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.

114 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [iET. 23.
These things, with the articles of war and a proper
exhortation, I would have you read immediately to the
men, and see that it is frequently done hereafter. I
must desire, that you will use all possible means to
facilitate the salting of our provisions, and give the commissary such assistance as he shall reasonably require.
The Governor approves of the Committee's resolve, in
not allowing either the Maryland or Carolina companies
to be supported out of our provisions. This you are to
make them acquainted with, and, in case any of the
companies should be discharged, to use your utmost
endeavours to enlist as many of the men as you can.
Lieutenant McManners has leave to go to Carolina,
if he desires it. The Assembly would make no alteration in our militia law; nor would the Governor order
the militia to be drafted to complete our regiment, so
that the slow method of recruiting is likely to be our
only means of raising the men. I think, could a brisk
officer, and two or three sergeants, be sent among the
militia stationed on the South Branch, they would have
a probable chance of engaging many, as some were
inclined to enlist at Winchester. Doctor Craik is expected round to Alexandria in a vessel, with medicines
and other stores for the regiment. As soon as he
arrives, I shall take care to despatch him to you.
The Colonels Byrd and Randolph are appointed
commissioners,* and will set out very shortly with a
present for the Cherokees, in order to engage them in
our interest. I am, &c.
* Commissioners appointed by the Governor to visit and conciliate the
Cherokees, Catawbas, and other southern Indians, who were inclined to
the French interest, and threatened hostilities in that quarter.