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.