[Continental Army] Autograph letter and manuscript, each signed James Thompson. 30 December 1779, Morristown, New Jersey

[CONTINENTAL ARMY]

AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED ("JAMES THOMPSON"), AS WAGONMASTER GENERAL OF THE CONTINENTAL ARMY, TO GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE, AND MANUSCRIPT SIGNED ("JAMES THOMPSON") REPORTING ON THE CAMP AT MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY

One page (12 5/8 x 7 3/4 in.; 320 x 195 mm), Morristown, 30 December 1779, regarding the number of waggoners necessary for a brigade of the army; some scattered foxing, minor loss at upper right edge. — Folio sheet (19.5 x 15 in.; 495 x 380 mm), Camp Morristown, 30 December 1779, reporting on the wagon supplies at the army's disposal; minor foxing, two square stains at gutter, repairs at creases and some marginal tears, small losses to sheet at edges and gutter, affecting text in the upper left margin and lower center gutter.

The Quartermaster Department was responsible for transportation, a notorious Continental Army bottleneck. Thompson reports on "Waggon Conductors, Sub Conductors and Waggoners employed with the Army. Also of those necessary to be immediately for the ensuing Campaign," showing a total of 36 wagons and 1,000 drivers needed. His letter reinforces the need for the supplies and corresponding troops.