October 27, 1780.
My Dear Hamilton:
We are only leaving Philadelphia. The most flattering attentions have
been paid to Meade and myself, and such as would not permit us to
progress before, unless we had shown ourselves entirely disregardless
of the great world. Besides, motives of a public nature concurred to
make us stay thus long. From all I have seen and heard, there is a good
disposition in Congress to do all they can for the army and the public
interest; and there are many very sensible men among them. In general,
they are most warmly attached to the General; and his recommendations
will have their weight while the same spirit prevails. It is said there
has been infinitely more harmony among them for some time past, than
has appeared since the first years of their appointment. I am not,
however, without some apprehension, that if they proceed in the case
of Lee, etc., the MONSTER (PARTY) may show itself again, and that we may
have a second edition of the measures adopted in the instance of Deane.
Our friends Sullivan and Carroll have been of great service: and
gentlemen who are, or pretend to be, in the secrets of the cabinet,
say they have contributed immeasurably, by their independent conduct,
to destroy the EASTERN ALLIANCE. Bland is very clever, and without
question wishes to push on in the true and right road. Grayson says
this is the best Congress we have had since the first. Our dear Laurens
respects many of the members: and General Greene’s appointment, I
believe, is entirely consonant to the wishes of Congress in general,
though we have heard there were members much disposed, if facts had
not been so obstinate, to excuse General Gates. The former is here,
and I suppose will set out in a day or two. Meade and I will serve
him all we can. We have done what we could already. Apropos, you
delivered him my letter. Our finances are entirely deranged, and there
is little or no money in the treasury. I believe they are a subject
of much consideration and puzzlement. The supplies of the army are
also matters of present attention, but I don’t know what will be
done. I hope we shall, by Christmas, have some clothing from the West
Indies, if the moth have not destroyed it: a quantity, it is said, has
been lying there. It is much to be wished that General Greene were
at the South. The delegates from that quarter think the situation of
Cornwallis delicate, and that by management, and a proper application
and use of the force there, the late check given Furguson might be
improved into the Earl’s total defeat. This, I fear, is too much even
to hope. The sending the Baron is considered, as far as I have heard,
perfectly right, and Lee’s corps give great satisfaction. I am just
about to mount my horse, and therefore shall say but little more.
Laurens will write unto you in a few days, I suppose, and communicate
any new occurrences. My love to the lads of the family. The same to
you. May you be long happy. My most respectful compliments to the
General.
Most truly and affectionately,
Rob. H. Harrison.
P. S. The Board have been absolutely too poor to procure parchment for
the many promotions that have been required.