Philadela. Octr. 9th. 1780
Dear Sir
Before Majr. Giles left Town we had some expectations of procuring a number of Tents from the State of Pennsylvania, but they have since informed us, through their Delegates that they cannot supply us. The Board of War will have in the course of four weeks six hundred for the Southern Army. As many as may be necessary for the New raised Regt. we shall request to be sent to Annapolis or such place as you may direct. If there are other recruits who will stand in need of them, we beg to be informed of it.
The Shirts which detained Majr. Giles’ officer was ready some Days ago, and we suppose he is now on his way to Maryland with the Clothing.
Mr. Matlock the Secretary of Pennsylvania informed us yesterday that they had received intelligence of an embarkation of all Regts, now going forward at New-York. It is spoken of with some Confidence. We have received no Intimation of it from the General, which induces us to believe, the report is groundlless, as we cannot suppose so important a movement would escape his observation.
Major Andrie the British adjutant was executed on Monday last. He disclosed nothing as was reported; but observed to those who were about him that he died like a Soldier & a Man of Honor, lamenting the failure of his enterprizes and rejoicing that he died for his King and Country. The General has not informed Congress of the particulars of this transaction, when he does we shall have the Honor of communicating them to you.
Congress has directed the Commander in chief to hold a Court of inquiry on the Conduct of Majr. General Gates in the late Action near Camden and to appoint an officer to take the command of the Southern Army. General Smallwood has lately been honoured with the command of all the Militia of North Carolina by the General Assembly of that State.
Congress is happy to find that the requisition for cattle is likely to be carried into effect; we hope as little delay as possible will attend this Business. The distresses of the Army still continue and we wish we could point out to you the period when they would probably terminate.
We have the honor to be, Sir with the highest respect and Esteem your obedient Servants,Geo. Plater
J. Henry.
Receiver’s copy, Lee, Horsey and Carroll Papers deposit (1985), Maryland Historical Society. Written by Henry and signed by Henry and Plater.
1 See Henry to Lee, this date, note 1.