Washington, George, as Continental Commander

Autograph document, unsigned, 1 page (5 1/4 x 7 1/4 in.; 133 x 185 mm) on a slip of laid paper (watermarked w m t), [Headquarters Middle Brook, 5–7 May 1779], headed "From the York Papers—it should seem that the following Troops were designed for America," very possibly enclosed (or otherwise associated) with an autograph letter signed by Washington of the same place and period to Benjamin Harrison, autograph docket on verso ("Rect. of the Enemy's Reinforcements expectd to America taken from the York Paper May"); neat early repair to fold separations, inlaid to a large sheet.

Sotheby's, 21 May 1993, lot 148A (undesignated consignor)

Autograph document, unsigned, 1 page (5 1/4 x 7 1/4 in.; 133 x 185 mm) on a slip of laid paper (watermarked w m t), [Headquarters Middle Brook, 5–7 May 1779], headed "From the York Papers—it should seem that the following Troops were designed for America," very possibly enclosed (or otherwise associated) with an autograph letter signed by Washington of the same place and period to Benjamin Harrison, autograph docket on verso ("Rect. of the Enemy's Reinforcements expectd to America taken from the York Paper May"); neat early repair to fold separations, inlaid to a large sheet.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

An unpublished autograph assessment of British reinforcements bound for the American theatre of war.

In his letter to Benjamin Harrison of 5–7 May 1779, Washington reported "that a pretty considerable number of Troops will be sent from G Britain does not, I think, admit of a doubt; but whether for the West Indies, Georgia, or New York, or partly to all three, time must unfold. ... By extracts from English Papers of the 4th of March, it appears pretty evident that Seven Regiments, besides two of the New raised Scotch Corps, Recruits for the Guards, and other Regits. now in America, were upon the point of embarking" (Writings, ed. Fitzpatrick, 15:6).

The present document provides a more precise summary of these new British troops:

"2 Battalions of the Royal.—
"2d. 18th, 24th, 59th, & 65th Regiments.
"Colo. McDonald's     } New Scotts 1000 each.
"Sir Wm. Erskine's     }
"Recruits for the Guards & other Corps 12 or 13000 Troops will be sent over early in the Spring."

The New York newspapers that reprinted the troop reports from England have not yet been identified. Washington also referred to these reinforcements in a letter to his brother John, 12 May 1779.