Letter Signed

Clothing for Detachments in the Rear

Washington questions the necessity and expense of providing clothing, rations, and pay for the detachments in the rear who will not contribute to quelling the insurgency. [Whiskey Rebellion]

1794

10

21

Thomas Hartley's House

Alexander Hamilton

George Washington

Colonel Mentges

detachments of Militia

the Army

insurgents

Governor Mifflin

Governor Howell

Thomas Hartley's House

expense

clothing

pay

rations

Whiskey Rebellion

1794102140101

Colo Hamilton at Bedford
Favored by Colo Mentges
Hartleys 21 October
p. 110
Hartley's Tuesday Evening
21st October 1794
(45)
Dear Sir,
From Colo Mentges information, there are detachments of Militia a considerable distance in the rear; compet* in part, of those whose march was [directed?] to be arrested. He adds, many of them are illy clad. This being the case, it appears to me, that at expence, without an equivalent advantage, would result from bringing them forward; and that the cloaths which they must draw to fit them for service would actually be thrown away.
Under this view of the matter, and a [illegible] persuation that the Army which is already advanced is more than competent to any opposition that can be given by the Insurgents I request that you would advise with Governors Mifflin & Howell (after receiving the *lest in formation from Mentges) and cause all which in your opinions cannot be up in time; all who are inadequately clothed in the rear - and in a word, all who do not upon mature consideration of circumstances appears to be essential) to return, that the Country may not be unnecessarily [burdened?] with the cloathing, pay and rations or them.
Open all letters of a public [nature?] which may come to the Army addressed [undecipherable] - and such as are in the Military line - relating to the business you are upon over to the Commanding General.
I am &c &c [Geo Washington]
Colo Hamilton