Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 to Benjamin Lincoln

Explains his recommendations and opinions on key issues regarding the "ensuing campaign" in and around New York. Relates that upon asking General George Washington when to be prepared to march his troops, General Washington claimed to be out of touch with the status of preparations, but as soon as he decided, he would let Knox know. Knox relates that this makes him uneasy, as it makes planning the ordnance and stores far more difficult. Describes recent experiments on howitzers of French and of English origin, and explains that they require different shell sizes (see GLC02437.01411), and recommends Captain [William] Stevens and Mr. [John Jacob] Faesch for the job. Recommends reproofing all the shells in Pennsylvania and Maryland because of previous accidents. Describes the recent acquisition by General Washington of cannon from the state of Virginia (see GLC02437.01394). Encloses a list of stores requested for West Point and the field, as well as one prepared by General [William] Irvine for Fort Pitt. Emphasizes the necessity of building the required number of carriages, wagons, tumbrils, and cartridges, and of obtaining the requested number of horses. Also mentions Mr. [Samuel] Hodgdon.