The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

50 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [AT. 22.
orders will be observed, it must be known who is to
command; and I am very confident you will see the
absurdity, and consider the effects, of Captain Mackay's
having the direction of the regiment; for it would certainly be the hardest thing in life, if we are to do double
and treble duty, and neither be entitled to the pay nor
rank of soldiers. That the first column of the Virginia
regiment has done more for the interest of this expedition, than any company, or corps, that will hereafter
arrive, must be obvious to all. This, Sir, Captain Mackay
did not hesitate one moment to allow, since he has seen
the work we have done upon the roads. We shall part
to-morrow. I shall continue my march to Red-stone,
while his company remains here. This, Sir, I found
absolutely necessary for the public interest. Captain
Mackay says, that it is not in his power to oblige his
men to work on the road, unless he will engage them a
shilling sterling a day, which I would not choose to do.
And to suffer them to march at their ease, whilst our
faithful soldiers are laboriously employed, carries with it
an air of such distinction, that it is not to be wondered
at, if the poor fellows were to declare the hardship of it.
He also assures me, that this is not peculiar to his company, but that no soldiers subject to martial law can be
obliged to work for less. I shall continue to complete
the work we have begun with my own men. We shall
have the whole credit, as no others have assisted.
I hope, from what has been said, your Honor will see
the necessity of giving your speedy order on this head;
and I am sensible you will consider the, evil tendency,
that will accompany Captain Mackay's arrival. The
rank of office to me, Sir, is much more important than
the pay.
Captain Mackay brought none of the cannon, very
little ammunition, about five days' allowance of flour,