Camp, August 7, 1781.
Sir:
The other day I applied to Colonel Tilghman for an order for shoes,
for the two companies of levies. He thought, on a general principle,
it could not be granted; but as from the best of my own recollection,
confirmed by inquiry of others, I have reason to believe a distinction
was made last campaign in favor of the advanced corps, in the case
of Cortland’s regiment, I am induced to submit the matter to your
Excellency.
Your Excellency is sensible that the service of an advanced corps, must
be in general more active than of the line; and that, in a country
like this, the article of shoes is indispensable. If the men cannot be
supplied, they cannot perform the duty required of them; which will
make the service fall heavier upon that part of the corps which is not
under the same disability, as well as render a considerable part of
it of much less utility. I will not add any personal consideration to
those which affect the service; though it certainly cannot be a matter
of indifference to me.
The men, I am informed, have, in general, received a bounty of about
thirty pounds each, which is spent. The State makes no provision
for them; and the fact is, they cannot supply themselves: they must
therefore be destitute if they have not a continental supply.
The distinction last campaign, was, if I am not mistaken, that shoes
were an article of absolute necessity, and therefore to be allowed,
though the articles of clothing were refused.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your Excellency’s
Most ob’t and humble serv’t,
A. Hamilton.
To General Washington.