George Washington to Robert Stewart, 8 May 1756
[Winchester, 8 May 1756]
To Captain Robert Stewart. at Maidstone. Sir,
I received yours by the Bearer 1 –As neither Captain Bell nor Captain Gist, can make out regular pay-rolls for their men; a months pay will be sufficient at this time to give them. 2 If any officer is in want of pay, and not indebted to the country for Recruiting–Let him receive out of the Balance in your hands: but let them all know, that it will appear a little dark on their side, if they should draw pay, and are owing the country: as I have orders to the contrary.
I do not know what you can do with your Sick; we have no Surgeon to spare: and to send medicines without a person to apply them, will be needless.
Out of the few Tents that are at this place, I will send two or three per the first opportunity[.] I would, were I in your place, make Captain Caton produce Lord Fairfax–s order, before I would give up the House. 3
If you are not apprehensive of the Enemys destroying the Flour at Stoddarts Fort in any short time, I would let it remain there; and send up a party to see that it is properly secured. 4
If you should send up for it, employ as few of the country people as possible; that the country may be at little expence.
You are directed to receive Captains Bell & Gists– Recruits; and to be very circumspect in your choice; as I would not receive any but very likely fellows at this time.
I must desire you will put your Works at Maidstone, in as good a posture of Defence as possible. To do which, borrow or hire Tools of the Country-people; for there are none of any kind at this place.
So soon as this reaches you, hurry off what Waggons are at the Stores, loaded with Flour, under a proper Escort. And Captain Woodward will wait until Monday, to see if more do not arrive.
Until I know what fixed Resolves the Assembly have come to, about raising and appointing their Troops; I can not confirm Mr Campbell, or order any other to the Troop of Horse. 5
It would look very partial to give Mr Duncanson the highest post of Honor, who is not yet an Officer; preferable to those who have served sometime as Ensigns. 6 I am, &c. Yours.
G:W.