOSH.

General Orders by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, Sav., the 24th July, 1777.

Parole-Augusta.

As the lives and health of the Troops shall ever be an essential
consideration and more especially when there is not an immediate

* Note The following order is given just as it is in the original, all attempts to
discover the writer's meaning in certain portions proving futile.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 49

occasion for their service, and as sickness and disorders are already
grown to an alarming hight in the Regiment lately come in, Genl.
Mcintosh therefore orders both regiments to get ready as soon
as they conveniently can, and march to the westward whereever
a healthy situation and good water are to be found more agreeable
to the soldiers than the seacoast to which they have not been ac-
customed, the 2nd Regemt., Colonel Elbert, is ordered up Savannah
river and send such detachment as may be thought necessary out
side the settlements upon the branches of that river. The third
Regiment, Colo. Screven's, is ordered up Ogeechee River and send
the like detachments are its branch is and posts, leaving only one
Captain, three Lts. and detachments to the amount of one company
in the town of Sunbury, for its protection. The Chaplains, Adjutants
and other staf? oflficers are ordered to attend and do their duty
with their respective regemts., and all to be ready to march down
again at all times in an hour's warning; to give the regiment of horse
an opportunity of being once together as there is no occasion for
them at present to the westward; they are all ordered immediately,
their head quarters at Fort Howe, upon Alatamaha, until the other
troops are called down and they are brought on to better discipline
and order than they have been hitherto, and from Fort Howe to
send such detachments and parties as hereafter may be ordered or
thought necessary for the protection of the State; in so doing is
our apotitur. Reports from each station and posts are frequently to
be made to the commanding officer at head quarters, and the com-
mandg. officer of each regiment are to enquire of the inhabitants
and be diligent to find the properest stations for the protection of
the State and report them. The Genl. positively orders all the
troops in this State, whether stutioned or marching, to behave with
the greatest regularity and decorum at all times towards the in-
habitants thereof and not injure them in the least, either in their
persons or property upon any pretence whatsoever, whom we are
intended to protect and not insult, and by whom we are supported.
The soldiers must not presume to judge even in the case of an
unworthy citizen, but always act under and assist the civil authority
to which he ought to pay the greatest deference and respect, on
every occasion. The Genl. Expects to hear no further complaint
with respect to provissions and supplies or pld for any violence on
that account as commissaries are appointed for that purpose, and
the officers commanding any party or detachment are to bring them
to accot for any neglect of duty; a neglect or breach of these orders
shall not be passed with impunity in future.

LACHN. McINTOSH.

^o Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Regimental Orders, 2d Battalion.

Savannah, 29th July, 1777.

The regimental Court-Martial of which Capt. Porter was presi-
dent is approved & dissolved. A regimental Court-Martial is or-
dered to sit to-day for the trial of such prisoners of the Second
Battalion whose crimes are cognizable by them and as no other
Capt. is present the Colo, must again trouble Capt. Porter to
act as president.

Savannah, the 29th July, 'JT.

Parole-Justice.

Any ofificent that becomes vacant and is found necessary for the
service to be filled up, whoever are appointed to act in such ofifice
by the Colo, of the regiment, or the ofificer commanding the brigade
of the continental troops in Georgia, shall receive the pay and ra-
tions due and belonging to that ofificer until the Honl., the House
of Assembly, either confirms or seperceeds such appointment; this
order to be given to the several pay masters and Genl. Mcintosh
expects obedience to it, and orders the colonels to have it complied
with in their respective regiments. The proceedings, of the general
court-martial held yesterday whereof Colo. Elbert is president is
approved of and the court dissolved. The prisoners to receive the
punishments adjudged them this evening before the brigade; and the
commanding ofificer of each corps are to see the articles of war read
more frequently than heretofore to the Soldiers.

General Orders, by Genl. Mcintosh.

Head Quarters, The 28th July, 1777.
Parole-Savannah.

As there are many prisoners in the guard-house a general
court-martial is ordered to be held at eight o'clock this morning to
try them while there are a sufficient number of ofificers at head
quarters for that purpose. Colo. Elbert, president.

No commissioned officer hereafter can resign his commission
until he has settled his accts. with the public and brings a certificate,
testifying that he has done so from his Colo, or Officer commanding
his corps to the General or commanding officer in the State without
which his resignation will not be accepted and must be looked upon
as subject to military orders.

LACHN. McINTOSH.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 5/

Savannah, 31st July, 1777.

Dear Sir: I wish you & Capt. Middleton an agreeable journey
to the camp, and as you are sensible how necessary your presence
with the regiment will be, I need not hint that your stay to the
northward should be no longer than your private concerns demand.
Pray give my most respectful compliments to that great man Genl.
Washington, represent to him a true state of our regiment and by
all means improve any opportunity which may offer to its advance-
ment, arms & clothing, those essentials to make a soldier. Perhaps
you may be able to procure by his interest or from an application
to our deligate, the expense of transporting will be saved in the
sale of wagon & teams here which may be bought m Philadelphia;
on your return to Virginia use every means in your power to ap-
prehend deserters and to have the regiment recruited to its full
establishment. If I can by any means procure an order on Philadel-
phia I will forward it to you and beg your friendship in purchasing
me a neat, light phaton or post chaise with a good pair horses, bays
if possible. I would by no means have either of the above carriages,
unless they are remarkably light, but you know what will best suit
the sandy streets of Savannah. I wish you all happiness and am,
dear sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

S. ELBERT.

To Capt. Moore.

Augusta, 13th August, 1777.

Orders to Lieut. Bough of the 2d Battalion: You are to proceed
immediately to the station where you last was and accompany Mr.
Roberson, the Sheriff, and furnish him with a sufiticient force to
enable him to effect the purpose he goes on, and send them down
to this place with him should there be occasion. Lt. Strother be-
ing sent for the purpose, you are to

Augusta, 23rd August, 1777.

Sir: Since I saw you I have had some conversation with Mr.
John Branham lately come from the Indian country, who has given
me so little satisfaction with respect to his good intentions towards
the inhabitants of this State, and as it appears highly improper that
a communication should be allowed with our enemy, I desire that
you will on the receipt of this, take the said Jno. Branham into
custoty and have him kept under guard till further orders; should
he desire to see me, grant his request under care of a proper guard

^2 Order Book of Samnel Elbert,

at the same time send the two men confined by Capt. Winfrey. I
am sir,

Your very humble servt.

S. ELBERT.
Mr. Adjutant Mosby.

Augusta, 25th August, 1777.
Capt. John Dooly.

Sir: On receipt of this you are to take a circuit with a sufficient
number of your troops of horse to the dififerent forts & stations
in the western frontiers & see that all the light horse of Colo.
Baker's regiment do immediately march for Savannah; all who re-
fuse or are refractory must be made examples of. If necessary to
confine any send them to Major Pannell at Wrighlsbourgh who has
orders to furnish reliefs where necessary. I am your very humbl.
servt.,

S. ELBERT.

N. B. Your company is the only one of the regt. light horse
that remains to the westward.

Augusta, 25th August, 1777.

Sir: On receipt of this with the enclosed copy of the Governor's
letter you are without loss of time to assemble your battalion of min-
ute men & let me know a true state thereof. I am, Sir;

Your very huml. servt.,

S. ELBERT, Colo.
To the officers commanding the first & second minute Battalion.

Gentlemen: The inroads, depredation & murders committed by
the perfidious Indians, and the danger our frontier settlers are ex-
posed to by them, I doubt not will rouse the spirit of every one who
is a friend and wellwisher to his country; to punish those faithless
and cruel savages and to protect our back inhabitants against the
excursive and rambling enemy, Colo. Elbert is appointed command-
er of the Continental Troops stationed or sent to the westward and
to take and pursue such measures as occasion may require or as far
as his orders, prudence or circumstances will admit of. You will (1
am persuaded) find a courageous, active and brave commander in
said Colo Elbert. Do therefore hereby strictly charge and command
you to be obedient to his orders and to assist him with all the
forces under your command, and to inform me of every material oc-

Colonel and Brigadier General. 5J

curances in order to enable me to issue and give such further or-
ders as may be necessary on the occasion. I am, Gentlemen,

Your most humbl. servt.

JOHN A. TREUTLEN.
To the officers commanding the troop of horse and minutes
Battalions.

Augusta, 27th August, 1777.

Dear Sir: Your letter pr. Lieut. Hancock I received on Monday
night and that pr. Sikes yesterday evening. I have no doubt but
Capt. Walton has given you the particulars of Capt. Gurard's mur-
der, as far as has been yet discovered; that unlucky affair occasioned
me to detain the regiment for some time, by going in search of
him and the murderers, and the day after my return I received the
enclosed letter from Mr. Galphin which was the means of my march-
ing about 60 miles, twelve of them thro' a swamp four miles wide,
with eighty men, when at last the tent proved to be a large white
log which like brave fellows we surrounded and came oflf with no
other damage than a few mosquito bites. I shall take care to exe-
cute the order of General Howe & send the prisoners down to you;
very few of my regiment can be ready to march at a minutes' warn-
ing as they are dispersed amongst the Forts, a number sick and not
less than twenty deserted since I came up here, nor is it to be
wondered at since they run no other risk if taken than to receive
one hundred lashes, with a great chance of having that remitted.
Pity it is we cant have a court-martial who dare sentence a man
to be shot for this crime. As Capt. Porter has been some days
gone without our hearing from him, I have no doubt but that the
Indian Chiefs have got safe through the settlements. Inclosed is
a copy of a talk I gave them. I dont know wh^it to say about the
behavior of the Light Horse and lament that the field officers of
that regiment had not attended to see their men march as the
Capts. and subalterns have no more authority over them than if
they had no commissions at all. I am glad to find the affair at
Fort Howe is not so bad as was at first apprehended, it seems a
little strange that we cant be victorious in one skirmish with the
savages. The loss of Ticonderago staggers me, as I suppose it
proceeded from either want of men, or bravery; the affair is in
some degree counterbalanced by the capture of General Prescot as
probably by that means we shall have the worthy General Lee re-
stored. I am, Dr. sir, Your most obedient servt.,

S. ELBERT.

P. S. I dont think it would be amiss to lay a copy of the talk
to the Indians before the Assembly for their perusal.

General Mcintosh.

5^ Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Augusta, 27th August, 1777.

Sir: When I gave you leave of absence from the regiment for
ten days or a fortnight to go to Chas Town, little did I think that
your presence would be wanting at this day; no less than thirteen
men of your company have deserted, which perhaps might have been
prevented had one of their officers thought so much of his duty, as
to be with them; my duty obliges me to desire that you immediately
join the regiment. And am, sir,

Yr. very hble. servt.,

S. ELBERT.

To Capt. Bard.

Augusta, 27th August, 1777.

Sir: I was unfortunate enough to desire that your company might
remain where they were till you were relieved, which I expected
would have been before this. I have now to order that you march
for Savannah immediately with your whole company on receipt of
this, whether you are relieved or not.

Yr. very hble. servt.

S. ELBERT.
To Capt. Hatten Middleton.

Augusta, gth September, 1777.

Dear Sir: I wrote you pr return Sikes & a few lines by Lieut.
Bilbo since which I have not heard from you. I am just returned
from visiting the Forts on the western Frontiers but could find no
signs of any Indians near them; they are crowded with the in-
habitants who have not yet returned to their habitations which they
quit at the late alarm when Capt. Dooly and others were killed. In-
closed are some papers respecting Lieut. Cunningham, who I be-
gin to think behaved better in the action than was at first represent-
ed; he remains under arrest at Wiightsborough. Captain Dooley &
Pannell with Lieut. Booker are now prisoners with me on their
parole; you will please, pr. return of the bearer, give me positive
orders what to do with them. I am in hopes the matter may be
overlooked as the Indians are by this safe in their own Nation &
the gentlemen very sensible of their error in what has been done.
Poor Dooley had lost a brother; Pannell went as a piece maker to
prevent mischief. Booker & Bilbo, two giddy young men in fact
I think the end answered in putting them under arrest, as it serves
to convince them that they are not always to do as they please.

About half of my regiment are now sick in Wrightsborough,
the most of them on the recovery, those fit for duty are disposed

Colonel and Brigadier General. 55

of as under. Mrs. Elbert being in a situation which requires her be-
ing in Savannah the latter end of this month, I hope you will find
it convenient to let me return there shortly. I suppose Colo. Stirk
waits your orders; I will be obliged to you to let him have them.
I wish you happy, & am, dr. General.

Your most obedt. servt.

S. ELBERT.

Folsom's Fort, Ogeechee i sub.

Wells do. 2 do.

Capt. Phillips do., Little River i do. 27 do. } 2 Battn

Joel Phillips do., do. do i do.

Carr's Fort, Beaver Dam Fork i do.

24

men

46

do.

27

do.

18

do. 1

10

do. J

Augusta, nth September, 1777.

Sir: Your letter of the 8th instant covering some resolves of
your honorable assembly is just received, and be assured Sir, it
gives me pain, that I am obliged to decline accepting the Command
they do me the honor to ofifer, nor can you judge how much I am
embarrassed at being under the necessity of differing in opinion
with so respectable a body. While General Mcintosh contends for
the command of the Continental Troops in the State, and I con-
tinue to hold my commission, I am bound to obey him, and were
I to presume to do otherwise, I should subject myself to be tried
by a court-martial.

That love for my Country which prompted me to engage in its
service will have equal weights when I find myself a clog to its
interests, and least an error in my judgement may operate to its
prejudice I am willing to leave an opening for those, who may have
a different opinion, by resuming the character of a citizen.

While I continue to command here, it will be my chief study,
as I find it my duty, to pursue the plan of defense pointed out by
the House, as far is in my power.

I have just returned from a visit to the forts on the Ceded
Lands. The inhabitants are at present in peace, but how long the
savages will permit them to remain so, I am at a loss to guess.

I am with the greatest respect, sir.

Your most obedt. & very humble servt.

S. ELBERT.

The Honble Noble W. Jones, Esq.

5<J Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Head Quartes, Savh., pth Octor., 1777.

Parole-Arnold.

A general court-martial, whereof Colo. Habersham is appointed
president, is ordered by General Mcintosh to set to-morrow morn-
ing 8 o'clock for the trial of the prisoners in the guard house; and
all that are able of the second & third regiments now in or about
Savannah are ordered to get ready this day and march to-morrow
for the southward, part of whom are to relieve a detachment of
the first regiment at Darien, who are ordered to head quarters, and
the rest stationed and disposed of as Colo. Scriven may think neces-
sary who is to report the number, situation and state of the troops
under his commands with their arms, ammunition, horses, &c., fre-
quently. The commanding officers, also, who have not yet made
returns of their respective corps the last or preceeding months are
once more required to do it immediately, and always hereafter at
the end of every month without fail.

Head Quarters, Savh., loth Octobr., '77.
Parole-Elbert.

Brigadier Genl. Mcintosh having received orders in. consequence
of the directions of the honl. Continental Congress from General
Howe to repair with all possible speed to head quarters at the grand
army where his service is thought necessary and a brigade left va-
cant for him, gives notice to the Continental army in Georgia that
as it will be absolutely requisite to devote the little time he will
have to stay in this state to the settlement of his private
affairs, he by the consent and permission of the commander in chief
of the department abstracts himself from all military duly in this
state, in consequence of which the command of the Continental
army in this state devolves till further orders upon Colo. Elbert,
and the army and its dependents are ordered to respect & obey
him as their commanding officer.

Savannah, loth October, 1777.

Dear Sir: General Mcintosh has just sent me a letter he re-
ceived from you informing of the light horse having quit Fort Howe
without leave according to their former practice. I desire that you
do immediately take the most effectual means to have them secured
and sent down for trial, I mean the leaders, & if you can by any
means find that a commissioned officer is concerned in the affair
or accessory thereto I order that you put him under arrest for
trial, as I am determined while I command that duty shall be at-

Colonel and Brigadier General. 57

tended to; if Capt. Stuart & Lieut. Robertson have removed any of
their men without authority I order them under arrest for the
same. The troops in town are under marching orders for the south-
ward, but when they will be got away I dont know, as some of
them are in a state of mutiny for want of pay. I shall however
assist you as soon as possible. Such officers of the Light Horse as
are in town I will hurry to you & urge to Messrs. Rae & Roberts
the necessity of their immediate going. Please let me know as soon
as possible a state of the 3d regiment, with any other troops under
your command to the southward, the posts that are at present oc-
cupied & those you would recommend to be continued or establish-
ed. I am with esteem, dr. Sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

SAML. ELBERT.
To Colo. Scriven.

Colo. Elbert presents his compliments to Genl. Mcintosh & begs
to be favored with a return of the troops he is to command in the
state, where the different regiments & companies are stationed, and
what posts they occupy. The Colo, will be much obliged to the
General for his particular instructions with respect to any intended
military arrangements, with every information it may be in his
power to give the Colonel which may tend to the service of the
State.

Friday evening.

To Genl. Mcintosh:

Headquarters, Savannah, 13th Octr., 1777.

Parole-Mclntosh.

General Mcintosh having given up the command of the Con-
tinental Troops, in this State, in consequence of his receiving or-
ders to join the Grand Army, where his services are required,
Colonel Elbert, on whom the command devolves, orders that im-
mediate returns be made to him, of the strength, arms, accoutre-
ments & clothing of all the Continental Troops of the State, as
also returns of all artillery, amm-mition, stores, &c. All officers who
are absent from their respective corps (except such as are absolute-
ly on the recruiting service) are ordered to join them without loss
of time; any hereafter who presume to quit their stations, without
proper leave may expect to be taken notice of. The Honbl. Con-
tinental Congress have appointed James Rae, Esq., commissary
general of purchases & John Bohan Girardeau. Esq., commissary
general of issues for this State; those gentlemen are to be received,

^8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

respected & obeyed as such; four companies of the second battalion
to march immediately to Colo. Scriven's & there receive his orders;
Capt. John Habersham of the first regiment is appointed to act as
Brigade Major till further orders, & as such he is to be obeyed by
the army in the State.

Savannah, 13th October, 1777.

Dear Sir: It astonishes me that you should send to know
whether you are to take Dooley or not after my positive orders to
do so. If he will not surrender himself do you lay the fort in ashes,
and bring him at all events, should you be obliged to collect all the
troops to the westward for the purpose, & if that wont do send
express to Colo. Thompson by Mr. Hammonds knowledge & he
will assist you, & when this business is executed which I beg may be
with all expedition I desire that you will order all the Continental
troops to the westward to march for this place, say 2d & 3d regi-
ments & Light Horse who are to be relieved by the minute men;
an attack is intended against the State from St. Augustine.
I am, dr. sir,

Your most obedt. servt.

SAML. ELBERT, Comg. Oiftcer.

To Colo. Stirk.

Savannah, 13th October, 1777.

Dear Sir: From many circumstances it appears that an invasion
of the state is intended shortly from St. Augustine. I have with
the advice of the council, determined to order all the Continental
troops from the westward; it will therefore be necessary in you to
send one of your field officers to forward them. Those on duty there
are to be relieved by the minute men. I have information of a
certain Donald McDonald being in St. Andrews Parish lately re-
turned from Florida, pray have him apprehended & secured. I send
four companies of the 2nd Battalion which I recommend your post-
ing in such a manner that they may act jointly if necessary. I am,
dr. sir

Your most obedt. servt.

SAML. ELBERT.

To Colo. Scriven.

Savannah, 13th October, 1777.

Dear Sir: Your country requires it, & I call on you as a gentle-
man & soldier to step forth at this critical juncture, and take upon

Colonel and Brigadier General. S9

you the command of the regiment of Light Horse which stands
much in need of an active Colo, to collect & bring it into some
order, and as I know no person who I think can serve their coun-
try in that way better than yourself, now offer you the appointment,
and as I will not admit of a refusal, desire that you do immediately
march Dooley's company with any other of the regiment of Light
Horse to the westward down to this place, as an invasion is in-
tended from St. Augustine; the minute men will relieve the con-
tinentals. I am, dr. sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

SAML. ELBERT, Comg. Officer.
To Lt. Colo. Marbury.

After Orders.

Headquarters, 13th Oct., T777.

The general court-martial of which Colo. Habersham was presi-
dent is approved & dissolved; the court having made the most
strict inquiry into the conduct of Lieut. Cunningham of the 2d
Battalion respecting the charge brought against him of cowardice
in a late skirmish with the enemy, and after examining several
witnesses on the occasion, report as their opinion "that Lieut.
Cunningham acquitted himself in the said engagement with the
honor & valor becoming an ofificer." The commanding officer is hap-
py in agreeing with the above report & orders that Lieut. Cunning-
ham immediately joins his regiment. Andrew Hays, William Asbey
and John Asbey of the Light Horse, John Wright of the Artillery
& Thomas Hodge of the 2d Battalion are ordered to receive the
punishment to which they were severally sentenced by the court,
this afternoon on the parade, in the presence of all the Conti-
nental Troops in town to be drawn out on the occasion; those who
belong to corps having no person present are to be kept in con-
finement till they can be delivered to the care of their proper of-
ficers. Thomas Dunivant, Michael Hugen & Sergt. Gore to be
severely reprimanded and discharged.

Headquarters Savannah, 14th Oct., 1777.

Parole-Scriven.

Agreeable to the command of General Howe the following or-
ders of His Excellency General Washington are to be published
to the army in this State; all concerned are desired to pay due
respect thereto and in order that they may be the more public the
Brigade Major is ordered to have them printed in the Gazette, viz.

6o Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Morristown, 8th May, I777-

As few vices are attended with more pernicious consequences
in civil life, so there are none more fatal in a military one, than
that of gaming, which often brings disgrace & ruin upon ofificers,
& injury & punishment upon the soldiery, and reports prevail-
ing, which it is to be feared are too well founded, that this destruc-
tive vice has spread its baneful influence in the army, & in a pecu-
liar manner to the prejudice of the recruiting service. Commander
in chief, in the most pointed & explicit terms, forbids all officers
& soldiers playing at cards, dice, or any games except those of
exercise for diversion, it being impossible, if the practice is allow-
ed at all, to discriminate between innocent play for amusement, &
criminal gaming for pecuniary & sordid purposes. Officers atten-
tive to their duty, will find abundant employment in training &
disciplining their men, providing for them & seeing they appear
neat, clean & soldier like, nor will anything redound more to their
honor, afford them more solid amusement, or better answer the end
of their appointment, than to devote the vacant moments they may
have, to the study of military authors. The commanding officer of
every corps is strictly enjoined to have this order frequently read
& strongly impressed upon the minds of those under his command;
any officer or soldier or other person belonging to, or following
the army, either in camp, in quarters, on the recruiting service or
elsewhere, presuming under any pretence, to disobey this order,
shall be tried by general court-martial. The general officers in each
division of the army are to pay strictest attention to the due exe-
cution thereof.

The Adjutant General is to transmit copies of this order to
the different departments of the army, also to cause the same im-
mediately to be published in the Gazettes of each state, for the in-
formation of officers dispersed on the recruiting service.

By His Excellency's Command.
MORGAN CONNOR, Adjutant Genl. Pro. Tern.

The main guard to be reinforced to a subaltern, one sergt.,
a drum and sixteen rank and file, the officer of the guard will get
the countersign every evening at retreat beating from the Brigade
Major who will receive it from the commanding officer. Major
Marbury of the regiment Light Horse is appointed to the command
of the said regiment of which all officers, soldiers, &c, are desired
to take notice & govern themselves accordingly. Colo. Elbert pre-
sents compliments to Genl. Mcintosh and will be glad to be in-

Colonel and Brigadier General. 6i

formed respecting an application Lieut. Beacher makes for pay as
a prisoner of war, from the time of his captivity at the rate of a
dollar pr day, whether as commanding ofificer the Colo, has authori-
ty to draw on the treasury for the same or not. Tuesday afternoon.

Savannah, 15th Oct., 1777.

Dear Sir: Your letter of the i6th inst. containing His Excellency
General Washington's orders against gaming has been received
and attended to. Colo. Habersham, by whom I now write, comes
to Charles Town in order to consult with you the most proper steps
to be taken to have his regiment recruited, I have no doubt, on your
representing the matter to General Washington but he will cause it
to be done without loss of time; it is a pity that so genteel a set of
officers should be unemployed. Should you find it necessary to ad-
vance those officers the sums requisite to enable them to proceed
on this service it can be returned, as soon as Colo. White arrives,
who has in charge a sum of continental money to be deposited with
our paymaster general for the purpose of supporting our army.
Since the command has devolved on me, I have been busied in
collecting & puting in order our scattered forces, and as soon as I
can possibly obtain it, shall send you a return of the brigade.

As we have not one in the State pray if possible furnish us
with three or four handy brassfield pieces properly mounted, with
the necessary aparatus, adding thereto some round & Cannister shot
to fit them; I find on inquiry that we have not a ream oi cartridge
paper in the State, if of that article any is to be procured please
likewise order us some, as I would willingly have a quantity of
musket cartridges ready in case of emergency; at present we have
none. Applying to you for those articles may be out of the proper
line, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I am at
a loss to find out the proper officer & my anxiety for the safety of
the state will not suffer me to delay a moment.

His honor the Governor favored me with the inclosed copy of
letters he reed, from the so'ward yesterday, which added to many
different reports of the like nature leads me to believe that our
southern neighbors intend paying us a visit very soon, I have con-
versed with Gen. Mcintosh, who seems to be much of this opinion.
I think it my duty at all times to give you the earliest notice of
any intelligence of this kind for your government. Colo. Baker hav-
ing resigned the command of the Light Horse and that regiment
being in the greatest confusion for want of a proper leader and as
I know of no person in the State more entitled or better qualified
than Major Marbury, formerly of that corps, but superceeded by

62 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

our legislation without a cause or even a hearing I have judged it
for the benefit of the service to appoint that gentleman to the com-
mand of the regiment, which I hope will meet your aprobation. I
am very respectfully, dr. sir.

Your most obedt. servt.

S. ELBERT.
Gen. Howe.

Headquarters, Savannah, isth Oct., 1777.

Parole-Habersham.

The main guard to be augmented to twenty rank & file, with
intent that every evening at retreat that a corporal & three men
be detached to take post at the new barracks where they are to
remain till reveille, but when they march back to the main guard
patroles are to be sent at least twice a night to reconnoiter the
town & hamlets to see that every thing is quiet; should any unlawful
assembly be found they are to be dispersed, and if any soldiers are
found gaming they are to be immediately conveyed to the guard
house. A general court-martial to sit to-morrow morning for the
trial of all prisoners in charge. Major Mcintosh of the first regiment
president.

Savannah, i6th Oct., 1777.

Sir: Many complaints having been made to me that you entirely
neglect the duty of paymaster to the regt. of Light Horse, I de-
sire that you do immediately repair to headquarters & let the matter
be settled to my satisfaction & the men paid, or as my duty requires
I shall be under the necessity of appointing one in your stead. I
am, sir,

Your Most obedt. servt.,

S. ELBERT.
Geo. Randal, Esq.

Savannah, 17th Oct., 1777.

Dear Sir: By virtue of an act passed by our legislature which
with some other papers I now enclose, several persons have been
ordered to depart the State in forty days. No vessels being in port,
bound to sea in that time, they have applied to me for passes in-
land in open boats. This I think myself not properly authorized
to comply with, as it cant be doubted but they intend for St. Augus-
tine. Whether it may be good policy to strengthen the hands of our
east Florida neighbors by sending among them a number of men,

Colonel and Brigadier General. 6j

leaving their families and fortunes behind them, well acquainted with
the situation and strength of the state, and at a time when we have
every reason to think an invasion from them is intended, I leave
you to judge, and beg to have your particular instructions, for the
rule of my conduct. Messrs. MuUryne & Tatnall claim a privilege
of going where they please as prisoners on their parole, having been
exchanged for Messrs. Demere, Roberts & Rice. This matter Colo.
Habersham can explain to you. Colo. Scriven with a few continen-
tals and some volunteers fromi the militia are gone towards Satilla
on a scouting party. Since my last, we have no fresh intelligence.

Capt. DooUy, the principal hand concerned in the insult on the
Indian Ambassadors, has (after giving me his parole of honor) re-
fused to give himself up. I have ordered the fort, in which he makes
a stand, and I suppose that by his company of Light Horse, to be
laid in ashes, and him secured, when I shall send the gentleman &
his assistants to you. I am very respectfully, dr. sir.
Your Most obedt. servt.,

(Signed) SAM. ELBERT.

Gen. Howe.

P. S. Give me leave to hint, that I think, if you intend sending
a flag of truce to St. Augustine, were it done immediately, not only
the advantage of having some of oar suffering friends released may
be gained by it, but some timely intelligence, with respect to their
intentions against us also.

Headquarters, i8th Oct., 1777.

Parole-Harris.

The general court-martial of which Major Mcintosh was presi-
dent is approved & dissolved; John Rice, William Wyatt & James
Donaldson of the Light Horse to receive one hundred lashes each
on the bare back agreeable to their sentence; David Burel, Ben-
jamin Joyner, Christian Gamillorn and James Barber of the Light
Horse are to receive sixty lashes each on the bare back agreeable
to their sentence. As those men are punished for that worst, and
most unmanly crime a soldier can be guilty of, that of shamefully
abandoning a post committed to their charge, the commanding of-
ficer strictly commands that the proper officers do see the lashes
laid on with uncommon severity, as by articles of war the oflfence
should be punished with death; Sergt. Moore to be discharged, be-
ing acquitted by the court; this to be done on the parade this after-
noon, for which purpose the troops are to be drawn out, the pri-
soners to be delivered into the charge of some officer of the Light

64 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Horse, after punishment, to be by him marched to join their respec-
tive companies.

Sergt. Connell, Sergt. Burns, Capt. Connoly, George Main &
David Browney, of the first regiment, & Michael Cane, of the second
regiment, to be tried by regimental court-martial, the general court-
martial having reported their crimes cognizable by them. Complaint
has been made that some officers of the troops in the State make
a practice of suttling for their men and charging very advanc-
ed prices for many articles they furnish them with by which the
people are much dissatisfied & the service injured. This practice
being contrary to the articles of war is strictly forbid, and any who
may be hereafter detected in the above practice may depend on be-
ing brought to trial for disobedience of orders & breach of the ar-
ticles of war.

Headquarters, Savannah, Sunday, 19th Oct., 1777.

Parole-Demere.

A general court-martial to sit to-morrow morning for the
trial of all prisoners whose crimes are cognizable by them, Lt.
Colo. Harris, president; Mr. John Oates & Mr. Mahony will give
evidence against Oates of the 2d regiment & the same officer
with Trevor of the Light Horse who gave evidence against the
other Horsemen will appear on trial of those now in confinement.
A trusty officer with a sergt. command of the first regiment to
march to Sunbury and guard to headquarters in order that they
may take their trials four deserters belonging to that corps taken
up by the galleys in attempting to make their escape to the enemy
in St. Augustine; the commanding officer is informed that the of-
ficers commanding the main guard, make a practice of taking a bed
with them in the guard house and sleeping the night through, he
takes this method of informing them that should he at any time,
either night or day, visit the guard and find the officer asleep, he
will immediately have him relieved & put under arrest to be tried
for so unsoldierlike a practice. If an officer is not able to do twenty
four hours duty without sleeping he is not qualified to bear a com-
mission & therefore it is recommended to such, if any there be, to
make a prudent retreat in time, as it is a determined point with the
commanding officer to have strict duty done without relaxation.

Headquarters, Savh., 19th Oct., 1777.
Dear Sir: I send this pr. express inclosing a letter Mr. Sheftall
just gave me which will inform you of Mr. Moore, with the Florida

Colonel and Brigadier General. 65

scout, being now in the settlements. I had information to their Day
that they rendezvoused in a fork of Coonuchie pretty high up. I
desire that you take as many men as you can collect together with
as much care and speed as possible and proceed up till you strike
Coonuchie near where tis possible they may be and if possible try to
come up with them. I shall send a party from here of about fifty men
to march to-morrow & cross Ogeechie & keep up to where they are
supposed to secret themselves. Least our party and you should meet
and not know one another, you and them are ordered every man
to put a white piece of paper or linen as a cockade in your hats,
the parole will be Washington, and the sign and countersign as
follows: If your party discover ours, the first who see the other,
gives a loud hem, the other, if friends, will answer it with clapping
the hands together twice, making two loud claps. If this is care-
fully done, there will be no risk of our party hurting each other.
I wish you success, and am. Dear sir.

Your most obedt. servt.

SAML. ELBERT.

P. S. Dont let any person, even your brother, know the errand
you are going upon, or the rout you intend to take, as depend upon
it, secrecy will do a great deal.

Col. Screven.

Copy of a letter from Richard Eastmead to Mordecai Sheftall.

Brother's Hall, October, 17th, 1777.

Mr. Sheftall: On Thursday me and William Brunson was a
hunting at the Patridge Pond, and on our arrival there, we saw a
party of men come up, with a gang of half blooded horses. They
came up to us, and we found they was the Florida Scout, Sam
Moore the Lieut., they insisted us to go with them to Little Ogee-
chee, and when they got there, they let us go, upon oath, that we
would not discover them. On our return home, we met with Esq.
Lanier; he made all the haste home for to raise a party of men
to go after them. William Brunson set of? for Mr. Pearces to try to
raise some more, and the Scout took away my saddle, and if it had
been mine, they would have given me a cow for it; but as it was
Mordecai Sheftall, the chairman's, they were rejoiced at it. They
wish it was yourself; no more from me.

(Copy)

RICH. EASTMEAD.

66 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

After Orders.

Headquarters, 19th Oct., 1777.

The general court-martial ordered to sit to-morrow & the par-
ty that was ordered to march to Sunbury are for particular reasons
countermanded; all the Continental Troops in town able to do duty
are ordered to parade & be ready to march for the southward at
four o'clock this afternoon each with sixty rounds ammunition, the
men carry no luggage, but their blankets and two or three days'
provissions. Colo. Harris who is to take the command is to wait on
the commanding officer for orders; the main guard to be relieved by
Colo. Martin's Militia.

Head Qrs., Savannah, 19th Oct., 1777.

Dear Sir: I have certain intelligence, which by the enclosed
copy of a letter, you will find that Moore with a party of his Flori-
da Scouts is now on or near Ogeechee. I have information that they
rendezvous high up Canoochee in a fork up that creek. I desire that
you proceed with your party as if you intended to go to the south-
ward; and after it is dark, strike off and make the best of your way
over Ogeechee so as to get in the fork, between that and Conoo-
chee, when you are to use every means in your power to intercept and
take those villians. March all night, and then secrete yourself in
the day, or they will get intelligence. Trust nobody with your in-
tentions; impress everybody you meet and keep them with you; and
by that means information cant be given about you; those you de-
tain will act as guides. When you lay by, do it in a secret place;
taking care to guard the passes. Let no man fire a gun, on pain of
severe punishment. I dont expect that anybody will be able to
give me an account of your rout till you return, so careful and se-
cret you must be. I have ordered Colo. Screven with a strong party
to go high up Conoochee, cross it and come downwards. You will
meet him, and for fear of your mistaking each other, I have given
him the following tokens, which you are to follow and observe:
Each man to have a white cockade in his hat; the parole Washing-
ton; Sign and countersign thus: the first who sees the other gives
a loud hem; to be answered by two loud claps of the hand. If on
this being thrice repeated, and not being properly answered, depend
they are enemies. Be vigilant, and I vish you success.

Your most obedt. servt.

(Signed) SAML. ELBERT.

Lt. Colo. Harris of the first regiment.

Colonel and Brigadier General. d/

Savannah, 24tli October, 1777.

Dr. Sir: Mr Bradley, the gentn. whom you recommended to me
some time since, in consequence of a commission being promised
him on the terms has raised upward twenty men for our regt. Light
Horse, and has sent the bearer Mr. Allen for a sufficient sum of
money to enable him, to march them to this state; the men are
much wanted, particularly for that corps, but we are unable to
comply with his request; till Colo. White with his charge arrives,
could you, by any means, forward this matter, it would be a ser-
vice to the state. I am, dr. sir.

Your most obedt. servt.

S. ELBERT.

Savannah, 24th Oct., 1777.

Sir: I would cheerfully send the money you want for the pur-
pose of marching your men to this State, but at present we have
it not; I think if you & Capt. Dekeyson were to assemble ycur
men & take the opportunity of joining Colo. White with his regt.
you may by that means get along.

I have wrote to Genl. Howe, in hopes he may be able to for-
ward the matter; should that & the other recommendation fail, you
must wait with patience, till our money arrives. I am, sir.

Your most obedt. servt.,

S. ELBERT.

Mr James Bradley.

Headquarters, Savannah, 24th Octr., 1777.

Parole-Rae.

That part of the orders of the 19th inst., (which was counter-
manded by after orders) with respect to a general court-martial,
is to be put in execution to-morrow morning.

Savannah, 25th Oct., 1777.

Parole-Marbury.

All the men belonging to the regt. of Light Horse now to the
southward are to be marched to the westward, in order that those
whose terms are expired may be paid & discharged; Capt. Dooly's
company is to march to headquarters immediately. Capt. Walker
with his troop and as many of the third regiment as Colo. Rae
thinks necessary are to attend him & Mr. Galphin to the Indian
Treaty & to protect and keep from harm the Indian ambassadors

S8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

now on Ogeechee, after which they are to be marched to head-
quarters. The order for all the Continental Troops to march from
the westward, was not intended to include those who were sick &
not fit for duty. Those men of the Light Horse in confinement
are ordered to be discharged, being forgiven by the commanding
officer in consequence of their having a new commander appointed.

Savannah, 25th Oct., 1777.
Dr. Sir: My letter to you pr. Colo. Habersham respecting the
application of the Tories to go to St. Augustine, I should be glad
to have an answer to as soon as possible. The bearer of this is
Major Pannell of my regt. who is under arrest on account of the
affair with the Indian Ambassadors. I have no doubt he will easily
convince you of his innocence in that matter. I expect by this that
Capt. Dooly is taken; we have no late intelligence from the so'ward,
nor any worth relating; the Troops of this State are at present so
scattered that I cant obtain accurate returns to send you. I am,
dr sir.

Yours, &c.,

S. E.
Gen. Howe.

Headquarters, 29th Oct., 1777.
Parole-Clay.

A court of enquiry to sit to-morrow to inquire into the conduct
of Lieut. Robinson & Lieut. Cannon, both of the Light Horse and
under arrest, the first for ordering his men to quit Fort Howe with-
out authority & the latter as being the officer next in command when
the party near Fort Howe was defeated, the Brigade Major is to
order a proportion of officers from the Light Horse as the articles
of war directs, to sit on the above inquiry.

Headquarters, Savannah, 31st Oct., 1777.
Parole-Roberts.

The court of enquiry ordered to sit on Lieuts. Robinson &
Cannon report as their opinion that Lieut. Robinson is guilty of
what was laid to his charge & that Lieut. Cannon not being com-
manding officer at the time of the defeat near Fort Howe & of
course not answerable for the conduct of Lieut. Anderson who then
commanded, & since deceased, report as their opinion that he should
be discharged; the commanding officer concuring in the above
matter orders Lieut. Cannon be discharged from his arrest & that
he do immediately join his regt. but at the same time takes this

Colonel and Brigadier General. 6g

opportunity of reminding the officers under his command, that he is
determined to make examples of any who may be remiss in their
duty, particularly that of misbehavior before an enemy. A general
court-martial to sit to-morrow for the trial of Lieut. Robinson who
are likewise to proceed to the trial of all soldiers now in confinement
whose crimes are cognizable by them. Major Roberts, president of
the court.

Such men of the fourth regiment who are in town & fit for duty
are ordered to march to the soutliward & join those of the second
regt. now on duty there, where Colo. Hovinden, as soon as his in-
disposition will permit, is to repair and take on him the command.

Headquarters, Savannah, 3d Nov., 1777.

Parole-Laurens.

Those who have not yet paid a proper attention to the orders
of the 13th Oct. are ordered to do so immediately, as a further ne-
glect will be deemed a disobedience of orders and examples made ac-
cordingly; exact & accurate muster rolls with every man's name of
the troops in the Continental service of this State are ordered to be
immediately given to Major Demere, deputy clothier general, in
order that he may be enabled to ascertain the exact quantity of
clothing necessary to be provided for them as the season is far ad-
vanced & the troops in general very bare of clothes; it is to be hoped
that supiness which too generally prevails among the officers in this
state will be thrown ofif and that this order will not be treated
with the same indifference & neglect as all hitherto offered have
been. Lieut Sarceday of the first regiment ordered under arrest by
the commanding officer for being absent from his guard having ac-
knowledged his fault & promised better & more strict duty in fu-
ture, and it having been represented that he is by far more regular
& attentive to duty than many other officers in the service, he is
ordered to be released from his arrest & to join his regiment; the
parties sent to Thunderbolt & Caustons Blufif are to be ordered in
directly as the firing heard yesterday was on board a French Snow
at Tybee. The general court-martial of which Major Roberts was
president is approved & dissolved. Thomas Wainwright, Timothy
Duffield & Andrew Watson of the first regiment being under sen-
tence of death for desertion are ordered to be kept in irons & a
strict guard over them. Nicholas Williams to be released as it ap-
pears he was deceived by Wainwright, the corporal, who told him
he was going on duty. Jeramiah McCarty of the third regt. is or-
dered to receive fifty lashes on the bare back & be drummed out of
the service agreeable to his sentence this afternoon on the general

yo Order Hook of Samuel Elbert,

parade. Thos. Hodge of the second regt. to be then reprimanded
& released.

Headquarters, Savannah, 5th Nov., 1777.

Parole-Stirk.

A general court-martial to sit to-morrow morning for the trial
of all prisoners in the guard house whose crimes are cognizable by
them, Colo. Harris, president. In future the officer who mounts the
guard is ordered to do it in the full uniform of the corps he belongs
to, with either a sash or gorget on or both if they have them, the
sash to be worn round the waist. Those officers who may have occa-
sion to wait on the commanding officer are to appear in their uni-
form with side arms, and as great injury is like to be done the ser-
vice by officers carrying fusees which in action they are too apt to
make use of and by that means neglect the men who they are ap-
pointed to command, all the officers of the foot regiments, except
the rifle grenadier or Light Infantry companies, are ordered to carry
espontoons in their stead; commanding officers of regiments are to
see this order immediately carried into execution.

Headquarters, Savh., 7th Nov., 1777.

Parole-Washington.

The general court-martial of which Colo. Harris was president
is approved and dissolved. Benj. Joyner & David Bizzle of the
Light Horse, sentenced to receive one hundd. lashes each, being in-
terceeded for by their officers & promising better behavior in fu-
ture are forgiven by the commanding officer & ordered to be re-
leased. Hugh Bell is to be reprimanded by his commanding officer
& released likewise. At the request of the gentlemen a court of en-
quiry to sit immediately to enquire into the conduct of Capt. John
Dooly & Lieut. Bilbo of the Light Horse & Lieut. Booker of the
third regt. concerning an assault on the Indian Ambassadors at
Mr. Galphins for which they were ordered under arrest by General
Howe. Major Roberts instead of Colo. Hovinden, who continues
very ill, is to take on him the command to the southward; all the
second regiment now in town fit for duty are ordered to march
to Fort Howe on the Altamaha directly.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 71

Headquarters, Savannah, 8th, No

Parole-Lee.

Lieut. Baugh of the second
ordered under arrest for leaving his co
expressed a desire of returning thereto
from his arrest on a pron
good behavior, there being da
from different corps, least a
be neglected by their officers

is to assign each a parad (Torn out),

but once a day in person
carried through their ma
manoeuvres-the comma
day for reviewing them
of those who have no a
Sen'r. Esq., is appointed b

Continental Troops for the town & district of Savannah till further
orders.

Savannah, 9th Novemb., \^^^.
Dr. General: Inclosed are some papers respect

Orders to Ensign Geter.

Headquarters, Savannah, loth Nov., i777-

Agreeable to a request from his Honor Governor Treutlen
you are ordered to march with the party under your command with
Mr. Andrew Moore and to assist him in bringing to Savannah, such
property as he may commit to your charge; take care in executing
this business that no person is ill treated or in the least insulted by
the soldiers, your duty being to guard what is delivered to your
care; when Mr. Moore has done his business you are to return, &
not before.

Your very humb. servt.,

S. ELBERT, Comg. OfHcer.

Headquarters, Savannah, nth Nov., 1777.

Parole-Gates.

The account being confirmed that our great & worthy General
Gates at the head of an army of free born Americans has obliged
the accomplished General Burgoyne with upwards of five thousand
British troops to lay down their arms & surrender themselves pri-

^2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

soners of war, the commanding officer takes this method of mak-
ing it known to the army & of congratulating them on the happy
event & orders all the Continentals in town under arms precisely
at four o'clock this afternoon with six rounds of powder pr. man
in order to fire a feu de joye.

Savannah, 17th Novemr., 1777.

Dear Sir: Capt Dooly with Lieuts. Booker & Bilbo wait on
you with this, which covers the report of a court of inquiry, respect-
ing the matter for which you ordered them under arrest. I will be
obliged to you to release them as soon as possible, as we are scarce
of officers. I am just informed that a flag of truce is arrived at
Sunbury, the particulars I know not, and am. Dear Sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

(Signed) SAMUEL ELBERT.
To Brig. Gen. Howe.

Savannah, 17th Nov., 1777.

Dear Sir: Mr Milton has this minute delivered me two letters
for you and one for Governor Rutledge, brought by a flag of truce
to Sunbury, with which he came. There being no letter for the
commanding officer here, I judged it my duty to send Capt. Hand-
ley express to you; and will be glad to have your particular instruc-
tions how I am to conduct myself with respect to the exchange of
prisoners. No doubt your answer to the letters sent will be suffi-
cient, and that there will be no necessity for my writing any thing
by return of the officer who came with the prisoners, who will be
detained at Sunbury 'til I hear from you, which I beg may be
directly. I am, dr. sir,

Yr. most obedt servt.,

(Signed) SAML. ELBERT.

General Howe.

Headquarters, Savannah, 17th Nov., 1777.

Parole-Arnold.

Major Mcintosh & Lieut. Scrimger of the first regiment having
amicably settled the matter in dispute between them, they are re-
lieved from their arrest and ordered to join the regiment. A general
court-martial to sit to-morrow for the trial of all prisoners in the
guard house whose crimes are cognizable by them, Lieut Colo.
Stirk president; Major Pannell having acquitted himself with honor
of the charge brought against him of being concerned in an insult

Colonel and Brigadier General. 7J

on the Indian Ambassadors, the commanding officer has reed, orders
from Genl. Howe to make the same known to the army; the un-
happy men under sentence of death for deserting & attempting to
go to the enemy are to be shot on the forenoon of Thursday next,
on which occasion every Continental soldier in town is to be under
arms, these orders to be immediately made known & a copy of
them served on the unfortunate victims whose lot it is to be the
example, by which it is hoped pernicious practice which has so long
prevailed in the army may be put a stop to, namely, that scandalous
& unmanly crime of desertion.

Headquarters, Savannah, 20th Nov., 1777.

Parole-Lincoln.

It having been determined by the opinion of a council of field
officers that one of the unfortunate men ordered to be executed to-
day should suffer & the other two pardoned in hopes of future
good behavior and the council being at a loss to determine who de-
serve to be made an example of agreed to fix it by lot, which they
did accordingly, and it fell on Timothy Doffield who is to receive
his sentence immediately and after that, this order to be read to
the other two who are reprieved till the opinion of congress be had
thereon, and who are to be remanded to the guard house according-
ly; the general court-martial of -vhich Colo. Stirk was president, is
approved and dissolved.

Headquarters, 25th Nov., 1777.

Parole- Vanderhorst.

All the troops to be under arms and the different corps drawn up
on their own parades at four o'clock this afternoon when an officer
appointed for the purpose will attend to hear the rolls called over.
A general court-martial to sit to-morrow morning for the trial of
Lieuts. Robinson & Pope of the Light Horse, and any prisoners
in the guard house whose crimes are cognizable by them, Lt. Colo.
Harris, president.

Headquarters, Savannah, 26th November, 1777.
Parole-Walton.

The commissary's general of purchases and issues are ordered
immediately to have magazines of all kinds of provissions for the
army stored at Savannah, Sunbury & Augusta, and, as the season
for curing beef is pretty far advanced, their particular exertions at

jjf Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

this time is the more necessary. The commanding officer will take
care to have proper guards at each of the above places agreeable
to resolve of Congress. The general court-martial of which Lt. Colo.
Harris was president is approved and dissolved. Lts. Robmson &
Pope having applied for leave to resign their commissions, the com-
manding officer through tenderness to those gentlemen grants their
request, but at the same time begs leave to represent to the gentle-
men of the army that this indulgence will not always be granted
when officers subject themselves to the decision of a court-martial,
as he is determined to make examples of those who may be fit sub-
jects. Sergt. Clark & Corporal Dawson, of the second regiment,
sentenced to receive each one hundred lashes on the bare back &
to be reduced to private sentinels for desertion, has the last part
of the sentence confirmed, and as it appears that they were return-
ing of their own accord the corporal punishment is remitted in hopes
of future good behavior.

Savannah, 27th November, 1777.

Sir: Postscript to the undermentioned letter. On inquiry I find that
John Aaron was concerned with his mother above mentioned, &
is also considered as a felon.

I have the honor to send you, by return of the flag, such pris-
oners of yours as are with us, of whom the inclosed is an exact
list, with the ranks they bear. I am instructed by General Howe
to observe to you, that a certain George Aaron being a felon is by
no means amenable to exchange. I am with the greatest respect, Sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,
S. ELBERT, Commg. Officer, of the Continental Troops in Georgia.

General Provost.

Headquarters, Savh., 30th Nov., 1777.
Parole-Green.

All the men of Colo. Marbury's Light Dragoons now in town
fit for duty are ordered to march to-morrow for the post on Ogee-
chee near Mr. Belchers when they are to relieve the detachment of
the 3d regt. now on duty there who are immediately to march to
headquarters.

The commanding officers of each regiment & corps in the state
are to give orders to have one hundred rounds of cartridges with
ball made up for each man under their command and packed in
handy portable chests, as there is the greatest reason to imagine
that the troops will soon be called into action.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 7S

Headquarters, Savannah, 3d Dec, 1777.
Parole-Conway.

The commanding officer being informed that a riot is intended
in town to-night orders that at tattoo-beat the main guard be re-
inforced with a Capt., and twenty men with a Sergt., who are to keep
patrols in the streets & to take up any persons who may be disturb-
ing the peace of the inhabitants and confine them in the guard house.
Capt. Puisang who keeps a store in Capt. Chevalier's house com-
plains that he is afraid of being insulted by a mob. The officer of
the guard is ordered to place a sentinel at his door with directions
to prevent anything of the kind & with orders to apply to the main
guard for assistance if necessary.

Headquarters, Savannah, 4th Dec, 1777.

Parole-Howe.

All of the first & second regiments in tov/n fit for duty are to
be in readiness to march to-morrow forenoon with three days' pro-
vissions & fifty rounds ammunition pr. man. Colo. Habersham who
will take command of this party is to receive his orders from the
commanding officer. Some of the inhabitants make complaint that
they are threatened by the soldiers in such a manner that they are
afraid of their lives. The officers are ordered to make strict inquiry
and send to the guard house any who they find to be the authors of
such unmanly & unsoldierlike threats, and the officer of the main
guard is strictly ordered to confine any soldier found in the streets
or out of their barracks after tattoo-beat.

Savannah, 5th Dec, 1777.

Dr. Sir: You are to march immediately with the detachment
under your command and take the shortest route to great Ogeechee
which you are to cross either at Fort Arguile or higher up, so as
to get into the fork between that river & Coonuchie when you are
either by bribes, threats or otherwise to try if possible & get in-
formation of the Florida Scout who I have intelligence are in small
parties collecting cattle up Ogeechee; when this is obtained your
prudence will dictate to you the best method to pursue in counter-
acting them, it will be necessary that the route you take be a
secret, at least till you cross that river & in order to effect this,
take with you any person you meet who you suspect would be-
tray your situation; hire or impress guides or horses as occasion
may require; 'tis probable I may order a party from the southward

7<5 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

to march across Coonoochee towards the Ohoopy who may fall in
with you, in which case you are both to wear white cockades the
enemy commonly have red in their hats Ambuscades from the
enemy is the most you need be on your guard to prevent, your vi-
dettes will always give you timely notice, should they attempt to sur-
prise your camp. I have been informed that small bodies of men from
So. Carolina frequently pass towards Florida. I look upon those
equally our enemies with the others and should be treated accord-
ingly. Let me hear from you any thing which may come to your
knowledge or happen that may be of consequence. I wish you suc-
cess, & am, dr. Sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

S. ELBERT.
To Colo. Habersham.

Orders to Captain Defau of the Artillery.

Head qrs., Savannah, 5th Dec, 1777.

You are to proceed immediately to the town cf Sunbury
in this state, where are a corps of Continental Artillery posted,
which you are constantly to be employed in teaching the perfect use
of artillery, particularly in the field. Both officers and men are
hereby strictly ordered to attend on you for the above purpose, at
such times, and in such places as you may direct; and the command-
ing officer of the troops in that place, on your showing him these
orders, will furnish men to do the necessary duty in town & Fort
so that there will be nothing to prevent Capt. Morris, with his
company, from being perfected in the business for which they were
raised. Such pieces of artillery, as you approve of, have mounted on
field carriages; and for this purpose, you are empowered to employ
the necessary workmen, and procure materials. Your drafts on me,
for every necessary expense, accompanying the vouchers, will be
duly honored. I am, sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

(Signed) S. ELBERT, Col. Commdg.

Savannah, the 5th December, 1777.

Dear Sir: Inclosed is a copy of a letter just received from Lt.
Colo. Hovenden. As I have received accounts similar to those con-
tained therein, have no doubt of their truth, and would beg leave
to recommend that some steps be immediately taken in South Caro-
lina to prevent an intercourse between their back settlements and
the thieves of Florida. All in our power will be done in this state

Colonel and Brigadier General. jf

but the river Savannah has so many fording places, that to guard
them all would require an army of ten thousand men. Colo. Haber-
sham, with a detachment of his regiment marches this evening to
scour the banks of Ogeechee, and I shall to-morrow send express
to the officer at the southward, commandg. my regiment to march
with a detachment of that corps to St. Ilia, and guard the fords of
that river, while parties are sent up the Alatamaha; by this disposi-
tion, I am in hopes of intercepting some of the villians. With much
surprise I am informed that Colo. White's regiment are coming,
without arms, to the number of four hundred and fifty. Pray, if
possible, procure that number for them, as we have none; the last
you sent are very good. I am, dear General,

Yr. most Obedient Servant,

(Signed) S. ELBERT.
To General Howe.

Savannah, 6th Decem., 1777.

Dr. Sir: Lieut. Colo. Hovenden of White's regt. is the bearer
of this, who comes to Chas. Town for the purpose of procuring the
arms I wrote to you about yesterday which I have no doubt you
will be able to furnish him with, but should he be under the neces-
sity of purchasing them, with what pouches & belts are necessary,
I will direct our quartermaster General to make the payment.

I send you copy of my letter to General Provost pr. return of
the flag with a list of the prisoners received and also of those sent.

The commissioners of our Navy have made application to me
for soldiers to man the galleys; this I think I have no authority to
comply with as it is quite a separate department, I beg to have
your orders respecting it, and am, dr. sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

S. ELBERT.

General Howe.

Savannah, 6th Decemb., 1777.

Dr. Sir: The letter I give you for Genl. Howe, you are to pro-
ceed to Chas. Town with, and in case he cant furnish you with the
arms for your regt. try if possible & purchase what are necessary,
but take care that they are fit for service & with good bayonetts;
purchase or have made pouches & belts likewise, and I will give
orders to our quarter-master general to make the payment. General
Howe will assist you in this matter. If you succeed in procuring the
arms and your regt. are not passed, change their route and let them
call & take them, but should this not be convenient either hire

7^ Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

wagons or a boat & have them transported here immediately. I am,
dr. sir.

Your most obedt. servt., '

S. ELBERT.
Lt. Colo. Hovenden, 4th Battalion.

Headquarters, Savannah, 8th Decemb., 1777.
Parole-Taarling.

A subaltern with a Sergt. & twenty five rank & file of the troops
in town to march immediately as a reinforcement to the detachment
under Colo. Habersham.

Major Demere, the clothier general, complains that notwith-
standing the order of the 3d ulto he is not yet possessed of returns,
from some of the corps of the names & time of enlistment of their
men, by which means he is much at a loss in procurmg & serving
out clothing, &c. A want of the common feelings of humanity as
well as neglect of duty is what every officer may justly be accused
of who are the aggressors, and in case this complaint is renewed,
the commanding officer flatters himself that he cant be thought to
act with too much rigor if he directs that those officers who pay so
little respect to his orders be put under arrest for trial. Peter Taar-
ling, Esq., being appointed by Congress quarter-master general to
the army in this state; he is to be respected and obeyed as such; ex-
act & accurate returns of all military stores in the state, as like-
wise of camp equipage with wagons & teams, to be immediately
made to him, in order that he may be able to make up any deficien-
cies that might be necessary.

Headquarters, Savannah, gth Decmb., 1777.
Parole-Colonel Green.

Peter Taarling, Esq., mentioned in orders yesterday as being
appointed quarter-master general to the troops in this state, has by
resolve of Congress the rank of Colonel in the army.

Colo. William Mcintosh having made complaint that a few days
since a party of the troops stationed at Daricn crossed to an island
on which he has a plantation, and there plundered & brought off
with them many articles of his property, the officer commanding to
the southward is ordered to make immediate inquiry into this matter
and to send to headquarters for trial the perpetrators of an act so
disgraceful to the army; nor is this the first cause that gentleman
has had for complaint, which he has forbore making in hopes of
better treatment. The commanding officer desires it to be made

Colonel and Brigadier General. 79

known to the army that the intent of their being supported in this
state is to protect & secure the inhabitants in the quiet & peaceable
enjoyment of their property, and as his inclination coincides with his
duty to act conformable thereto, he is determined to make severe
examples of those under his command who are so lost to the feel-
ings of free men as to act otherwise.

Those unhappy men whose conduct has held them up as enemies
to the state will be dealt with as the laws direct, by persons appoint-
ed by authority of the civil power, and upon aid of the military may
be found necessary, on proper application it will be obtained.

Savannah, the gth Decemb., 1777.

Dr. Sir: By one of my spies I am informed, that Moore's gang,
to the number of about 40 men, are divided in small parties, on
Ogeechee, and that they are to carry oflf with them a Mrs. Love, wife
to one of the Scout; and that they are to assemble in a body, some
time this week, at their camp on Conoochee, some where about
Ranaires and Bowden's place on that river; at both those places
are fords, where they constantly pass; the places are about 5 miles
asunder. I suppose, at this camp, they have their plunder & herd
of cattle. I send you a re-inforcement of a subaltern & twenty five
men, and am in hopes you will have the honor of making prisoners
of that gang of thieves. Pray leave no stone unturned to find them.
Mrs. Habersham is well. I am, dear sir,

Your most obedt. servant,

(Signed) SAML. ELBERT.

To Col. Habersham.

P. S. A canebrake 1-2 a mile above Bowden's place on the south
side of Conoochee, is where they did camp.

Headquarters, Savannah, 19th Decemb., 1777-
Parole-Lt. Colo. Smith.

A general court-martial to sit immediately for the trial of all
prisoners in charge whose crimes are cognizable by them; Major
Mcintosh, president. This court-martial, when they have finished the
business for which they were convened, are to sit as a court of en-
quiry on the matter in dispute, between Capt. Smith & Lieut
Booker of the 3d regiment; those gentn. being withdrawn from the
court.

8o Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders, by Major Gen. Howe.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 23rd Decern., 1777.
Parole-Elbert.

The Continental Troops in the State of Georgia are to be form-
ed into one brigade, of which Colonel Samuel Elbert is to be
Colonel-Commandant.

The ofificer who commanded in Georgia, before the arrival of
the General, is to report to head qrs. the number of Continental
Troops in this State, at what places they are stationed, and what
officer commands at each post.

The guard to-morrow is to be increased to forty men, who are
to be commanded by a captain and two subalterns; Col. Elbert will
determine the number of non-commissioned officers requisite to
this guard.

A field officer of the day is to be appointed to-morrow: The
eldest field officer in town to act first.

Orderly hours at Headquarters, eleven o'clock in the morning.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 24th Dec, 1777.
Parole-Habersham.

Field officer for the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Rae.

At this season, when commonly dissipation and disorder too gen-
erally prevail, the General expects the officers, of every degree,
will exert themselves to prevent every kind of excess among the
soldiers, from which confusion, riot and misbehavior are apt to
happen, and which always disgrace an army, when they do. He in-
joins the soldiers to behave with propriety and decorum, as any
misconduct will meet with punishment. Officers of companies are to
take care that their men are made acquainted with this order.

General Orders.

Head qrs.. Savannah, the 25th Decemr., 1777.
Parole-Georgia.

Field officer of the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Harris.

Nicholas Eveleigh, Esq., is appointed Deputy Adjutant General
for the states of So. Carolina and Georgia, with the rank of Colonel,
and is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.

John Fauchereaud Grimke, Esq., is Aid de Camp to Major
General Howe, with the rank of Major, and is to be respected and
obeyed accordingly.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 8/

Officers of guard are, upon no pretence whatever, to quit their
guards.

The Magazine Guard is to consist of one subaltern officer, one
sergeant & 13 rank & file. The Spring Guard of one sergeant & 7
privates These are to be detached from, and dependent upon the
Main Guard.

The loose, disorderly manner, in which reliefs of guards march
up; the awkwardness of the sentries, in the most common move-
ments of their firelocks; the ignorance of sergeants & corporals
in their duty, and the general want of discipline, but too observable
in the men, are circumstances oi anxiety and surprise to the General.
It is painful to him to add, but, however painful, it is time, that
he has, as yet, hardly met with one soldier, who has treated him
with a proper resp. The relief of guard yesterday was performed in so
loose and disorderly a manner as to impress him with inexpressi-
ble concern; and what enhanced his mortification was, that he did
not observe one officer of the guard exerting himself to correct the
mistakes of the men. The motions of the feet, of all others so es-
sential for a soldier to be instructed in, as every thing depends upon
proper movements, seem entirely unknown to most of the soldiers
he has met with; they walk indeed, but do not march. Not willing
to suppose that officers are either ignorant of the mere common-
place duties or negligent in the execution of them, the General will
not attempt to inquire to what these dreadful details are owing, but
exert himself to correct them. He calls upon officers, of all ranks,
to second him in his efforts to effect this important purpose and
wishes them to consider, that their own honor, the honor of the
army, the safety of their country, and the support of the common
cause depend upon it.

Capt. John Habersham is to do the duty of Brigade- Major, until
further orders.

The General, desirous that every officer in camp should be ac-
quainted with the orders of this day, requests that Major Haber-
sham will take the trouble of showing them to the officers.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Sa/annah, the 26th Deer., 1777.
Parole-Walton.

Field officer of the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

Officers of companies are punctually to attend roll-call. They
are to have the men of their companies frequently taken out and
drill'd; not merely to order, but to see, that it is done.

82 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

The Sergeants are every day to take out those men, who do not

understand the manual exercise, in small squads, and them.

This is to be carefully and diligently performed.

Majors, Adjutants and all commissioned and non-commissioned
officers of companies are to exert themselves to train and discipline
the men in exercise and manoeuvres. And as teaching the men to
march with propriety is of capital consequence, it ought to claim
the particular attention of every ofificer.

All Sergeants found ignorant of their duty, and not exerting them-
selves to learn it, will certainly be reduced to the ranks.

It behoves every officer to be careful in making himself ac-
quainted with both daily and standing orders, as ignorance of orders
will not at headquarters be received as an excuse for the non-ob-
servance of them.

If the men are not punctually made acquainted with all orders
relative to them, commissioned and non-commissioned officers of
companies will be blamed for it.

N. EVELEIGH, Dep. Adj. Gen., Southn. Depart.

Head qrs, Savannah, the 27th Decemr., 1777.
Parole-Screven.

Field Officer of the day to-morrow. Col. Habersham.

Commanding officers of brigades are, without fail, from time to
time, to have all orders that tend to the general regulation of the
army transmitted to the several divisions of the brigade.

Adjutants of battalions are to warn the officers and men of their
corps the day before their tour of duty comes on, that they may
be properly prepared for it.

The General desires to see the Orderly books of all the officers
in town. They are therefore to be left at headquarters by 10 o'clock
in the morning.

General Orders,

Headquarters, Savannah, the 28th Deer., 1777.

Parole-Marbury.

Field officer for the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Rae.

William Massey, Esq., is appointed Deputy Muster Master Gene-
ral for the states of Georgia & South Carolina, with the rank of
Lieut. Colonel; he is therefore to be obeyed and respected according-

ly.

All officers coming into town are immediately to repair to head-
quarters, and if the General is from home, leave their names and
the place where they may be found in writing.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 8j

Reports of guards are, til further ordets, to be made to the com-
manding officer of the brigade, who will report to headquarters such
particulars as require it.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 29th Deer., 1777.
Parole-Harris.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

Col. Elbert will order, as immediately as possible, an exact re-
turn of the military stores in the State of Georgia, to be laid before
the General.

The General being informed that, within these few nights, a
deserter of the South Carolina Continental Troops has escaped from
the Magazine Guard; Col. Elbert is to order a brigade court of in-
quiry to sit to inquire into the conduct of the officer commanding
the guard, when the escape was made; they are also to inquire what
soldiers were acting as sentinels when it happened, and report their
proceedings to headquarters, that a court-martial may be ordered
should it be necessary. A field officer to be president of the court
of inquiry.

Brigade Orders.

Savannah, 29th Decemb., 1777.

Exact and accurate returns of all the military stores in the State
are to be immediately made to his Excellency, Major General Howe.

A court of inquiry to sit immediately to inquire into the con-
duct of Ensign Brown who commanded the Magazine Guard when
a prisoner belonging to the Continental Troops of So. Carolina
made his escape from them, as also what soldiers were doing the duty
of sentinels when it happened. They are likewise to inquire into the
conduct of Lieut. Morrison, ordered under arrest by the Colo. Com-
mandant for disobedience of orders, and Lt. Booker, arrested by
Major Roberts for gaming; they are to report their proceedings to
headquarters. Colo. Habersham president of this court.
By order of the Colonel-Commandant,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. Major.

Savannah, the 29th Decemr., 1777.

Dear Sir: As our military chest is not yet arrived. Gen. Howe
furnishes you with a letter of credit on South Carolina for two
thousand pounds sterling, and desires that I may put you in mind

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

that you are to purchase no arms but such as are properly proved.
Inform Col. White that his regiment is by no means to stop in
South Carolina, and that he is positively ordered not to march his
men into Charles Town or suffer any of them to enter it. I expect
to see you here with all possible dispatch, and am, dr. sir,

Yr. most obedt servt.

(Signed) S. ELBERT.

P. S. The letter of credit is on Mr. Dorsius, Continental Agent.
To Lt. Col. Hovenden.

Brigade Orders.

Savannah, 30th Deer., 1777.

The Deputy Muster Master General will attend precisely at three
o'clock to-morrow afternoon to muster the first battalion, at which
hour they are to be drawn upon Johnson Square for the purpose.
Pains must be taken to make the men appear well under arms. At
retreat beat a detachment from the third battalion are to relieve all
those of the first who are on guard in order that the officers & men
may have time to prepare themselves. On Thursday the third bat-
talion are to be mustered in like manner in order to which they
are to be relieved by the first battalion as above.

By order of the Col. Commang.,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. M.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 30th Decemr., 1777.
Parole-Independence.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

The Deputy Quarter Master General is, as immediately as possi-
ble, to provide barracks for Col. White's Battalion, which is ex-
pected in a few days; when they are procured, the chimneys are to
be swept and the houses well air'd.

The Deputy Adjutant-General will attend the relief of guard,
and establish the proper form requisite to this dut> ; he is also to
appoint some convenient place, at which all commissioned oflicers
of battalions, who are in town, from the rank of captain downward,
are to attend to be examined, and if necessary to be instructed in
discipline. The General places the greatest reliance upon the exer-
tions of the officers in obtaining that knowledge of their duty upon
which the very existence of the army so essentially depends.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 85

Regimental Adjutants are every day to take out the sergeants
of their several regiments, and have them regularly drill'd, and to
instruct them in every particular of their duty; this is to be con-
tinued til further orders. If there are not Adjutants in town to
every corps the Adjutants present are to train the sergeants to
those corps who are without an Adjutant.

The Deputy Quarter-Master General is to exert himself to re-
move the just cause of complaint that exists for want of wood,
which, in this inclement season, cannot be dispensed with.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 31st Decemr., 1777.

Parole-Houstoun.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Rae.

Col. Elbert will report to headquarters what number of new
arms have been served out, and in what manner they have been
distributed.

The soldiers appearing in the manner they do, with flapp'd hats,
in any place (but more especially when on duty) is slovenly and un-
soldierly. Hats, however ordinary, may surely be cocked. Do officers
of companies take no pride in the appearance of their men, or can
they possibly conceive that their credit is not concerned in it? Every
want of attention to the men is displeasing to the General. A soldier-
ly appearance in troops renders them respectable to their fellow
citizens, and formidable to their enemies. All officers are therefore
injoined, but more particularly the officers of companies, to be at-
tentive in endeavoring to make their men appear as decent and
soldierlike as possible.

Head qrs.. Savannah, the ist Januarj', 1778.

Parole-Jones.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

All guards are to turn out to the Governor of the State, Com-
mander in chief of the army, Brigadiers General, Commandants
of Brigade, and Field Officers of the day. The Governor and General,
or Commander in chief for the time being, to be received with rested
firelocks; Brigadiers General, Commandants of Brigades, and Field
Officers of the day with shouldered arms. Sentries are to rest their
firelocks to all Field Officers, and to carry their arms to all officers
of lower rank.

Col. Elbert will appoint some badge to be worn by the Field Of-
ficer of the day, that guards may distinguish him.

86 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

The General hopes to see the guards turn out with more alert-
ness than he has yet observed, and all officers of guards are to
take notice that a rest from an order is no compliment.

The General has under consideration the report of the court of
inquiry.

Oflficers of guards are injoined to take particular care that the
wood brought for the use of the guards is not wasted or embezzel'd.

Henry Leit, Corporal in the first battn. confined for the loose,
disorderly manner in which he relieved the sentries, is, at the
intercession of Major Habersham, released from confinement. No
future negligence of this sort, either in him or others, will be excus-
ed.

Brigade Orders.

Head qrs., ist January, 1778.

Capt. Young's company of artillery will be mustered to-morrow
at Tybee by Lt. Colo. Massey, Deputy Muster-Master General.

Agreeable to general orders to-day the Colonel-Commandant fixes
a mark of distinction to the Field Officer of the day, the wear-
ing his sash over the left shoulder; all other officers on duty to
wear their sashes as ordered the 5th Noverpber last.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 2nd Jany., 1778.
Parole-Martin.

For the day to-morrow. Colonel Screven.

Officers absenting themselves from town, without leave, will in
future, be made the subject of court-martial.

It has already been said that ignorance of orders will not, at
headquarters, be received as an excuse for the non-observance of
them. There are standing orders that have not been complied with.
It behooves officers to make themselves acquainted with them, and
to obey them. A punctual observance of orders is expected, and
will most certainly be exacted.

The General intends very shortly tc form the commissioned of-
ficers of companies into squads, and to review them. This he in-
tends to do at every post he visits. It is therefore necessary that
the Commandant of the Brigade transmit a copy of this order to the
different divisions of his Brigade by the first opportunity, that the
officers may be apprised of it. The General flatters himself that
those officers who have not yet made themselves perfectly acquaint-
ed with their duty will exert themselves to effect it as soon as
possible. Sergeants and Corporals will also be received and exam-
ined; those found ignorant of their duty will certainly be reduced.

Colonel and BiHgadier General. 87

Headquarters, Savannah, the 3d Jany., 1778.

Parole-Stirk.

For the day to-morrow, Colonel Habersham.

William Mathews, Esq., is appointed assistant Muster- Master Gen-
eral for the State of Georgia, with the rank of Captain: he is there-
fore to be respected & obeyed as such.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 4th Jany., 1778.

Parole-Screven.

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Col. Rae.

The first Continental Battalion in this State will, in a few days,
be ordered to march to Ebenezer, where they will for some time be
posted, they are therefore to prepare accordingly.

Ofificers of companies are frequently to visit the houses where
their men are quartered; they are to be careful that the soldiers do
no damage to the buildings, and the men are forbid, under pain of
severe punishment, doing any injury to the buildings, or other
property of the inhabitants, where they may be quartered.

Surgeons of regiments are to report once a week, to head-
quarters, the number of sick they have in charge, the nature of the
disorders with which they are afiflicted and the time of their con-
finement; and when they are fit to return to their duty, they are im-
mediately to notify it to the Commandant of the Brigade.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 5th Jany., 1778.

Parole- Wereat.

For the day to-morrow. Major Roberts.

The Deputy Quarter-Master General will provide horses and furni-
ture sufficient to mount a detachment of ten men; the horses are
to be ready by to-morrow evening. The chimneys at the General's
quarters are to be swept to-day; the Deputy Quarter-Master Gen-
eral is to order it to be done.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 5th Jany., 1778.
A Brigade court of inquiry to sit immediately, to inquire into
the conduct of Ensign Walton of the 3d Battalion, who commanded
the Magazine Guard on the night of the 3d instant, when two pris-
oners made their escape therefrom; Lt. Col. Marbury, president,
with four commissd. officers, are to compose this court; they are
to report their proceedings to headquarters.

By order of the Col. Commandt.

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. Major.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 6th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Telfair.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

The detachment of ten men, mentioned in the order yesterday,
It to be commanded by a commissioned officer. The men are to be
furnished 18 rounds, and will march early on Thursday morning.

The Deputy Quarter-Master General is to procure, as soon as
possible, SCO reams of cartridge paper the paper used for sheath-
ing vessels will answer, if no proper cartridge paper is to be had;
also to purchase immediately, or have made, twenty pair of hand-
cufTs.

(HERE ONE SHEET OF MANUSCRIPT IS TORN OUT.)

Headquarters, Savannah, the 7th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Houstoun.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Smith.

The frequent escape of prisoners from the guards is a circum-
stance of surprise, anxiety, and displeasure to the General. Do of-
ficers ever quit their guards, or do they suffer themselves to sleep
upon them? Do they consider the dignity and importance of their
office while on guard; that every officer and soldier of the army,
relying upon their firmness and vigilance, rest in security, absolute-
ly depending upon them, as the guardians of their safety and honor?
Do they consider that the least inattention to duty, or deviation from
it, is a great abuse of this generous confidence; that a guard should
be a sacred depository where every thing that is committed to its
charge should be found when call'd for; and that as it is hardly pos-
sible for prisoners to escape without negligence or design in some
part of the guard, an officer's reputation can hardly escape a wound,
when ever it happens; that therefore it is absolutely incumbent upon
officers not only to exert themselves to the utmost to prevent such
disgraceful accidents for the future, but to impress upon the men
of their guard such a sense of duty and discipline as will induce
them to be vigilant and alert, upon which the good of the service
essentially depends?

As cleanliness is essential to the health of an army, officers of
companies are to be careful that the men of their companies keep
their barracks clean; and as accidents from fire are, of all others,
the most dreadful; and as they too frequently happen from foul
chimneys, they are, without fail, to make the men sweep the chim-
neys of their barracks at least once a fortnight.

Colonel and Brigadier General.

The guards, to-morrow, are to be arranged in the following
manner. Both the Main & Magazine Guard to be commanded by a
subaltern officer. The Magazine Guard to consist of the same number
as at present, but to be independent of the Main Guard, and there-
fore to report separately. The Spring Guard is to continue dependent
upon the Main Guard, and a captain is to act as officer of the day.

Lieut. Morrison, of the first battn., is released from his arrest,
the court having reported in his favor.

All the officers in town, except those of the Guards, are de-
sired to meet the General, at headquarters, at half past one o'clock;
it is expected they will punctually attend.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 8th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Taarling.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Scott.

The sentries are to be continued at headquarters as usual.

Officers of guards will take care to give them, every day, strict
orders to be attentive and alert.

The General observes, with pleasure, that the men begin to im-
prove in discipline. He leaves the camp to-day, and hopes, at his
return, to find them still more advanced. He expects of the officers
the strictest attention to duty, and that they will, by every effort
in their power, endeavor to improve both the soldiers & themselves
in that discipline, upon which so much depends.

The command devolves upon Colonel Habersham, until the re-
turn of the General, or some officer superior in rank to the Colonel.

Orders by Col. Habersham, Comandg. Officer in Savannah.

Savannah, the loth January, 1778.
Parole-Glen.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Smith.

Colonel Habersham was much surprised to observe that none
of the troops were under arms the night the alarm was given.
Officers, instead of running to the fire, should have immediately re-
paired to their respective alarm posts and got their men under arms
ready either to have opposed the enemy, or to have given the in-
habitants every assistance as they could not tell, when they were
first call'd out, for what occasion it was. Such remissness of duty
reflects highly on the army; and every officer, for his own credit,
sliould endeavor to avoid it in future.

go Ordet Book of Samuel Elbert,

The Colonel was informed that the officers of the Main Guard,
on the night the fire happened, permitted some other officers to
commit the greatest irregularities in the guard house. He will make
further inquiry into it, and, if he finds his information true, is de-
termined to make an example of the officer who commanded the
guard.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Sunbury, the 13th Jany., 177S.

Parole-Stirk.

All officers, at this post, are to deliver their Orderly books to
Brigade Major Habersham, at five o'clock this afternoon, for the
General's inspection.

The Deputy Commissary of Purchases is to report to the General
to-morrow morning the provisions he has now on hand, the places
at which it is stored, also the quantity he has contracted for, partic-
ularizing each sort, the persons with whom he has contracted, the
price he is to give, and at what time and in what manner the pro-
vision is to be delivered.

The health of the soldiery is of the highest consideration to
the General and should ever claim his particular attention. .A.nd as
it essentially depends upon the provissions they are supplied with,
their method of dressing it; also upon their keeping their barracks
clean and comfortable, and indeed upon cleanliness in general, of-
ficers, of ever degree (but more especially officers of companies) are,
by constant care and frequent inspection, to prevent or correct any
errors in these particulars; And it is expected that no officer, how-
ever high in rank, will think himself exempt from a duty which hu-
manity and the good of the common cause make incumbent upon all.

The Adjutant will take care that every officer in camp sees this
order immediately.

Savannah, the 13th January, 177S.
Sir: James Rae, Esq., Commissary General, represents to me
that the difficulty he labors under in procuring money from the
treasury is such as will put it out of his power any longer to furnish
the troops with provissions, unless speedily remedied. Give me
leave to request that you will immediately take such steps as appear
necessary in this matter. I have the honor to be with much respect,
sir,

Yr. most obedient servant.

(Signed) S. ELBERT.
His Honor John Houstoun, Esq., Governor & Ca.

Colonel and Brigadier General. gi

Savannah, the 14th January, 1778.

Parole-White.

Orders by the Col. Commandant of the Brigade, Command-
ing at Savannah,

A court of inquiry to sit immediately to inquire into the con-
duct of Capt. Young of the Artillery, respecting a complaint lodged
against him by Capt. De. St. Marie: The court to consist of six
commissioned officers & Lt. Colo. Harris President.

Orders by the Col. Commandant of the Brigade, Commandg.
at Savannah.

Savannah, the i6th Jany., 1778.

Parole-Howe.

All the troops in town, consisting of the ist, 3d & 4th battalions
to be drawn up at three o'clock this afternoon on the square front-
ing the General's quarters, with their left to Mr. Sheftall's house,
and their right extending towards the court house, when they
will be reviewed by Major General Howe; after which thirteen
rounds of cannon to be fired from two field pieces, to be drawn up
on the right and left for the purpose, under the direction of Major
Romans.

General Orders,

Headquarters, Sunbury, the i6th Jany., 1778.

Parole-Virginia.

Doctor Alexander Harvey is, till further orders, to act as sur-
geon to the detachments which are or may be stationed in Sun-
bury; and also to those troops occupying the outposts to the south-
ward.

The General leaves Sunbury to-day. The command, until the
arrival of some superior officer, devolves upon Captain Morris.

Complaints have been made to the General that some of the
soldiers have injured the buildings in town; and his own observa-
tion convinces him that these complaints are but too well founded.
Actions like these disgrace an army, and render it hateful. Any
soldier who either offers insult or does injury to the persons or
property of the inhabitants, will be punished in the severest manner.
And officers of every degree are enjoined to exert themselves to
prevent such enormities for the future, if possible, or to detect those
who may commit them, that they may receive that punishment which
such actions so richly deserve. Officers of companies are to take
particular care that their men are made acquainted with this order.

g2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Savannah, the 17th January, 1778.

Parole-Hovenden.

Orders by the Col. Commandant, commanding in town.

As General Howe will certainly be in town this afternoon, the
orders of yesterday to be observed. Exact returns of the strength
of each corps to be immediately made to the commanding officer.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the i8th Jany., 1778.

Parole-White.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Rae.

The fourth Continental Battalion will be reviewed on Tuesday.
Col. White will appoint the parade, and report the place fixed upon
to headquarters; the time eleven o'clock in the morning.

All Ofificer's Orderly books are to be left at the General's quar-
ters by four o'clock this afternoon, for his inspection.

Col. Hovenden will report to the General the number of arms
he purchased for the Continental service, the price he gave for them,
and the names of the persons of who they were bought.

The guard to-morrow is to be increased to the same number as
before the General left the town, and is to be arranged in the same
manner. A Field Officer is to be named as officer of the day.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 19th Jany., 1778.

Parole-Eustace.

For the day to-morrow, Major Roberts.

The Deputy Commissary General of Purchases or, in his absence,
his assistant commissary, is as immediately as possible to pur-
chase a large quantity of wheat flour and indian meal, for the use
of the army.

Surgeons of regiments have been negligent in not reporting the
sick men they have in charge, agreeable to a standing order rela-
tive thereto: It is advisable for them to refer to the order, and, in
future, punctually to comply with it.

The Deputy Quarter-Master General will immediately order two
sentry boxes to be placed at the Governor's door; he is also to
order twenty new ones to be made.

Colonels of battalions are to report to the General the vacancies
in their several corps and no application is to be made for commis-
sions but thro' the commander in chief in the State for the time
being.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 93

Brigade Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 19th January, 1778.

A court of inquiry to be held immediately, to inquire into the
conduct of Capt. Andrew Jeter of the 3d battalion, arrested by order
of the Colonel Commandant, for disobedience of order; a captain,
as president, and four other commissioned officers to compose this
court.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 20th Jany., 1778.

Parole-Assembly.

For the day to-morrow. Major Mcintosh.

An orderly sergeant from each corps in town is every day to
attend on the General.

Each battalion is to be furnished with an ammunition wagon.
The Deputy Quarter-Master General is to have them made; he will
consult the colonels of battalions as to the form of them, which,
when agreed upon, he is to report to the General.

Commanding officers of battalions are immediately to report to
headquarters the number of ammunition chests they are furnished
with, that more may be ordered if necessary.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 21st Jany., 1778.
Parole-Moultrie.

For the da}' to-morrow, Col. Screven.

The 1st, 2d, 3d & 4th battalions (Continental) in this State
are to be furnished with camp colors, two to each company will be
requisite. The field of those for the ist battalion is to be blue, the
insertions yellow. Those of the 2d white, the insertions blue. Those

of the 3d green, the insertions . Those of the 4th red,

the insertions blue. The Deputy Quarter-Master General is to
furnish the materials. He is to receive instructions as to the form
of the colors at headquarters.

A general court-martial is to sit to-morrow, at some convenient
place, for the trial of Capt. Andrew Jeter, of the 3d Continental
Battalion in this State, for disobedience of orders, as reported by
a court of inquiry. This court is to consist of one field ofificer as
president, & 12 other officers of lower rank, to be taken from the
several corps in town, according to detail. Major Habersham is to
furnish the court with evidence.

g4 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 22nd Jany., 1778.

Parole-Sunbury.

For the day to-morrow, Colonel Habersham.

The General waits with impatience for a return of the vacancies
in the different battalions.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 23rd Jany., 1777.
Parole-Pinckney.

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Colo. Rae.

Commanding officers of companies are to report to the com-
manding officers of their corps the exact state of their arms and
accoutrements with which their men are furnished; they are to
make it known to the men that any arms or accoutrements lost or
injured otherwise than in course of service or inevitable accident,
will be replaced or repaired by stoppages from their pay; and that
beside this, they will most certainly be punished. Officers of com-
panies will be attentive to carry this order into execution, whenever
necessary, or they may depend on being themselves made answera-
ble for the loss or repair of arms or accoutrements.

When commanding officers of companies are, by permission or
otherwise, removed from their companies, they are immediately to
report to the commanding officer of the regiment, for the time be-
ing, the exact state of the arms when they were appointed to, and
when they left the company, or the officer succeeding to it may be
made answerable, should occasion require it.

Commanding officers of regiments, for the time being, are to
take certificates from the officers of the companies for the arms
with which they have been served, which, with the reports directed
to be made by their orders, are to be carefully filed, that they may
be referred to occasionally, or if entered into books, kept on pur-
pose, it would be better.

Brigade Orders.

Savannah, the 23rd January, 1778.

The Brigade Major complains that many officers of the ist &
3d Battalions have neglected to obey his orders, especially for the
purpose of parading and disciplining the men and attending roll-

Colojicl and Brigadier General. gs

calling, at the hours fixed by him, agreeable to order of the 8th
November last. Any hereafter who are guilty of the above ofifence
may depend on being treated as they deserve.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 24th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Motte.

For the day to-morrow. Major Roberts.

The general court-martial ordered to sit for the trial of Capt.
Andrew Jeter, of the 3d Battn., arrested for disobedience of orders,
having sat accordingly, Capt. Jeter appeared before them and plead-
ed guilty. The court, after the examination of some witnesses, passed
the following sentence "that the said Capt. Jeter be immediately
cashiered." The General approves and ratifies the sentence. He is
therefore no longer to be respected as a Continental Officer.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 25th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Huger.

For the day to-morrow

The General is concerned that he is again obhged to call upon
commanding oiificers of battalions for a report of vacancies in their
several corps, a repetition of orders being exceedingly disagreeable
to him. Those, however, who have not yet complied with the former
orders, are immediately to do it, and it is expected that they will
assign a reason for their noncompliance, in writing, at the foot of
their report.

Six men are to be added to the Magazine Guard next Tues-
day, when the fourth battalion will furnish their quota of officers
and men for duty. The Brigade Major will warn them according
to detail.

The sentries at the Governor's door are on Tuesday to be re-
lieved from the Magazine Guard, and continue to be extended from
that guard until further orders.

The general court-martial that sat on the trial of Capt. Jeter
are to sit to-morrow morning.

Headquarters, Savannah, 26th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Discipline.
For the da}' to-morrow

ptf Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Savannah, the 27th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Howe.

Orders by Col. James Screven, Commandg. at Savannah.

A subaltern and three men are to patrol the streets every two
hours after tattoo is beat, and apprehend all disorderly persons they
meet with, and every person who cannot give a good account of
himself to be conveyed and exammed by the commanding officer of
the Main Guard, and, if thought necessary, to be secured in the
guard house until morning.

If any soldiers are found at tippling houses, they are immediate-
ly to be sent to the guard house.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 29th Jany., 1778.

Parole-Eveleigh.

For the day to-morrow. Col. Screven.

Commanding officers of battalions are immediately to cause ex-
act returns of their regimental stores to be made to the Deputy
Quarter-Master General, who is, as soon as he receives them, to
make out a general return, to be laid before the General.

Commanding officers of companies are immediately to have each
man of their company furnished with a former exactly fitted to his
gun; and as the calibers may not be equal, commanding officers of
battalions are directed to have boxes prepared to deposit cartridges
in separate bundles, which, bearing some mark to distinguish to
which gun they belong, no mistake, confusion, or delay may happen
in serving them out when necessary.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 30th Jany., 1778.
Parole-Cattell.

For the day to-morrow. Col. Habersham.

No officer, for the future, shall enlist any man in the room of
any soldier, desirous of being discharged, unless the time for which
such soldier enlisted is near expiring, and the person enlisted in
this room will enlist during the war or for three years.

Three men are to be added to the Main Guard, to be taken by
detachment from the difTerent corps in town immediately; a sentry,
at night, is to be fixed at the back of the Governor's house at such

Colonel and Brigadier General. P7

place as he shall direct, one at the back door of the General's
quarters, one at the store of the Deputy Clothier General, and one
at the store of the Commissary of Issues, and they are to be in-
structed to be vigilant.

Tattoo, for the future, is to be beat at nine o'clock in the even-
ing, any soldier found out of his quarters after that will be sent
to the guard house, and tried by a court-martial.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 31st Jany., 1778.

Parole-Thompson.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colonel Rae.

The proceedings of the general court-martial ordered to try
William Simons, of the first battalion, for desertion, is approved of,
and the court is dissolved. Col. Habersham will order the sentence
of the court to be executed at such time and in such manner as
he shall think proper. The sentence of the court is, that the crimi-
nal shall receive one hundred lashes on his bare back. The court
having reported that Josiah Tewgak, Adam Miers and John Ryan,
brought before them, have been guilty of crimes cognizable before
a regimental court-martial, the commanding officers of the battalions,
to which they belong, will give orders accordingly.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 2d Feby., 1778.

Parole-Motte.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

Commanding officers of battalions are immediately to have
bullet moulds made for their several regiments; if the caliber of
the guns is equal, two to each regiment, casting four or five bullets
on each side will be sufficient, but if there should be a variety of
dififerent bores a greater number of moulds will be wanted, in which
case they need not be made to cast so many. The regiment they
belong to must be marked on each mould.

Lieut. Baugh of the 2d Battalion having resigned his commis-
sion, he is no longer to be considered as a Continental officer.

Capt. Smith. It? a ..

^ . ^ , y For guard to-morrow.

Lieut. Cole. I

g8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 3d Feby., 1778.

Parole-Charles Town.

For the day to-morrow, Col. White.

Necessary houses are to be built at the regimental hospitals.
Quarter Masters of regiments are therefore to construct, with work-
men to build them immediately.

The order for surgeons of regiments to make weekly returns
of the sick under their care, to headquarters, has as yet been com-
plied with but by few, tho' it has been twice repeated. It is once
more injoined, and must be obeyed. The great number of sick sol-
diers at this healthy time of the year is a circumstance of anxiety
to the General; he thinks proper in the most earnest manner to di-
rect that surgeons of regiments pay the strictest attention to the
men, and that every possible care be taken of them and as the
provisions usually served out miy be some times improper for
sick people the surgeons of regiments, when this is the case, are to
make out in writing, signed with their name, a list of such provisions
as may be required, which regimental commissaries, till a proper
purveyor is appointed, are to purchase; a regular account of the ex-
pense of which is to be kept by the commissaries and the surgeons
list of the articles wanted are by them filed that they may refered
to if necessary.

After Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 3d Feby., 1778.

John SutclifFe, Esquire, is appointed assistant Deputy Quarter
Master General of the Continental troops, stationed in the State
of Georgia, with the rank of captain; he is therefore to be obeyed
and respected accordingly.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, th. 4th, Feby.
Parole-Mclntosh.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Harris.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 5th Feby., 1778.
Parole-Stirk.
For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Col. Hovenden.

Colonel and Brigadier General. ^g

The Commissary of Purchases is immediately to report to head-
quarters what quantity of salted beef, pork, flour he has contracted
for and at what time he can deliver it in Savannah or Sunbury.

After Orders.

Regemt. Quarter Masters are to have the chimneys of the bar-
racks and the hospitals of their several regiments swept immediate-
ly. They are to be swept regularly once a fortnight and care is to
be taken that it is well done. Capt. Nash for guard to-morrow.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, th. 6th February, 1778.
Parole-Morgan.
For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

The Col. Commandant of the Continental Brigade in the vState
of Georgia will make out a genl. return of vacancies in his brigade
and send to headquarters. The Brigade Major will deliver him the
regimental returns.

Capt. Smith. )

Lieut. McKenny. f ^or guard to-morrow.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 7th Feby., 1778.
Parole-Maxwell.
For the day to-morrow, Col. Screven.

The General desires that commanding ofificers of battalions
would look over their orderly books, and take notice how many
reports have been required of them in genl. orders, that have not
been made, and compensate for the ommission by an immediate
compliance with orders.

The Deputy Quarter Master General is to report to head-
quarters the quantity of musket cartridges, that are made up in
future, when any are served out an exact account is to be kept of
the number served the battalions, corps or company they were
served to and by whose order.

Ensign Pearre for guard to-morrow.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 8th Feby., 1778.
Parole-Glen.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Harris.

Lieut. Powell of the fourth battn. having resigned his commis-
sion is no longer to be considered as an officer.
Captain Downman for guard to-morrow.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 9th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Alatamaha.

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Col. Hovenden.

Major Roman is as immediately as possible to put all the field
pieces in proper order, that the men may be trained and exercised
to the use of them.

The report from the Commissary General of Purchases is ex-
pected with impatience. The Commissary General of Issues will
also report the provisions, and stores, of every kind he has in
hand. Surgeons of regiments are to report what medicines they
have in possession, belonging to the army, and give in an estimate
of what others are wanted.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, loth Feby., 1778.

Parole-Liberty.

For the da / to-morrow. Major Roberts.

Regimental Pay-masters are in future to pay the soldiers in
person in the presence of one commissioned officer of the company
to which the men belong this order is to be punctually obeyed.
Major Roman Is to report to the Deputy Quarter Master General
the quantity of flannel, necessary for cartridges for the f^eld pieces,
also what store of tin should be provided for the use of the artil-
lery in this State; he is to report the articles wanted to put the
artillery arrangement in a respectable situation.

The Deputy Commissary General of Purchases is immediately
to provide a large quantity of provisions of every sort, in doing
which not one moment must be lost, as the season will very soon
be too warm properly to cure the necessary provisions.

Colonel and Brigadier Genet al.

Commanding officers of battalions are immediately to report
to headquarters the number of camp cittles in their regiments, that
more may be ordered if necessary.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, nth Feby., 1778.

Parole-Morrison.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

The carpenters and black smiths wanted to do the work neces-
sary to the artillery are to be draughted from the dififerent corps
in town and to take orders from Major Roman. Quarter masters
of the regiments are to take care to provide the straw necessary
for the hospitals and barracks of the several regiments. The General
has been informed they have not had the chimneys in the hospital
and barracks swept according to the order issued some time since;
if it is not immediately done it will be the subject of a court-
martial.

Capt. Scott for guard to-morrow.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 12th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Oliphant.

For the day to-morrow

Phillip Box, Esquire, is appointed Commissary of the hospitals
in the State of Georgia, until the pleasure of the Honble. Conti-
nental Congress be known, he is to be respected accordingly.

The surgeons of regimental hospitals are to make a report in
writing to the commissary of hospitals of the articles of diet neces-
sary for the sick men which he is to lay before the commandant
of the brigade who will order them to purchase if he thinks proper.
He will deliver the things to surgeons order taking a receipt as a
voucher.

Ensign Maxwell for guard.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 14th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Harleston.

For the day to-morrow, Major Roberts.

A neglect of orders still prevails in camp to the great dissatis-
faction of the General; should it continue those guilty of it may ex-

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

pect to see their names particularly inserted in genl. orders. Gentler
admonitions having failed to produce the wished for effect to pre-
vent a circumstance so extremely disagreeable to the General he
injoins officers of every degree to have a retrospect to past orders
and to comply with them, and by greater attention to those issued
in future to give no cause for similar reprehensions.

Regemt. Adjutants are to be particularly careful that all orders
are made known to all officers and other persons in their corps to
whom they relate, and commanding officers of battalions and corps
are to take care that they execute this order. The reports from
the field officers of the day and non-compliance with some orders
relative to surgeons of battalions gives the General reason to sup-
pose that the orders have not been made known to them, as he is
unwilling to think they would otherwise have been neglected. Ad-
jutants are, therefore, to report to the commandant of the brigade
whether all orders respecting surgeons have been showed them,
particularly that orders where they were directed to make out a
report of the provisions proper for the sick.

The Commissary of Hospitals is to inquire the price of sago
and report it to the General that a quantity of it may be purchased
for the use of the sick men.

Brigade Orders.

Savannah, 14th February, 1778.

A court of inquiry to sit immediately to inquire into a complaint
lodged against Adjutant Brown of the 4 Battn. by Major Roman
of the Artillery; A field officer as president and six commissioned
officers of inferior rank, to compose this court, who are to report
their proceedings to the commander in chief. A party of one cap-
tain, two subalterns, 3 sergts., two drums and fifer, and 50 rank
and file to appear at grand parade precisely at two o'clock to at-
tend the funeral of Capt. Lee of this State Artillery. L,t. Booker
for guard to-morrow.

Brigade Orders.

Savannah, isth Feby., 1778.

A party consisting of the same number as that ordered yester-
day to appear precisely at three o'clock this afternoon at the grand
parade to attend the funeral of Captain Herd.

By order of the Col. Commandt,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. Major.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 103

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 15th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Rae.

For the day to-morrow. Major Mcintosh.

The Commissary Genl. & Deputy Commissary Genl of Purchases,
the Commissary General & Deputy Commissary of Issues, are
immediately to take oath of qualification ordered by the Honble.
the Continental Congress before some magistrate duly qualified in
the presence of the Col. Commandant of the Brigade, and all pur-
chasers employed under either of them are previous to their act-
ing to take the same oath before some authorized magistrate of
whom they are to take a certificate of their qualifications, a copy
of which they are to lodge with the commanding officer of the
brigade.

Capt. Scott, 1

Lieut. ThreadgileJ ^^'^ S"^*"^ to-morrow.

Brigade Orders.

Head qrs.. Savannah, i6th Feby., 1778.

A court of inquiry to sit immediately to inquire into the con-
duct of Lieut. Sutton of the 4th Battalion arrested by Col. White
for ungentlemanly behavior on the parade. A field officer as presi-
dent and six commissioned officers of inferior rank to compose
this court, who are to report very fully their opinions on the ground
of the dispute. A party consisting of one field officer, two captains
and four subalterns, six sergeants and sixty rank and file, by de-
tachment from the regiments in town, to be ready to march imme-
diately with fifty rounds of ammunition pr. man; eight days' provis-
ions. Lt. Col. Hovenden who will take command of this party, is
to wait on his excellency, Major General Howe, for orders.

The Deputy Quarter Master Genl. is to provide as many horses
and saddles as possible, on some of which the provisions for
this party is to be packed.

By order of the Col. Commandt.,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. Major.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, i6th Feby., 177S.
Parole-Ogechee.
For the day to-morrow, Col. White.

I04 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 17th Feby., 1778.
Parole-Chas. Town.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Harris.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah 17th, Feby., 1778.

Parole-Charlestown.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Harris.

The commandant of the brigade may reduce the guards in town
if he thinks proper until detachment sent out yesterday returns.

Commanding officers of companies for the time being are in
future to sign the provision returns of their companies which are
to be delivered to the regimental quarter masters who is to make
out a general return which is to be signed by the Col. or command-
ing officer of the regiment for the time being by which return the
Commissary General of Issues will serve out the provisions.

The Deputy Quarter Master Genl. having received no report
agreeable to general orders from the third battalion, the command-
ing officer of that corps for the time being is immediately to make
the report required, and assign a reason, in writing, why it was not
complied with before.

Capt. Scott, "I

Lieut. Cook, f ^^^ S"^*"^ to-morrow.

After Brigade Orders.

Head qrs., Savh., 17th Feby., 1778.
A fatigue party, consisting of a subaltern, two sergeants and 23
rank and file being detached from the several corps in town with
4 days' provisions to appear on the grand parade by seven o'clock
to-morrow morning; Major Roman will direct this party where to
proceed. By order of the Col. Commandt,

JOHN HABERSHAM, Bri. Major.
Detail of the fatigue party.

Sub. Sergts. Rank & File.

1st Battalion, " i 7

3d Battalion, ' i g

4th Battalion, i " 7
Major Roman is desirous that Lieut. Petty should command this party.

A sergeant and 9 men of the above detail are to appear with
arms.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 105

Brigade Orders, previous to the preceeding order.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 17th Februy., 1778.

On account of the number of men in town being so much reduced,
in consequence of the detachment yesterday, and the many arti-
ficers necessary to be employed, ':he guard for the present to be ar-
ranged as follows.

Capts. Subs. Sergts. Corps. Privates.
Main Guard, i i 2 2 18

Magazine Guard, " i i i 15

Spring Guard, " " " i 3

Total, 1234 36

By order of the Col. Commandt.,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. M.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 19th Feby., 1778.

Farole-Eveleigh.

For the day to-morrow, Major Roberts.

The first and third battalions will, in a day or two, receive or-
ders to march from this post; they are to make preparations accord-
ingly. Col. Habersham's battalion is to move first.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 19th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Roman.

For the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

The Deputy Quarter Master Gen. is, as immediately as possible,
to provide four wagons, proper for carrying ammunition: He will
be careful that they are in such order as to prevent the powder
from receiving damage.

He will also provide all the pack-sadles he has in store imme-
diately put in order for use, and provide a number of bags, a quan-
tity of cords fit for tents, and the lines, ropes, and cordage neces-
sary for four battalions.

io6 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 20th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Coxspur.

For the day to-morrow

Two subaltern officers, with a detachment of twenty men from
the 4th battalion, are to relieve the company now stationed on
Tybee on Monday next. The men best trained to the use of artil-
lery are to go upon this command; they are on Monday to draw
four days' provision, which the Commissary of Issues is to have
ready for them.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 22nd Feby., 1778.

Parole-Jenkins.

For the day to-morrow

The first battalion marches on Tuesday next; the men of that
regiment on duty are therefore to be relieved by detachment from
the 3d & 4th to-morrow morning.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 23d Feby., 1778.

Farole-Tybee.

For the day to-morrow

The Deputy Quarter Master General will have a boat provided,
sufficient for a detachment of twenty men with their baggage and
provisions for four days; the boat to be ready at six o'clock to-
morrow morning at the public wharf.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 24th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Burke.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Scott, Junr.

All officers, particularly officers of companies, are to be careful
that their men do not waste the ammunition served out to them;
and all soldiers who are detected in wasting it, are to be confined
and reported, that they may be punished.

The Deputy Quarter Master Gen. is, as immediately as possi-
ble to procure two flats and six boats for the use of the army in
this State.

Colonel and Brigadier General. loj

Headquarters, Savannah, the 25th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Conway.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Brosard.

Major Roman having preferred a petition to the General pray-
ing a court of inquiry to inquire into a difference between Colonel
White and himself, respecting a company of artillery, enlisted by
him, and into many other matters, by which he conceives himself
injured and ill-used, and which he makes no doubt he will make
appear before the court. Sign'd, Roman DeLisle, Major of Artillery.

In consequence of which a court of inquiry is to sit to-morrow
morning, by nine o'clock, at such place as the president shall ap-
point, to inquire into all matters relative to this dispute; and also
into the circumstances by which the Major conceived himself to
have been injured and ill-used. The court is to consist of Colonel
Elbert as president, Colo. Habersham, Lt. Col. Stirk, Lt. Col.
Harris and Major Roberts. Major Roman is to furnish the evidence.

Brigade Orders, previous to the two preceeding ones.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 23rd Feby., 1778.
Exact and accurate returns of the strength of the dififerent bat-
talions and corps of Continental troops in this State to be imme-
diately made, the same being necessary to be laid before the General.
By order of the Col. Commandt.,

JNO. HABM., B. M.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 26th Feby., 1778.

Parole-Barre.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

Commanding officers of battalions are to exert themselves to
the utmost to equip their regiments with every military requisite;
to be particularly careful that the arms and accoutrements of their
men are put in the best order; and to have every thing in readi-
ness to go upon actual service, at a moment's warning, should it
be necessary; this is considered, in some degree, the duty of every
officer in the line, who will receive the applause, or incur the cen-
sure of the General, as their attention to duty or neglect of it shall
appear to deserve.

The Deputy Quarter Master General is to be uncommonly as-
siduous to place the arrangement of his department in the most
respectable situation; to exert himself to furnish those articles al-

io8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

ready ordered, and to provide whatever else may be wanted. He
will report to-morrow morning what quantity of cloth he has in
possession fit for haversacks.

The Deputy Clothier General will forward the clothing of the
men with all possible expedition.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 27th Feby., 1778.
Parole-Barre.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Melvin.

A court-martial is to sit this morning at eleven o'clock, for the
trial of Lieut. Jeter, of Col. Screven's Battn., put under arrest for
ungentlemanly behavior; Col. Habersham will furnish the evidence.
The court is to consist of one field officer, as president, and twelve
other members; the Brigade Major will warn them according to
detail.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 29th Feby., 1778.
Parole-Conway.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Day.

One of the sentries at headquarters is to be withdrawn from
the front door every evening at 8 o'clock, and to be posted in the
back yard, where a sentry is to be continued until sun-rise next
morning, and then to be re-posted at the usual place. This order
has, by the direction of the General, been several times given to
the ofificer of the Main Guard by an aid-de-Camp. Future neglignce
will therefore certainly be treated as a breach of duty ought to be.

General Orders.

Headquarters, March ist, 1778.
Parole-Maxwell.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Templeton.

The proceedings of the court of inquiry and the general court-
martial, held lately, are now under consideration of the General.
Those courts are dissolved.

Colonel and Brigadier General. tog

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 2d March, 1778.

Parole-Jones.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Scott, Junr.

The General having accepted of the resignation ot Capt. Thomas
Scott, of Col. Screven's Battalion, he is no longer to be respected
or obeyed as a Continental Officer.

Headquarters, Savannah, 3d March, 1778.

Parole-Fort Johnston.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Brosard.

The Commissary of Issues is to report to-morrow morning at
headquarters the number of hides and quantity of tallow he has
in store at this post; and also to report what is in store at the
out-post. The feet of the cattle that are killed are to be boiled, and
the oil extracted from them, preserved, which the Commissary of
Issues is to have carefully done. He is also to have the horns of
the cattle taken care of for the use of the army.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 4th March, 1778.

Parole-Middleton.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

Commanding officers of battalions are tc report to headquarters
to-morrow morning by ten o'clock an exact list of the artificers in
their corps, upon what duty and at what places they are employed,
and to particularize the profession they are of.

The detail books of Adjutants are to be left at headquarters
by ten o'clock to-morrow.

The Deputy Quarter Master General is, with all possible ex-
pedition, to get made a sufficient number of iron fetters with locks,
proper for hobbling of horses. They are to be case-hardened. He
will take directions as to the number and the manner in which they
are to be made from the Colonel Commandant of the Brigade.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 5th March, 1778.
Parole-Biddle.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Melvin.

A general court-martial to sit to morrow morning at ten
o'clock, at some convenient place, for the trial of Daniel Donnaven,

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Thomas Nicholas, Abel Lively, Michael Grossey and Peter Luckner
of the fourth Continental Battalion, for desertion. Colonel White
will furnish the evidence.

This court is also to try all other prisoners, confined in the
guard, whose crimes are properly the subject of a general court-
martial. Of this court a field officer is to be president, who, wilh
the rest of the members, the Brigade Major will warn according
to detail.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 6th March, 1778.
Parole-McQueen.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Day.

The General is sorry to observe, that since field officers of the
day have been discontinued, guard rounds, by the reports of the
guards, seldom visit later than ten o'clock and hardly ever exceed
eleven; and that they never visit but once a night. He thinks proper
to express his displeasure at this remiss way of doing duty, and
expects an alteration.

His honor, the Governor, having expressed a desire that the
cannon and artillery, the local property of this State, be surveyed
by Major Roman, in order to their being put in proper repair, the
Major is therefore to examine the cannon in and about the town,
and report to the Governor the situation they are in, and the best
method to place them on a more respectable footing. This report is,
previous to its delivery to the Governor, to be laid before the
General, that if any thing by accident should be omitted it may be
added.

The immediate clothing of the battalion is, for many reasons,
an important object to the General; therefore he repeats the in-
junction to officers of every degree to exert themselves to efTect it.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 7th March, 1778.

Parole-Izard.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Templeton.

The General has under consideration, the proceedings of the
general court-martial; they are, in the mean time, to sit upon the
trial of Hugh Syms, of Capt. Young's Compy. of Artillery, for
disobedience of orders.

Colonel and Brigadier General.

Commanding officers of battalions are to order regimental
courts-martial, for the trial of such prisoners belonging to their
corps who have been confined for crimes within the cognizance of
such a court.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 8th March, 1778.

Parole-Motte.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman,

The General has received the report of the general court-
martial, which he will consider. The court is dissolved.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 9th March, 1778.

Parole-Laurens.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Melvin.

The general court-martial ordered for the trial of Daniel Don-
naven, Thomas Nicholas, Abel Lively and Michael Grossey, of the
4th Battalion, for desertion, and Hugh Syms, of Capt. Young's
Company of Artillery, have sentenced them as follows; "That
Daniel Donnaven is guilty of a breach of the 1st and 4th Articles
of the 6th Section of the Articles of War, that therefore they sen-
tence him to be picketed half an hour, and then to receive ninety
nine lashes on his bare back, with switches; that Abel Lively &
Thomas Nicholas do receive on their bare backs thirty nine lashes
each; and that Michael Grossey do receive on his bare back One
hundred lashes; that Hugh Syms, being guilty of a breach of the
5th Article of the 2d Section of the Articles of War, is sentenced
to be picketed half an hour." These sentences the General ratifies.
Col. White will direct the execution of those belonging to his regi-
ment, and Capt. Young that of Hugh Syms, at the time, place, and
in the manner they think proper.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, loth March, 1778.
A brigade court-martial to sit immediately for the trial of all
prisoners in the guard house, whose crnnes are cognizable by them.
A captain, as president, & six other commissioned officers, from
the 3d & 4th Battns. to compose this court.

By order of the C. C,
JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

7/2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, loth March, 1778.

Parole-Cattell.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

The General cannot but be displeased at commanding officers
of regiments giving leave of absence to their officers or even send-
ing them out upon duty, without their informing him or the com-
mandant of the brigade. A colonel may know that he has no
regimental duty for an officer, but he cannot be certain but that the
duty of the line may require him. Commanding officers of corps are
therefore, in future, to report to the commander in chief, for the
time being, and to the commandant of the brigade, the names and
rank of such officers as they give leave of absence to, or send upon
duty, the nature of the duty upon which they are sent, and the
place to which they are to go, and this they are to do previous to
the departure of such officer or officers.

A general court-martial is to sit on Thursday morning at ten
o'clock, for the trial of Lieut. McKenny, of Col. Screven's Battalion,
for unprovoked and scandalous abuse of a lady of distinction, and
for other indecent behavior unworthy of an officer and a gentleman.
The court is to consist of a field officer, as president, and the usual
number of other officers, whom the Brigade Major will warn ac-
cording to detail. The evidence will be produced to the court by
the Judge Advocate, who is punctually to attend for that purpose.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, nth March, 177S.
Parole-Middleton.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Day.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, nth March, 1778.

The Brigade Court-Martial, of which Capt. Day was president,
is approved of and dissolved. Sergts. White, Keith and Ryan of the
4th and Sergt. Sisson of the 3d Battalion to be released, no evi-
dence appearing to support the charge against the first two, the
third (sentenced by the court to be reduced to the ranks) being
interceded for by Ensign Campbell, who confined him, is forgiven
by the Colonel Commandant, in hopes of future good behavior,

Colonel and Brigadier General. 113

and the last, at the request of his excellency General Howe, is ac-
quitted. Willm. Mitchell, of the 4th Battalion, for stealing public
lead, is to receive thirty nine lashes on his bare back, according to
his sentence, which is to be executed at such time and place as
the commanding officer of the regiment he belongs to shall think
proper.

By order of the Col. Commandant,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. M.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 12th March, 1778.

Parole-Liberty.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Brosard.

The general court-martial, now sitting, is to try Lieut. Bilbo
of Col. Marbury's regiment of Light Dragoons, for quitting his
post without permission. Col. Marbury will furnish the evidence.
The Brigade Major will give Lieut. Bilbo notice to prepare for his
trial immediately. The Assistant Deputy Muster Master General is
immediately to make returns of the regiments he has mustered;
the utmost exactness is expected in these returns.

The Deputy Clothier General is to take particular and distinct
certificates for the clothing delivered out to the different battalions,
signed by the commanding officers thereof; and commanding officers
of regiments are to report to the commander in chief, or, in his
absence, to the commandant of the brigade the names of the men
to whom clothing has been served, and produce the men's receipts
for the same, which receipts are to be taken in a book.

Regimental Pay-masters are to advert to an order, some time
since issued, respecting the manner in which they are to pay the
men, which they are punctually to observe, under pain of court-
martial.

The General repeats to commanding officers of regiments the
necessity of putting their battalions into immediate order either
for attack or defence, and into readiness for marching at a mo-
ment's warning.

Surgeons of battalions are to attend at headquarters to-morrow
morning at nine o'clock.

Staff officers having plead in excuse for the non-observance of
orders their ignorance of them, they are therefore directed to keep
regular orderly books, as well principals as deputies.

114 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

After General Orders.

The general court-martial ordered to try Lieut. McKenny of
Col. Screven's Battalion, for unprovoked and scandalous abuse of a
lady of distinction, and for other indecent behavior, unworthy of
an oflficer and a gentleman, have reported as follows: "That it is
the unanimous opinion of the court that Lieut. McKenny is guilty
of the charge laid against him, and that he falls under the first
Article of the tenth Section, and the twenty first Article of the
fourteenth Section of the Rules and Articles of War, and have
therefore sentenced him to be discharged the service;" which
the General approves of and ratifies. Lieut. McKenny is therefore
discharged from the service, and is no longer to be obeyed as a
Continental Ofificer.

The same court having, by a subsequent order, been directed
to try Lieut. Bilbo of Colonel Marbury's regiment of Light Dra-
goons, for quitting his post without orders have also reported: "It
is the opinion of the court that Lieut. Bilbo is guilty of the charge
laid against him, and that he falls under the thirteenth Article of
the thirteenth Section of the Rules and Articles of War, and do
sentence him to be discharged the service, but recommend
him to the mercy of the General." The General feels concerned
that the resolution he has fixed, of establishing the strictest disci-
pline in the army under his command, renders it impossible for
him to pay that attention to the recommendation of the court which
he should otherwise be glad to do; but as the present situation of
the army requires that the strictest execution of justice should be
attended to, rather than the dictates of mercy, and in this particular
case more especially, as Lieut. Bilbo has been lately guilty of a
similar offence, which was generously overlooked, the General is
compelled to ratify the sentence, discharges him the service,
and he is therefore no longer to be respected & obeyed as a Con-
tinental Officer. The court-martial is dissolved.

Headquarters, Savannah, 13th March, 1778.

Parole-Miflin.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

The General is so anxious to have the men clothed, that he is
under the necessity of giving positive orders, that the tailors of
regiments are by no means to be employed upon any other busi-
ness, until this desirable purpose is effected, Commissd oflSicers, who
feel properly for the naked situation of the men, will, with plea-
sure, suspend employing the regimental tailors until their soldiers

Colonel and Brigadier General. 115

are clothed; but if it can be possible that there are officers who
want this feeling, the General would have them to understand that
they are positively forbid having any work of their own done by
the tailors of regiments, until the clothing of the men of their bat-
talion is finished.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 14th March, 1778.
Parole-Savannah.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Day.

Tattoo every night, to begin to beat precisely at nine o'clock,
which, when finished, the countersign is to be demanded of every
person whatever passing the streets, who are to be brought to by
the sentinels in town and the environs, and if soldiers shall be sent
to the guard, if inhabitants of the town, who cannot give the
countersign, they are to be detained 'till the patrole or relief comes
round, unless the sentries who take them should be in hail of the
guard, in which case the sergeant of the guard or patrole must be
called for, and the persons detained delivered up to be dealt with
as herein after directed; but if the sentry should not be within hail
of the guard, the person or persons are to be detained and deliver-
ed to the patrole or relief, who are to take them before two gentle-
men of the town orderly for the night at Doctor Houstoun's former
shop, near Col. Elbert's and next door to Col. Harris's quarters,
who will either discharge the prisoners or send them to the guard,
as circumstances shall direct. In the latter case the patrole or re-
lief are to convey them to the guard house, where they are to be
detained until they are demanded by Col. Martin, town major, to
whom, or whose order, they are to be delivered. Patroles, sentries
and guards are to take care that every inhabitant who becomes a
prisoner, is treated with decency, and no injury or insult be offered
either to their property or persons; and that this order may be
carried properly into execution, a sergeant and two men are to
patrole the streets every hour between the reliefs of sentries, from
9 o'clock at night until daylight, after which no countersign is to
be demanded or any person stopped. The patrole is to go from the
Main Guard, and visit all the guards and sentinels. As this order
is critical, the officer of the day will take care to instruct the sen-
tinels in the most particular manner, that no mistake may happen.

The Deputy Quarter Master General is immediately to supply
the camp with wood, of which it stands in great need.

n6 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 15th March, 1778.

Parole-Dispatch.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Brosard.

The 3d Battalion will immediately get in order to march upon
command; they are not, however, to withdraw as yet from camp
duty on that account.

The officers of the 4th Battalion will exert themselves to get
the men in order to march, as they also will move in a very few
days.

Headquarters, Savannah, i6th March, 1778.

Parole-St. Clair.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

Commissaries of Purchases, of every degree, are positively di-
rected to comply, in the strictest manner, with the instructions of
the Honble. Continental Congress, relative to the mode in which
they are to keep their accounts: any negligence in this particular
will be treated as disobedience of orders and breach of duty.

The tallow of the beeves and fat of the hogs, killed for the
use of the army, are to be carefully preserved and made into
candles & soap.

The commanding officer, for the time being, of the 4th Battal-
ion, is to report to-morrow morning at headquarters the number
and names of the tailors employed about the clothing of the regi-
ment, the time they have been employed, and what quantity of
clothes are done; also whether there are not more tailors in the
regiment, than have been employed about the men's clothes.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 17th March, 1778.
Parole-St. Patrick.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Nash.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 17th March, 1778.
The Main & Magazine Guards are to be re-inforced with four
men each from the 3d Battalion; if necessary that any soldiers
should be confined to-night they are to be confined to-night. The
officers on guard are particularly desired to be vigilant, and the
patroles to be regular and attentive in going their rounds.

(Signed) JAMES SCREVEN, C. Commandt.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 117

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, i8th March, 1778.

Parole-Duty.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Day.

The Dep. Quarter Master General having been directed to form
some contracts respecting the public hides; those commis-
saries who have hides on hand are therefore to deliver them to
his order.

The filth round the barracks not only contributes to increase
the illness of the men, but is become a capital nuisance to the
town. Commanding officers of battalions are therefore to order
proper detachments from their corps, under the command of their
quarter master, to rake up, burn, bury or destroy all the filth in
the neighborhood of the barracks of the several regiments. This
duty is to be performed to-morrow, and in a careful manner, and
is to be done in future regularly twice a week.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 19th March, 1778.

Parole-Screven.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Hornby.

A subaltern officer in each regiment is to be appointed orderly
for the day, to superintend the men at work upon the clothing of
their several regiments, and to take care that they forward the
work with the utmost expedition. They are every day to report to
the Clothier General the number of hands at work, what suits are
daily finished and the progress they make in the other work, and
also to report the articles they stand in need of.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 20th March, 1778.
Parole-Tybee.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Brosard.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 21st March, 1778.

Parole-Resolution.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

As the sick in the hospitals will in future be under other regu-
lations than have hitherto subsisted, they are hereafter to be

ii8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

governed by the following rules: When they are sent to the hospi-
tal, they are no longer to be continued upon the Regimental
provision list, but are to be furnished by the Commissary of Hos-
pitals. Surgeon, to whose regiment the sick men belong, is to re-
port to the Commissary of Hospitals such men as from whom
meat should be entirely withheld, and the proportions in which it
may be allowed to others; the quantity admitted is to be drawn for
by the Commissary of Hospitals upon the Commissary of Issue,
inserting the names for the person drawn for, and the proportion
of meat allotted to each. In the absence of the Commissary of Hos-
pitals, the surgeons of regiments will sign these reports, copies of
which they are however immediately to give to the Commissary of
Hospitals upon his return.

Surgeons of regiments are to report to headquarters to-morrow
morning, at ten o'clock, whether they are supplied with a sufficient
number of nurses for the sick, a list of whose names they are to
give in, and where they are not supplied with a sufficient number
they are to endeavor to procure careful persons, proper for this
purpose.

The sick in the hospitals are by no means to be suffered to
be rambling about the town, at improper times; nor indeed to be
absent from their hospitals upon any other occasion, and such
as are requisite to give them necessary airing. The orderlies
will be responsible if any men are absent from their hospitals with-
out leave obtained of the surgeon.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 22nd March, 1778.
Parole-Maryland.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Bennis.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, 23d March, 1778.

Parole-Heyward.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Hornby.

The General takes the earliest opportunity of expressing in
orders, how much he approves the conduct of the Continental Of-
ficers and soldiers upon the melancholy accident of fire last night.
The zeal, activity, and address they displayed, in checking the pro-
gress of a calamity so dreadful, are circumstances he reflects on
with pleasure, and are such as must do them the highest honor

Colonel and Brigadier General. tig

in the opinion of their fellow citizens. The assiduity the men ex-
erted, in saving the effects of the unfortunate sufferers, and the
care they so faithfully took to preserve the goods from injury and
embezzlement afterwards, was truly acting up to the character of
soldiers in the service of the free, United, & Independent States
of America.

His Excellency, the Governor, thinks proper to order a pro-
portion of liquor to be served out to the men to-day and to-morrow,
under the direction of proper officers, and the General hopes that
the soldiers, by a cheerful yet prudent use of this donation, may
give him occasion for further approbation; Officers of the line will
be attentive to the men, during the continuance of this little jubilee.

The horns of bullocks, killed for the use of the army, are to
be delivered to the Deputy Quarter Master General, who is to
have them made into proper powder-horns immediately, but not
to serve them out until further orders.

General Orders.

Head qrs.. Savannah, 24th March, 1778.

Parole-Freedom.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Smith.

In case of accident from fire all officers of battalions and all
soldiers will assemble with their arms, at the usual place of parade,
and from thence be marched by the commanding officer present
to the place where the fire is; there they are to act in conjunction,
or to be divided into parties, as the commanding officer shall find
it necessary, but always with an officer at their head. They are to
consider it as their indispensible duty to exert themselves to the
utmost, to stop the progress of so dreadful a calamity; to aid and
assist the inhabitants in saving their effects; to take those effects,
if required, under their immediate protection; to guard them secure-
ly from being embezzled, and to return them uninjured, when or-
dered to do so.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 2Sth March, 1778.
Capt. Young's Company of Artillery are to go down to Tybee
immediately and relieve a detachment of the 4th Battalion posted
there.

Those men of the ist & 4th Battalions now in town, fit for
duty ( artificers excepted ) are to march to-morrow morning, as an
escort to a wagon going to 'he southward with ammunition.
By order of the Col. Commandt.,

JOHN HABERSHAM, B. M.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, 25th March, 1778.
Parole- Washington.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Day.

General Orders.

Head qrs.. Savannah, 26th March, 1778.
Parole-Clay.
For the day to-morrovi^, Capt. Downman.

General Orders.

Head qrs., Savannah, 27th March, 1778.

Parole-Barton.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Bennis.

A general court-martial to sit to-morrow morning by ten
o'clock, at some convenient place in Savannah, for the trial of Sergt.
Allcock, of the 4th Battalion, for mutiny and endeavoring to inveigle
continental soldiers to desert with him to the enemy, and for any
other matters which may be brought against him. The court is to
consist of one field officer, as president, and the usual number of
other members, whom the Brigade Major will warn according to
detail: Lieut. Dixon will furnish the evidence.

General Orders.

Head qrs.. Savannah, 28th March, 1778.

Parole-Grimball.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Melvin.

The regimental court of inquiry which sat upon the conduct
of William Ryan, of the 3d Battalion, report him a proper subject
for a general court-martial; but the crime which the court report
him, in their opinion, to be guilty of, being cognizable by a regi-
mental court-martial, and as highly punishable by that court as
any other, it is recommended to the commanding officer of his
battalion to take measures accordingly. The practice of holding
courts of inquiry upon common soldiers, for supposed crimes, the
General does not recollect a precedent of.

Colonel and BHgadier General.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 29th March, 1778.
Parole-Stirk.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Nash.

In Congress, April, ist, 1777.

"For the better regulating the pay of the army: Resolved, that
the Pay-Master or Deputy Pay-Master General shall pay no money
but by warrants from the commander in chief, in their respective
departments, countersigned by their respective secretaries, and that
the money be paid only to the person specified in the warrant, or
to his order in writing, excepting in cases otherwise provided in
Congress.

"That the regimental abstracts be made up by the regimental
pay-masters, at the close of every month, and certified by the
colonel or commanding officers and brigadiers general, who shall
carefully examine and compare the same with the returns, after
which they shall be lodged with the pay-master or Deputy Pay-
Master General, who shall give a certificate, that he has received
the abstracts, which the regimental pay-master shall produce to the
General to receive orders for payment.

"That the regimental pay-masters only shall receive from the
pay-master or deputy pay-master general the money due upon ab-
stracts to the officers and soldiers, and the said regimental pay-
masters alone shall settle with and pay the money due to the of-
ficers and soldiers of the regiments to which they respectively be-
long, either in person or to their order, and take receipts for the
same, to be produced as vouchers on the settlement of their re-
spective accounts.

"Commanding officers of companies must in future attest their
pay-rolls, before they deliver them to the regimental pay-master."

General Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah, 6th April, 1778.
Parole-Houstoun.

The troops under march are to be commanded by Col. Saml.
Elbert who is to issue his orders to the Dep. Quart. Master Gene-
ral, the commissaries, and other staff officers for every thing he
shall think requisite for the expedition, which orders they are to
pay obedience to.

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Brigade Orders,

Headquarters, Savannah, 6th April, 1778.

Agreeable to genl. orders, all the men of the 3 & 4 Battalions,
fit for duty, are ordered to march immediately to the southward;
the commanding officers of those corps are to see their men pro-
vided in the best manner with arms and accoutrements, ammuni-
tion and clothing, and that they are also provided with sufficient
camp equipage. The Quarter Master Genl. is to furnish such wagons
and stores as are necessary for the artillery, ammunition, provisions,
and camp equipage, with a quantity of axes and spades, four field
pieces with the ammunition and necessary under the directions

of Major Roman, to move to-morrow forenoon. The Commissary
General, of Purchases to have proper deputies to follow the army,
with a sufficient supply of provisions, and the Commissary General
of Issues to send proper persons to receive and Issue the same.
What salted provisions are in camp to be carried on, but not served
out till orders from the commanding officer.

The men to be furnished with thirty six rounds of ammunition
& to march with two days' provisions, ready cooked. Each mess
to be served with a canteen.

By order of the C. C,
JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Savannah.
Parole-Liberty.

For the day, Lieut. Col. Rae.
For the day to-morrow. Major Roberts.

Exact & accurate returns to be immediately made of the strength
of each corps; ammunition & paper to be served out to those corps
that are without, and their commanding officers are to see that
proper cartridges are made up for their men to fit their pieces
so as to ram down easy, each soldier to be served with thirty six
rounds and three spare flints, & at least one hundred rounds are
to be kept in readiness to be served out when ordered. A subaltern
with a sergeant & 15 rank & file to guard the Quarter Master
Genls. stores, and wagons. A capt. with a sub., two sergts. and 36
rank & file to mount the main guard. This guard to post sentries
so as to prevent the soldiers strolling out of camp, which is strict-
ly forbid on pain of the severest punishment. It is expected that

Colonel and Brigadier General. 123

officers will be attentive to their duty, and that the strictest decorum
will be observed in camp. The artillery are to furnish their own
guard.

By order of the C. C,
JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

Headquarters, Midway Meeting House, gth April, 1778.

Capt. Melvin is to make choice of twenty four men from the 2
battalions of infantry, to go on board the galleys at Sunbury. He
is to wait on the comanding officer for orders immediately.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Orders to Captain Melvin.

Sunbury, 9th April, 1778.

(Dear Sir) : You are to go with the detachment under your
command, with the Captns. Hardy & Bradock who will proceed
with you up the river Alatamaha, and take under their convoy a
large flat and boat with sundry necessaries for the army which you
are to forward with all expedition to me at Fort Howe. A Mr.
Cantey hires twenty negroes for the purpose of working the flat
and boat up the river. Mr. Austin & Mr. Cantey likewise go as
patroons. Let me intreat that you exert yourself in joining me with
the above without loss of time, as the army can't pass the river
without the assistance of the boat and flat, and without a galley
to cover their retreat it will be imprudent to pass it; please con-
sult with Captns. Hardy & Bradock and with them do all you can
for the public service, I wish you success, & am, sir,

Yr. most obedt. servant.

N. B. Should it be judged improper to leave the galleys with your
men, the negroes will be sufficient to carry up the vessels if they
don't come as high as we are with the galleys.

General Orders.

Headquarters, Midway Meetg. House, loth April, 1778.

Parole-Georgia,

For the day to-morrow, Colo. White.

Doctor Waudin is appointed assistant to the Deputy Quarter
Master Genl. till further orders. Rolls to be called regularly morn-

124 Order Book of Samuel Elbett,

ing and evening, and the men's arms, accoutrements & ammunition
examined. The retreat to beat every evening at sunset when the
guards are to parade. The officer of the day is frequently to visit
the sentries & to make a report in writing, every morning, of what
happens worth notice. Patroles are to be kept constantly going
round the environs of the camp. Sentries are to be very particular
in challenging; any who are reported to be deficient in this respect,
or are found sleeping on their post will be punished severely. All
soldiers in camp, whether bowmen or others, are to take their
regular turns of duty, wagoners excepted.

The countersign is to be demanded from the time it is dark
until daylight, any persons who cannot give it are to be detained
by the sentries (unless they should happen to be within hail of
the guard) till the rounds or relief come round, who are to take
charge of and deliver them to the officer of the Main Guard, who
if he finds it necessary is to report them, if not, they are to be
discharged.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Midway Meetg. House, loth April, 1778.
Parole-Washington.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Rae.

It is to be observed as a standing order that upon all occasions
the men are to be formed in two ranks with the tallest in the rear;
the troops to march to-morrow morning, one days provisions to
be cooked to-night as no time will be allowed for that purpose be-
fore coming to an encampment in the evening, and this is to be
observed while the army is on the march. Each soldier to be
furnished with thirty six rounds of ammunition and three spare
flints, and the officers are to see that the men have those in their
pieces properly fitted. Each battalion is to form eight sub-divisions
and march by wheeling them to the right, as the army marches that
way; when the road is too narrow lo admit of that order they may
file off, but the officers are to be particularly careful to form their
divisions again as soon as conveniently, and which they are always
to do the instant they are ordered to halt; they are also to pre-
serve their proper intervals. No soldier to be suffered to quit his
division on the march.

One field piece to go in front, two with the ammunition in
the center, and one in the rear next the baggage. A subaltern,

Colonel and Brigadier General. 12$

two sergeants & twenty rank & file to compose the Van. Guard
who is to keep about two hundred yards in front, and occasionally
detail parties to examine those places where he suspects men may
be in ambush; a subaltern with a sergt. & i6 rank & file to be
the rear and baggage guard.

He is to take particular care that no soldier remain behmd.
The Genl. to beat at six o'clock in the morning at which time the
guards are to join their respective corps and the tents to be struck.
The assemble at seven and the march precisely at half an hour
after.

By order of the C. C,
JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Gen. Mcintosh's plantation, 12th April, 1778.

Parole-Whylly.

For the day to-morrow, Major Roberts.

Detail for guards as yesterday.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Head qrs., McCiennan's plantation, 12th April.

Parole-Savannah.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. White.
Detail for guards as usual.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 14th April, 1778.

Dear Sir: Yesterday one Stafford & this 'minute one Inman
came to this place, having made their escapes from the insurgents,
both taken on Ogeechie. The first left them on the south side of
this river, and the other on Sattilla. From what I can gather by
their different accounts the number of those who marched through
the country are nearest to 400, under command of Colo. Murphey,
as he is stilled,* they are much at a loss for provisions. The acct.
of their carrying a number of cattle with them is groundless. All
except 40 are on horse back, and the whole very well armed. The
unfortunate heavy rains obliged me to halt for two days, or I
would have been at Satilla before them. As soon as I found they
had passed, I did not hurry but judged it most prudent to march
the men leisurely. We arrived here this forenoon with several

styled.

126 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

men taken sick on the road. As soon as we are refreshed and a
convoy of provisions arrives, which I sent round with boats and
a flat, I shall try a partisan party or two, and perhaps when they
little expect it give them a brush at St. Marys. I shall write you
again in a day or two.

I hope you are so much recovered, as to be able to direct
matters again, and must beg to put you in mind that I think our
friends in So. Carolina should be prevailed upon to march men
to our assistance, at least a good one for every rascal they sufifer
to join the enemy, otherwise we shall soon have our hands full.
I am, dr. sir.

Your very humble servant,

(Signed) S. ELBERT.

P. S. The two men say the insurgents told them at least 1500 men
more intended shortly to join them from the back parts of So.
Carolina; 7 men of Colo. Marbury's regiment who were on the
station over the Ogeechee joined the enemy on their march.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 14th April, 1778.
Parole- Alatamaha.

For duty to-morrow, Lieut. Colo. Stirk.
Guards as usual.
Orderly hour at head qrs., eleven o'clock.

After Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 14th April, 1778.

The present guards are to be relieved to-morrow morning, at
troop beating, by a captain, two subalterns, four sergeants, a drum
& fife & fifty rank & file by detail from the line.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 15th April, 1778.

Parole-Gates.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Rae.

A court of inquiry of a captn. as president & 6 subaltern
of^cers to sit immediately to inquire into the conduct of Ensign
GofTe arrested by Lieut. Jones of the 2nd Battalion for disobed-
ience of orders.

Colotjel and Brigadier General. 127

No guns to be fired within hearing of the camp without leave
and not even then till the field oflficer of the day is first made ac-
quainted with the same.

The Main Guard is to detach a subaltern, a sergt. & 13 rank
& file as an advance guard. Sentries to be posted as the officer
of the day will direct. A detachment of a subaltern, two sergts. &
thirty rank & file to parade immediately with 2>^ rounds; they are
to leave their blankets, and take no provisions. When the party is
ready the ofificer is to wait on the commanding officer foi: orders.

After Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 15th April, 1778.

A detachment of three field officers 6 captains, eighteen subal-
terns, twenty four sergts. two filers, six drummers and three hundred
rank & file by detail from the line. Also a detachment of Artillery
with two field pieces to be in readiness to march early to-morrow;
each man with 50 rounds, of ammunition and 6 days' provisions.
This party are to carry no baggage, except blankets.

FO.

Capts. Subs.

Sergts

. Drum

. Fif.

r&f.

I

"

I I

2

"

"

20

2d-

"

2 6

10

2

I

135

3d-

2

I 5

8

2

"

75

4

I

2 6

4

2

I

70

3

6 18

24

6

2

300

By order of the C. C,

JOHN

HABM

., B.

M.

Brigade Orders.

Washington Galley, 18th April, 1778.
Parole-Liberty.

The division of troops on board the Washington under the
command of Lieut. Colo. Rae are the first to land at the place
called Pikes Bluflf, on the north west extremity of Frederica, in-
cluding the first division of riflemen; the latter lead the vans and
are immediately to take post in the woods, and cover the landing
of the rest. Canty's boat will attend for the purpose.

Major Roberts with the division on board the Bullock, with
the second division of riflemen is next to land, and are to proceed
agreeable to the orders for the first. They are to form on (heir

izS Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

left. The above boat with what can be spared from the galleys is
to attend their landing.

As soon as the above two divisions have effected their landing
and taken possession of the woods in front, Captn. Young is to
land with the Artillery, and get in order for action with all
possible expedition.

All the boats are next to rendezvous with the Lee, where the
commanding officer will be ready to debark with the rest of the
troops.

Officers and soldiers are earnestly entreated to pay the strictest
attention to their duty, in which case the commanding officer will
insure them success against the plunderers of their country and
the common enemies of the rights of mankind.

Colo. White on board the Lee, Captain Melven on board the
Washington, and Lieutenant Patty on board the Bullock are to re-
main with the detachments under their command, and assist in
fighting and navigating those vessels.

By order of the C. C,

JOHN HABERM., B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 23rd April, 1778.

(Dear Sir) I have this moment reed, intelligence that General
Provost is on his march to attack this place; you are therefore to
conduct the prizes to Sunbury and after putting them in a secure
place and the directions of them given to Mr. Jno. Jones, who I
know to be a gentleman of honor & who I will authorize to take
the necessary steps with them. You are to land the men, leaving
only such as are necessary to put the galleys in a posture of de-
fence, and by forced marches join me at this place. I know your
anxiety for the safety of the State is such that no time will be
lost. I am, dr. sir,

Yr. most obedient servt.,

S. ELBERT.

P. S. Pray recommend to Captn. Hardy to take on board the
three galleys what rice they can conveniently carry, and impress a
boat or two as large as he can get, loaded with the same, and
proceed with all speed into this river with them. Tell him bring a
barrel or two of salt.

Colo. White.

Colonel and Brigadier General. I2g

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 23rd April, 1778.

Parole-Rae.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

Ensign Goffee appearing sensible of his error in refusing to
obey the orders of Lieut. Jones, in hopes of better behavior in
future, the commanding ofificer releases him from his arrest. He
is to join his regt.

Colo. Elbert leaves the camp to-day for a short time; the com-
mand therefore devolves on Lieut. Colo. Rae.

After Orders.

As Lieut. Colo. Stirk remains in camp the command devolves
on him instead of Lieut. Colo. Rae in the absence of the Colo.
Commandant.

Brigade Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 24th April,

Parole-Harris.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Hornby.

A genl. court-martial to sit Immediately for the trial of John
Mason of the 2d regiment for desertion; Lieut. Colo. Rae, presi-
dent. Lieut. Davenport is to march up the river immediately, with
twenty-one men to make what discoveries he can of the enemy
who fired on the militia this morg. Lieut. Turner is also to cross
the river with a party to take three days' provisions. Officers to
be attentive in seeing their men's guns, ammunition, &c., in the
best order, to be ready for action on the shortest notice.

(Signed) JNO. STIRK, Comg. OflFr.

After Orders.

The general court-martial ordered this morning, of which
Lieut. Colo. Rae was president, having proceeded to the trial of
Jno. Mason of the 2d regt. for desertion report as follows: The
court, on mature consideration, are of the opinion that the pris-
oner, Jno. Mason, is guilty of a breach of the i8th Article of War,
and sentence him to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back
which sentence the commg. officer approves of, and orders that
the prisoner do receive the above punishment at S o'clock this

/JO Order Book of Saimiel Elbert,

afternoon on the grand parade, on which occasion the different
regts. & corps are to be drawn our. The court-martial is dissolved.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABR., B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 25th April, 1778.
Parole-Mclntosh.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Nash.
Detail for guards as usual.

By crder of the C, C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

One subaltern, a sergt. & 20 rank & file, by detail from the
line, to be in readiness to march early to-morrow morng. with one
day's provisions. The officer commg. the party is to wait on the
commg. officer for orders.

Morning Orders.

Head qrs., Fort Howe, 26th April, 1778.

A court of inquiry to sit immediately at the request of Lieut.
Fitzpatrick of the 4th Georgia Battalion to inquire into his con-
duct respecting his being found in possession of sundry goods
taken on the Island of Fredrica; a captain as president, and six
other corny, officers to compose this court, who are to report
their proceedings to headquarters.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 26th April, 1778.
Parole-Howe.

For the day to-morrow. Col. Screven.

The large boat and hands to go down to Broton Island for a
load of rough rice, a sergt. & 6 men to attend as a guard. The
Main Guard in future to consist of a capt., two subalterns, 3
sergts., a drum, a fifer & 32 rank & file. The Post Guard to be
detached from the same.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 131

Morning Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 27th April,

A considerable reinforcement having arrived in camp last
night, the commg. officer thinks the service of the militia under
Colo. Screven may, at this time be dispensed with, and takes this
opportunity of returning his thanks to those gentlemen for their
readiness in reinforcing the garrison of Fort Howe, at a time
when there was the greatest reason to expect an attack from the
enemy. By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM. B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 27th April, 1778.
Parole-Moultrie.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Harris.

The court of inquiry ordered to hear the charge against Lieuten-
ant Fitzpatrick of the 4th Battn, report as their opinion that he
is not guilty, and that he should be acquitted with honor. The
commanding officer is happy in confirming the same. The above
court have found a charge against Lieutenant McKenney of the
said battalion, for which he has been arrested by Major Eustace.
A genl. court-martial to sit immediately for his trial, Lt. Colonel
Harris, president.

F. O. Capts. Subs.
1st Batt .... I I I

2d " .... - - 4

3d " .... - I 2

4th " .... - I 2

I 3 9

By order of the C C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

Two parties of one subaltern, one sergt. & 15 rank & file each
to be in readiness for a march immediately. The officers are to
wait on the commanding officer for orders.

Subn. Sergts. r&f.
Lt. Dragoons .... - - i

1st Battn - - 2

2d do I I 13

3 do - I 9

4 do I - 5

2 2 30

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM. B. M.

132

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 28th April, 1778.

Parole-Pinkney.

For the day to-morrow, Major Eustice.

A party of two subalterns, three sergts. & thirty rank & file
to be paraded immediately for a march. The officers are to wait
on the commanding officer for orders.

Sub. Sergts. r&f
Dragoons ... - i

1 Battn -

2 do I I

3 do - I

4 do

3
2

12
9
4

2 3 30

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Morng. Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 29 April, 177S.

The Colo. Commandant & Lieut. Colo. Rae will be absent
from camp a few days; the command, therefore, devolves on Lieut.
Colo. Harris, until the arrival of an ofhcer superior in rank to him.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 29th April, 1778.
Parole-Elbert.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Downman.

A subaltern, two sergts. & eighteen rank & file to be in readi-
ness for a march immediately. The officer is to wait on the com-
manding officer for orders.

Officers of companies are careful to inspect their men's arms,
and see that they lose no time in cleaning them out of order, any
soldier detected in making noise in camp, after retreat beating,
may expect to be severely punished.

Colonel and Brigadier General.

133

The Assistant Depuy. Qr. Mr. Genl. is to prepare a pack horse
and a leather canoe, for the above party who are to take with them
three days' provisions.

Sub.

Sergts

r&f.

Lt. Dragoons .

I

-

2

ist Battn . . .

.

-

2

2 do . . .

.

I

8

3 do . . .

. -

I

4

4 do . . .

. -

-

2

I

2

18

By

order

of -he C, C,
JNO. HABM.,

B. M

Head qrs.. Fort Howe, 30th April, 1778.
Parole-Lee.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Hornby.

By order of F. Hy. Harris,

Lt. Colo. Commandant.
JNO. HAB., B. M.

Morng. Orders.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, ist May, 1778.
All the pioneers in camp will be* hired negroes, are to parade
immediately for fatigue. A subaltern, a sergt. and 9 rank & file to
act as a covering party to the men while at work. The whole to
be supplied with three days' provisions. The Officer, when pre-
pared, to call at headquarters for instructions. A genl. court-
martial to sit immediately for the trial of Jno. Claton of the 2d
Regt. for neglect of duty and disobedience of orders, Charles
Hutchinson of the 4th Battalion, for sleeping on his post. Major
Eustice, president of this court.

By order of Fs. Hy. Harris,

Lieut. Colo. Commandant.
JOHN HABERSHAM, B. M.

G. C. Mart.
F. O. Capts. Subs.
- - I

Fatigue Party.
Subs. Sergts.

Lt. D

1 B .

2 . .

3
4. .

r&f.
I
I

4
2

I

Lt. D

1 B .

2 . .

3
4. .

Evidently "with the."

/j^ Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Headquarters, Fort Howe, ist May, 1778.
Parole-Rae.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Cuthbert.

The genl. court-martial ordered this morning of which Major
Eustice was president, is approved of and dissolved. The said
court having proceeded to the trial of Jno. Clayton of the 2nd
Battalion and Charles Hutchinson of the 4th Regiment report as
follows: That Jno. Clayton is guilty of the charges alledgcd against
him (neglect of duty and disobedience of orders) which brings him
under the discretion of the court agreeable to the i8th Section 15
Article, and sentence him to receive 50 lashes on his bare back, and
that Charles Hutchinson is guilty of the charge he stands accused
with (sleeping on his post) and sentence him to receive one
hundred lashes on his bare back. These sentences the commng.
officer approves of, ratifies, and orders to be put in execution this
evening at five o'clock on the grand parade, on which occasion
the whole line is to be under arms.

By order of Fs. Hy. Harris.

Lieut. Colo. Commandant.
JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

A subaltern, a sergt. and twenty rank & file, to march im-
mediately as a reinforcement to the post down the river.

Detail for Covering Party.

Sub. Sergts. r&f

Lt. D - _ 2

1 B. ..... - - 2

2 do - I 10

3 do - - 4

4 do I - 2

I I 20

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, 2d May, 1778.
Parole-Thompson.
For the day to-morrow,

A sergt. and twelve rank & file to be in readiness immediately
to act as a covering party to a boat with provisions.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 135

Another subaltern, a sergt. and eighteen rank & file with five
days' provisions, to cross the river. Ensign Turner with a sergt.
& twelve picked men under his command and the like quantity of
provisions for the same service. The respective officers command-
ing the above detachments are to wait on the commanding officer
for orders.

Detail for Covering party. Detail for commang.

Sergts. r&file. Subs. Sergts. r&file

I I,t. Dragoons . . - i 2

II Batt I - 2

7 2 - - 8

I 2 3 - - 4

I 4 - - 2

Lt.

D .

I

B .

2 .

3

. .

4

18

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 3d May, 1778.
Parole-Sumpter.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Templeton.

The guard until further orders, is to be commanded by a cap-
tain. Commanding officers of regiments and corps are frequently
to inspect their men's ammunition and see that it is kept com-
plete. They are also to order their quarter masters to have the
filth about their diftt. encampments carried some distance from
camp.

By order of Fs. H. Harris, Esqr., Lt. Colo. Commt.

JNO. H., B. M.

After Orders.

A subaltern, two sergts. and thirty rank & file to be in read-
iness early to-morrow a march. The officer commg. the party is
to wait on the commanding officer for orders. The party to be
sui'plied with five days' provisions.

Sub. Sergts. r&f.

Lt. D - - 2

I B - - 2

2 - I 15

3 - I 6

4 I - 5

I 2 30

By orders of F. H. Harris, Esqr., Lt. Colo. Commt.
JNO. HAB., B. M.

^36

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 4th May, 1778.

Parole-Laurance.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Donaldson.

The party ordered yesterday is to be reduced to one subal-
tern, one sergt. and fifteen rank & file, the remaining sergt. and
fifteen are to be completed to a capt., two subalterns, three sergt.
and fifty rank & file who are to be supplied with two days' pro-
visions, and in readiness for a march immediately. The officer
commanding the party mentioned to wait on the commandg. officer
for orders. The detachments of So. Carolina troops that arrived
at camp yesterday is to join in duty according to detail.

Detacht. from
So. Carolina .
Lt. Dragoons .
1st. Battn. . .
2d do . .

3 do , .

4 do . ,

Detail for Commd.
Cap. Subs. Sergts.

I - I

r&f.

17
I
I

8
4
4

2 2 35

By order of the Commt.

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 5th May, 1778.
Parole-Elliott
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Moore.

By order of Fs. H. Harris, Lt. Colo.

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

A detachment of one field officer, two captns., six subalterns,
eight sergts. & one hundred rank and file, by detail from the line,
to march early to-morrow morning, each man to be furnished with
36 rounds of ammunition and six days' provisions. The Deputy
Quarter Master Genl. is to supply a suffict. number of horses &
pack saddles to transport the same.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 137

Detail for Commd.

F. O. Caps. Subs. Sergts. r&f.

So. C ~ 2 I I 38

Lt. D - - - I 4

iB I - - - 4

2 - - 2 3 37

3 - - I I 8

4 - - 2 2 9

1268 100
By order of S. ELBERT, C. C.

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 1778.
Parole-Lowndes.
For the day tomorrow, Major Roberts.

Commanding officers of corps are to see that such of their
men as are without do immediately provide themselves with pow-
der-horns and as many have not the proper means of carrying
their cartridges, application must be made to the Deputy Quarter
Master General, for leather or canvas to make pouches for supply-
ing the deficiencies

The
every afternoon,
Brown of the 4
some very neccssar
method of bush
is ordered to have a

in the Indian Me (Torn out.)

to employ two or th
in doing it which h
the commanding off
is not to suffer any
beating.

By o

After Orders.

Doctor Brydie, Surgeon of
is appointed to direct and superintend the

at Fort Howe till further orders all concerned are desired to take
notice and govern themselves accordingly. Regular and daily re-

/j8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

turns of the sick in the different corps are to be made to him
which he is to report to the commanding officer.

By order of the C. C,

JO. HAB., B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 7th May, 1778.

Parole-Howe.

For the day to-morrow. Major Wise.

A subaltern officer, a sergt. and twenty rank & file to be imme-
diately mounted on horses to proceed to Mr. George Mcintosh's
plantation as guard to his excelly., Major Genl. Howe, who is ex-
pected to arrive in camp this evening on which occasion the different
regiments and corps are to be drawn up on the genl. parade at
3 o'clock.

By order the C. C, J. HAB., B. M.

Headquarters, Fort Howe, 8th May, 1778.
Parole-Huger.

For the day to-morrow, Major Eustace.

Commg. officers of corps are requested to revert to an

moving the filth

authorized to pay

pay proper attention

( Torn out.) rked or barbecued-

r rations, and
the C. C.
SHAM, B. M.

Howe, 9th May, 1778.
orrow, Lieut. Colo.

rt Howe, loth May, 1778.

Officer for the day to-morrow, Major Roberts.

The troops of the ist, 3rd & 6th Continental Battalions, from
So. Carolina, are to be formed into a brigade, of which, Colo. Chas.
Cotesworth Pinkney is to be Colo. Commandant; The detach-
ment of Artillery from that State is to join the Artillery of this,
and to be under the command of Major Roman.

Commanding officers of brigades will order a sufficient number
of fatigue men, who under the directions of the regimental quarter
masters are to gather up the garbage and filth in and about the
camp, and burn it, and as cleanliness is so very essential to the

Colonel and Brigadier General. 139

health of the men, officers of companies are to be attentive that
the soldiers are as cleanly as possible and particularly that all
the ofifals of their meat are carried out of camp. The Deputy
Quarter Master Genl. are to have well covered arbors built for
the sentinels for the brigade to which they belong. This order only
relates to the sentinels of this camp. They are also to fix upon pro-
per places for necessaries, both for officers & men, and order
them to be built. The Genl. disapproves of the manner in which
many of the men, pitch their tents, the heads of the poles are so
sharp that they will soon force their way thro, the roofs. That
this circumstance should escape the observation and correction of
officers of companies and quarter masters of regiments, is matter
of surprise to the General. Colo. Elbert will report to the Genl.
to-morrow morning, an exact detail both of the guards establish-
ed in camp and those that are detached. John Jones, Esquire, is
appointed a supernumerary aid de Camp to the Genl. with the
rank of major; he is, therefore, to be obeyed and respected as
such.

Adjutant John Hamilton is appointed to do the duty of Brigade
Major to Colo. Pickney, until further orders.

A general court-martial is to sit to-morrow morning, at some
convenient place, for the trial of Michl. Newgan, John Brown,
Reuban Wandrum, John Baptist Curchon, and Peter Jeute, this
court to consist of a field officer as president, and twelve other
members to be taken according to detail. The evidences against
the prisoners are to be produced by those who can find them and
the detail of their crimes is to be furnished by the Judge Advocate.

The pinning down the borders of tents with bayonets seems
to be too prevalent in camp, and to the utter astonishment of the
Genl. he saw it yesterday at a tent which by the label, appeared
to belong to an officer.

The practice is absolutely forbid under pain of punishment.
Orderly hour twelve o'clock, at which time the Deputy Quarter
Master Genl. and Brigade Majors will attend. A sergt. from
each brigade to attend as orderly upon the General.

Brigade Orders.

The quarter masters of regiments are immediately to collect
the camp color men, and have the filth in the neighborhood of
their different encampments gathered up and either burned or
buried. If officers any longer neglect paying a proper attention to
their men and seeing that they are clean in their persons and en-
campments they may expect to meet the censure they deserve. The

140 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

brigade to parade precisely at 4 o'clock every afternoon for exer-
cise, and as it is possible they will soon be brought to action no
men able to bear arms are to be execused.

By order of the C. C.

JNO. HABM., B. M.

After Genl, Orders.

The heat of the weather makes it necessary that sentinels after
this day should and are to be relieved every hour during the course
of the day. The usual method of relief is to be pursued after sun-
set.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, nth May, 1778.

Parole-Pinckney.

Field officer for the day to-morrow. Major Wise.

All tools for fatigue are to be served out from the part of Ar-
tillery, and to be returned there again when the fatigue is over;
should any be lost or injured by the men, otherwise than by inevi-
table accident in actual service, the price of such tools will be
stopped out of their pay. Officers commanding fatigue parties are
therefore to be careful to prevent the loss or injury of tools, as
much as possible, and to report the soldiers by whom they are lost
or injured; negligence in this particular will be deemd. and treat-
ed as a breach of duty. The General upon questioning many soldiers
yesterday, found them entirely ignorant even of the orders issued
relative to them. It behooves all officers in future, either commis-
sioned or non-commissioned, whose duty it is to communicate or-
ders to make the men immediately acquainted with those which
relate to them, a strict compliance with this order is expected and
will be exacted.

The prisoners in the Main Guard who were yesterday reported
to the Genl. and whose crimes are cognizable before regimental
court-martials, are by their several corps; prisoners of this sort are
to be for the future confined, in quarter guards. The court-martial
now sitting are to try John Gates of Colo. Pinkney's Regiment for
desertion, the Colo, will furnish the evidence.

B. O.

Camp Fort Howe, nth May, 1778.
Each regiment to mount a quarter guard in which all soldiers
guilty of offences not capital are to be confined, which are to be
made by the officer commg.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 141

Camp Fort Howe, 12th May, 1778.

Parole-Charles Town.

Field officer for the day to-morrow, Major Mcintosh.

Commanders of brigades will cause returns to be made them by
the commanding officers of corps in their brigades of the number
of cartridges, of bullets, lead, loose powder and other military
stores, in their possession, and also what has been served out to
their several corps since the commencement of the present ex-
pedition, a genl. report of which they will lay before the Genl.

Tattoo, for the future, is to beat only in the Fort after which
all soldiers, who are seen out of qrs., will be sent to the Main
Guard except those on command, or officers' servants on errands
with written passes, signed by the officer whom they serve, who is
to take the pass from them when the errand is over.

G. O.

Camp Fort Howe, 13th May, 1778.
Parole-Houstoun.
Field officer for the day to-morrow. Major Eustace.

No drums to beat in camp without leave of the commanding
officer for the time being except for duty.

Commanders of Brigades and of Artillery are to make a re-
turn of the strength of their respective commands this evening to
the General.

A detachment consisting of 27 men are to be ready for imme-
diate duty, to be furnished with three days' provisions, according
to the following detail, viz: ist So. C. Regiment; 8-3d-4-6-4 from the
2nd Georgia Regiment, 6-3d-3d- & the corps of ArtilIery-2. The
Major of Brigade will order those of their respective brigades,
Major Roman those of the Artillery.

The Genl. court-martial now sitting are to try the following
prisoners, viz: Jas. Johnson and Thos. Campbell for desertion, Jno.
Sullivan, Jno. Woodcock & Jno. Mason for mutiny. The persons
confining them to furnish the evidences.

Colo. Taarling and Colo. Huger, are each to furnish three wag-
ons, proper to be made into ammunition wagons, which Major
Roman is, as immediately as possible, to get in order. A sergt. and
10 men from each brigade are daily to attend the Dy. Quarter
Master Genl. as fatigue men.

Officers, whose duty it may be to make out returns of the
strength of regiments corps, detachments, or guards, or reports of

142 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

arms, ammunition or other stores, and all commissaries who re-
ceive provision returns, are injoined to be exceedingly careful that
no copies of such returns are lost, and cautiously to avoid showing
or speaking of them to any but those who have an official right
to be informed of or inspect them. The form used by regiments
in their provision returns are to be laid before the Genl, by the
respective quarter masters. The Genl. thinks proper to express in
public orders how highly he approves the conduct of Colo. Elbert
in the late expedition against the enemy at Frederica, and with
equal pleasure applauds the spirited behavior of the ofificers and
men, both of the galleys and of the army who were upon that
command.

This he would certainly have done earlier, but his absence
from the army, and the hurry he has been in since his arrival, de-
prived him until now of that satisfaction. Orderly hour for the
future will be at 11 o'clock.

After Orders.

Captain Hyrne of Colo. Pinkneys Regiment is appointed to
act as assistant Dy. Adjutant Genl. to the army upon the southern
expedition until further orders. All persons, confining prisoners in
the Main Guard shall give in writing a detail of the crimes for
which they are confined and the evidences to prove them. Each
brigade is in rotation to furnish an orderly to attend the Genl.

G. O.

Camp Fort Howe, 14th May, 1778.
Parole-Bowen.

For the day to-morrow, Lt. Col. Rae.

The genl. court-martial now sitting is to proceed immediately
to the trial of Sergt. Tyrrel of the 4th Regiment, for mutiny, and
attempting to seduce and inveigle the party under the command
of Lieut. Frazer to mutiny and desert. The Deputy Quarter
Master Genl. are by turns to furnish the Dy. Adjutant Genl. with
a horse day by day until further orders. The call for Brigade
Major, when they are wanted, will be the first part of the tattoo.

A detachment of one sergt. and ten privates are to be ready
to march to-morrow morning by day light, they are to be furnished
with one day's provisions, which must be cooked to-night. Cap.
Taylor, of the 6th Continl. Battalion, will command this party.
The division of the army under the command of Colo. Henderson
are to do duty.

Col 071 el and Brigadier General. 143

G. O.

Camp Fort Howe, isth Ma}', 1778.
Parole-St. Marys.
Field officer for the day to-morrow, L,t. Colo. Henderson.

The Dy. Quarter Master Genl. to report immediately the num-
ber of wagons with their respective brigades. The Genl. with con-
cern and displeasure observes, that many of those ordered for re-
lief of guards, neglect to attend parade at the time appotd., and what
enhances his anxiety upon this occasion is that even ofificers are
guilty of this want of attention to duty. This error is injurious to
service, unjust to the guard to be relieved, and to those of the new
guard who punctually attend, it must and shall be corrected. All
soldiers therefore, who are not upon parade before the troop has
done beating, will certainly be punished, and all officers who are
not in their places may expect to have their neglect of duty made
the subject of a court-martial. Guards, for the future to be re-
lieved at seven o'clock in the morg.

The Genl. with pleasure observed the readiness with which the
officers and men of some regiments turned out upon the alarm of
last night, nor did those regiments that were less alert escape
his observation. He doubts not the continuance of such soldierly
conduct in the first mentioned and hopes that readiness equal to
theirs may be shown by the latter upon future occasions.

The Commissaries of Issues are to have the stores of the cattle
already killed collected, and to be careful of those which may be
killed hereafter.

Commanding officers of battalions are to have powder horns
made for such men as are not furnished with them.

The men are not for the future to go into the water except be-
tween the hours of 5 & 9 in the morning and 5 & 7 in the evening,
nor are they to continue in it longer than 10 minutes.

For Picket For Guard

Sub. Sergt. r&f. Capt. Sub. Sergt. r&file.

I 2 18 I 2 4 18

from the ist Brigade.

Camp Fort Howe, 16th May, 1778.
Parole-Stirk.

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Colo. Scott.

No officers or soldiers or other persons are to go beyond the
advanced guard without a pass signed by the officer of the day,

/^^ Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

the known commissaries, butchers and grass guards excepted.
Commandants of brigades are not intended to be included in their
order.

Field officers of the day are to give in their successors a
detail of the guards & the prisoners confd. in them and of every
other matter and thing committed to their charge.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try Jno. Baptist Corchon,
Jno. Brown, James Johnson and Thos. Campbell for desertion,
having found them guilty have sentenced them to run the gaunt-
let thro their respective brigades. The Genl. approves and ratifies
the sentence, which Colo. Pinkney and Lieut. Colo. Stirk will order
to be executed upon the criminals of their several brigades, at the
time and in the manner they shall think proper. The other de-
terminations of the court are reserved for further consideration.

Brigade Orders.

Camp Fort Howe, i6th May, 1778.

Thos. Campbell of the 4th Regiment having been tried by a
genl. court-martial for desertion of which he was found guilty
and sentenced to run the gauntlet, and the Genl. having approved
and ratifies, and left the time and manner of putting the same
into execution to the commandant of the brigade to which he
belongs; It is therefore ordered that the brigade be under arms this
afternoon precisely at five o'clock for that purpose.

By order of JNO. STiRK, Esq., Commt. of ist Brigade,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

G. O.

Camp Fort Howe, 17th May, 1778.

Parole-Middleton.

For the day to-morrow. Lieut. Colo. Mcintosh.

A detachment of two subalterns, two sergts., two corporals and
20 privates are to be ready for command to-morrow morning by
sun rise, to be provided with three days' provisions and 18 rounds
of ammunition. Commg. officers of Brigades will have the arms
of their Brigade that require repaired immediately.

The Dy. Quarter Master General will have the public wagons
put in order for service without delay

Major Roman will have the Artillery, Cohorns, shells, and
hand grenades put in proper order for field service, with the ut-
most expedition.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 145

The Genl. was pleased in observing the readiness with which
the army turned out the last evening, upon the alarm; such con-
duct is consistant with the character of a soldier, and will always
meet his applause.

The vigilance of sentries is the highest importance to the
safety and honor of the army. A neglect of this duty in a soldier
would be punished with death, and would most certainly deserve
it; he should, however, be careful not to fatigue the army, by
false alarms, and therefore never fire his piece without he has
good reason to believe that there is real occasion for it.

The advanced guard to be re-inforced every evening at re-
treat beating with 6 men, and to extend two additional sentries
during the night. This re-inforcement to return to camp at reveille
beating.

Detail from the ist Brigade.

Picket Guard

Sub. Sergts. r&f. Caps. Sub. Sergts. r&f.

138 I I 3 18

Command, i Sub., i Sergt. and 9 rank & file.

Brigade Orders.

Camp at Fort Howe, 17th May.
The Commanding officers of regiments in the first Brigade are
immediately to report to the Brigade Major the number of arms
in their respective regiments wanting repair.

By order of J NO. STIRK, Lt Colo. Commt.

JNO. HAB., B. M.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 18th May.
Parole-St. Marys.

Field officer for the day to-morrow, Major Brown.

The following promotions have been made in the first Con-
tinental Regt. of South Carolina, viz., Major Wm. Scott, to be
Lieut. Colo.; Capt. Thos. Pinkney to be Major; Lieut. Wm. Hext
as Captain, 2d Lieut Wm. Fishburn as first Lieut, whose appoint-
ments bears date the ist day May, 1778; Lieut. Joseph Elliott as
Captain; 2d Lieut. Benjamin Postell ist Lieut., and 2d Lieut.
Willson Glover, as first Lieut., whose appointment bears date the
8th March, 1778, and are to continue until the pleasure of Con-
gress or of the State of South Carolina be known therefor; 2d

146 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Lieut. Barnard Elliott of the Continental corps of Artillery in
the State of South Carolina is appointed to act as first Lieut, in
the said corps whose appointment bears date the i8th Jany., 1778,
and is to continue until the pleasure of Congress or of the State
of South Carolina be known there upon. These officers are there-
fore to be obeyed and respected accordingly.

The firing of guns in and about camp, except when service re-
quires it, is unmilitary, contrary to duty, and may be attended
with very bad consequence; it is absolutely forbid, and any person
guilty of it will most certainly be punished.

All commissioned and non-commissioned officers are desired to
except* themselves, to prevent this abominable practice or to de-
tect those who commit it; a sergt. and 12 men are to be warned
for the Grass Guard to-morrow; they will receive another order
from the A. D. A. G. Woodcock, Maj., of the 4th Continl. Bat-
talion of the State of Georgia, and John Mason of the 2d having
been tried by a genl. court-martial for mutiny are found not guilty;
they are therefore to be discharged from confinement and to return
from duty. Cornelius Fitzpatrick is also to be discharged from
confinement, the court having reported there were no circumstances
to ground a prosecution upon; the court-martial is dissolved.

After GenL Orders.

A detachment of one sub., one sergt., one corporal and 20
privates under Captain Taylor are to be warned to go on com-
mand to-morrow morning at sun rise, they are to be furnished
with two days' provisions and to be out one night; as this is in-
tended for a reconnoitering party, the Genl. would be glad that it
could be made ujj of volunteers who in consequence of this ser-
vice will be exempted from duty at part J 24 hours after their return.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 19th May,

Parole-Henderson.

For the day to-morrow. Major Eustace.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try Jno. Tyrrell of the fourth
Continental Battn. of Georgia for mutiny and an attempt
to inveigle the party under command of Lieut. Frazer to desert,
have reported as follows; that after serious consideration of the

The word "exert" is evidently intended,

JThis word is surely written by mistake for "least.'

Colonel and Brigadier General. 147

evidences, they are of opinion that he is guilty of the crime laid
to his charge, and do therefore sentence him to suffer death.
The Genl. ratifies the sentence and orders the prisoner to be shot,
on Tuesday next between the hours of 5 & 7 in the morning; he
recommends to the criminal during the short time he has to live
by sincere penitent, repentance and prayer to endeavor to obtain
mercy from Almighty God for the heinous crimes for which he
stands so justly condemned. The Genl. truly laments the necessity
the Sergts. conduct has laid him under of making him become
a warning to the soldiers of that army to whom he was so very
capable of having been so excellent an example. The court-martial
having also tried Peter Juty, of Colo. Pinkney's Regiment for
desertion, have found him guilty and sentence him to suffer death,
this sentence the Genl. also ratifies, and orders the criminal to
be shot on Friday next between the hours of S & 6 in the evening;
both these unhappy men are to be informed of the dreadful fate
that awaits them, that they may prepare themselves accordingly.
A subaltern and 18 men from each regiment to which the con-
demd. belongs, are to be warned for these executioners, accord-
ing to detail. A detachment of 150 men from each brigade are to
be ready to march early on Thursday morng.. upon command, their
tents and baggage will be sent after them, they are therefore to
strike their tents and pack up their baggage at reveille beating.

Commanding officers of brigades will detain as many men
of companies from the detacht., to take care of the baggage as
they think necessary; they are not soon to return so will prepare
accordingly. Two field officers be appointed to go in orders for
this command this evening or to-morrow morning.

The Dy. Qr. Master Genl., and Engineer are to go upon
command to-morrow morning; they will receive orders from the
General this evening. Two subalterns, two sergeants, one corporal
& twenty five privates to be warned as an escort to the Dy. Qr. Mr.
Genl.. and to be ready by sun rise to-morrow morning; they are
to take with them one day's provisions ready cooked.

Brigade Orders.

Agreeable to genl. orders of this day a detachment of four
captains, eight subalterns, eight sergts., & one hundred and fifty
rank & file to be warned for command, according to the follow-
ing detail.

i^S Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Captns. Subs. Sergts. r&f.
Light Dragoons .... - i i 20

ist Batt I I - ID

2d do I 3 3 70

3 do I I 2 35

4 do I 2 2 15

4 8 8 150

Commanding officers of battalions are to see that a sufficient
number of men, of each mess, are left in camp to take care of the
baggage.

By order of the C. C.

JNO. HAB., B. M.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 20th May, 1778.
Parole-Justice.
For the day to-morrow, Major Pinkney.

The criminal appointed to die to-morrow morning is to be ex-
ecuted before the whole line in such manner and in such place
as the A. D. A. G. shall direct. No parties except those for duty
are to go out of camp without leave from the commander in
chief for the time being, nor shall any officer or soldier upon
any pretense leave camp without the permission of the commg.
officer of the brigade, who will report to the Genl. their names
and the time of their return, which is by no means to exceed
sun set. Should any fishing or hunting parties be permitted to go
out an officer is always to go out with them, who is to prevent
their straggling while moving, to keep out flankers, and while
fixed intend.

The great waste of ammunition, by the men is unsoldierly, un-
pardonable, and must be corrected; those who presume to fire
a single gun in or about the camp, without leave except upon duly,
or in any manner of way waste their ammunition, shall if detected
be assuredly punished. Officers of companies are immediately
to examine the cartridges of the men, and distribute them in
such a manner that every man mry have an equal number, by which
means should any be missing the men may easily be detected, &
one officer of a company is every day at morning and evening
roll calling to examine their cartridges and confine the men
who have not their quantity. Officers of companies whose men
are not served with cartridges will count their balls and mark the

Colonel and Brigadier General. 149

powder in their horns, and in other respects follow the directions
in the preceeding order.

The orders of this day relative to the men are to be read
to them company by company, and to be considered by the army
as standing orders. The detachment ordered for to-morrow to
be reduced to 100 rank & file from each brigade.

Brigade Orders,

The Genl., having been pleased to reduce the detachment of
command to 100 rank and file, the following detail is to take place.

Caps.

Subs.

Sergts.

R&F.

Ivight Dragoons . .

. .

I

I

14

ist. Batt

. . I

I

-

7

2 do ... .

. . I

2

3

46

3 do ... .

. .

I

I

24

4 do ... .

. . I

I

I

9

3

6

6

100

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 21st May, 1778.

Parole-Reads Blufif.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. Henderson.

The Genl. most earnestly wishes that the melancholy event
of this day may have a proper eflfect upon the minds of the
soldiers; that they would forever remember and observe the in-
junctions of their comrade and brother soldier who, with his
dying breath, and in the solemn manner, warned them against
mutiny and desertion, and also against any other crime which
might bring them to the dreadful situation to which he was re-
duced. Desertion is of all other crimes the greatest a soldier
can be guilty of. In committing it every moral sanction is violated^
the cause of freedom, the darling rights and privileges, both of
the present and succeeding generations, which soldiers were or-
dained particular to secure and protect, are relinquished and be-
trayed. No sense, therefore, of public or private virtue, no senti-
ments of honor or religion, can possibly actuate the bosom of that
wretch who can have enough to perpetrate a crime in which
felony, perjury and treason, to the United States of America, are
complicated. But if these considerations, forcible as they are,
should not be suflficient to prevent the heinous crime of desertion,
let a soldier reflect for a moment on the life a deserter must

/JO Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

lead, and he would not devote himself to a situation so miserable.
Suspicious of his very friends, if a deserter can have a friend,
afraid of and with a meanness a man of spirit must disdain, from
the gaze of every eye he meets, deprived of the heartful pleasure
of social converse, and dreading the noise occasioned by the very
air he breathes, he lives continually in apprehension and terror until
overtaken by offended justice, under all the horrors of a wounded
conscience, he suffers that shameful death, he so The Genl.

considering himself as the guardian of the army he has the honor
to command calls upon the soldiers, in the most manner to avoid
deserving so dreadful a fate, which, as he is resolved never to
pardon any future desertions, must inevitably attend all those who
may be convicted of it. This order is to be read to the army,
company by company.

The Commissary of Issues will take care to have provisions
sent down to the detacht., sent this day to Reads Bluff.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe. 22nd May, 1778.

Parole-Spencer.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. Scott.

The execution of Peter Jutie is postponed till further orders.
The Genl., having received certain information that scouting parties
of enemy indians, have crossed the river, the soldiers are ab-
solutely forbid going out of the camp unless upon duty.

Commanding officers of corps and battalions are to report to
the commanders of brigades whether the order of the 20th inst.,
respecting the distribution of cartridges and loose ammunition, to
prevent its waste, has been complied with. All persons coming into
camp, excepting officers belonging to it, are to give in their
names in writing to the officer of the day, who is to examine them
and report them to the Genl.. if necessary, and all officers who
have been absent from camp either upon duty or otherwise are
immediately upon their arrival to wait on the Genl.

After Gen'l Orders.

A genl. court-martial, to sit immediately, consisting of one
field officer and twelve other members, for the trial of James
Lester for being a spy, for sedition and for inveigling Continental
troops to desert to the enemy, James Neigle, Wm. Carpenter,
Daniel McKay, Claudius Morrison, Jo5ieph Clair, Joseph Powell.
Richard Savage, John Royal, and Wm. Cannon, privates in the 4th

Colonel and Brigadier General. 151

Continental Battalion, and Cornelius Fitzgerald, in the first Battn.,
for desertion. Colo. Pinkney is to act as Judge Advocate during
this court-martial. The Judge Advocate will fuinish the evidences,
and appoint the place for the court-martial to meet.

Second After Orders.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try James Lester, for
being a spy, for desertion, sedition and for inveigling Continental
troops to desert to the enemy, have reported as follows: that
having taken the evidence into serious consideration, they acquit
the prisoner James Lester, of being a spy and of being guilty of
sedition, but find him guilty of the crime of desertion and of the.
crime of inveigling Continental troops to desert to the enemy,
and do sentence him to be hanged by the neck till he be dead.
The Genl. approves and ratifies the sentence, and orders execution,
between the hours of four and seven to-morrow afternoon, this
sentence to be immediately made known to the prisoner by the
officer of the day, that he may prepare himself for the dreadful
fate that awaits him, and endeavor by sincere repentance to atone
for his crime.

Morning Orders.

A sergt. and 5 rank and file to be ready for commd., they are
to take provisions for one day.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 23rd May, 177R.

Parole-Discipline.

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Colo. Mcintosh.

The assistant genl. will summons an ofificer to sit in the room of
Captain Faulks, who is taken sick, upon the present genl. court-
martial.

The whole line to be paraded by four o'clock this afternoon;
it is expected that all officers and soldiers will attend; any soldier
missing will be taken notice of. The flat is never to be removed from
the landing opposite the Genl's. tent during the day, without leave
from the Genl., or officer of the day. At retreat beating all boats are
to be carried to the fort landing and put in charge of sentries to be
extended from corps of Artillery; they are not to be delivered to
any person after night without leave from the Genl.

1^2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert^

The Genl. takes this opportunity of expressing his approbation
of the conduct of the officers and men who turned out with such
readiness in pursuing the deserters taken yesterday, the assiduity
which all showed in pursuing, and the spirit of those who were im-
mediately concerned in taking them was becoming good soldiers
and zealous supporters of the noble cause of freedom. The Genl.
desires the Adjutant Genl. to inform Capt. Gray and the Indians
under his command that he is pleased with the behavior and spirit
in taking deserters.

The piquit guards are by no means to quit their post till after
sun rise, two more sentinels are by night to be extended from the
advanced guard; if their increase of duty is too hard for the present
number the A. D. A. G. will reinforce them.

After Orders.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try the following prisoners:
James Neigle, Wm. Carpenter, Daniel McKay, Claudius Morrison.
Jos. Clair, Jos. Powell, Richard Savage, John Royal, Wm. Conner,
Cornelius Fitzgerald, for desertion, have reported that after serious
consideration that have found them guilty of the crime laid to their
charge and therefore do sentence, said Danl. McKay, Claudius Mor-
rison, Jos. Clair, Jos. Powell, Richd. Savage, James Neigle, and Wm.
Connor, to be shot, and that Cornelius Fitzgerald be hanged by the
neck until he be dead. The Genl. approves of and ratifies the above
sentence, and orders the said Cornelius Fitzgerald to be hanged this
evening between the hours of five and seven, and the remaining
seven, Daniel McKay, Claudius Morrison, Jos. Clair, Jos. Powell,
Richd. Savage, James Neigle, and Wm. Connor, to be executed
agreeable to their sentence by being shot to-morrow morning be-
tween the hours of five and nine. The field ofificer of the day will im-
mediately make the criminals acquainted with their fate.
By order of the Genl.

STEPHEN DRAYTON, A. D. C.

G. O.

Camp Fort Howe, 24th May, 1778.

For the day to-morrow. Major Eustace.

One hundred men from each brigade are to march to-morrow
morning to Reads Bluff. Their baggage to be packed up and their
tents struck by sun rise, in half an hour after which they will march
off, their tents, &c., will be carried by water and are therefore to be
put into boats which will be provided by the Dy. Qr. Mr. Genl.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 153

Colo. Pinkney and L,t. Colo. Stirk will order field officers for each
of the divisions, the common proportion of captains & subalterns
will be taken according to detail; A sergt. from each division will
be left to take care of the baggage.

B. O.

Agreeable to genl. orders of this day a detachment of one field
officer, three captains, six subalterns and six sergts. to be warned for
commd. according to the following detail.

F. O. Capts. Subs. Sergts. R&f.

Ivt. Dragoons ... - - o i 10

ist Batt I - I - 8

2 do .... - I 3 3 48

3 do - I I I 22

4 do - I I I 12

1366 100

By order of JNO. STiRK, Esqr., Comt. of ist Brigade.
JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 25th May, 1778.

Parole-Promotion.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. Stirk.

The following promotions have taken place in the Georgia Bri-
gade which are to continue till the pleasure of Congress or of the
State of Georgia be known thereupon: Lieut. Colo. Stirk, of the 2d
Battalion, Colo, of the 3r, vice Screven, resigned 21st March; Lieut.
Colo. Rae of the 3d, Colo, of the first. Vice Colo. Habersham, re-
signed the 1st April; Major Roberts, of the 3rd, Lieut. Colo, of the
2d, vice Stirk promoted 21st March; Major Mcintosh of the first,
Lieut. Colo, of the 3d, vice Rae, promoted the 3d April; Major
Pannell of the 2d, Lieut. Colo, of the 4th, vice Lieut. Colo. Hoven-
don dead, i6th April; Captain Habersham of the first. Major of the
same, vice Mcintosh promoted, ist April; Captain Lane of the 3d,
Major of the same, vice Roberts promoted, 2d April; Capt. Porter of
the 2d, Major of the same. Vice Pannell promoted, i6th April.

154 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Morning Orders.

Camp at Fort Howe, 26th May, 1778.
Ensign Thos. Wylly is immediately to parade the negroes
brought into camp last evening; the Dy. Qr. Mr. Genl. are then to
attend and to form them into two companies, one company for each
brigade; they are to appoint proper persons to overseer them who
are to enroll the names of their slaves delivered to their charge,
and to call over the roll morning, noon and night, and make im-
mediate reports if any are absent to the Dy. Qr. Mr. Generals to
whose division they belong; they are to be served with a quart of rice
pr. day and a sufficient quantity of beef heads and plucks by; the
overseers will be particularly careful that the slaves do not encamp
in damp or unwholesome places, and always to encamp so near
them as to prevent confusion or desertion. The Dy. Qr. Mr. Gener-
als will be attentive that the overseers do their duty and that the
encampments of the negroes are formed in a situation as healthy
and secure as possible; an immediate and exact return of all the
slaves, in the hands of the Dy. Qr. Mr. Genls., will be made by
them to the General.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Howe, 26 May, 1778.
Parole-Nassaw.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Scott.

One subaltern, one sergt. and 10 privates to be immediately or-
dered for command, they are to return in the evening. The officers
commanding the party will attend and receive his order from the
Genl.

The Dy. Qr. Mr. Genl. are immediately to order twenty negroes
from each of this division to go over the river, and clear a road
for the wagons to the high land; a covering party will be sent
with them; one of the Dy. Qr. Mr. Generals will superintend the
clearing of this road. The army marches to-morrow, the General
to beat at 6 o'clock in the morning, the Assembly at 7, half an hour
after which the whole line will march oflf. The commanding officers
of brigades will determine the number of men to be left at this
Fort, to be taken by detachment from each of the brigades, and
the estimate of Artillery, provisions and stores to be left with them,
and make report of it this evening to the Genl.

The Dy. QMr. Genl. will inquire how many wagons are repaired,
in consequence of an order formerly issued, and to exert them-
selves to have those still wanting repair made fit for service as

Colonel and Brigadier General. i^S

soon as possible. The genl. court-martial ordered to try John
Oates, John Royal and Wm. Carpenter, for desertion, have found
them guilty and sentence John Oates to receive loo lashes on his
bare back, John Royal and William Carpenter to receive 99 lashes
and stand on the picquet for half an hour, which sentences the
Genl. approves, but the court having reported that some favorable
circumstances appearing upon the trial of the prisoners relative to
each, the General hopes that a proper sense of their guilt and the
dreadful examples lately made of their comrades will prevent their
future misbehavior, is prevailed upon to pardon them; they are there-
fore to return to their duty.

Brigade Orders.

The Brigade to march to-morrow morning agreeable to genl.
orders. Commanding officers of corps are required to have their
men in the best order, and to be ready at the hour appointed. Ad-
jutant Antrobus remains in camp till further orders, and is to take
care that the sick and are not neglected and that they are

embodied, and their arms and accoutrements kept in order for im-
mediate service. As soon as the Surgeon reports them fit for duty
this is the particular service for which he is left any further or-
ders he will receive from the officer who is left in command at
Fort Howe.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

B. O.

Camp at Reids Bluflf, 28th May, 1778.
Quarter Masters of Battalions are to be furnished with a suf-
ficient number of men to build necessary houses in front of their
respective encampments immediately.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Morning Genl. Orders.

The officer commanding in camp before the arrival of Genl.
Howe, is to report to him immediately the guards he mounted, the
places when fixed and the regulations by which the camp were
governed.

rs6 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

After Brigade Orders.

Each battalion to be divided jnto ten equal companies the two
additional ones to be grenadiers and light infantry and are to be
picked men, each with a good musket and bayonet with which the
Light Dragoons are to do duty till further orders, the light in-
fantry of the brigades and the Light Dragoons are to do duty until
further orders. The light infantry of the Brigade and the Light Dra-
goons to be formed into one corps as Light Troops under the com-
mand of Lieut. Colo. Harris of the first regiment, the grenadiers to
be likewise formed into a corps under the command of Cap. Moore
of the 2d; those corps are to be under arms twice a day that they
may be taught the necessary manoeuvres.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

General Orders.

For the day to-morrow, Major Brown.

The Main Guard to consist to-morrow of a capt., two subalterns,
two sergts. and 40 rank & file. The picquet guards already estab-
lished to remain as formerly. An additional piquet guard consist-
ing of I sub., I sergt. and 15 rank & file to be fixed upon the river
below the camp at such place as the D. A. G. shall direct; an ad-
vanced guard is to be established of i sub., i sergt. & 15 rank & file,
the D. A. G. is also to station and to report where posted to the
Genl. A sergt. and 6 men to be posted on the other side of the
river opposite the encampment nnd to be relieved every other day.

Morning Genl. Orders.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 2gth May, 1778.
The Dy. QMr. Genls. are to proceed with the working parties
of their respective brigades, to lay out & clear roads for the ad-
vance of the army, the engineer is also to attend upon the occa-
sion; at proper places and at convenient distances, *are to be
sunk that the troops may get water upon their march, i sub. and 15
privates are to be immediately warned as a covering party to the
Dy. QMr. Genls., and to the working party; they are to return in
the evening.

The word "wells" is probably left out here.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 157

G. O.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 29th May.

Parole-Obey.

For the day to-morrow, Major Brown.

All hunting and fishing parties are absolutely forbid, without
leave from the Commander in chief.

No soldier is to absent himself from camp without permission
from, and a written pass signed by, the Genl. Commandants of
Brigades, of the Offir. of the Day; the substance of this order is
contained in a standing order issued the 20 inst., which having been
so little observed, officers of companies are directed to refer to it
and to take particular care that this is read to their companies this
evening and to-morrow morning, and all commissioned and non-com-
missioned officers are desired to send any soldiers they find trans-
gressing these orders to the Main Guard that they may be punished.
The Genl. thinks proper to repeat the substance of another standing
order, that ignorance of orders in officers is by no means to be
considered as an excuse for the neglect or breach of them. Moses
Allan, Esqr., is appointed to act as A. D. A. G. till further orders.

Morning Genl. Orders.

Camp Reids Bluff, 30th May, 1778.
A sub., I sergt. and 20 privates to parade for command imme-
diately, they are to be as a covering party to the Dy QMr. Genl. at
the working parties; they are to return in the evening.

G. O.

Parole-Hornet.

For the day to-morrow. Major Lane.

A genl. court-martial to sit to-morrow, consisting of i field of-
ficer as president and 12 captains and sub. from the line for the
trial of persons that may be brought before them, the Judge Ad-
vocate will furnish the evidence and give into court the crimes for
which the prisoners are to be tried.

G. O.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 31st May, 1778.
Parole-Laurence.

For the day to-morrow, Major Pinkney.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try Jacob Shaffer of the 6
South Carolina Regiment, confined by Captain Thyes for quitting

1^8 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

his guard, have found him guilty and sentence him to receive lOO
hundred lashes on his bare back with a cat nine tails, the Genl.
approves and ratifies the sentence and orders execution at the time
and in the manner the commanding ofificer of the brigade to vk^hich
the prisoners belong shall think proper; officers of companies are to
be particularly careful that the men of their camp keep large fires
at the doors of their tents and encampments, during the continuance
of this damp weather, both by night and by day; the health of the
men requires that this order should be particularly attended to
and obeyed.

After Gen'l Orders.

The inclemency of the weather induces the Genl. to extend his
indulgence to the guards who are immediately exposed to it, he
therefore orders a gallon of rum to the Mam Guard, half a gallon
to the Advanced Guard, and the same quantity to the Picquets; the
commanding officer of each of their guards will receive an order
for their proportion of rum for each of their commands from the
Adjut. Genl. The ofificers of the several guards will have this rum
dealt out in proper proportion to the men as occasion may make it
requisite.

G. O.

Camp at Reids Blufif, ist June, 1778.
Parole-Roberts.
For the day to-morrow, Colo. White.

The cartridges of the men are immediately to be examined by
the officers of companies, and if any are damaged by the late rain
the number are to be reported to the Genl. and those not for ser-
vice to be delivered to the Dy. Q. M. G. of the respective brigades
to which they belong. The Genl. is exceedingly happy in having it
in his power to inform the army of his having received undoubted
intelligence that France has publicly acknowledged, and declared
the independency of the United States of America, and the Court
of France, the 5th day Feby., 1778. The Genl. with the greatest
pleasure congratulates the army upon so great and desirable an
event, orders the whole line to turn out upon the occasion, when
13 cannon are to be fired and when grog will be served out to the
men upon the parade. The above order to be read and explained
to each compy. in the line by an oflncer of a company.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 159

G. O.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 2d June, "78.

Parole-France.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. RcC.

All guards are in future to load with loose powder and running
ball which is to be wadded with black moss, that the charge may
be easily drawn. Officers of companies are to send out men to pro-
vide this kind of wadding and to see that what is collected is dry,
and that it is kept so. The guards for relief are to charge their
pieces, before they march from the genl. parade, to which place
old guards are to be marched, when they are to draw their pieces,
return their powder into their horns and secure their ball before they
are discharged. The shameful waste of powder by firing of guns in
and about the camp, absolutely forbid in genl. orders, is highly
displeasing to the Genl., it is sporting with the property of Con-
gress, and depriving the army of the means of obtaining honor,
defending themselves or supporting the common cause. Have not
all officers been directed to exert themselves to the utmost In
order to prevent this evil, or detect the perpetuality of it, would
not this have been their duty, had such an order never been issued,
and have they, the Genl asks, fulfilled it? if they have, their efiorts
have been indeed unaccountable unlucky that, notwithstanding the
frequency of the crime, no criminal has been detected. He recom-
mends however to the officers in genl., and particularly to the of-
ficer of the day not to be disheartened by past ill success, but by
redoubted efiforts to suppress so unsoldierlike a practise, which
may be dangerous and is not certainly disgraceful to the army.

G. O.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 3d June, 1778.
Parole-Screven.
For the day to-morrow. Lt. Colo. Henderson.

All boats are to be kept at the landing place near the house,
now used as a guard house, and are by no means to be taken from
there without leave from the commanding officer, in camp for the
time being. A breach of this order will be made the subject of a
court-martial, let the rank of the transgressor be what it may.

The officers commanding the Picquet Guard below the camp
is to suffer no boat to go down the river without a pass signed
by the Commander in Chief, or the Officer of the Day, and all
boats coming up are to be detained by the guard, until report be

t6o Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

made to the Offr. of the Day who will order them to pass if it
appears to him proper. The sentry at the well is to be removed to
the lower end of the camp and to be posted on the river side; he
also is to suffer no boat to go down without pass signed, as above
mentioned, nor any person to come up until passed by the Oftlcer
of the Day.

G. O.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 4th June, 1778.

Parole-Franklin.

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Colo. Harris.

An additional piquit of i sub., i sergt. and 15 rank and file,
they will be posted by the offr. of the Day, who will receive orders
for that purpose from the Genl. The piquit on the river side below
the camp to be reduced to 8 rank and file, but still to be command-
ed by a subaltern.

Morning Orders.

The 1st & 2d Brigades are to parade to-day precisely at 12
o'clock. The certainty there is that enemy indians are backing about
the camp, induces the Genl. absolutely to forbid all officers and
soldiers, except those upon duty, going without the camp sentries.
2 sub., 2 sergts. and 18 rank & file to be in readiness to march to
Clarks Bluff; they are to receive their orders from the Adjt. Genl.
and to return this evening.

G. O.

Camp at Reids Bluff, 5th June, 1778.

(Parole-Whylly.)

For the day to-morrow, Lieut. Col. Roberts.

A genl. court-martial to sit to-morrow morning for the trial
of Robert Scott, of Colo. Sumpter's Regiment, for desertion, and
also of such other prisoners as shall be brought before them, the
Judge Advocate will furnish the evidence against Scott. This court
is to consist of i field offr. and 12 other members, to be taken ac-
cording to detail. Burgess Moore, confined by Major Pinkney for
neglect of duty while he acted as a sentinel, having been interceeded
for by a number of offrs., and also by Major Pinkney himself, the
Genl. is prevailed upon to pardon him. This indulgence will never
again be extended either to him, or any other, for a fault so henious
in its nature.

Colonel and Bngadier General. i6i

After G. Orders.

Commanding Officers of Brigades are to lay before the Genl.
an exact list of the officers and men in their respective brigades,
now in camp, of the women belonging to each company, of the
servants of each officer, and of every other person is to be set
down. Officers and men at each post and the sick sent away are to
be particularized in another return that is also to be made.

G. O.

Camp at Reids Blufif, 6 June, 1778.
Parole-Mclntosh.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Scott.

The first Brigade to march to-morrow. The officers and men
of that brigade upon duty to be called in this evening. The Guards
and Picquets to be in future as follows: Main Guard to consist of
I captain, i sub., i sergt. and 30 rank and file. The Advanced Guard
of I sub., I sergt. and ten rank and file, two Picquets each of i
sub., I sergt. and ten rank & file, and another Picquet of i sub., i
sergt. and 8 rank & file.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try Jno. Scott for desertion
have found him guilty, and sentence him to receive 99 lashes on
his bare back with a cat of nine tails, and to stand on the picquet
fifteen minutes. The Genl. approves and ratifies the sentence and
orders execution this afternoon, at such hour as Colo. Pinkney
shall appoint. The Genl. invests the Colo, with power to remit any
part of this sentence he may think proper. The court is imme-
diately to sit again for the trial of Lachlan Phenney of the 2
Georgia Battalion confd. by Lieut Turner for abuse language, Lieut.
Turner is to furnish the evidence.

After G. Orders.

The genl. court-martial ordered to try Lachn. Phenney for abuse
language to Lt. Turner have found him guilty and sentence him
to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back with switches. The
Genl. approves and confirms the sentence, which is to be executed in
such a manner and at such hour as Colo. Elbert shall appoint.

Colo. Elbert is at the same time empowered to remit any part
of this sentence he may think proper. By desire of his Excellency
Major Genl. Howe the commg. offrs. of corps are immediately
to draw from the Dy. Qr. Mr. Gl. as follows:

I $2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Shirts. Shoes. Kelts.
Lt. Dragoons . . . i6 12 16

ist Battn 16 II 15

2 do 76 55 74

3 do 46 33 45

4 do 20 29 40

174 140 190

which are to be served out to such of the men as are most in
want of those articles. The sentence of the genl. court-martial on
Lachlan Phenney is immediately lo be put in execution before the
regiment he belongs to.

Brigade Orders.

Each corps to draw a kettle from the Dy. Q. M. G. who will like-
wise serve to the Light Troops one, and to the 4th Battn. two
tents. The first Brigade being under orders to march to-morrow at
the beating of the troop, the tents to be struck and the baggage
packed up and put into the wagons, the whole to be paraded at 9
o'clock, and are to march precisely at 10, in the following order:
first, the Light Troops under Lieut. Colo. Harris who are to be the
Advanced Guard and to furnish flanking parties, and are to keep
about 300 hundred yards in front and when ever a place appears in
which the enemy might form an ambuscade it is to be w-ell reconnoi-
tred. Captain Snef with the prisoners will follow close in the rear
of the Light Troops and clear the road for the Artillery and wagons.

Capt. Moore with the Grenadiers will lead the head of the col-
umn, which will march by wheeling platoons to the right, the whole
will be told oflf in 24 platoons, the first sixteen from the right to
compose the front line, and the remaining 8 platoons the 2 who are
always after to form 100 paces in the rear, the head of the front
line is to be preceeded by a light field piece, in its center a brass
fotif pounder, and in the rear a third piece, next the Artillery stores
and ammunition. The 2d line preceeded by a field piece with another
in its rear, the wagons and baggage is next to follow under guard
of a sub., a sergt. and 15 rank and file, to be taken by detachments
from the line.

Colo. Stirk, Lieut. Colo. Roberts & Major Lane to the ist line,
and Colo. Rae with Lieut. Colo. Mcintosh to the second. No man
is to be suffered to quit his rank, while on the march, and ofHicers
are strictly injoynd to keep their divisions in order for forming at
a moment's warning. When the woods will not admit of marching
by platoons in front they are to file by the right; should any part
of the troops be attacked on their march, they are to maintain their

Colonel and Brigadier General. 163

guard, till the commanding offir. either reinforces them or gives
orders for a retreat. Each man to be furnished with 24 rounds, ex-
clusive of the ammunition they have loose; they must have a suffi-
cient quantity of wadding and three spare flints; the troops will be
served with three days' salt provisions, and as much rice and indian
meal as will last 8 days is to be transported in wagons; beeves will
be drove on for the use of the army.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

B. O.

Camp Spring Branch, 7th June, 1778.
Parole-Howe.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Lowe.

Each division of the brigades to furnish a sergt. and 7 men as a
quarter guard, also a picquet consisting of i sub., i sergt. and ten
rank and file; respectg. the posting of the later the commanding
officer will give orders. The quarter guard are to be posted in the
front of the center of each division, the sentries to be extended from
them as the offir. commanding the division may direct, the rear
guard to act as a Main Guard and to be relieved every morning be-
fore the brigade marches, from the first and 2d divisions; the com-
tersign is to be demanded from dark until day light. The whole
line to be under arms for an hour before day, till the Picquet Guards
are called in which will be an hour before day. The commanding
offir. is to be furnished with a sentinel, from the Grenadiers, when-
ever the brigade in camp.

By order of the C. C.,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

B. O.

Camp at Werts Old Cowpen, 8th June, 1778.

Parole-Pinkney.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Bennis.

It is expected that such volunteers as are in camp will, and such
officers who can be spared from the corps they belong to and can,
furnish themselves with horses under the commd. of Colo. liaber-
sham.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

164 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Morng. Orders.

Camp at Werts Old Cowpen, plh June, 1778.

A court of inquiry is to sit immediately at some convenient place
to inquire into the conduct of Lieut. Sutton of the corps of Artillery,
arrested by Cap. Younge of the same corps, for disobedience of
orders, who will furnish the evidence; Major Eustice as president
and 6 other members of inferior rank to compose this court.

Parole-Pinkney.

For the day to-morrow, Captain Cuthbert.

The Main Guard to be augmented with a corpl. and three men
which are to be extended as a guard over the cattle.

By order of the C. C,

J. H., B. M.

B. O.

Camp at Red Cap Branch, 10 June, '78.
Parole- Wildair.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Wood.

B. O.

Camp at Sand Hill Branch, nth June, 1778.

Parole-Sattilla.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Brosard.

One sub., i sergt. and 18 rank and file to be ready for commd. im-
mediately, according to detail.

B. O.

Camp within three miles of Old Town, 12 June, 1778.
Parole-Lee.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Scott.

B. O.

Camp three miles from Old Town, 13th June.
Parole-Tates.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Templcton.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 16$

Morning Orders.

Camp, 14th June, 1778.
A sergt and 6 men to be ready for command immediately, the
sergt. will receive his orders from the commanding offir.

B. O.

Parole-Mclntosh,

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Wm Mcintosh.

Three detachments consisting of i sub., i sergt. and 15 rank and
file to parade for command immediately. The officers will receive
their orders from the commanding ofifir; they are to return this
evening.

By order of the C. C,

J. H., B. M.

B. O.

Camp three miles from Old Town, 15th June, 1778.
Parole-Houstoun.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Booker.

A sub., I sergt. and 12 men for command immediately. The offir.
will receive orders from the commanding offir.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

B. O.

Camp at the Cowford, 16th June, 1778.

Parole-Eustace.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Cook.

As many of the reports made to the brigade are very incorrect,
commandants of corps in future are ordered to inspect and sign
them before they are given in. Any person hereafter who presumes
to leave the limits of the camp, without leave, will immediately be
brought before a general court-martial.

Morning Orders.

Camp at Cowford, 17th June, 1778.

Lieut. Colo. Harris with his Light Troops and the Volunteers
under Colo. Habersham, are to go on command immediately. Capt.

i66 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Moore is to cross the river with the Grenadiers under his command,
and to take post in the old field so as to cover the engineer and his
workmen.

B. O.

Parole-Laurance.

As Capt. Moore is to march up the river with his Grenadiers a
detachment of one capt., two subs., two sergt. and 32 rank and file
is to take post on the ground he occupied until his return.

Morning Orders.

Camp at the Cowford, i8tli June, 1778.

A court of inquiry to sit immediately at some convenient place
to inquire into the cause of Adjutant Lowe being arrested by Major
Lane; Colo. Stirk as president and 6 other members to compose
this court.

B. O.

Parole-Senf.

For the day to-morrow, Capt. Lowe.

The Dy. Q. M. G. is ordered to send three or four wagons with
the best teams to assist the 2d Brigade in bringing up their baggage,
and a sergt. and 6 men to go as an escort to the wagons.

The court of inquiry ordered to sit on Adjt. Lowe report, as their
opinion, that he was insolently treated by Sergt. Barkley, and that
he should be acquitted from his arrest, and orders that Sergt. Bark-
ley be immediately ordered to the ranks as a private sentinel. Major
Lane would have acted more becoming his character by coolly and
impartially inquiring into the matter in dispute, between the Adju-
tant and Sergt., before proceeding so hastily to an arrest. The
commandant is determined to treat a coips of private soldiers with
the same rigor for insolence and disobedience to a sergt. as he
will the like offence in a sergt. to his superior offir.

G. O.

Camp at Cowford, 19th June, 1778.
Parole-Cowford.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. Stirk.

The Dy. Q. M. G. will report to the comanding oflfir., to-morrow
morning, the horses, saddles, bridles and other articles taken from
the enemy the 17th instant; he is also to have horses and other things

Colonel and Brigadier General. i6j

collected together by 9 o, clock to-morrow morning. A return of each
brigade and corps of artillery to be made to the Dy. A. G. by 10
o'clock to-morrow morning. Commandants of brigades will have the
arms and accoutrements of the m.en of the respective brigades to be
particularly examined to-morrow morning, and put in the best order
for action. Commanding ofifirs. of Artillery will also have every thing
in his department put into the best order.

G. O.

Camp at Cowford, 20 June, 1778.

Parole-Lee.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. Rea.

The wagons of the Georgia Brigade are to cross the river imme-
diately; Colo. Tarling will therefore receive directions from Colo.
Elbert, and take measures accordingly. The brigade, with its bag-
gage, will cross the river to-morrow, as early as possible, immedi-
ately after which the Carolina Brigade is to cross. The Dy. Q. M.
G. engineer is to make out an encampment on the other side of the
river this evening, if the wagons of the Georgia Brigade gets over
in time, those of the Carolina Brigade will be ordered to cross to-
night. The Main Guard is to be formed by detachment this evening
and to be reinforced with a capt., i sub., i scrgt. and 11 privates,
the picquets to be formed by detachment their number and stations
are always fixed. The noise in camp last night was exceedingly dis-
pleasing to the Genl., it must not happen again. All soldiers are
to be in their tents immediately after dark; those disobeying this
order will be punished.

Brigade Orders.

A sub., two sergts. and 25 rank & file to be paraded to-morrow
morning at 5 o'clock for fatigue; the D. Q. M. G. will give the nec-
essary orders to this party.

By order of C. C, J. H., B. M.

G. O.

Camp, Sattilia River, 21 June, 78.
Parole-Barton.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Scott.

Commanders of brigades will have returns made them of such men
as have no shoes, and have mockazons made for them out of the

i68 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

hides, the well calculated the number of hides necessary, that no
waste may happen, which the commissary is to deliver to their or-
der. Commg. officers of battalions, till regular hospitals can be estab-
lished, will make returns of the articles wanted for their sick to the
commandants of brigades who v/ill order what they think necessary
to be delivered; the situation of affairs requires that be attended to
in this order. A weekly report of the expenditures to be made to the
Genl. by the commandant. The shirts, kelts, shoes and other cloth-
ing served out to the Georgia Brigade at Fort Howe, Reids Bluff
and this camp, are to be immediately reported by the commanding
officers of each corps to Colo. Elbert in which the names of the
men and the clothing served to them are to be particularized. A
copy of which report is to be laid before the Genl. by the command-
ant.

Brigade Orders.

The commandant desires that returns be immediately made to
him by commanding offir. of battalions, agreeable to those pointed
out in genl. orders of this day, that he may lay them before the
Commander in Chief.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Brigade Orders.

Three picquets consisting of i sub., i sergt. and lo rank and file
each are to be paraded immediately, two from the line and one from
the Light Infantry. A Main Guard is also to be furnished by detail
for the Grenadiers and Light Infantry consisting of i sub., i sergt.
and i6 rank and file; this guard is to be mounted in the redoubt.
Capt. Bennis is to act as offir. of the day.

By order of C. C, J. H., B. M.

B. O.

Camp at South Side of Sattilla, 22d June, 1778.

A detachment of i sub., i sergt. & 20 rank and file to be in readi-
ness for a march immediately, to be furnished by detail from the
Grenadiers and Light Infantry.

By order of the C. C,

J. H., B. M.

Colonel and Brigadier General. i6g

B. O.

Camp So. Side of St. Ilia River, 226. June, 1778-
The Main Guard is this evening to be relieved by detail from the
line, the Picquets as follows: one from the line, one from the Light
Infantry, and another from the first Battalion So. C. Regt.

By order of the C. C,

J. H., B. M.

B. O.

Camp So. Side of St. Ilia River, 22d June, 78.
For the day to-morrow, Capt. Templeton.

Commanding offirs. of battalion are this afternoon to inspect the
arms and ammunition of their men. Any ammunition damaged by
the bad weather is to be made over again.

By order of the C. C,

J. H., B. M.

M. G. O.

Camp So. Side of St. Ilia River, 24th June.

The army marches to-day. Every man is to have his horn filled
with powder, his cartouch box well furnished, carry thirty rounds
of loose powder & ball and two spare flints pr. man; four days' rice
is to be served to each man, and the drivers to carry on such a
number of cattle as the commandants of brigades shall direct.

The corps of Artillery are to march with three brass field pieces,
two iron two pounders & two swivel cohoms; 300 lb. gun powder in
casks; All the fixed ammunition fitted to the calibres of each piece
and one hundred rounds of round shot to each field piece, with
port fires, match and every necessary apparatus. The baggage to
be taken on this march by each brigade will be directed by the com-
mandants thereof. The order of march wili be directed by a subse-
quent order.

B. O.

Camp So. Side of St. Ilia River, 24th June.
Commanding officers of corps are to draw from the Quarter
Master of the 2d Reget. the articles agreeable to the following list,
which they are to serve out to such of their men as stands most
in need thereof. They are strictly ordered to take receipts from
each man, which they will be called upon to produce at a proper
time.

IJO

Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

1st Battalion
2nd do

3 do

4 do

L,t. Dragoons

Shirts.
15
58
44
26
26

Shoes.

Leggins

10

13

39

52

30

39

17

23

18

24

Total .... 169 114

By order of the C. C,

151

J. H, B. M.

G. O.

24th June, 1778.
Parole-St. Marys.
For the day to-morrow, Major Brown.

The march of the army is postponed till to-morrow morning at
5 o'clock at which hour the whole is to move ofT. The baggage at
half an hour after four.

The Main Guard is to consist of i captain, i sub. and 20 rank &
file to-morrow. A field ofifir. of the day.

Guard. Picquets.

I Captain 2 Subs.

ist I Sub 2 Sergts.

Brigade. i Sergt

9 R&F 14 R&F.

Camp at So. Side St. Ilia River, 25th June.

The army is to march in the following order: the Light Infantry
is to act as an advanced guard to the army and to keep 150 yds be-
fore the line; they are to have one small field piece, a two pounder.
The Pioneers follow the Light Infantry under the command of
Capt. Senf. The Grenadiers lead the line and will support the Light
Infantry, should there be occasion. The Geo. Brigade marches in
two columns, with i brass field piece in the center of the brigade;
the corps of Artillery march in the center of the army with 4 pieces
of artillery; the ammunition wagons follow the Artillery; the
Carolina Brigade marches next in two columns with one brass field
piece between the columns. A proper number of men are to be or-
dered by the commanding officer of the corps of artillery to attend
the pieces of artillery detached from his corps. The baggage wag-
ons follow the Carolina Brigade; one capt., two subs., 2 sergts., 2

Colonel and Brigadier General. iji

corpls. & 50 privates from the South CaroHna Brigade to compose
the rear guard and march in the rear of the baggage wagons. The
Light Infantry extend their own flankers, and furnish flankers to
the head of the line. The rear guard also extends its own flankers.
Their number and manner of marching will be directed by the Ad-
jutant General. Each brigade will extend such a number of flankers
as their respective commg. ofificers shall think necessary. The Bri-
gades to be told ofif into platoons & divisions. The officers commg.
them always to be in iheir places and the whole line in constant
readiness for immediate action. If the advanced or rear guards should
be attacked, they are to maintain their ground, and they will be
certainly be supported. If the van of the line should be attacked,
they are immediately to form with their front to the enemy, and
repel the attack if possible, the rear brigade to form as a second
line in their rear and wait for orders. The Artillery to immediately
prepare for action & act agreeable to the orders they will receive,
the advanced & rear guards will form & will be directed as occa-
sion may require; should the center be attacked they are to make
the best defence in their power. The wings will be ordered to sup-
port them if necessary. The cattle will follow the army under a
guard consisting of i sub., i sergt. & 20 rank & file, to be taken
by detachment.

Camp, Bayley's Branch, 2Sth June, '^^>.

Parole-King Tammina.

For the day to-morrow, Major Lane.

The Grenadiers & Light Infantry of the Georgia Brigade are to
encamp upon the Hill on the side of the branch opposite to the
army. They are to extend two picquets consisting of i sub., I sergt.
and 10 rank & file each. If the Piquets are attacked by a party
superior in force they are to retreat, defending themselves until they
join their main body. If the miin body of the Grenadiers & Light
Infantry are attacked, they are to maintain their ground if possi-
ble, but if they cannot they arc to retire slowly, defending them-
selves till they join the army; should anything, previous to an at-
tack, give them reason to suppose that the enemy are approaching,
they are instantly to acquaint the Genl. of it. Commanders of bri-
gades will order parade to be marked out in the front of their en-
campments to which the officers and men of their brigades are up-
on any alarm instantly to repair; the least negligence, upon such
an occasion, will be held inexcusable. The Artillery are to be posted
exactly conformable to the line of march of this day, and they, as
well as the whole line, are to be ready for action at a moment's

1^2 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

warning. The Main Guard is to consist of i cap., i sub., i sergt.
and 20 rank and file; the Rear Guard of i sub., i sergt. & 15 rank
and file. Three Picquets are to be established, consisting of i sub.,
I sergt. & 15 rank & file each, and are to be posted by the Adjutant
Genl. The field officers of the day are in future to be more than
commonly attentive, and to go the rounds at least three times every
night. All fires are to be put out at ten o'clock to-night. The horses
of the army are to be tied up at sun set. The army marches to
morrow by sun rise.
I Brigade:

GuLard. Picquet.

I Sub 2 Sub.

I Sergt 2 Sergts.

13 r&f 17 r&f.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 29th June.

Parole-United States.

For the day to-morrow, Colo. Rae.

All soldiers are to retire to rest at 9 o'clock, but are to lay upon
their arms and not be undressed, and repair to their alarm posts
at a moment's warning. Lights and fires to be put out at 9 o'clock,
and the strictest silence to be observed in the camp. Guards are to
be uncommonly attentive & alert; any officer who sleeps on his
guard will be deemed inexcusable; the whole line is to be under
arms an hour before and to continue so till broad day light; the
offr. of the day is frequently to go the rounds, three times at least,
he is positively injoined.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 30th June.
Parole-Houstoun.

F. O. for the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Henderson.
Fleches are to be thrown up in front of each battalion; the en-
gineer is therefore to lay them out immediately; he is also to sur-
vey the fort and report to the Genl. whether it can be easily re-
paired, and what additional work may be necessary. The cartridges
& loose powder & ball of the men are to be examined today, to see
whether they are fit for service, or have been wasted or embezzled.
Commandants will therefore give orders accordingly.
Guard. Piquet.

I Sub 2 Sub.

r Sergt 3 Sergts.

8 r&file 13 r&file.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 173

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, ist July, 1778.

Parole-Freedom.

F. O. for the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Roberts.

The army is to hold itself in constant readmess to march at a
moment's warning, the Artillery are to have every thing in order
to move on the instant they receive orders for that purpose. The
Genl. is greatly concerned that the army is out of rice, but as it
has happened unavoidable, and rice is momently expected, he per-
suades himself the men will bear it like good soldiers, and they may
depend their back rations shall be made good. Drums are to beat
for duty as usual in camp until further orders.

1st Brigade:

Guard. Piquet.

1 Sub 2 Subs.

2 Sergts 2 Sergts.

8 r&file 13 r&file.

M. G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 2nd July.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Mcintosh.

A capt. of the day is to be immediately appointed according to
detail; he is to go the visiting rounds at least 3 times a night; the
field ofifir. will appoint the time he is to visit that it may not inter-
fere with the grand rounds, the time to be known only to them-
selves.

The field offir. of the day is to visit the piquet whenever he goes
the rounds. All strangers coming into camp are immediately to be
brought to the Genl.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, jd July.
Parole-Harnet.
For the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Scott.

A genl. court-martial is to sit immediately for the trial of Lieut.
Devaliell, arrested by Cap. Mcintosh, for quitting his post without
leave of this court; a field ofTr. is to be president & 12 inferior
oflfrs. members, to be taken according to detail. Cap. Mcintosh is
to furnish the evidence. It was not the intention of the orders of
yesterday that the field oflfr. and cap. of the day should go the

ly^ Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

rounds together; the present situation of affairs requires the utmost
vigilance and therefore a cap. of the day was appointed; the rounds
they were to go were distinct in their nature and could by no means
be performed together. Three grand rounds were required of the
one & three visiting rounds of the other, which if performed would
effectually have prevented any want of alertness in either guards
or sentinels, & consequently contribute to the security of the camp.
The most exact compliance is therefore expected. No sentry is to
suffer any person whatever to come into the camp, or pass him by
night, tho he may happen to give him the countersign, but is to
call the sergeant of the guard who will take him to the officer of
the guard, and if the man is found to belong to the army, the of-
ficer may pass him, but if a stranger he is to be sent to the field
officer of the day. All officers of guards are to take particular care
that the men of their guards be made particularly acquainted with
this order. No party of men at any time under any pretence what-
ever are to be suffered to come into camp, but are to be detained
till the field offir. of the day be acquainted with their arrival, who
is immediately to examine them snd, if it is proper, pass them.
All guards at the approach of any party are immediately to parade
and remain under arms until the officer of the day passes the party
and orders the guard to be returned. The genl. court-martial of
which Major Roberts is president is to also try Lieut. Jno. Mitchell,
put under an arrest by Colo. Stirk for refusing to do his duty under
pretence of sickness.

NATHL. EVELIEGH, Colo. & D. A. G.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 4th July, 1778.
Parole-Independence.

Colo. Stirk, Colo. Rae, and some respectable field officers having
understood that a council of war was held yesterday at the General's
tent to which an offir. not superior in rank was admitted, and from
which they were excluded, the genl. desirous of not having imputed
to him a conduct as understood by them, unworthy of his own
character & understanding, thinks proper to declare that he has not
held a council of war since he came into this camp, nor would he
hold one where any particular officer was called in, with out calling
in all officers of equal rank, and that as to the conversation party
he had with the Governor and Commodore yesterday (for it was
no more) no officers of his army, the commandants of brigades ex-
cepted, were present except one gentleman, who was not called but
dropped in accidentily; this explanation the Genl. hopes will be sat-

Colonel and Brigadier General. 175

isfactory to those offirs. who felt themselves neglected, and induce
them to do him justice, in believing that he never meant or intend-
ed to treat them with a disrespect they have never deserved at his
hands, which, therefore, he would be highly blainable in showing
them, and which he is concerned there should have been any ap-
pearance of.

After Orders.

This day, memorable for America Independence, ought to be held
sacred by all whose object is freedom and to whom rights and priv-
iiedges are of any importance. The enemy perhaps is mistaking this
day for a day of dissipation among us, may endeavor to avail them-
selves of it by attempting to surprise us; redoubled attention and
vigilence is therefore requisite, which the honor and safety of the
army & good of the common cause expect and which the General
injoins and requires of the whole army.

A gill of rum pr. man is to be served out immediately. All the
sutlers are forbid selling any liquor on any pretense what ever; the
field ofTr. of the day is to take care that the sutlers be made ac-
quainted with & pay proper attention to this order.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 5th July, 1778.

Parole-Laurence.

For the day to-morrow. Major Pinkney.

The goods taken from the enemy, military stores excepted, will be
sold at public sale to-morrow for the benefit of the army, at 10
o'clock in the morning. An exact report of military stores and
stores of every kind taken from the enemy to be made by the Dy.
Qr. Mr. G. to the Genl. by five o'clock this afternoon. The genl.
court-martial ordered to try Lieut. Devaleilee arrested by Capt.
Mcintosh for quitting his post without leave, and also Lieut. Mitch-
elson, arrested by Colo. Stirk for refusing to do duty, under pre-
tense of sickness, have acquitted them. The Genl. ratifies the sen-
tence & discharges Lieuts. Devaliele & Mitchell from their arrest;
the court is dissolved.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 8th July, '78-
Parole-Williamson.
For the day to-morrow, Colo. Rae.

The Quarter Master Genl. will immediately report the number
of wagons & horses fit for duty and what number are wanting to

ty6 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

complete the teams for the wagons of the army; lie is also to go
with the engineer this afternoon to mark out a road from the land-
ing opposite Fort Tonyn into the road cutting by the militia pio-
neers towards Saint Illas.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, gth July, '78.
Parole-East Florida.
F O. for the day to-morrow, Lieut. Colo. Henderson.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, loth July, 1778.
Parole-Rutledge.
F. O. for the day to-morrow Lieut. Colo. Mcintosh.

No armed parties are at any time to be sufifered to come into
camp till examined & passed by the field ofifir. of the day. An order
similar to this order has already been isstied, but it has not punctu-
ally been observed.

The Physician & surgeon Genl. and all the surgeons of the army,
are immediately to convene and report to the Genl. the state of the
sick and their opinion of the consequences which may attend the
health of those well, in case of a further progress to the south-
ward at this season of the year. This report to be given in, in
writing, with their reasons set forth at large.

Lieut. Alexr. Boyer is appointed to act as captain in the Sixth
Regiment of South Carolina in the room of Captain McClintick,
deceased, 27th ultmo.; he is therefore to be respected & obeyed as
such.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, nth July, '78.
Parole-Removal.
F. O. for the day to-morrow, Lt. Colo. Scott.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 12th July, 1778.
Parole-Union.
F. O. for the day to-morrow, Major Wise.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 777

1st Brigade furnishes the capt. of the day.

1st Brigade:

Guards. Piquet.

I Sub I Sub.

I Sergt I Sergt.

6 r&f 12 r&f.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, E. F., July 13th, 1778.

Parole-Carolina.

F. O. for the day to-morrow, Major Lane.

The army is to march to-morrow; the commandants of brigades
will receive orders from the Genl. A baggage guard is to be taken
from each brigade in the following proportions: i capt., 2 subs., 4
sergeants and fifty rank & file from the Carolina Brigade; i sub.,
2 sergts. and 30 rank & file from the Georgia Brigade; the com-
mandg. ofificer of this party will take orders from the Adjutant
Genl.

1st Brigade:

Guard. Piquet.

6 r&f 3 Subs.

2 Sergts.
12 r&f.
2d Brigade furnishes the Capt. of the Day.

G. O.

Camp at Fort Tonyn, 14th July, 1778.

Parole-Savannah.

The Genl. leaves the army to-day; he parts with it with reluctance,
and from no other motive than to make those provisions at proper
places necessary to its accomodation. He embraces this opportuni-
ty to testify how highly he approves the conduct both of ofificers
and men whom he had the honor to command. The readiness with
which the officers received orders, and the punctuality with which
they executed them, gave pleasure to the Genl. and did honor to
themselves. The cheerfulness with which the men supported a long
fatiguing march under a variety of unavoidable yet distressing cir-
cumstances gives them an undoubted claim to the character of good
soldiers, and is a happy presage of the service they will in future
render to the glorious cause in which, they are engaged. Com-

7/5 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

mandants of brigades will take care that this order be made known
both to officers and men.

N. EVELEIGH, Col. & D. A. G.

B. O.

South End Cumberland, 17th JuK', 1778.

Doctor Flag & Doctor Brydie will examine the sick on board the
Hospital Schooner, and such of them as are on the Recovery arc to
be removed to some other vessels; Capt. Spence is to pay proper
respect to any directions which shall be given him by Doctor Flag.
The whole of the troops are to be embarked by low water, that the
fleet may be ready to sail with the first of the llood. Colo. Piiikney
will order an ofificer on shore to see that all the men are sent off,
and that no arms, accoutrements or baggage is left behind. The
Commissary is to issue a gill of rum to each man pr. day till further
orders.

S. ELBERT, C. C.

B. O.

Headquarters, Sav., 28th July, '78.
Parole-Congress.

Mordicai Sheftall, Esqr., is appointed to act as Depy. Commissary
Genl. of Issues for the State of Georgia, till further orders, in the
room of John Bohon Gerideau, Esq., resigned.

An exact return of all the prisoners of war in the State of Georgia,
specifying their names and rank and whether soldier or sailor, in
order to their being sent to St. Augustine, to be exchanged, to be
made without delay agreeable to a special order from his Excellen-
cy, Major Genl. Immediate and exact returns to be made to the
commanding officer here, in order that the same may be transmitted
to him, of the. stores of every sort, particularly of rum, wine &
sugar, shipped by the galleys or other vessels or sent by any other
conveyance for the use of the troops on the late expedition, and
also accurate returns of the delivery and expenditure; the particular
vessels and persons to which the stores were delivered are to be
specified in the report. Commissaries are immediately to account
for the money received; to take the oaths of office. All other of-
ficers are ordered to take the oath ordered by Congress imme-
diately. Commissaries of Hospitals are to be exact in accounting
for the reception and expenditure of money. Surgeons are strictly
to attend to their duty; the sick are to be taken care of in the best
manner, and to be accomodated with every thing necessary for their

Colonel and Brigadier General. ijg

recovery, and greatest pains will be taken to detect and punish those
who may presume to misapply any stores or other necessaries given
out for the sick.

Regimental Pay Masters and other officers who have received
money for the recruiting service are immediately to produce vouchers
for the expenditure of the same, and exact pay-rolls of the pay now
due to the soldiers are to be given in.

S. ELBERT, C. C.

B. O.

Headquarters, Sav., 4th August, 1778.
One sub., one sergt. and nineteen rank & file by detail from the
Light Dragoons and the 2d Battalion are to be paraded immediate-
ly and marched to the guard house where they are to act as a
main guard, and extend sentinels at the following places, viz; two
at his Honor, the Governor's, one at the Magazine, one at the
Commandants, one at Major Demeres & one at the Guard House.
The countersign is not to be demanded but of such as in arms.

Sub. i?e-gt. r&f.

Lt. D - - 4

2nd B T I 15

By order of the C. C.,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Sav., 6th Augt., 1778.

Sir: I am commanded to forward to you the enclosed orders of
this day. that they, with the Resolutions of Congress contained in
the same sheet, may be made known to that part of the brigade
under your command. The Commandant is anxious for returns of
the 1st, 3d, & 4th Battalions, specifymg the number of men lost
since the commencement of the late expedition by deaths, desertion,
&c., which I am to request you will send to headquarters as soon
as possible, together with those demanded in the order of the 28th
ulto. I am, with respect, sir,

yr. most obedt. servant.

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Sav., 9th August, 1778.
Parole-D. Estang.

The Light Dragoons are ordered to march as soon as possible
to Ebenezer, and there remain till further orders. The officers

i8o Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

commanding them is to have strict duty done in guarding the maga-
zine of powder or any other public stores which may be deposited
there out of the 2nd Georgia Battalion. A capt. of the day is to
be appointed, one part of whose duty it will be particularly to
attend to the sick in the hospital.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Sav., loth August, 1778.

Parole-King Louis.

A sergt. and six privates, without arms, are to attend the hospi-
tal, and are to be relieved weekly. The sergt. will receive orders
from Doctor Brydie, and is to be answerable for the due execu-
tion of them.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

Adjt. Lowe, of the third Battalion, having resigned his commis-
sion, is no longer to be considered as an officer in the Continental
Army.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Savannah, nth Augt., '78.
A court of inquiry, consisting of a Field Officer, as president, and
six other commissioned officers, to sit at some convenient place
immediately to inquire into a charge exhibited against Capt. Scott
of the Light Dragoons by Capt. Fowlkes, for gaming. Major Por-
ter, prest. of this court.

By order of the C. C.

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

Complaint has been made that the soldiers have lately killed a
number of hogs belonging to the inhabitants of the town. The Prac-
tice is absolutely forbid, and any soldier found guilty of it in future
must be expected to be brought to a court-martial for disobedience

Colonel and Brigadier General. i8i

of orders. This order is to be read to each corps in town, company
by company. Lists of the non-commissioned officers & privates in
each corps are to be made to the Clothier Genl. immediately, that
the necessary clothing may be ascertained.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Sav., 12th Augt., 1778.
Parole- York-Town.

A genl. court-martial, to sit at some convenient place to-morrow
morning, at 9 o,clock, for the trial of Nathaniel Hooton and Wm.
Wood of the Light Dragoons for deserting to the enemy and be-
ing taken in arms against this state. Lt. Colo. Harris as president
and 12 other members to compose this court.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

After Orders.

Headquarters, Sav., 12th August, 1778.
The court of inquiry ordered yesterday to inquire into the con-
duct of Capt. Scott of the Light Dragoons have found him guilty of
the crime alleged against him, and as it appears by the information
given the court by Capt. Fowlkes, that Capt. Walls of the third
Battalion is equally guilty, the genl. court-martial, ordered to sit
to-morrow morning are to try the said Capts. Scott & Wall, for
disobedience of orders in gaming. The court of inquiry is dissolved.

By order of the C. C.

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Genl. Orders.

Headquarters, Sav., 13th August, 1778.
Parole-Stiben.*

The genl. court-martial now sitting are ordered to try all prison-
ers in charge whose crimes are cognizable by them; by accts., just
received, there is reason to expect that the State will very shortly be
invaded by a body of Indians. All ofificcrs absent from their corps are
ordered to join them immediately. No more furloughs are to be
granted, and such as have already obtained them, who are to be
found, are to be detained till further orders.

By order of the C. C.

JNO. HAB., B. M.

*Steuben. (?)

i82 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

Head qrs., Savannah, 15th Augt., 1778.

Parole-New York.

Lt. Colo. Harris, presidt. of the genl. court-martial now sitting,
having on acct. of some very particular business, requested leave of
absence; Lt. Colo. Roberts is to take his place.

By order of the C. C

Head qrs., Savannah, 17th Augt., 177S.

Parole-Monmouth.

The genl. court-martial, now sitting, are to try Capt. Fowlkes &
Lieuts. Bryson & Gilmore, of the Light Dragoons, arrested by Capt.
Scott of the same corps; Capt. Scott will exhibit the charges and
produce the evidence against them.

By order of the C. C.

B. O.

Headqtiarters, Sav., 19th August, 1778.
Parole-New York.

The genl. court-martial of which Lt. Colo. Harris, and in his ab-
sence Lt. Colo. Roberts, was presidt. is dissolved. The court having
reported as follows: That Capt. Scott & Fawlkes & Lieuts. Bryson
& Gilmore of the Light Dragoons are severally not guilty of the
charges exhibited against them, and on account of no evidences ap-
pearing against Capt. Wall of the 3rd Battalion, the court are of
opinion he be discharged from his arrest, which being approved the
gentlemen are released from their arrests, and are ordered to join
their respective corps; William Hooton, tried for desertion, having
several circumstances in his favor is acquitted, and ordered to be
released and to join his regiment; William Wood, convicted of de-
serting to the enemy and taking arms against the State, is sentenced
to receive four hundred lashes on his bare back; and James Burns,
for desertion, is also sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare
back. These two sentences being approved are ordered to be inflicted
as soon as possible, and, as Wood and Burns are two notorious of-
fenders, it is hoped their punishments will be given with more than
usual severity.

The first Battalion is ordered to march to the western frontiers,
as soon as possible; those in Savannah must be sent to Augusta im-
mediately, and Lt. Colo. Harris v^ill give the necessary directions

Colonel and Brigadier General. 183

for having the remainder who are to the southward marched after
them. As the laws of self preservation will justify the measures, such
of that battalion who are prisoners of war are ordered to be armed,
for the purpose of securing helpless & innocent women and children
from the scalping knife of the bloody allies of the British King.

By ord.-r of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

B. O.

Headquarters, Sav., 24th August, 1778.

Sergt. George Eimback of the first regt. is appointed Barrack Mas-
ter till further orders; as such he is to be respected; his pay com-
mences the i6th instant. A genl. court-martial to sit at some con-
venient place for the trial of such prisoners in charge whose crimes
are cognizable by them, Major Porter, presidt. Doctor Jno. Waudin
& Adjutant Matthew Roche is appointed to act as Ensigns in the
2d Battalion; as such they are to be respected & obeyed, the first to
take rank from the ist & the other from the 2d inst.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

B. O.

Headquarters, Sav., 28th August, 1778.

Parole-Treutlen.

Agreeable to a notification from the Honble Council that the new
barracks were in a sufficient state to receive the troops in town, it
is ordered that they be immediately removed there; officers of corps
are to apply to the Barrack Master, who will proportion the rooms
agreeable to their strength. No sick are to be kept there, but al-
ways sent to the hospitals taken for the purpose by the surgeons.
Capt. Moore with the Light Infantry of the 2nd Battalion is ordered
to march immediately to Ebenezer and relieve the Light Dragoons
stationed there, who are ordered to march without loss of time to
Augusta. Capt. Moore will take care to have strict duty done in
guarding the Magazine and other military stores deposited there
and to counteract any steps of the enemy which require it, in the
neighborhood of his post. The genl. court-martial of which Major
Porter was president is approved & dissolved. Sergt. Mason of the
Artillery, and Stephen Custis of the first Battn., are to be released

j84 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

from their confinement & to join their corps, being acquitted by
the court. The commanding officer is sorry to dissent from the
opinion of the court-martial in the case of Wm. Slater, who in his
judgment did his duty like a good soldier in refusing to be disarmed
while on his post as a sentinel, and therefore remits the punishment
to which he was sentenced, and orders him to be released; it is not
at all doubted but Slater's misbehavior merited punishment, and it
is recommended to any officer hereafter who may have occasion to
make an example of a soldier on his post as a sentry, to have him
first released. Those prisoners in charge for petty ofifences, whom the
commanding officer of the corps find it too much trouble to have
tried by their own court-martial, are ordered to be released. Six
commissioned officers & a field officer as president are ordered to
inquire into a complaint exhibited of a very serious nature by Lieut.
Willson of the 2nd Battalion; it is hoped the gentlemen will take un-
common pains to inform themselves of every particular & report
fully, as the Commandant is desirous of adjusting every grievance
those under his command may have to complain of, as far as in his
power. Mr. Willson's letter on the subject will be laid before the
court for their information, on applying for that purpose.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HAB., B. M.

B. O.

Parole-Girard.

Headquarters, Sav., 3d Septr., 1778.

Isaac Antrobus, Esqr., is appointed assistant to Philip Box, Esqr..
Commissary of Hospitals, to act in the district of Sunbury; as such
he is to be obeyed & respected till further orders; he draws the
same pay & subsistance as the deputies to the Commissary of Issues.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Savannah, 19th Septr., 1778.

Parole-Laurens.

A subaltern with a sergt. & twelve rank & file to parade imme-
diately for a particular service of about two hours; the men are to
be furnished with twelve rounds each; a magistrate will attend them,
whose orders the officer is to obey.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 185

A court of inquiry of six commissioned ofificers, & a field officer,
president, to sit immediately to inquire into the conduct of Capt.
Mosby & Lieut. Strother, arrested for neglect of duty.

As there is sufficient room in the new barracks to contain all the
troops in town, none are to be suffered to remain elsewhere, except
those in the hospital. In future the rolls are to be called over every
night at tattoo beat, in the presence of the officer of the day, who
is to make a report in writing the next morning to the commanding
officers of the difft. corps of those present and likewise of those ab-
sent, ;lio.ving the cause of absence; and after tattoo-beat any soldier
found out of the limits of his barracks is to be sent to the guard
house.

Headquarters, Savannah, 21st Septemr., 1778.
Parole-Telfair.

The court of inquiry ordered to sit on Capt. Mosby & Lt. Strother,
arrested for neglect of duty, after having made full inquiry into the
matter, have reported as their opinion that they are not guilty of
the charges brought against them; they are therefore released from
their arrest, and ordered to join their regiment.

Headquarters, Savannah, 30th Sept., 177S.
Parole-Sullivan.

Lieut. Strother of the Second Battalion having resigned his com-
mission is no longer to be obeyed as a Continental Officer.

A general court-martial is ordered to sit immediately for the trial
of all prisoners in charge whose crimes are cognizable by them.

Major Roman is ordered to make an immediate return of what
Continental Artillery, ammunition, and other stores, are in the State,
and where deposited. The Deputy Qr. Master General is likewise
ordered to make returns of every thmg belonging to the Continent
which is in his charge.

The Deputy Commissary Gene.-al of Purchases, and all others
who furnished stores, particularly rum, wine & sugar for the Conti-
nental Troops on the late southern expedition, are ordered to make
returns of the same, specifying to whom they were delivered and
by what conveyance sent, and the Deputy Commissary General of
Issues must produce returns of the expenditure of all stores which
came into his or the hands of any of his deputies on the aforesaid
expedition, and an account of what was returned, and what remains

i86 Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

on hand. Former orders, similar to this, having been paid no respect
to by some, the Commanding Officer in justice to himself will be
obliged to make examples of those who may disobey these orders.

Orders referred to after that of the 3d instant.

Head qrs.. Savannah, 7th Septr., 1778.

Parole-Redress.

The Dep. Commy. Gen. of Issues is ordered to settle up the back
rations that were stopped by order of Major Gen. Howe, in doing
which he is strictly ordered to take particular care that there are
no abuses.

Savannah, ist October, 1778.
A capt., two subalterns, 3 sergts, and thirty rank & file to march
immediately with three days' provisions of bacon & biscuit with 40
rounds ammunition each; the Officer commanding the party will re-
ceive his orders by calling on the Brigade Major.

Headquarters, Savannah, 2d October, 177S.
Parole-Hancock.

The general court-martial of which Major Porter was president
is approved & dissolved.

Allen Bathurst, Joseph Terry, Charles Danierson & Henry Rae.
tried by a general court-martial of suffering prisoners to make their
escape from the gaol & guard house while they were on duty, have
been found not guilty of the charge exhibited against them; they are
ordered to be released.

Lieutenant Howe is appointed Quarter Master to the Second Bat-
talion; as such he is to be obeyed & respected.

Headquarters, Savannah, 7th October, 1778.
Parole-Adams.

The Commanding Officer at Sunbnry is ordered to forward im-
mediately, under guard to Ogeechie Ferry, all the prisoners of war
in his charge, with those that may be on board the Galley command-
ed by Captain Braddock; a party of soldiers witli a subaltern officer
are ordered to march to the above ferry on Friday mot ning. & there
remain till the prisoners arrive, who they are to receive & safely

Colonel and Brigadier General. 187

conduct to this place A capt., two sabalterns, three sergts., a drum
& fife & thirty rank & file are to be immediately marched on board
the Washington galley, & with her proceed to Tybee, & there re-
main till the Cartel vessel proceed to sea, each man to be furnished
with 36 rounds ammunition.

Headquarters, Savannah, the 8th October, 1778.

Parole-Tiverton.

A general court-martial is to be immediately convened at some
convenient place for the trial of Arthur Watts, a private of the 2nd
Battalion, for desertion, Sergt. Hardwick of the same corps will
furnish the, evidence. Lieut. Col. Roberts, president of this court.
By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABERSHAM, B. M.

Headquarters, Savannah, 17th Octr., 1778.
Parole-Unanimity.

The Deputy Clothier General is to take immediate steps to have
all the troops served with clothing, blankets, &c., such as they are
entitled to receive.

The Deputy Quarter Master General is ordered to have every
thing requisite for the army in his department ready by Thursday
next, on which day it will take the field.

All ofificers & soldiers absent from their corps, on furlough or
otherwise, are ordered to join the same immediately no excuse will
be admitted from officers whose men may be deficient in arms, ac-
coutrements or ammunition, as they have had full time to repair any
loss or damage since the last expedition. Surgeons are to report to
the Commanding Officer such men as are unfit for duty; all who are
not included in such reports must be marched with their corps at
the peril of their officer who commands.

Pay-Masters may expect the most rigorous treatment, from whose
neglect the men may have cause to complain of want of pay when
ordered to march.

Headquarters, Savannah, 24th Oct., 1778.

Parole-Lincoln.

All the troops in town fit for duty are ordered to be paraded
precisely at four o'clock this afternoon, when they will be reviewed.
Major Roman will parade his Artillery, with the four pieces intended
to march with the troops to the westward.

/SS Order Book of Samuel Elbert.

As ir li expected that a verj' considerabie army wiii be employed
in this State in a little time, and in consequence of orders just re-
ceived from his Excellency. Major Gen. Howe, the Deputy Commis-
saries General of Purchases & Issues are ordered to have magazines
of every species of provisions stored at Savannah, Sunbnry and
Augusta. And for this ptirpose they are empowered to employ as
many hands as are necessary at those respective places. .A. large
quantity of barreled pork, and wheat flour, will be particularly want-
ed, which cant be done without. They are therefore to pay atten-
tion to this order, as no excuse can be received for a neglect there-
of. The Brigade Major is ordered to furnish the Dep. Commissaries
General of Purchases &: Issues with certified copies of the above
order.

John Dufort Chevalier Devaleile is appointed to act as Second
Lieutenant of CapL Dufau's company of .\rtillery. until the plea-
sure of the State or of Congress be known, in the room of LieuL
Sutton, resigned.

After Orders.

The Main Guard is to be augmented to a capt. two subalterns,
three sergts. a dram & fife and thirtj- rank & file, to be taken by de-
tail from the several corps: the Captain of the Guard is to receive
his orders from the officer of the day.

Head qrs.. Savannah, the 27th October, 1778.
Parole-Red-bank.

A captain, a subaltern, two sergts. a drum & fife & 25 rank &
file are immediately to be marched on board the Galley going to
Tybee, there to do the duty of marines; Major Roman will furnish
as many of the corps of Artillery as he can spare for this command,
the remainder are to be taken from the 2nd Battalion

The two Companies of Light Infantry of the 3d & 4th Battalions,
together with all those of the ist Battalion and Light Dragoons in
Town, are to march immediately to .Augusta.

Head qrs., iava:.r...:., iLc 28th October, 1778.
Parole-Saratoga.

.A. court of inquiry is to sit at some convenient place immediately,
consisting of a Field Officer, as president, and six other Commiss.
Officers, to determine a dispute, concerning rank, between Capts.
DeKeyser & Scott of the Light Dragoons.
By order of the C. C,

; HABM. B M.

Colonel and Brigadier General. 189

Head qrs., Savannah, the 30th October, 1778.

Parole-Howe.

The court of inquiry ordered the 28th instant to determine a dis-
pute, concerning rank, between Capts. DeKeyser & Scott, having
been tender in giving their opinions, on account of the absence of
Capt. DeKeyser, it is ordered that Capt. Scott do the duty of
Major of the Light Dragoons, and that he be respected and obeyed
as such 'till the arrival of Capt. DeKeyser, and a hearing be had
in the matter. This court is dissolved.

Another court of Officers is immediately to sit, a Field Officer
president, on the conduct of Mr. DeTard, Surgeon's mate of the
4th Battn., charged by Col. White with neglect of duty, who will
produce the evidence.

By order of the C. C,

JNO. HABM., B. M.

Head qrs., Savannah, the 2nd Novr., 1778.
Parole-Spain.

A court of Officers is to sit immediately, at some convenient
place, to inquire into a complaint lodged with the Commandant by
Major Roman, of the Corps of Artillery, against James Rae, Esqr.,
Commissary Gen. of Issues. This court is to consist of a Field Of-
ficer, as president, and six other officers of inferior rank.
By order of the C. C,

JOHN HABM., B. M.

Headquarters, Savannah, 6th Novemr., 1778.
Parole-Rutledge.

A committee of three Field Officers are ordered to sit at some
convenient place to examine some accounts Major Roman will pro-
duce against the public, which, if they find right, they are to certify.

Headquarters, Savannah, 7th Novemr., 1778.
Parole-Lownde s.

It having been represented that in consequence of orders for is-
suing back rations to the Officers, the demand is so considerable
that it greatly interferes with the orders of the 24th October, for
establishing magazines of provisions in this State; in order, there-
fore, to prevent the inconvenience which must arise from a con-
tinuance of the same, the Dep. Commissary General of Issues is

/JK> Order Book of Samuel Elbert,

ordered to certify to each person the number of rations due since
the 15th of December last, which certificate shall be taken as suffi-
cient voucher to the Dep. Commy. Gen. of Purchases, who is em-
powered upon such certificate to pay the sum of three shillings &
six pence, Georgia Currency, for each ration so due and owing, tak-
ing the Officers receipt on the back thereof for the same. Capt.
Elisha Miller having, at his own expense, and at the particular re-
quest of Col. Stirk (there being no Commissary present), furnished
a detachment of Continental Troops under Colo. Stirk's command
with provisions for a considerable time, he is directed to lodge
in the hands of the Dep. Commy. Gen. of Issues proper returns
and vouchers for the number of rations served out, who will give
him a certificate for the same, specifying the time it was served
out, on which certificate the Dep. Commy. Gen. of Purchases is
ordered to pay him the price that ration then bore.
By order of the C. C,

J. H., B. M.

Headquarters, Savannah, 8th Novemr., 177S.

Parole-Parsons.

A committee of three Field Officers are ordered to sit imme-
diately and examine the accounts Geo. Walton, Esqr., of Virginia,
will lay before them, against the Continent, which they are to cer-
tify, after striking out such articles thereon as don't appear to them
to be proper.

Headquarters, Savh., loth Novr., 177S.

Parole-Attention.

John Campbell, Gentn., is appointed to act as Second Lieut, in
the first Continental Company of Artillery in this State, until the
pleasure of Congress or of the State be known. He takes rank as
such from the first of October last.

Headquarters, Savannah, nth Novr., 1778.
Parole-White.

The Commissaries General of Purchases & Issues are ordered to
pay particular attention to the orders of the seventh instant, and to
settle all matters of the like nature which may come before them,
in the manner therein set forth.

Colonel and Brigadier General. igt

Colo. Elbert being appointed by the Honbl. the House of As-
sembly to go to So. Carolina to negotiate with that State on affairs
of great importance to these States, find it necessary to withdraw
from the business of the army for a few days. The command, there-
fore, devolves on Colo. White till further orders.

In Congress, 8 January, 1780.

Resolved, that the four Georgia Regiments be reformed and no
more officers retained in service than are necessary for two regi-
ments.

That the Commanding Officer of the Southern Army establish
some equitable rule for the arrangement of the said Officers, and
such as are left out of the arrangement be considered as super-
numeries, agreeably to the rules adopted in the main army.

That such of the Officers as are retained in service shall be em-
ployed until the regiments can be recruited in such way as the
Commanding Officer shall deem most conducive to the public in-
terest.

That the Georgia Officers of the Gallies & of the Light Dragoons
who are on Continental Establishment be considered as super-
numeries.

Extract from the minutes. CHAS. THOMPSON, Secy.

Copy.

LETTER BOOK

OF

Governor Samuel Elbert,

FROiM

JANUARY, iy85, to NOVEMBER, lySS.

LETTER BOOK

OF

GOVERNOR SAMUEL ELBERT,
From January, 1785, to November, 1785.

Council Chamber, Savh., i6th Feby., 1785.

To Colonel John Baker, or Officer Commanding the Liberty
County Militia.

Sir: I have the honor to enclose you copies of an information
received this day, and of a resolve of the Honorable the House of
Assembly thereon.

I am instructed by the Executive Council to request that you
will immediately, on the receipt of this letter, take the most ef-
fectual means to secure the villains who are at this time assembled
between St. Ilia and St. Marys Rivers, with a number of negroes,
horses & other property supposed to have been stolen from the
Citizens of these States.

The number of the banditti assembled as above are supposed to
be about twenty-five men, and probably a few more will join them,
as the Spaniards in East Florida ate making severe example of
all such who fall into their hands, and I think it will be a happy
circumstance if you can fall in with them, as it will nearly put a
stop to any further trouble to this State from that quarter.

Captain Cone. Major Carr, and a few more voluntiers from this
place, will immediately join you on' this service they are now pre-
paring for the purpose.

You will please make an exact return of the men employed on
this expedition, with every expense attending the same, in order
that the necessary provision may be made for the payment thereof,
agreeable to a resolution of the Assembly.

I most heartily wish success to the enterprise, and am, with senti-
ments of esteem and regard, Dear Sir,

Your most obedt. servt.,

S. E.

/p<J Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

From Govr. Elbert.

To George Walton, Esquire, Wilkes County.

Savh., March loth, 1785.

Sir: I received your letter of the 2nd Instant, covering one from
John Crutchfield with a talk from the Cherokees, and I send under
cover to you a letter to Mr. Crutchfield, with an answer inclosed,
which I beg you will forward to him.

It is a pity that the people on our Frontiers will behave so cruel-
ly towards those poor Savages; not contented with having their
lands, but to rob, beat and abuse them likewise, is enough to bring
down divine vengeance on their heads. Did they but reflect that
the blood of some poor women & children, who might suffer in
consequence of such conduct, will undoubtedly lay at their doors,
it would surely deter them, and I think it is the duty of every good
citizen to make severe example of such notorious ofifenders, if by
any means it can be done. As we are to have a talk some time in
the Spring with the Creeks I think it will be best to have the
Cherokees at the same time. I am. Sir,

Your very obedt. servt.,

S. E.

Letter to Mr. John Crutchfield, Cherokees.

Savannah, March loth, 1785.

Sir: Inclosed is a short talk in answer to that which I received
under cover from Mr. Walton, t^o the Kings. Head Men and
Warriors of the twelve Cherokee towns. I wish you could have at-
tended yourself as I could have been better informed what the In-
dians really wish, by asking many questions of you.

It appears that their principal complaint is against a set of out
layers who rob, beat and abuse them. I wish that some of the white
people in the Nation could contrive to be present when these mat-
ters are transacted, so as to be able to give evidence against such
villains on their being prosecuted; provided some white men were
present the Indians should tie and bring them to the nearest Jus-
tice of the Peace, when on the evidence of the white person they
could be committed to gaol; the Inhabitants in general would be
glad to see this done, and it would serve to convince the Indians
that it was not their wish to ill-use or oppress them. Pray explain
these matters, and tell the Indians that as we are to have a meeting
some time this Spring with some of the Creeks about establishing
a boundary line. I will let them know, that they can come down
at the same time, when we will hear all their talks, and if in our

From Januaiy, 178^, to Noventber, 1785. igj

power redress their grievances, and if a proper person can be had
he will be empowered to superintend and give & receive talks in
behalf of this State. I am, Sir,

Yr. obedt. servt.,

S. ELBERT.

The following talk was sent with the foregoing Letters:

To the Kings, Head Men and Warriors of the twelve towns in
the Cherokee Nation called Tazontee, Sautee, Newcussee, Corwee,
Naucuee, Waltoger, Tomotla, Tallogua, Nottolee, Cooser, Bufferter,
and the Frogtown:

Friends and Brothers: I rec3ivcd the talk you sent me, by our
beloved friend, Mr. John Crutchfield, with a string of beads which
you sent a token of your friendship & respect to me and the people
of Georgia. The beloved talk which you sent to me by him I re-
ceived with an open heart which I always had for my friends &
Brothers, the Cherokees, ever since we took each other by the hand
in Augusta. I well remember at the time you gave us some land
for our Warriors and People to sit down upon after they had beat
the English King and his Soldiers. We promised to be ready at
all times to hear your talks and to redress your grievances as much
as we had power to do. I am sorry if you have anything to com-
plain of at present; they must be bad men indeed who trouble you;
their numbers must be very small as I know all the great men and
Warriors in Georgia love their friends & Brothers, the Cherokees,
and wont suffer them to be hurt; and if they can find out who it
is that steal your horses & skins, & beat and abuse you in the
Woods, they will make them suffer for it. I wish you could get some
of our white men, who you know, as witnesses, who understand how
to read in our books, to come and tell me the names of any of
the bad people who oppress you, and I will take care to make ex-
amples of them. We all remember the line that was to be marked,
between you & us, and none of our people will be suffered to go
over it, & as we intend to have a talk with the Creek people this
summer about the line between them & us, we will take the same
time to meet you, in order that you may tell us what you want to
say. When the time is fixed upon I will send a talk and let you
know, and then we will agree about who shall be appointed to super-
intend and give talks from Georgia and your Nation.

ig8 Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

To the Kings, Head Men & Warriors of the Creek Nation.

Friends and Brothers: The talk which you sent in June last to
my Brother, our late Governor, was laid by him before the Head
Men of this State at their last meeting; it lay a long time open on
the table; they gave it a full consideration and have desired me to
send this talk to you in their names in answer thereto, and to as-
sure you that they wish to hold you by the hand and keep the path
open and straight between our two Countries, and that the chain
of friendship should be made brighter than ever and hold so fast
that it might never again be tarnished.

Friends: The War is now over, we have sheathed our swords
and are at peace with all the World; you gave us land for our War-
riors to rest upon, and we are satisfied we have opened a trade with
you and will send as many goods to your Nation as you stand in
need of. ^

Brothers, attend: When our Head Men were considering your
talk, they found that paper alone was not sufficient to mark the
Line on, between us, to prevent bad people from going over it, and
therefore to convince you of their sincerity and good intentions,
they directed me to choose three beloved Men on our part and to
request that you will choose beloved Men on your part, to meet
on the very ground and there hold a talk together and set up posts
and mark trees and stones and drink out of the waters that lay on
the line which you shall agree upon to be the boundary between
you and us, and when this is done, no Land on your side of that
Line shall be touched by our people on any pretence whatever, and
if any should have been marked on the trees blazed it shall go for
nothing; and those who did it, if we can find them out, shall be made
example of.

Friends and Brothers: Let me intreat that you open your ears
to this talk, and that you will as soon as convenient appoint beloved
Men and fix a day and place where our beloved Men, which I have
already appointed, shall meet with ycurs to proceed on this busi-
ness, which I pray the great Master of Breath to smile upon, and
grant that it may be a means of cementing our friendship and
preventing the spilling of blood.

House of Assembly, Feby. 7th, 1785.

Resolved, that Mr. Wood be called upon by his Honor, the Gover-
nor, to deliver any books or papers relating to public accounts,
which may be in his possession.

Extract from the minutes.

JOHN WILKINSON, C. G. A.
(Copy.)

Front January, 1785, to November, 1785. tgg

Savannah, 30th March, 1785.
To Joseph Wood, Esquire.

Sir: In pursuance of the above extract from the Journals of
the Honl. House of Assembly, I must request the favor that you
will be kind enough to deliver such books, or papers, relating to
public accounts which may be in your possession, to John Wereat.
Esquire, public Auditor. Some matters respecting the accounts of
the Army makes it necessary that this should be done as imme-
diately as possible. I have the honor to be, Sir,

Your very obedt. servt.,

S. E.

House of Assembly, Feby. 7th, 1785.

Resolved. That his Honor, the Governor, be empowered to order
a box of books, and other State documents, now in Charleston at
the house of Doctor Jones, to Savannah, and that the same be
deposited in the ofifice of the Auditor General. And the said Auditor
is hereby required and directed to examine the said books, and
make the necessary entries in the books of the said Auditor.

Extract from the minutes.

JOHN WILKINSON, C. G. A.

(Copy.)

To the Honl. Noble Wimberly Jones, Esqr., Charleston.

Savannah, 30th March, 1785.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit you a resolve of the Honor-
able House of Assembly of the 7th last February, agreeable to
which I request the favor that you will forward the box of books
and other State documents in your possession either by Captain
Ponder or Dickenson, taking their receipt for the safe delivery
here; the freight I will order payment of. I have the honor to be,
with the most perfect esteem and regard, Sir.

Your very obedt. servt.,

S. E.

To His Excellency, the Governor of East Florida.

Savannah, State of Georgia, 20th, Jany., 1785.

Sir: I have the honor to address your Excellency by the bearers,
Colonel Milledge and Mr. O'Sullivan, both citizens of this State,
who come to your Province for the purpose of recovering their
property, detained by some of the British subjects in East Florida.

Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

I beg leave to recommend those gentlemen to your Excellency's
particular attention and will be happy in an opportunity of render-
ing service to any of the Subjects of his most Catholic Majesty.
I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect,

Your Excellency's most obedt servt.,

S. E.

To His Excellency, the Governor of So. Carolina.

Savannah, Feby. I2th, 1785.

Sir: I have the honor to receive by express your Excellency's
letter of the 4th Inst., which with its inclosures was immediately
laid before our Legislature, and I have now the pleasure to trans-
mit you their resolutions thereon.

At the request of the gentlemen who are appointed Commiss-
ioners on the part of the State on this business, I must beg the
favor that your Excellency will inform those gentlemen, who may
be chosen by your Legislature, that they will, if agreeable, meet
them at Ebenezer or Purysburgh, on the tenth of March next.

I flatter myself that the difference between the two States will
shortly terminate to their mutual satisfaction.

I have the honor to be. Your Excellency's mo. obt.,

S. E.

To His Excellency^ the Governor of Et. Florida.

Savannah, 8th March, 1785.

Sir: I was honored by the receipt of your Excellency's letter
of Feb. 7 last, by Colo. Milledge & Mr. O'Sullivan. Please accept
my thanks for your friendship to those gentlemen.

The Honorable Major General Greene, who does me the honor
to be the bearer of this letter, I beg leave to introduce to your
Excellency. This gentlemen's character is so well known that it
is unnecessary for me to say anything to induce your Excellency
to pay that attention to him which must be due to a person of his
distinguished merit.

The General has a valuable estate on the Island of Cumberland,
which he goes to take a view of, and intends visiting your pro-
vince before his return.

I have the to be, &;c.,

S. E.

From January, 178^, to November, 17S5.

To His Excellency, the Governor of East Florida.

Savannah, March Sth, 1785.
Sir: I had the honor to address your Excellency of this date
by the Honorable Major General Greene.

Permit me to recommend to your Excellency's friendly & polite
attention the bearer of this letter, Colonel Hawkins, a citizen of
this State and late a Delegate to the Congress of the United States
of America, from North Carolina, and who accompanies the General
on a visit to your Province.

I have the honor to be, &c.,

S. E.

To His Excellency, the Governor of So. Carolina.

Savannah, 28th Feby., 1785.
Sir: The letter which I had the honor to receive from your
Excellency by express, inclosing the resolutions of 21st & 22nd In-
stant of both branches of your Legislature, I will lay before the
Legislature of this State immediately on their next meeting.

I have the honor to be, &;c.,
S. E.

His Excellency, Richard Henry Lee, Esqr., President of Congress.

Savannah, 5th May, 1785.
Sir: Your letters of the 24th December and 21st Jany last I had
the honor to receive a few days after the Assembly had adjourned.
They shall be laid before our Legislature immediately on their next
meeting, and I rest satisfied that such measures will then be taken
as may fully answer the wish of Congress.

This letter will be handed your Excellency by Major Habersham
and Mr. Baldwin, two of the Delegates to Congress from this State.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

The Honble. William Houstoun, Esquire, Delegate to Congress
from the State of Georgia. New York.

Savannah, 5th May, 1785.
Sir: Your letters of the 21st January & Sth March I have had
the honor to receive. I have not the least doubt but our Legisla-
ture at their next meeting will fully come into the 5 per cent, im-
post recommended by Congress, and when this measure takes place

202 Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

I flatter myself the situation of a Georgia Delegate at Congress
will be more agreeable than yours at present appears to be; in
the mean time Major Habersham and Mr. Baldwin have generous-
ly undertaken to ease you of part of your present burthen.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

The Honble. John Jay, Esquire, Secretary of Foreign Affairs,
New York.

Savh., 5th May, 1785.

Sir: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 29th last
January which will be laid before the Legislature of this State
when they next meet.

Sensible of the influence of our domestic or our foreign affairs,
it shall be my study to afford you, from time to time, such informa-
tion on this head as may be deemed necessary for your department.

I have directed the State Secretary to prepare a copy of our
Laws which shall be forwarded to you by next opportunity, should
they be too late for the present.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
< S. E.

The Honbl. Major General, The Baron De Steuben, at New York.

Savannah, sth May, 1785.

Dear Sir: From the delay ocasioned by the post-office, it was
but last February that I had the honor to receive your letter of
the 14th October.

The eminent services which you have rendered this Country does
not leave a doubt with me but ere this Congress have fully come
up to your wishes.

This letter will be handed you by Major Habersham and Mr. Bald-
win, Delegates to Congress from this State, and will serve to make
you acquainted with those gentlemen to whom I have communicated
the contents of your letter. I have their promise that they will most
readily concur in any measure that may tend to your advantage.

That the remainder of your days may be passed in this Land of
Liberty with ease and happiness is the sincere wish of. My dear
Baron,

Your mo. obt.,
'i S. E.

FroM January, 1785, to November, 1785. 203

P. S. To the Honble. Wm. Houstoun's letter of the 5th inst.

All the money that it has been in the power of the executive
to collect from the ways and means pointed out by the Legislature
during their last session, has been paid into the hands of Major
Habersham and Mr. Baldwin, to be equally divided between you
and them. I am hopeful the sum tho' small will answer your im-
mediate demands, and you, with those gentlemen, may rest assured
that I shall be attentive in collecting and forwarding to you a
further sum as soon as it can possibly be collected.

Yours, &c.,
S. E.

The Honl. Monsieur De la Forest, Consul to His Most Chris-
tian Majesty, Charleston.

Savannah i6th May, 1785.

Sir: I delayed answering your letter of the 23rd March in hopes
that ere this it would have been in my power to forward the grants
for the land, which our Legislature at their last meeting confirmed
to His Excellency, the Count D'Estaing, together with a copy of
the act of naturalizing and making a free citizen of this State
that much esteemed great man. The delay in our public officers is
the sole cause of their not being now sent, but you may rest as-
sured that as soon as I can have them properly authenticated they
shall be forwarded to you. The letter respecting the affair of Mr.
Bayard was, as soon as received, laid before the Assembly which
the great hurry of business they were engaged in prevented their
deciding on.

I have the honor to be with great respect. Sir,

Yours, &c.,

S. E.

To Alexander Sample, Esquire, Cumberland Island.

Savannah, i6th May, 1785.

Sir: I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 8th In-
stant by Mr. Pengree, and thank you for the information therein
contained.

You will be informed by Mr. Osborne ere the receipt of this of
your appointment of Magistrate to the Southern Counties of this
State, and under this authority I flatter myself that you and him

204 Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

will be able to take such measures as will effectually rid you of the
rest of villains who infest your part of this State.

I much approve of the step you have taken, and wish it may be in
3'our power to augment the party to a sufficient number, under a
prudent and determined leader, to co-operate with any troops
Governor Dezespedes may order on that service, and I have no
doubt but our Legislature will provide for any reasonable expense
attending it.

George Armstrong I take to be the person who was lately under
sentence of death in this State for forgery, and reprieved by the
Legislature, and transported under the pains of forfeiting his life
if ever he returned within its limits.

Mr. Pengree will deliver this to you. I am happy when such char-
acters (who are an acquisition) come into our country, it will be
my study, and as he is so near you it will be in your power, to af-
ford him every countenance and support possible.

Please to keep me regularly informed of the situation of affairs
in your district.

I have the honor to be, &ca.,

S. E.

To Colonel John Baker, in Sunbury.

Savannah, i6rh May, 1785.

Dear Sir: The bearer of this letter, William Pengree, Esquire,
I beg leave to introduce to your acquaintance; he is a gentleman
of character and property who has long been a resident or in East
Florida and about settling in our State. General Green has recom-
mended him very particularly <^o me. As this gentleman must for
some time be an alien, it is necessary for him to fall on some mode
of securing a piece of vacant land on which to fix himself without
a risque of it being taken from him, and I have referred him to
you for advice on this head.

I have information of a gang of plunderers between St. Marys
& St. Johns who have connections in this State, which makes it
necessary to have something immediately done to prevent their be-
coming more formidable. I therefore wish to renew my former or-
ders to you to detach a party if possible to make short work with
them. Mr. Pengree can give j'ou the particulars; and I am, vdth
esteem & regard. Dear Sir,

Yours, &c.,

S. E.

From January, 1785, to November, 1785. 205

To the Delegates from the State of Georgia in Congress.

Savannah, i8th May, 1785.

Dear Sirs: The sudden departure of Mr. Peirce, the bearer of
this letter, scarcely affords me sufficient time to let you know that
by an express received last night from the Creek Country I have
information that the Americans and Spaniards on the Mississippi
have had two skirmishes, in consequence of which the latter have
reinforced their posts up that river with twelve hundred men, and
that the Americans had or were collecting in force, when it was
expected something serious would take place. I am in hopes, as
the accounts have come from the Indians, that they might be void
of foundation; I shall, however, take every step to get the truth and
give you further advice thereon. I shall forward you a bill for one
hundred & fifty pounds in a few days, and you may be fully satis-
fied that every means in my power shall be used to keep you sup-
plied.

I have the honor to be, &c..

To William Clark, Esquire, Mercht. Beards Bluff, Alatamaha.

Savannah, 20th May, 1785.

Dear Sir: Your letter, inclosing several others from the Creek
Nation, I received from Mr. Calowell Easteas, the express, who
will deliver this to you, and I am instructed by the Council to re-
quest that you will satisfy him for his trouble; we have fixed no
price with him here as it is judged you can do much better; you will
likewise please to pay Mr. Durouzaux thirty-five pounds, taking a re-
ceipt for each, particularly mentioning for what service, and when-
ever you are pleased to apply I will give you a draft on the Trea-
sury for the whole amount.

The Council have appointed Mr. Durozaux Interpreter for the
State in the Creek Nation, and I have no doubt from the recom-
mendations we have had of him but he will do us justice.

We have fixed as the most proper place for the meeting the
Scull Shoals on the Oconie River, and unless McGilvary does I
see nothing to prevent the business terminating to the satisfaction
of both parties; our Commissioners won't go to the Nation, and
as the running the Line is more the advantage to the Indians than
to ourselves, they need not expect great presents, and therefore
'tis expected that but few will attend.

I think it possible but should you get proper accounts of any
difference between the Americans and Spaniards on the Mississippi,
I beg you will give me immediately information of it

I am, &c..

2o6 Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

P. S. Since writing the above Mr. Cadwell Eastes has requested
an order on Mr. Clay's store for the last service, which I gave him;
you therefore have only to settle with for the first service agree-
able to your engagements.

To the Honl. Benjamin Hawkins, Esqr., Charleston.

Savannah, June 3rd, 1785.

Sir: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 27th May
by Mr. Read. I received a few days since official information from
Congress of their appointment of Commissioners to treat with the
Cherokees and all the Indians south of them, and think Georgia
particularly fortunate in having one of her citizens at the head of
that business, in which she is so much interested, especially as
Congress did not intend to place her in quite so good a footing as
the other States who are in some degree concerned. I had accounts
from the Creek Nation the other day; they have not yet agreed
on a time for meeting the Commissioners from our State; when
they do I shall inform you of it and will be glad to have your opin-
ion whether the appointment from Congress will interfere with your
proceeding on the business as one of our Commissioners. I be-
lieve Genl. Mcintosh will decline serving.

I have the honor to be, with much esteem & regard, &c.

To the Honl. Benjamin Hawkins, Esqr, Charleston.

Savannah, June 9th 1785.

Sir: I did myself the honor of writing you on the 3rd Inst.,
which I have no doubt ere this you have received; since then I
have information that the Deputies from the Creek Nation for
holding a treaty with the Commissioners appointed on behalf of the
State, to establish a boundary line between them and us, are on their
way down and may be expected in Savannah in five or six days
from this.

Inclosed is an extract from the minutes of Council of this day.
and also of a letter received from Mr. Durouzeaux, Indian Inter-
preter, which are forwarded by express in hopes that you will not
be so far engaged in other business as to prevent your immediate
attendance on the present occasion. I have the honor to be with
much esteem. Sir,

Your mo. obt.,

S. E.

From January, 1785, to November, 1785. 207

To Colonel Elijah Clarke, Wilkes County.

Savannah, June 9th, 1785.

Sir: Colonel Hawkins promised to inform you that the Council
had made choice of you as one of the Commissioners for holding
a treaty with the Creek Indians in order to establish a boundary
between them and the State agreeable to the act of Assembly pass-
ed the 22nd February last for the purpose.

Inclosed are several papers which will give you further informa-
tion on that head.

Very unexpectedly I received intelligence yesterday that the De-
puties from the Indian Nation would be at Beards Blufif on the
nth Inst, with a request that we would have provisions ready for
them. This being a matter entirely out of our power, and no means
of transporting the necessary articles for the Treaty to that place,
induced the Council to give directions to bring them directly to
Savannah, where I expect they will be in the course of five or six
days, and therefore send this per express to request that you will
not fail of giving immediate attendance here; it is a business of
the first consequence to the State, and should not be delayed, espec-
ially as the Commissioners from Congress will shortly be on the
same errand, and if we get thro' with this before they commence,
it may be a capital point gained.

Should it, unfortunately, so happen that you can't attend, I beg
you will send me word by express, in order that another may be
appointed in your stead.

I have the honor to be, with esteem & regard. Sir,

Yours, &c.,

To the Honorable William Houstoun, John Habersham & Abra-
ham Baldwin, Esquires, Delegates to Congress from the State of
Georgia, New York.

Savannah, 9th June, 1785.

Gentlemen: My last letter to you was of i8th last month. Since
then I have not had any further accounts from the Mississippi.

The Tallisee King and the Fat King with a few other, in behalf
of their Nation, will be in town in a few days, to meet our Com-
missioners, and I am in hopes that the boundary line between us
and the Indians will be fixed before the Commissioners appointed
by Congress can enter upon their business. How far the latter may
afifect Georgia is at present uncertain, but I think ?he has been
insulted by not having a Commissioner appointed from the State
for treating with the Cherokees, and all other Indians southward
of them, tho' Mr. Houstoun informed Congress at the time how

2o8 Letter Book of Governor Saftiuel Elbert

much she was interested therein. It may not be improper for you
to take up this matter again, and, if it appears necessary, to enter
a general protest against their proceedings in a business in which
we were refused a representation.

Georgia never at any one period stood more in need of a spirited
and firm representation in Congress than at present, and I feel
happy when I reflect that she has there, at this time, gentlemen
who will guard her honor and who dare to vindicate her wrongs.
The conduct of a neighboring State makes it necessary to be watch-
ful; nor do I think that one of you can possibly withdraw while
Congress are sitting.

The Executive adjourn on the 14th to meet in Augusta, the 2Sth
Instant, there to remain for three months. I request that you will
keep me regularly informed of every matter that requires imme-
diate attention, and as you know the expense and disadvantage of
a call of the House, be decided when you write on that subject, as
the whole will depend on the advices we may receive from you;
if you judge it necessary, urge it; if otherwise, say so.

You may rely that I will use every means I can to keep you
fully supplied with cash, and I have now the pleasure to inclose,
to be equally divided amongst you, Joseph Clay, Esqr.'sbill on Cox
and Frazier of Philadelphia for forty-three pounds 15, Sterling, and
also Owens & Thomson's bill on Hugh Newbigging & Co., Phila-
delphia, for one hundred and fifty pounds Sterling, a further sum
will in a few days be remitted you by Mr. Clay, via New York, on
which he advises Major Habersham by this conveyance, to cause
the necessary insurance to be made.

I have the honor to be, with real regard. Gentlemen.

Exchange 43. 15 o Sterling.

Savannah, the 6th May, 1785.

Gentlemen: Thirty days after sight of this my first of exchange,
second and third of the same tenor and date not paid, pay to the
Honl. Jno. Habersham, Esquire, or order, the sum of forty three
pounds, fifteen shillings sterling, for value received from the State
of Georgia, which charge to account as pr. advice from, gentlemen,

Your most obedient servt.,

(Signed) JOSEPH CLAY.

To Messrs. Coxe and Frazier, Merchants, Philadelphia.
(Copy)

From January, 17S5, to November, ijS^. 2og

Exchange 150. Stg. Dollars at 4-8.

Sav., itth June, 17&5.
At forty days sight of this our first of exchange (second and third
of same tenor and date not paid) pay to Messrs. John and William
Wallace, or order, the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds sterling,
dollars at 4-8 value received, which place to account of, gentn.,

Yr. very huml. servt.,
(Signed)

OWENS & THOMSON.

To Messrs. Hugh Newbigging & Co., Merchants, Philadelphia.
(Copy.)

To the Honorable William Houstoun, Esquire, Delegate to Con-
gress from the State of Georgia, New York.

Savannah, 9th June, 1785.

Sir: Your letters of the 14th Feby. & 2nd April I had the honor
to receive, the later on the gth & the former on the 21st last
month. I have also received the Journals of Congress and their
resolutions of 15th March respecting the appointment of Comrs.
to treat with the Cherokees and all other Indians southward of them,
and likewise, which I have caused to be published in the Gazette of
the State, the Proclamation of Congress of the 2nd Feby. and their
resolutions of the 23rd Feby. and 17th March.

It is with justice that you complain of want of information from
the State, which I could not have expected to be the case, as the
House immediately on their appointment of you and choice of
other Delegates, appointed a committee to draw up instructions for
them, whose duty I judge it to be to write to you, and I assure you
that during the time of a long and tedious session, and for a con-
siderable time after their adjournment, I was kept in the dark with
respect any matters you should have been made acquainted with,
and you may depend, sir, that I never had the most distant wish to
make your situation either in Congress or any where else disagree-
able; the sacrifice you have made I am fully sensible of, and I
think your country stands bound in gratitude to make you full and
ample compensation. You will find from my letter to the Delegates
what I have been able to remit by this conveyance, and you may
fully confide in my making every exertion to place you on a re-
spectable footing in Congress, where I hope you will remain, and
with the assistance of your collegues place Georgia once more on
an equal footing with her Sister States.

I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most perfect re-
gard and esteem. Sir, &c.

Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

To the Honorable Major General Mcintosh.

Savannah, June 8th, 1785.

Dear Sir: I have just received information that the Deputies
from the Creek Nation for holding a Treaty with the Commissioners
appointed by the State to ascertain the boundary line between the
Indians and Georgia, are on their way down and will be at Beards
Bluff by the nth Instant.

As you have been named one of the Commissioners, I wish you
as immediately as possible in order to fix on some plan of proceed-
ing.

I have the honor to be. &c.,

To the same.

Savannah, 13th June, 1785.

Sir: I have the honor to mclose you an extract from the minutes
of Council of the 9th instant, and as I expect the Indian Chiefs will
be in Savanh. in a few days will be glad to see you as soon as pos-
sible, in order to have matters put in a proper train for their re-
ception.

I have sent expresses for Colonel Clark & Colo. Hawkins and
have no doubt but they will both be in town in all this week.

I have the honor to be, with much esteem, &c.

To Seth John Cuthbert, Esqr., Public Treasury.

Augusta, July 13th, 1785.

Sir: The inclosed pamphlet, containing a state of the duties
payable by vessels of the United States of America in the ports
of Marseilles, Bayonne, L'Orient, and Dunkirk, has just been re-
ceived from the office of foreign affairs, which I am instructed by
Council to request that you will have published in a manner the
least burthensome to the State; probably the printer may find it
to his interest to take it on his own account, in which case, on
his engaging to print it directly, let him have it. If he declines, I
am of opinion the merchants would pay the expense, but if neither
of these modes will do please inform me by the first opportunity
what Mr. Johnston will charge the public for a few copies.

I have the honor to be, Sir,

Your most obedt. & very hunil. servt.,

S. E.

From January, 1785, to November, 1785.

To the Honbl. the Delegates in Congress from the State of
Georgia.

Savh., June 21st, 1785.

Genn: Inclosed is a copy of my last letter to you which covers
Joseph Clay's, Esqr., second bill on Cox & Frazer for 43. 15 and
Owens and Thompson's second bill on Hugh Newbigging & Co.
for 150 to serve on failure of the first.

I have the honor also to inclose copy of a letter just received
from Timo. Barnard. I am afraid a talk sent to the Nation by the
Congress Commissioners has been the means of preventing the In-
dians meeting us agreeable to their appointment, nor I suppose we
shall be able now to do anything with them until the general treaty,
which they have appointed to be held some time in September in
Galphintown, a few miles above the Old town on Great Ogeechee.
These genn. have made a requisition of two thousand dollars from
the State, for the purpose of forwarding this business, which we
have not the ability to comply with.

The latter part of Mr. Barnard's letter is in some degree a con-
firmation of the report I sometime since mentioned to you of a
misunderstanding between the Americans and Spaniards on the
river Mississippi.

By this conveyance Mr. Clay will remit you one hundred and
fifty pounds Sterg. which I placed in his hands for the purpose, and
I expect shortly to send you a further sum of two or three hundred
dollars. I am truly anxious to hear from you; and have the honor
to be, with sentiments of the highest esteem, Genn.,

Your most cbedt. servt.,
S. E.

To Charles Crawford, Garratt Irvine and Arthur Fort, Esquires,
a Committee to examine Land Certificates, &c., &c.

Augusta, July isth, 1785.

Gentlemen: I have the honor to transmit you an extract from
the Journals of the Honl. House of Assembly of the 20th last Feb-
ruary, respecting your appointment for the purpose of "inquiring
into the conduct of those who were appointed to issue certificates
for bounty warrants, and of all others who have issued such certifi-
cates; and also into the conduct of the Surveyors and persons who
have been appointed to survey the land in the Counties of Wash-
ington and Franklin."

It appears to me that many irregularities have taken place in this
business, and your interposition may be immediately necessary to
prevent encroachments on the Indian hunting grounds, contrary to

Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

the intent of the Legislature. I therefore recommend that you do
as soon as possible enter upon the inquiry, and I am instructed by
the Council to assure you that they will at all times be ready and
willing to afford you every countenance and support in their power.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

To the Honl. Benjamin Hawkins, Andrew Pickens and Joseph
Martin, Esquires, Commissioners appointed by Congress to treat
with the Cherokees & all other Indians southward of them, Charles-
ton.

Augusta, 20th July, 1785.

Gentlemen: Your letter of the loth June I had the honor to
receive on the 5th Inst, and as soon as we were able to make a
Council after our removal to this place I laid the same before
them which they have fully considered, and I am instructed to
assure you that however inclined they may be to forward the Treaty
you purpose to hold with the Creeks on the third Monday in
next September at Galphintown on the Ogeechee in this State, it
is entirely out of their power to comply even in part with the re-
quisition you make of two thousand dollars to be paid by the
second Monday in October next.

It lays altogether with the Legislature to appropriate the public
money, and when they meet, which I don't expect will be before
next January, I will lay your letter before them.

The guard you require shall be furnished, and it is probable we
will appoint one or more persons to attend during the Treaty, as
Congress has been so very kind as to indulge the State with that
privilege.

I have the honor to be, with sincere esteem, Genn.,
Your mo. obedt. & very h. servt.,

S. E.

The Commissioners of Confiscated Estates for the State of Georgia.

Augusta, 20th July, 1785.
Gentlemen: The Council having duly considered the matters are
unanimously of opinion that it will be more to the advantage o(
the public to divide the sales of the lands you last advertised, and
have therefore instructed me to desire that you will on the day you
have mentioned sell in Savannah all the confiscated lands in Effing-
ham, Chatham, Liberty, Glynn and Camden Counties, and that imme-
diately on the rcct. of this you fix o.i a day and give notice that such

From Ja7iuary, 178^, to November, 1785. 7.13

of the lands as lays in Burke, Richmond & Wilkes Counties will be
sold in the town of Augusta, taking care to reserve such pieces of
land as may be the most likely to command specie, should it be neces-
sary on any emergency to raise cash, agreeable to the instructions
you last received from the Board.

It hitherto has been a custom to accept of any person who may
be offered as a security for the payment of the interest to the public
as it becomes due, whereby they are like to be great looses; you are
therefore hereby positively instructed not to accept of any person
who may be offered as security hereafter for the payment of interest
to the public, unless it appears to you that they are citizens of the
State, and that they have visible property on the same fully sufficient
to discharge any sum or sums of money they may become indebted
to the public for, and you must take particular care to express the
words of the Act in the bonds taken for the principal, so that it may
be properly understood, that in case the money is not punctually
paid in year from the day of sale, in either audited or funded certifi-
cates of the State, the whole amount will be receivable in nothing
else but gold or silver coin.

I have the honor to be, Genn.,

Your mo. obt. servt.,

S. E.

To Chesly Bostick, Esquire, Spirit Creek.

Augusta, 19th July, 1785.

Sir: I am sorry to be informed by the rect. of your letter of this
date that a boat is now on the river intended for this place, with the
small pox on board; I am certain that at this season of the year it
would much injure the inhabitants if suffered to spread, and therefore
request that you will make applicTtion to a justice of the peace,
nearest to where boat may be, to cause her to be stopped and a
proper person, or two, who have had the disorder, hired to attend
upon the people infected till they are sufficiently rid of the com-
plaint to be admitted at large amongst the inhabitants. This appears
to me to be the most ready and effectual mode, and I think will be
a proper upon the owner of the boat; but should the Laws of the
State not make 'em chargeable with the expenses, I will provide a
payment.

I have the honor to be, &c.,

S. E,

2j^ Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

To James Jackson, Esquire, Mercht., London.

Augusta, August sth, 1785.

Sir: The inclosed will serve to explain to you the necessity I am
under of requesting that you will take the trouble to procure and
send me by the earliest opportunity, in order that I might lay them
before the Legislature of this State immediately on their next meet-
ing, properly authenticated copies of the several charters, deeds and
proclamations respecting that business which have taken place at
the time and since Georgia was erected into a separate Govern-
ment.

General Oglethorpe may yet be living, & I am certain he would
readily explain on oath what he understood to be the boundary be-
tween Georgia & South Carolina.

Sir James Wright & the Honl. Grey Elliott, Esquire, it is proba-
ble -will assist you with their advice & information on this head, and
I beg that you will use every means in your power to furnish me
with the fullest information possible, and the expense shall be im-
mediately remitted you.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

To the Chevalier De Chateaufort, Consul of France, at Charleston.

Augusta, 5th August, 1785.

Sir: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 24th June, with
its inclostires of the 17th May last, from the Office of Foreign Af-
fairs with an Act of Congress of the nth of the same month, recog-
nizing you as Consul from His most Christian Majesty for the states
of No. Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia, to reside ordinarily
at Charleston.

I have now the pleasure of transmitting to you an exequator or
notification of your quality as such for the State of Geoa., which I
have caused to be published in the Gazettes.

I shall be happy in uniting with you in every measure which may
tend to the mutual advantage of commerce between France and this
State.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

To Mr. Gobert, Agent to the French Navy, Savanh.

Augusta, August sth, 1785.

Sir: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 14th of July
last, with its several inclosures, which have been attended to; and
by this conveyance you will receive a letter for Chevalier de Chatau-

From January, ij8^, to November, 1785. 215

fort, inclosing an exequator of his quality as Consul for this State,
which I request you will forward to him by the first safe conveyance;
a copy of the exequator I have sent to Mr. Johnston in order that
he might publish it in his Gazette.

Mr. De la Forest has been very polite in paying such respect to
my recommendation of Mr. McQueen, which I am confident he
merits, and I hope that gentleman will not delay in delivering to the
Vice Admiral, the Count D'Estaing, the papers committed to his
charge and which that worthy character is so anxious to receive.

You may rest assured that I shall ever be happy in forwarding your
interests, & I beg that you will obtain from the Chevalier de Chatau-
fort the appointment you mention, and also a letter from him to me
signifying the same, & I will not delay in confirming it.

With respect to the affair of Mr. Bayard, it lays solely with the
Legislature, which you must lay before them at their next meeting.

I have the honor to be, &c.,

S. E.

To Mr. James Durouzeaux. Interpreter to the State at Cowetas.

Augusta, August i8th, 1785.

. Sir: I received two letters from you dated last month to which I
have not time just now to reply fully; this will serve to inform you
that the Comrs. appointed by Congress to treat on peace and other
matters relative to the United States of America with the several
nations of Indians to the southward, have appointed to meet the
Creek Indians at Galphintown on Great Ogeechee on the third Mon-
day in September next, and have sent a talk and invited the Head
Men & Warriors of all the upper & lower towns to be there at that
time, when a talk from the United States will be delivered by them,
and, as it will be a very proper opportunity for the Commissioners
from our State to have the line fixed between us and them, I request
that you will do all you can to bring them to that place & time, and
not the Scull Shoals as I last wrote you, as one general meeting
will answer every purpose and save the State much expense. I beg
that you will attend the meeting, as Interpreter to the State, and it
may be something in your way to interpret for the other Commrs.
I request that you will inform both the upper & lower Creeks of
this, and leave nothing undone to bring them down.

I am Sir, &c.,

2i6 Letter Book oj Governor Samuel Elbert

To Colonel Lewis, or Officer Commanding the Burke County
Regiment of Militia.

Augusta, 31st August, 1785.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit you a resolution of Council
of this date, and I desire that you do pay immediate and strict obe-
dience thereto.

I have the honor to be, &c.,

In Council, i6th September, 1785.

Sir: 1 have just had the honor to receive a latter dated the 14th
Inst, from General Pickens, one of the Commissioners appointed
by Congress to treat with the Cherokees and all other Indians south-
ward of them, in which he writes as follows, viz: "The Treaty with
the Creeks is to begin the 24th October next at Galphintown, on
Ogechee, and with the other tribes the 15th Nov. at or near Seneca.
The Guard which the Commrs. mentioned to your Excellency in
June last I make no doubt they will be under obligations to you for
at the time now appointed, and would wish twenty of them mount-
ed, with a careful Officer."

You are therefore hereby ordered to govern yourself accordingly,
and in place of the third Monday in this month have the detachment
ready on the spot on the 24th of next October, and twenty of them
mounted, with a careful Officer, when and where they are to act
agreeable to my former order.

I have the honor to be, &c..
S.E.

To Colonel Lewis, or Officer Commanding the Burke Militia.

To the Honorable Edward Telfair & Willm. Few, Esqrs.

Auga., 5th September, 1785.

Sirs: I have just had the honor to receive a letter from our Del-
egates in Congress dated the loth Augst., in which they write as
follows, viz: "We shall expect Mr. Telfair and Colo. Few at th^
end of our six months' tour agreeable to premise, as two of us
shall be under the necessity of returning. We hope they will not
fail to be punctual, as it is a matter of much importance that the
State should not again be without a representation."

I expect that the gentlemen will date the commencement of their
tour from the beginning of May, and as you must be fully sensible
of the force of their observation, "that the State should not again
be without a representation," I am hopeful that one or both of you
will immediately proceed to Congress.

From January, 1785, to November, 1785. 217

I have a bill on New York for four hundred dollars with which
you can be immediately furnished, and steps will be taken to supply
you with a further sum.

I have the honor to be,
S. E.

To the Honble. the Board of Treasury at New York.

Augusta, 14th September, 1785.

Gentn: Your letters of the 5th May & 12th Augst. I have the
honor to receive.

Mr. Job Sumner, who you have nominated as Commissioner of
Public Accounts for this State, I make not the least doubt is in every
respect worthy the appointment, especially as he was recommended
by Mr. Houstoun, and, as this gentleman is a stranger in this State,
I presume it would have been improper to have appointed a citizen
in preference.

Every co-operation on the part of the State which may be neces-
sary for the execution of his office, Mr. Sumner may be fully as-
sured he will experience.

It is to be lamented that Messrs. O'Bryen and Wade have been
so very erroneous in their calculation of the interest due on loan
office certificates as to prevent their interest certificates being re-
ceived in any Continental Requisition, as both the public and in-
dividuals must be injured thereby.

I will lay your letter on this subject before the Legislature im-
mediately on tlieir next meeting.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

To Charles Thomson, Esquire, Secy, of Congress.

Augusta, 19th September, 1785.
Sir: ^Your several dispatches of the 15th & 30th April, 28 & 31 May,
2d & gth June, 28th July, and 3d & gth August, with their inclosures,
and the Journals of Congress, I have now an opportunity of ac-
knowledging the receipt of; the most of them came to hand at one
time, occasioned by there being no regular post to Savannah, and
none to this place; they will be laid before the Legislature as soon
as they meet.

I have given directions to our State Secretary to furnish you with
thirteen copies of each of the Acts of the Assembly of this State
since the first Septr., 1774, inclusive, that are in print.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

2i8 Letter Book of Governof Samuel Elbett

To the Honl. Major Genl. Mcintosh.

Augusta, September 19th, 1785.

Sir: Your two letters respecting the reserve lands to the south-
ward have been received and due attention paid to them.

Captain Montford acknowledges that two hundred acres on the
south & one hundred on the north points of Cumberland Island, and
the east point on the north side of St. Marys river, was surveyed pre-
vious to the rect. of an order of Council to the contrary, but care
will be taken that the works shall not pass into a grant before the
meeting of the Legislature.

So little attention has hitherto been paid to this particular, that
every acre of the lands that were leserved for the public are in the
back country has been taken up, & has now become private property.
Quere: as these grants have been surreptitiously obtained, whether
the Assembly would not be justified in declaring them to be null
and void?

I have the honor to be, &c.,

S. E.

To Captain Montfort, Surveyor of the Counties of Glynn and
Camden.

Augusta, 19th September, 1785.

Sir: Your letter of the 25th August has been just received, and I
desire that you will prevent the two surveys on Cumberland, and
the one at the east point on the north side of St. Marys river, be-
ing returned to the Surveyor General's office.

Inclosed is a copy of a letter from General Mcintosh, with its in-
closures, by which you will be informed of the exact situation and
quantity of the reserve on Butter Milk Bluflf, and also of the partic-
ular numbers of the lots in Brunswick that were reserved for the
public, which you are not to suffer to be laid out for an individual.

Your observations respecting the immediate advantage to the in-
habitants by laying out a town at Butter Milk Bluff are just, and I
feel the full force of them, but it can only be done by the Legisla-
ture, before whom I will lay your letter when they next meet.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

To His Excellency, The Governor of East Florida.

Augusta, 19th September, 1785.

Sir: His Honor the Chief Justice of our State has applied to mc
to request that your Excellency will give orders to have Theophilus
Hill, a most audacious murderer, apprehended and secured. The in-

Front January, 1785, to November, 17S5. 219

closed copy of an information will serve more particularly to ex-
plain that cruel affair, & I flatter myself that a determination of
your Excellency and the Executive of this State not to suffer such
notorious offenders to have an asylum with either will have a most
happy tendency to prevent such horrid deeds in future.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

To His Excellency, Vive Admiral the Count D'Estaing, in France.
Augusta, in Georgia, 26th Sept., 1785.

Sir: It affords me singular satisfaction that I have the honor
of transmitting to your Excelly. grants for twenty thousand acres
of land, and an Act of the Legislature confirming the same to you,
and admitting you to all the priviledges, liberties and immunities
of a free citizen of this State, in testimony of their respect for your
meritorious services.

These papers are committed to the charge of John McQueen, Es-
quire, a citizen of Georgia, who expects to have the honor of deliver-
ing them to your Exclly. in person. I therefore take the liberty of
recommending this gentn. to your polite attention, from whom you
will be able to obtain some information respecting the situation
and quality of your lands in this State.

Mr. McQueen is possessed of a very valuable estate on our Sea
Board, which abounds with the best live oak for ship building; should
he make any contracts for the supply of that article, his property
in this country will enable him fully to come up to his engagements.

I have the honor to be, &c.,
S. E.

The Honl. Major Genl. Mcintosh.

Augusta, 28th Sept., 1785.

Sir: I am informed that you have been appointed by Congress
one of the Commrs. for treating with the Cherokees and all other
Indians southward of them, and wish to know from you whether
that appointment will deprive the State of your acting as their Comr.
in having the temporary boundary line marked between us and the
Creek Indians, as in that event the Council might have an oppy.
of filling the vacancy with some other gentleman in order that the
State Comrs. may take the advantage of transacting their business
at the time of the general Treaty, at Galphinton, on the 24th of the
next month.

220 Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

In a letter of the 22nd Inst, from Colo. Hawkins he requests that
we may appoint a person in his stead for the completion of this busi-
ness.

I have the honor to be, &c.

To the Honorable William Houstoun, John Habersham and Abra-
ham Baldwin, Esquires, New York.

Augusta, 14th September, 1785.

Gentlemen: Your two letters of the 8th July and loth August I
have had the honor to receive.

I am glad to find a disposition in the Spanish Court to be on so
friendly a footing with us, and flatter myself that Mr. Jay will be
able to adjust matters with don Diego de Gardoque in such a man-
ner as to remove any further cause of jealousy between the United
States and Spain.

The Commissioners appointed by Congress to treat with the
Cherokees and all other Indians southward of them are to have a
meeting with the Creeks, on the 24th next month, at Galphinton,
on Great Ogeechee, and with the other tribes on the 15th Novem-
ber, at or near Seneca, in South Carolina. They have made a demand
from this State of two thousand dollars, and an hundred men as a
Guard; the first was entirely out of our power to comply with, the
latter will be granted. The Honorable Edward Telfair, William Few,
Esquire, and Colonel James Jackson, are appointed by our board
to attend at the meeting, with instructions to aid and assist the Com-
missioners in forwarding this business as far as they are authorized
by the Confederation to go; and they are further instructed to pro-
test against any measures which they may adopt contrary to the
Articles of Confederation and the Constitution and Laws of the
State. I have not the least doubt but matters will be conducted in
such a manner as will be pleasing, and that our State Commission-
ers will be able at the same time to have the temporary boundary
line agreed on marked between us and the Savages and what's
greatly to be wished for.

The time fixed by Congress for entering on the business respect-
ing the disputed territory between this State and South Carolina,
will afiford our Legis. sufficient leisure to take it under considera-
tion, and least we might be unprepared with proper vouchers, I
have wrote to London for properly authenticated copies of all the
Charters, Deeds, proclamations, &c., which have taken place respect-
ing that business from the first establishment of Georgia to the
time of resolution.

I feel the full force of your observations respecting the settlement
of the federal accounts, which, if much longer delayed, must place

From January, 178^, to November, 17&5.

the State in a situation truly contemptible and distressing. Mr. Sum-
ner who you have appointed for this purpose may be fully assured
that the Executive of the State will afford him every assistance in
their power which may be necessary in the Execution of his office,
and as our Auditor is remarkable attentive to his duty, I am hope-
ful they will be in such forwardness by the meeting of the Legis-
lature as to enable that body to take measures which may have the
most salutary effects.

New York and Rhode Island, being in a similar situation with
Georgia, respecting the impost, and as it would have been attended
with great expense to the State and much injury to the individual
members, the Council were induced to give up the idea of a call of
the House before the time of their annual meeting.

You, gentlemen, must be so sensible of the necessity of our State
being fully represented in Congress at this time that I hope, and
have to intreat, that neither of you will return until some other ar-
rives to take your seat. Colonel Few has promised to set out on the
first of November; Mr. Telfair's indisposition will not admit of his
attendance. I have wrote to Mr. Gibbons on the subject, but have
not yet had his answer.

I have a draft on New York for four hundred dollars, which, with
a further sum that I am in expectation of receiving, will be remitted
you shortly.

The freshes have considerably damaged the crops on the rivers,
and a drouth in the back country has hurt the corn in such a degree
that more than half a crop of that article won't be made; this will
bear hard on the new settlers, as it must occasion a high price for
corn and other provisions; the rice crops are, in general, very good.

The Council are to adjourn on the 12th, to meet in Savannah on
the 20th October, when I shall in addition to a bill of four hundred
dollars which I have already engaged make you a further remittance.

I have the honor to be with the highest regard and esteem, Gentle-
men,

Your most obt. & very humble servant,

S. E.

To the Honorable Major General Wayne.

Augusta, 7th October, 1785.

Dear Sir: Your letter of the 14th September came to hand on
the 21 St of the same month which for want of an opportunity has
not been sooner answered; the letter of the 20th August, of which
you inclosed a copy, I have never had the honor to receive.

I think the conduct of the gentlemen you mention is extraordi-
nary and very unaccountable in running within the lines of old sur-

222 Letter Book of Governor Samuel Elbert

veys, and when the Council can be sufficiently informed to detect the
fraud, they won't suffer a grant to pass, but even should they so far
succeed as to obtain one where there has already been a grant, it
can't avail them anything. I would advise you to enter a caveat in
Liberty County against their work, and then an appeal may be
brought after their determination regularly before Council, agree-
able to the late Land Act.

I have the honor to be, with much esteem. Dear Sir,

Your most obedt. & Very humbl. servt.,

S. E.

To Jan Boonen Graves, Esquire, Charleston,

Savannah, 8th November, 1785.

Sir: In pursuance of an Act of Congress of the 13th July last,
which did not come to my hands until the 3rd Inpt., I have the honor,
to transmit you an Exequator or Notification of your Quality as
Consul for their High Mightinesses, the Lords, the State Genl.
of the United Netherlands for this State which I have caused to be
published in this State.

I have the honor to be. Sir,

Your most Obedient and very humble servant,

S. E.

To the Honorable William Few, Esquire.

Augusta, i2th October, 1785.

Sir: Your letter of this I have had the honor to receive. I am
glad to understand that you will be ready to proceed to Congress
by the first of the next month where I have every reason to expect
your presence is much wanted.

I am instructed by the Council to inform you that a bill on New
York for four hundred dollars is ready to be delivered to you when
ever you please to call for it; a sum which they apprehend will bring
about the time of the next meeting of the Legislature, when they
have no doubt proper measures will be adopted to furnish j'ou with
a further supply.

I have the honor to be, with much esteem and regard, Sir,

Your most obedt. and very Humble Servant,

S. E.

pTont January, 1785, to November, IJ85. 223

To Colo. Thomas Green, in the Chicasaws.

Savannah, 9th November, 1786.

Sir: I had the honor to receive your dispatches by Capt. Jamie-
son, who will deliver you this. We have paid this gent., in a drf.
on the Tr., thirty pounds Sterg. in full for coming down & returning.

I am sorry to find that your situation has been made unhappy in
consequence of the Bourbon business. It is not m the power of the
Exe. to afford you any relief. Your letter will be laid before the Le-
gise. when the meet, & I have no doubt they will take some meas-
ures for yr. relief; 'till then I think you will be well employed in
regulating matters with the Indians so as to impress them with
favorable sentiments towards this & the people of the United States.

I am, &c.,

S. E.

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