From George Washington to Captain Bartholomew von Heer, 18 May 1779
To Captain Bartholomew von Heer
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 1[8] May 1779
Sir
I had not an opportunity to attend to your letter of the 7th, till this time.
I am vested with no authority whatsoever, by which it is in my power to attach your corps to any particular State. An adoption of this kind can only be made thro’ a recommendation of Congress, or by a voluntary act of the State itself.1
I shall write to the board of war on the subject of Commissioning your officers and to know their sentiments on Baron Wolfen.2
With respect to furnishing the articles mentioned in your return, it cannot be done at this moment—There are neither stockings nor shirts in Store, and what shoes we have on hand are for a particular occasion.3 However a supply of these articles are expected in a short time when a proper regard will be paid to the wants of your corps. I do not know of any use overalls can be to horsemen.
I return the papers you inclosed. I am &c.
G.W.
Df, in James McHenry’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. The draft is dated 17 May 1779, but the Varick transcript is dated 18 May, and Heer’s letter to GW of 7 May is docketed “answd 18 May 1779,” indicating that the receiver’s copy of GW’s letter bore that date.
1. McHenry wrote and then marked out the following additional sentence at this place on the draft: “I am sorry your application to Pennsylvania had no better success.”
3. The “particular occasion” was Maj. Gen. John Sullivan’s impending expedition against the Six Nations.