From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 11 May 1777
To Brigadier General Alexander McDougall
Head Quarters Morris Town May 11th 1777
Sir
This will be delivered you by Major General Green. He and General Knox are sent by me to review the posts under your command, and their appendages; and to give their advice and assistance towards putting every thing in the most defensible state possible. The vast importance of these posts and the great probability that the enemy will direct their operations against them make me anxious for their security, and suggest this step.1 I doubt not proper regard will be paid to the judgment of these Gentlemen.2 I am Sir Your most Obedient servant
Go: Washington
LS, in Alexander Hamilton’s writing, CSmH; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. Hamilton addressed the cover of the LS: “To The Commanding Officer At Peeks-Kill,” and in its lower left-hand corner he wrote: “⅌ favour of General Green.” The Varick transcript is addressed: “To the Officer Commanding at Peeks Kill.” Alexander McDougall was the commanding officer at Peekskill, N.Y., at this time, and he confirms his receipt of this letter in his letter to GW of 19 May.
1. The Varick transcript reads: “and have suggested this Step.”
2. For the report of this inspection trip, see Greene to GW, 17 May.