From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 19 August 1781

Dear Sir

Head Quarters 19th Augt 1781.

Circumstances have rendered it necessary to change our plan of operations—and I am going myself with a detachment of the Army to the southward. As the troops which will principally compose this detachment are those which were intended for your command—I think it proper to make you the offer of going with them—at the same time desiring you to inform me without reserve if you would wish to decline the command on account of your domestic concerns, or for any other reason. If you determine to go, you will join me without loss of time at King’s ferry, or if not, you will inform me immediately that I may appoint another Officer. I refer you to General Knox for a detail of the business in contemplation.

You will be pleased to direct all the detachments from Colo. Olneys Regt whether at the point or upon any other duty immediately to join the Regt at Kings ferry. And you will hold the four Companies of Courtlands ready to move to Kings ferry the moment the others come down the River. Should any small detachments from Van schaicks or Hazens yet remain above they are to be sent to Kings ferry likewise. I am &c.

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

This early access document derives from raw transcriptions, prior to editing and publication in Rotunda's American History Collection. If this document is cited in formal research, it should be noted that it is not a final version, and that the URL you used to access it is not permanent.
Please report any errors or problems you notice in documents.