Irvine, William (1741-1804) to William Moore
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02206 Author/Creator: Irvine, William (1741-1804) Place Written: Carlisle, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 March 1782 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 33 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Written by Irvine as Brigadier General to Moore as President of Pennsylvania. He is concerned with British deserters and prisoners enlisting into the Continental Army despite the vigilance of recruiting officers. Since there is no defined punishment for these offenders in Military Law, Irvine suggests that they be tried for perjury and put in prison. Says this is only his opinion and gives the suggestion to Moon to consider. Gives example of Gavin Miller, a British prisoner who enlisted under false pretenses and who is now imprisoned in Carlisle. The commanding officer there is awaiting Moore's orders on what to do with him. Irvine says he is on his way to Fort Pitt.
Irvine himself was captured by the British in Canada in June 1776 and held until May 1778.
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