Greene, Nathanael, 1742-1786 to Henry Knox

Written by Major General Greene to Major General Knox. Is happy to hear about Knox's promotion. Thought that he might be able to work with Knox on the coming campaign, but says the circumstances have been changed by British Admiral George Brydges Rodney's victory over Comte de Grasse's French fleet near Dominica at the Battle of Saintes on 12 April 1782. Says Sir Henry Clinton will undoubtedly push operations in the South. Says he heard that Knox thinks there will be a British evacuation and has delayed sending supplies as a result. Had to use some harsh discipline, including hanging a sergeant, to keep his troops in line after a mutiny. They are "naked and without a prospect of clothing and hardly a gill of rum." Says the enemy is in good shape in comparison. Says things have been eased for him and his troops after the 19th and 30th regiment were sent from Charleston to the West Indies. Claims "I fear all America have been dreaming to long of peace." Says Virginia and North Carolina "are taking a serious nap and I doubt nothing will rouse them but a removal of the French troops Southerly or Northerly." Says only 1000 regular troops are in the field south of Maryland, and that many of their terms are about to end. Laments that Americans do not support the war and says "Nothing but a fundamental alteration in the manner of carrying on the war will bring them to adopt wise and salutary measures." Says using militia to take the place of regulars is a big part of the problem. Says South Carolina has voted to give him a grant of 10,000 guineas. Georgia has voted him 5,000 more. Says he might never see any of the money, but that it will vindicate his duty. Wants to know what will happen to the Maryland artillery because "They are here rather in an awkward situation. Wants to know where the carpenters he was promised are. Says General Anthony Wayne in Georgia is in need of "Artificers." Signed by Greene with his initials 'NG'.