Washington, George (1732-1799) to Benjamin Tallmadge
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01746 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: s.l. Type: Manuscript letter signed Date: 25 September 1778 Pagination: 2 p. : docket : free frank ; 35 x 21 cm. Order a Copy
Signed as commander in chief and written in the hand of John Laurens, Washington's aide. Assures Tallmadge that his cavalry would receive enough supplies but warns that there will be no new horses. Complains about the dragoon's ill use of the horses, "It gives me pain but I cannot forbear attributing the ill state of the Cavalry, in a great measure to the unrestrained licence of the Dragoons in the use of their horses; their speed is equally immoderate on all occasions; when they are detached, nor are their horses less freely employed on their own private concerns." Addressed to Major Tallmadge. Free franked, "on public service."
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Head Quarters 25th Septem
1778
Sir.
I have received your letter of the 23d. inst. the deficiency of remounts is an evil which does not admit of immediate remedy - as I cannot at present authorise the completing your number by purchase -
The same reason will render it necessary for you to make the best use of those horses, which you say are so much reduced - it gives me pain, but I cannot forbear attributing the ill-state of the Cavalry in a great measure to the unrestrained lisence of the Dragoons in the use of their horses - their speed is equally immoderate on all occasions, when they are detached; and I fear their horses are too freely employed on their own private concerns - it is incumbent on the officers to pay the strictest attention to this matter, and eradicate an abuse, the ill consequences of which they have already felt.
We [2] have now a prospect of ample supplies of Clothing for the troops, in which the Cavalry will have their part.
I am Sir
Your most obedt Servt.
Go:Washington
Major Tallmadge -
[docket]
Genl. Washington's
Letter-Septr 26.th
[address leaf]
(on public service-
Major Tallmadge
Go:Washington
240
6
1440
1796 2/3
356 2/3
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