New York, June 16, 1776.
[Extract]
I have ordered a Ton of Powder, half a Ton of Lead, five Thousand Flints, some Cannon, intrenching Tools, and a Dozen whip Saws and Files, to be immediately sent you; which you will receive in two or three Days, with a List of them and every other Article sent from hence at this Time...
In Regard to a Person to superintend the Building of Gondolas, and other Carpenters to carry on the Work, I refer you to my Letter of the 9th. and shall only add, that they cannot be now had, every one qualified for the Business, being employed here.
P.S. The Whip Saws, I fear, can't be got. The Qr. Master says he has tried without Success.
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, V, 146, 147, 148.
