Dr. Robert Wellford's Diary of the Whiskey Insurrection

The following diary of Robert Wellford was published in the William & Mary Quarterly in 1902 as it appears below. During the Insurrection, Dr. Wellford was appointed Surgeon General of the Army by George Washington. The Whiskey Insurrection of 1794 is also known as the Whiskey Rebellion. Below are a few links to sites detailing the events surrounding the Whiskey Rebellion.

Heritage Studio - History & Painting of Whiskey Rebellion

Washington's Diaries - Whiskey Insurrection (with excerpts of Wellford's diary)

Encarta Encyclopedia - Article on Whiskey Rebellion

Whiskey Rebellion - Schedule of Events, Map & Bibliography

William and Mary College

Quarterly Historical Magazine

Vol. XI, JULY, 1902, No. 1

A DIARY KEPT BY DR. ROBERT WELLFORD, OF FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA, DURING THE MARCH OF THE VIRGINIA TROOPS TO FORT PITT (PITTSBURGH) TO SUPPRESS THE WHISKEY INSURRECTION IN 1794.

Dr. Robert Wellford, the author of this Diary, was born in England, April 12, 1753. He came to America in the latter months of 1775 or the early months of 1776, as surgeon of the First Battalion of Grenadiers, and as such was with the British army under Sir William Howe during its Jersey campaign and its occupancy of Philadelphia in 1777-'78. A brother of his future wife, Bartholomew Yates, then a young lieutenant in a Virginia regiment, fell into the hands of the enemy at Princeton, and died in captivity from wounds inflicted after his surrender by the Hessians, of which General Washington made complaint to General Howe. See Vol. IV, Spark's Washington Correspondence, p. 310. When the British, after the battles of Brandywine and Germantown, were for several months in assured control of Philadelphia, a large number of American prisoners were in their hands, many of them desperately wounded. They were inhumanly treated, and the sick and wounded under the care of a Tory surgeon, Dr. Gordon, died from wanton neglect and inadequate medical attention, whether intentional or not, resulting in an extraordinary mortality. General Washington felt himself compelled, not only to remonstrate but to threaten retaliation, in such positive terms as to provoke an investigation by Sir William Howe. This investigation resulted in the displacement of Dr. Gordon, and the care of the sick and wounded American prisoners was confided to Dr. Wellford. His administration of the trust was so humane and successful as to make for him many life-long friends among the Americans, and, on the other hand, to provoke antagonism with the Hessian officers and their British allies of kindred inhumanity.

This antagonism resulted in the recall of Dr. Wellford's trust as surgeon of the American prisoners. Immediately thereupon he resigned his commission in the British army, and intending to make America his home, he remained in Philadelphia after its evacuation by General Howe as a private candidate for public patronage in the practise of his profession. With him remained many of the American prisoners, who had been under his care while in captivity. Among these was Col. John Spotswood, whose father, a son of Governor Spotswood, was then living upon his ancestral acres at Newpost, upon the Rappahannock river, in Spotsylvania county, only about four miles below Fredericksburg. Colonel Spotswood, at the battle of Brandywine or Germantown, was left in the hands of the enemy, supposed to have been mortally wounded. Colonel Spotswood always attributed his restoration to health and vigor to the ministrations of Dr. Wellford, and the result of their association was a friendship which closed only with death, and the memory of which Dr. Wellford perpetuated through all his descendants by the gift of the name of his valued friend to his oldest son. In a letter of Colonel Spotswood to Dr. Wellford, dated September 20, 1800, he says: "To you, my friend, I am indebted for my present existence, and many officers and hundreds of soldiers can say the same. Your skillful hand, your distinguished humanity and laborious attention to our suffering countrymen, has been acknowledged, and will be remembered in every State. When my brother came to Philadelphia to bring me home he went on to camp. On the evening before his return he went to take leave of General Washington. When he was asked by him whether you intended to accompany me to Virginia; on my brother's informing him that you did, he requested him to call in the morning and he would get the favor of him to take a letter to you. The letter contained four others, all open. They were introductions to Mr. William Fitzhugh, Mr. Charles Washington, Col. Fielding Lewis, and Mr. James Mercer." The original of one of these letters to Mr. William Fitzhugh, the grandfather of Mrs. Gen. Robert E. Lee, dated "Brunswick, in New Jersey, July 6, 1778," is now in possession of Dr. Wellford's grandson, Judge Beverley R. Wellford, Jr., of Richmond.

Dr. Wellford accompanied Colonel Spotswood to Virginia, and, in accordance with the advice of General Washington, settled himself in Fredericksburg, where he continued to live the active and successful practice of his profession until his death, April 24, 1823.

He married, January 1, 1781, Mrs. Catherine Thornton, widow of John Thornton, Esq., of Stafford county, and daughter of the Rev. Robert Yates, of Gloucester county, and granddaughter of Edward Randolph, the youngest son of William Randolph and Mary Isham, his wife.

B.R.W., Jr.

MEMORANDUMS

Monday, 22^nd of September, 1794, the Volunteer Troop of Fredericksburg Cavalry were under orders to march, in the evening of that day, on their way towards Fort Pitt. Lieutenant Mercer not being ready, the Troop was detained that night in Fredericksburg on his account, but express orders were given by Capt. Lewis to get ready at the sound of the Trumpet, & at all events be completely equipped on parade before Daybreak.

Tuesday, 23^rd of September. The Fred'g Troop of Cavalry, according to order, paraded upon the accustomed Ground before day. Lieutenant Glassell, Sergeant Herndon, Messrs. Ryburn & Smock, privates, all absentees from sickness, exactly at the break of day, the Troop commenced the march, & came to an halt near to Michael Robinson's. From thence I returned to Town to adjust some unfinished business, and was closely employed in making arrangements for the benefit of my family during my absence. N. B. This evening paid off the bills due by me to Rich & Hopkins, 36£, 10, 0, also to Johnson, to Howard, to Robinson, the smith's acct, and 7£, 14, 0 to Dowell & Dewling, & gave Mr. Wm. Porter an order on Magruder in Port Royal for 17£, 10, 0. Sat up very late writing Letters to sundry persons expected at the ensuing District Court, requesting payment to Mrs. W. to the amount of their Bonds, &c.

24^th Sept., 1794, Wednesday. Early this morning at taking leave of my family, every tender and affectionate wish was expressed for my health, happiness & safe return. Roused as my sensibility was upon this trying occasion, yet neither the most marked affection, the suspension of the daily emoluments arising from the practice of Medicine, nor the sacrifice of every domestic felicity during this Tour could have any influence when brought in view with inevitable dishonor, that would stigmatize the reputation of all those whose duty in this division (without the plea of ill health) positively claimed their presence in the Western Expedition. With these sentiments I parted with those that are dear to my heart, & left both happiness & interest behind me.

Breakfasted at my friend, Col. John Spotswood's, & received the warmest wishes of every individual of his family; my friend accompanied me as far as Germanna River, & at our separation we mutually exchanged our wishes with sincerity.

Arrived at Culpepper Court House, & found the Troop had been joined by Messrs. Strother, Yancy & Throgmorton, dined with the Gentlemen, & spent the evening at General Stevens, where I supped and slept.

25^th. After breakfast Genl. Stevens accompanied me for several miles upon the road, until there was no hazard of mistaking the route I was to pursue. About eleven miles above the Court house I joined the Gentlemen of the Troop, who were then at their breakfast, after which the Troop rode forward to Love's Tavern, sixteen miles, making a journey of twenty-seven, made Dinner & Supper at one meal, & slept at Love's.

26^th. Three miles from Love's we crossed the Blue Ridge at Chester Gap. At the top of the ridge, on looking back, we had a most sublime and beautiful view of a most prodigious extent of country. Five miles from this prospect we had descended the Blue Ridge, and had arrived at Lehu-town, situated on a rich level piece of ground, & having a pleasing appearance, from Lehu-town to McCoy's, it was 8 miles, thus having accomplished a march of 16 miles. The Gentlemen of the Troop found themselves in want of refreshment, as also their Horses, & we rested here several hours, & from thence went on to Newtown, 8 miles farther, & narrowly escaped a shower on entering the Town. Slept at Taylor's Tavern.

27^th. Breakfasted with Mr. & Mrs. Peacock at their house, & then rode with the Troop to Winchester ten miles, making a journey of One hundred and one miles from Fredericksburg. Slept this Evening under the Marque, which had been previously pitched upon a very eligible piece of ground in the vicinage of the Town, and near the rope walk, which had been previously converted into stables for the reception of the Horses, belonging to the Fredericksburg Troop, & which rendered the situation suitable & accommodating.

28^th, Sunday. The number of sick in the Cavalry are greater than could have been suspected, & have occupied the whole of the morning. Dinner at Col. Magill's with General Morgan, Major Pryor, Capt. Lewis & many other gentlemen. In the evening wrote to my dear Mrs. W.

29^th. Sleeping upon the ground the two preceding nights has produced a slight Catarrh & an inflammation in my left eye. Mem. To have three Canvass Camp stools made directly, which will serve for seats in the day, & a bedstead at Night, also a mattress, &c., which will obviate an exposure to suppressed perspiration, & its uncomfortable consequences.

Attended to the duties of my profession the whole of the morning. Dined with the Rev'd. Dr. Bellmaine, & employed the evening in the manner as the fore part of the day had been occupied.

30^th Sept., Thursday (sic). A prodigious white frost this morning. The sick in the Virginia Corps of Cavalry increase daily. Intermittent, Remittent & Bilious fevers are markably prevalent. Several cases also of Diarrhoea, probably owing to the effects of the Lime Water. Mem: Sufficient employment for Mind & Body.

Oct'r. 1. A continued rain the whole day, the wind at North East & very cold. Capt. Lewis & myself spent the greater part of the day at Col. Magills at whose house I wrote again to Mrs. W. & several of my friends in Fred'g.

As the wind and rain had rendered our Marque very uncomfortable for either eating or sleeping, we accepted Col. Magill's invitation, and slept under his roof.

Oct'r. 2, 3, 4 & 5^th. Very much engaged in professional duties, no less than Thirty five of the different Troops of Cavalry composing the Virginia Corps requiring Medical Aid in Winchester. Slept each of ye aforesaid nights under the Marque, & fell no additional inconvenience from the hardship & exposure inseparable from a military life. Mem: Paid Beatty the saddler £4, 17, 6 for mattrass & bolster stuffed with curled hair, and three black walnut stools covered with canvass.

Oct'r 6, Monday. The infantry & light Corps having previously marched from Winchester on Saturday, the Fred'g Troop of Cavalry was ordered to follow this day. The Marque & Tents were consequently struck & the Troop went forward to Kinkers, 9 miles. As I was engaged in Consultation with a physician in Winchester, on the case of Mr. Conrad, remained there & afterwards dined with Dr. Mackey, where Mr. Dykes called upon me, and informed me of his discharge, & also his wishes to oblige me in the conveyance of Letters to my friends in Fred'g. Wrote to my dear Mrs. W., the Rev'd. J. Stevenson & others. In the evening rode alone to Kinkers, being obliged to leave Moses in Winchester on account of the injury to my bay horse's back by the saddle, & the lameness of my Shark mare in consequence of a wound on the fetlock joint by a piece of Rock stone.

Tuesday, 7^th. Left Kinkers this morning in company with a squadron of cavalry formed by Lewis's & Jeffers's Troops, traveled with them a little beyond Copsyes, at the black horse, 17 miles, & left them at a house where Foragle was provided for the Cavalry. Being unwell, & the accommodations very bad, I went forward with Major Nelson to Crocks, 5 miles further, where we supped, and slept in a very indifferent stile. Here we reached the rear guard of the Infantry.

8^th. The Cavalry passed during the time we were at breakfast. At this meal we were joined by Mr. Catlett (who afterward followed the Army as far as Fort Cumberland). After breakfast Major Nelson & myself rode together to Claytons, where the Officers & soldiers breakfasted. Mr. Jer'h Strother being ill, I remained with him until 4 o'clock in the afternoon, when I went forward to Springfield, 17 miles from Crock's, & there joined the Gentlemen at Mr. McAllisters.

Thursday, 9^th. Our reception at McAllisters was so disagreeable to the generality of his guests that the Squadron moved away very early, & rode thro' the rain to Frankfort, 7 miles, where we had a most comfortable breakfast at McMeekins Tavern. In the vicinage of this town we found encamped the brigade of Militia commanded by Genl. Dark, & left them in our rear, and took up our quarters at Capt. Bells, at Fort Cumberland, 14 miles, making a journey of Sixty nine from Winchester.

10^th. Attended to my professional duties, & dined with the Commander in Chief, in company with a number of Officers, find ourselves comfortably quartered at Capt. Bells, as also the men, who are well encamped at the back of the Garden under the Marque & two Tents.

Saturday, 11^th Oct'r. All the leisure time of the evening of yesterday & of this morning has been occupied in writing to Mrs. W., &c., &c.

At the request of the Commander in Chief, delivered by his Aide de Camp, Major Taylor, I rode from Fort Cumberland to Col. Rollins's, the first house on the south side of Patowmac, north branch, to visit a young man of the name of King from Hanover County, returned at night.

12^th. Made an excursion into the mountains with two Gentlemen to view the Country, and engage one of the hunters to kill venison. The low grounds upon the sides of the water courses very fertile, but in very small quantities, the uplands sterile, & the people sallow, bilious, sickly looking persons, particularly the children. Dined with Capt. Dick & his mess at his Qr's. This evening Moses arrived from Winchester with my bay horse, but left the Shark behind very lame.\

Monday, 13^th. Was appointed this morning by the Commander in Chief (as will appear more fully by reference to the General Order) Senior Surgeon to the division of the Army acting with himself.

Rode to Frankfort with Major Heard & Capt. Lewis to dine with Genl. Morgan, spent the afternoon & evening at his Quarters, & slept there.

Mem: Mr. Catlett set out yesterday for Fredericksburg, & took charge of my letters, & many others.

14^th & 15^th. Engaged in the first state of the formation of an hospital, & in receiving returns of the sick in the different Regiments composing this division of the Army.

16^th, Thursday. Between eleven & twelve o'clock this day arrived the President of the United States escorted into the town & to Head Quarters near the Fort by three troops of light dragoons, every man of whom cheerfully left ye encampment to pay the President a compliment, every regiment was drawn up in excellent order to receive him, & as he passed the line of Infantry he deliberately bowed to every officer individually. The Artillery at the same time announced his arrival.

17^th. Capt. Lewis promoted to be Major Commandant of the Cavalry, Lieutenant Mercer to be Capt. Of the Fredericksburg Troop of Volunteers, Cornet Mortimer to be Lieutenant, vice Mercer, and Will'm Herndon to be Cornet.

The prevalent disease in Camp is diarrhoea, some cases of Remittent fever & intermittent Fever & also Dysentery. Very closely engaged in accommodating the sick & in providing for their reception into the Hospital.

Was this day invited to dine with the President, and with a number of Officers, dined under Genl. Lee's Marque, and was treated very affably by the President, who was pleased to express his approbation of my conduct.

18^th. Making every exertion for fitting up an Hospital in the Romish Chapel, the Cradles, &c, are in considerable forwardness, but the Carpenters will not be able to complete the Steward's Room & Surgery before Monday evening.

19^th Oct'r, Sunday. Was so anxious to hear from my dear Mrs. W. that I yesterday dispatched Moses to the post office in Winchester with letter to Mrs. W., informing her of the prospect of shortly leaving Fort Cumberland, and of crossing the Alleghany Mountains, which must effectually preclude an opportunity of writing for some time. I flattered myself that Moses would find letters in the post office from Fredericksburg for me.

This morning the President of the United States set out for Bedford on his return to the right wing of the Army, & from there to the seat of Government.

The Commander in Chief, in conversation with me respecting the sick this morning, took occasion to observe that the President had been speaking to him such terms relative to my professional talents that I was about to elevated, that he accorded with the President, & thought my merit & industry deserving promotion, & imagined it would appear in General Orders at Bedford. The Cavalry this morning escorted the President about five miles from (camp), when he requested the Troops to return, & at taking leave spoke to Major George Lewis as follows: "George, You are the eldest of five nephews that I have in this Army, let your conduct be an example to them, and do not turn your back until you are ordered." Major Lewis made a suitable replay, but from this address of the President it was conjectured that the Troops would not be entirely disbanded at the end of the three month's service.

Mem: The President's five nephews are Major George Lewis, Commandant of the Cavalry. Major Laurence Lewis, Aid de Camp to Major Genl. Morgan. Mr. Howell Lewis, in Capt. Mercer's troop, and Mr. Saml. Washington (son of Col. Ch's Washington), and Mr. Laurence Washington (son of Col. Saml. Washington), both of whom are light horsemen in the troop lately commanded by Capt. Lewis.

Monday, the 20^th, Tuesday, the 21^st, & Wednesday, the 22^nd, were totally engrossed by a constant and unremitted attention to the accommodations of the sick in the Hospital, & in making arrangements for the faithful distribution of Wine & other nutritious articles, which I was about to leave in the Storeroom at the Fort Cumberland Hospital for the use of the unfortunate after the removal of the Army. Accomplished that business this evening, and in reporting the same at Head Quarters was told that after ye President's arrival at Bedford it appeared in General Orders that I was appointed Surgeon General to the Army.

The President's reception at Bedford on his return to the seat of Government was affectionate and interesting. When it was announced that He was approaching, the troops & the artillery paraded, the Cavalry marched down the road two miles, & drew up on the right of the road. As General Washington passed he pulled off his hat, &, in the most respectful manner, bowed to the officers & men, and in this manner passed the line, who were affected by the sight of their Chief, for whom each individual seemed to show the affectionate regard that would have been to an honoured Parent. As soon as the President passed, his escort followed the Troops, joined the train, & entered the town, whose inhabitants seemed anxious to see this very great and good Man. Crowds were assembled in the streets, but their admiration was silent. In this manner the President passed in front of the Camp, where the troops were assembled in front of the Tents. The line of Artillery Horse & Infantry appeared in the most perfect order, the greatest silence was observed. Genl. Washington approached the right uncovered, passed along the line bowing in the most respectful & affectionate manner to the officers-he appeared pleased. The scene was grand, interesting and affecting; every man, as he passed along, poured forth his wishes for the preservation of this most valuable of their fellow citizens. A sublime instance of the cheerful subordination of citizens to the call of their Chief for the support of law and order.

Here you might see the aged veteran, the mature soldier & the zealous youth assembled in defence of that government, which must, in turn, prove the protector of their persons, family & property. There will be in a few days a most formidable body of men, sufficient to subdue all the opposers of Government.

Thursday, 23^rd of Octr. The left wing of the Army, with the Commander in Chief, marched from Fort Cumberland to Strickers, 11 miles, & encamped in a meadow; the conduct of this man betrayed the utmost dissatisfaction on the approach of the Army, & his behaviour to individuals on their arrival evidently discovered his insurgent disposition.

24^th. From Strickers the Army proceeded this day to Tomlinson's, at the little Meadows, 11 miles. The course of this day's march led the Army over a thousand times ten thousand rocks, thro' a dark, dreary part of the Mountains called the "Shades of Death," & by an almost continued ascent to that rugged and elevated part of the Alleghany Mountains known by the epithet of the "back bone of America." Towards evening it began to rain, and the Tents of the Cavalry were pitched in the right hand meadow directly opposite the former encampment of General Braddock, and the ground which Washington made a stand after Braddock's defeat, the marks of which are now easily discernable. The Infantry & the Artillery fixed their temporary residence in the edge of the woods above the little meadows, which are in the State of Maryland. The rain increased during the evening, & the whole of the night.

25^th. Saturday. A most uncomfortable day in every point of view, a cold rain was incessantly pouring down, the earth was so completely wetted that it was in a swampy state, our Horses were picketted out all the time for want of Stables, our accommodations in the eating, drinking & sleeping stile were not to be envied, & the day passed worse than a blank in the Creation.

26^th. Rained the whole of the last Night & looks very much like continuing as long as we remain here upon this spot, as we can occasionally see the clouds much lower than the ground we have lately passed, which Mr. Jefferson has calculated at being -- miles perpendicular height above the Tide Water. It can then be readily conceived that clouds passing over the mountains would, from the interference of these mountainous heights, cause the contents of the clouds to be prematurely showered down. Notwithstanding the rain, Genl. Orders were issued for the troops to march, & at 10 o'clock the tents were struck, & the Infantry & artillery proceeded to Simkins, & the Cavalry as far as Mountains & Augustines. The distance from Tomlinson's at the little Meadows to the little crossing of Youghogany River, 3 miles, from the little crossing to Simkins, were the Commander in Chief made his Head Quarters, 8 miles, & from thence to Mountain's hovel & Augustine's hog style, making a progress of 18 miles this day, altho' the rain never remitted until evening. This part of the world, & its inhabitants appeared to me to be in strict alliance with every thing that can be called filthy & undesirable.

27^th, Monday. Remained in this most uncomfortable situation the greater part of the day, a portion of which was by all the officers in the neighborhood devoted to visiting each other, without discovering anything that could lead to a wish for an exchange of Quarters. In the evening we made a party, and rode to Jone's, about two miles, were kept warm by a large fire, & had a more plentiful supper, & more whiskey produced for our use than we had since we left Fort Cumberland. This evening it again rained, which, if possible, increased our dissatisfaction.

Tuesday, the 28^th of October. Left this detestable part of America, & proceeded to the great crossings of the Youghogany (three miles), which, from the rapidity & depth of the water, was with some difficulty, &, in several instances, with some danger forded by the Cavalry. A large boat & other vessels were provided for the passage of Foot Soldiers, &c. Soon after landing, the Army proceeded about Clark's five miles, where we were once more accommodated with a comfortable supper & a good bed. Early on the morning of the 29^th Major Lewis, with ten soldiers of his former troop, set out upon an expedition to secure a noted insurgent, whose name was Gladdis. By a proper disposition of the small force appropriated to this service Gladdis was secured & forwarded to Head Quarters under a guard of four clever fellows, Beverley Chew, Howell Lewis, Augustine Baughan, & William Hunter. BEING the first Cavalry that had in this contest crossed that mountain, & if exposure was necessary, these gentlemen were liable to become victims, as they were not only in the van of the army, but acting on a spot that if ever opposition would take place this party would be certain to experience it. This rascal and the Gentlemen his attendants we met on the road between Bells & Union town & no man who saw him could help feeling irritability on viewing a scoundrel that had been instrumental in drawing him from his home and pursuits from his friends & the emoluments of his business, from his domestic enjoyments & every good thing this world can afford. Urged by sentiments of energy arising from the sacrifices that almost every man had made in leaving his home on this expedition, in such a situation & forwarded in such a style, it ought to have been imagined that Insult to the Man & reflection upon his conduct & upon the action of his associates would be his lot in passing a large body of Infantry troops. To their credit let it be noted that no personal injury happened to this man in passing the line of the Army, who was safely escorted by men of prowess & considerance to the Commander in Chief, but that Gentleman, so far from regarding the capture of Gladdis as a meritorious act, was pleased to receive him with an apparent degree of cordiality, Whatever motives actuated him to such conduct, time & a greater degree of information may show & probably acquiesce, but I am & ever must be of the opinion that my friend Major G. Lewis deserved merit, & ought never to have seen the Letter (in No. 1), which Genl. Was pleased to forward by Mr. Howel Lewis, who was literally an express for a most notorious Insurgent.

Thursday, 30^th of October. At noon this day passed over the Laurel hill & was witness to one of the most extensive & interesting views that the imagination can form. On the summit of a mountain of immense height you see in your rear a country composed of mountainous & rugged aspect as far as the eye can command, & of such appearance as to seem absolutely impassable if we were not satisfied that the contrary was a fact. To the right and left appear a most unfertile chain of rocky mountains. But in front you behold a value beautiful indeed. At this season a most lovely verdure was retained, & the friendliness of the soil in promoting the growth of grass was evident upon every farm, which every moment opened to view, & presented a most desirable prospect of near thirty well cultivated Estates & a small Town called Beesom Town alias Union Town. Into this Town, 12 miles from Bells, we entered about dining time, and my attention was immediately arrested by small water courses, which intersected the Town, & which indubitably contributed to the fine green colour of the paddocks & produce of the adjoining meadows. Dined at Collins Tavern with Major Lewis, & engaged with him a room, &c, at Mr. Kings.

Octr 31^st. The weather very bad. Nov'r 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd & 4^th almost a constant rain the streets unaccountably mirey, which hourly exposed my health to all the bad consequences of feet constantly damp, & my situation requiring some share of activity, I was almost hourly exposed to every influential effect of Rain upon the human frame.

Novr 5^th. The Commander in Chief left this dirty place for Brownsville (alias Red-Stone), & all the troops (excepting the Guards for Hospital, &c.) marched out of Town in three divisions as expressed in the Genl Orders of the day. Early in the afternoon Mr. Glassell & Dr. Kerr arrived, & having established the hospital to the best of my ability, I left Dr. Kerr, Rawlings & Bennet entrusted with sick to the number of 116, & also Medical & Hospital stores, including a quarter Cask of Wine, &c. Then Mr. Glassell accompanied me to Brownsville, where I reported to Genl Lee the effective steps I had adopted for the relief and comfort of the unfortunate. After taking a couple of glasses of Wine Mr. G. and myself proceeded towards Jackson' mill, where we were told good quarters were ready for reception. Unacquainted with the road, we arrived at an impassable creek, and traveled thro' the woods until we found a cabin inhabited by a poor, but hospitable family, where we slept upon the floor before a large Fire, & in the morning we congratulated each other upon our good luck, as being far preferable to remaining in a wood in this wild country at the foot of a tree during a lengthy cold night at this inclement season.

Thursday, the 6^th of Novr. After generously compensating the poor people who so hospitably had taken us under their roof, Glassell & myself again visited the same Creek, which the preceeding even'g had frustrated our wishes. It was this morning fordable, & we arrived at Jacksons to breakfast & were most cordially welcomed by our friends in the Fred'g Cavalry stationed at Jacksons Mill. This man Jackson passes for a Quaker, & had the preceeding evening so completely filled his skin with Wine, with which he was treated by our young Gentlemen at Red-Stone, that he returned with them from thence in proper Bachanalian trim. From this they inferred that he would prove a most accommodating Landlord, & make us comfortable during the short time we were about to stay at this Farm. From some circumstances I formed a less favorable opinion of him, which was fully verified by a miserably poor scanty dinner, & every other mark of unwelcome reception. I was not silent on the occasion, & having freely expressed my sentiments, & also my suspicions of Jackson's conduct towards the Army & Insurgents, he soon became satisfied that we regarded him as that Rascal, which he really is, and sneaked off. When the young Gent'n proceeded to Guillotine pigs & chickens, & the officers & myself went over to town & drowned our ire in Wine, & having previously ordered the Marque & tents to be pitched, that no further communications might be requisite under the roof of such a Scoundrel. We returned from Red-Stone early in the even'g, found temporary habitations prepared, as also large Fires, fine pullet soup, &c., spent a cheerful Even'g, and slept sound in the Marque.

7^th. Left this place with an intention of going to Head Qr's, & from thence to the other Column of the Army, about 12 miles from Jacksons; found the Commander in Chief at Powers Farm, & slept there. The land in this County Fayette is generally good, with a number of fine farms particularly in the Forks of Yough.

8^th. Set off this morning for the other column of the Army, crossed the Yough at Ferry, & proceeded to Genl. Mifflins Head Qr's. Was very warmly & politely entertained by Governor Mifflin & his suite, received the reports of the sick from Doct'r Cutbush, the Senior Surgeon, & made a draft of hospital & medical Stores from Dr. Balfour, the Purveyor, for the use of the sick in the left Column, ordered Wine, Rice & Medicines, recrossed the Yough at the Ferry late in the Even'g, and slept at Head Qr's at Powells Farm.

Sunday, 9^th. After visiting the Secretary of the Treasury, who was indisposed at Esquire Wrights, returned to Head Qr's, & dined with large party of Officers, many of whom took friendly leave of each other in the Even'g with warm wishes of meeting their families & friends at home in health & comfort.

10^th, Monday. The remainder of the Mary proceeded to cross the Monongohalia River for Washington County & Alleghany County. Mercer, Glassell & myself crossed at Parkinsons Ferry, & amused ourselves in viewing the spot upon which had stood the grand Warpost of Sedition, but at this place, which but a few months past had been notoriously famed throughout the Continent of America for every overt act that could stigmatize with infamy those concerned in the scenes of this place, not one bad citizen was now to be found, not a man that would avow even the slightest possible bias towards Insurgency (such was the general & complete reformation produced even by the sight of the approach of the Army). The Monongohalia is a most beautiful River, from 240 to 300 yards in width, at Fort Pitt half a mile, 880 yards, & gliding smoothly & placidly & clam as a Summer's Even'g. This River affords a large Pike, Perch & Cat Fish, the latter of enormous size, having been caught to weight near 100 lb. I saw a Pike three feet some inches in length, and a Perch that weighed 12 pounds. Dined this day at Genl Matthews Qr's three miles from Parkinsons ferry, & afterwards went in search of Tom the Tinkers habitation, & expressed a Guide to attend Glassell, Mercer, & myself to Holcrofts, where we slept.

(From this date there is a failure of the days until)

Saturday, Nov'r 22^nd. Left McFarlands, 15 miles from Pittsburg, on the west side of the Monongohalia, crossed at Perry's ferry, 1 miles, the cold excessive, the Ink froze while writing, snowed this day. Genl. Matthews, Capt. Carter, Lt. Glassell, Lt. Saunders, Major Wray & Capt. Chas. Stuart, the road so intolerably bad we stooped at Cornell's, the Black house, slept before the fire. This day traveled 7 miles.

23^rd. After breakfast to the forks of Yough, 4 miles, crossed at Budds Ferry, about 8 miles, took a right hand road called the "Turkey foot Road." This is about 5 miles from Cherry's Mill. Passed this day thro' the late encampment of Ye Right Wing, travelled the Turkey foot road 4 miles to Mrs. Woodrow, making 16 miles this day, 58 from Fort Pitt, slept before the fire. Mem. Sugar made on one plant'n here one thousand weight. The cold excessive, said to have been from the year 1771 in no part of any winter more severe for 23 years.

Monday, 24^th. Breakfasted at Mrs. Woodrow's, the most comfortable house in t his country that I have been in. One large room divided, by plank partitions, into 3 sleeping rooms & one eating room, with a very large log fire, the kitchen under the same roof. If this was the best house, judge then of the others. Crost Jacobs Creek. Arrived this Even'g at Amos Strickland's, at the top of the Chestnut ridge, 14 miles.

Tuesday, 25^th. At ½ past 7 left Stricklands, & at the end of 4 miles forded Indian Creek, 7 miles from there breakfasted upon broiled venison at Mariaty's, from thence rode to the North fork of the Yough, 9 miles, making 20 miles to Anthony Reemes, a Dutchman. Snow this day, cold continues. From Fort Pitt 38, 14, 20, 72.

Wednesday, 26^th. After sleeping in the Dutchmans kitchen We rode to Grundy's, 14 miles, to breakfast, & afterwards to Michael Ingles, 5 miles, making 19 miles this day.

Thursday, 27^th Left Ingles & crossed the last of the Western Waters, & then ascended the Savage Mtn, went forward to the Alleghany, cros't the back bone in this Turkey foot road, & breakfasted at Logsdon's, 14 miles, from thence proceeded to Cumberland of Potowmac, this day passed thro' a vale a few miles from Cumberland called the narrows of Mill's Creek, here a view of stupendous Mt'n, varied at every step, possessing grandeur, those who delight in natural curiosities. 25 miles. Immediately on descending the Eastern side of the Alleghany, discovered the snow leaving us, & on arriving at the foot of the Mountains no snow to be seen, & the weather warmer by several degrees. Dined at Beatty's Tavern in Cumberland, & slept at Capt. Beall's.

Friday, 28^th. Detained at Glassells illness until 1 o'clock, then rode to Frankfort, & dined & slept at McMeekens, this day a very fine one. 12 miles.

29^th. Rode from Frankfort to Springfield, 6 miles, breakfasted at McAllisters, then went forward to the great Cape Capon run, crost the same, & put up at the Black horse John Coxey, 22 miles, this day also was a very fine one, altho' it rained in the last night. 28 miles & 4 32.

Sunday, 30^th. Proceeded to Mrs. Lewis's, 4 miles, last night. This morning rode to Rinkers to breakfast, 13 miles, & to Winchester in the afternoon, 9, 22 miles. From Fort Pitt 72, 19, 25, 12, 52, 22, 160. Sunday even'g Rode to Mr. E. Smith's & slept there.

Monday, 1^st December. It rained the whole of last night & the greater part of this morn'g - walked from Mr. E. S. to Winchester, & went with Lt. Carr to dine at his house. Slept there.

2^nd. Dined with Genl Matthews, &c, at Bush's Tavern by invitation.

3^rd. Rode with Col. Meade to his house, dined & spent the Even'g there.

4^th. Breakfasted with Col. Meade, returned to Winchester, dined at Bushs, & slept at Mr. Smiths.

5^th, Friday. Rode to Robt Page's to visit his child, dined & slept there.

6^th. Breakfasted at Mr. Page's. Returned to Winchester, & dined at Bushs.

Sunday, 7^th. Spent the greater part of the morning in Winchester, dined with Mr. E. Smith, & spent the evening there.

8^th. Engaged with Dr. Richardson in settling his Acct's, wrote to the Commdr in Chief respecting settlement of Acct, dined at Bushs. Spent the Even'g at Mr. E. Smiths.

9^th. Breakfasted at Newtown, afterwards rode to Winchester.

10^th. Spent day with Mr. Peacock.

11^th. Breakfasted at Newtown, afterwards rode to Winchester.

12^th. Sent Moses to Freds'g. Dined in Winchester, slept at Mr. Smith's.

13^th, Saturday. Rode to Martinsburg, spent the latter part of the day, & slept at Major Reeds.

14^th. Left Martinsburg, rode to Norths furnace where Mr. Jefferson speaks of the Potowmac thro the Mountain, alto to Harpers Ferry, where the Shenandoah forms a junction with the Potowmac, beautiful, from thence to Col. Bulls, supt, & slept there.

15^th, Monday. Rode to Norths furnace, thence to Genl Lees Quarters, with Col. Dark, to Genl Darks house, dined there, sent an express to Shepardstown. In the evening found Genl Lee at his Qr's, & rode in the night time with him to Col. Bulls. wet several hours.

16^th. Rode with Genl Lee & Major Taylor from Col. Bulls to Winchester. To-morrow the Genl says my business shall be settled.

17^th, Wednesday. Uniformly engaged in all the variety of business connected with my late situation. wrote to him on the subject of pay, &c., and received his answer.

18^th, Thursday. Made a Genl Report of sick, &c., also Statement & Settlement of Hospital & Medical Stores, Instruments, &c., and rec'd the Com' in Chief's approbation peculiarly expressed in his Letters to the Secretary of the Treasury, Ex't of which may be seen by reference. Paid on acct. of United States 57£, 0, 6, & rec'd Genl Lee's order on Col. Otway Byrd for the Am't. Also Genl Lee's order on E. Smith, Esq., for 600 dollars. Wm. T. arrived & gave me vast pleasure by Letters & communications respecting my family, desired him to return to Col. Thurstons, & gave him 1 dollar & an half. Business of various kinds prevented me from asking questions of less importance than what im'y concerned me. Dined & spent the aftern'n & ev'g with Commr in Chief, Genl Matthews, &c. Mem. Genl Lees full signature attained this day & not earlier.

Friday, 19^th. Slept last night at Bush's. took leave of Mr. Smith's family. engaged this morning in an address to Genl Lee.

Received from Mr. Smith 600 Dollars, also from Col. O. Byrd 190, 8 cts.

Examined & approved Doct'r Kerr's acct 121 dollars, & also Doctor Blakay's acct for 218 dollars, for both accts the Com'r in Chief gave the Gent'n orders on Col. Byrd. Dined with Dr. Makay, & about three o'clock drank a parting glass of wine with the Comr in Chief, Genl Matthews, Genl Dark, Col. McGuire, K. B. Taylor, Major Holms, &c., &c., & left Winchester, arrived at Col. Reads in the evening. Mem. It has rained moderately the whole day & evening, rained hard in the night.

Saturday, 20^th. Sent early this morning for Billy & Moses to come from Col. Thurstons to me at Col. Meades; they arrived in the rain ab't 10 o'clock. Mem. It rained all day, and in evening, it snowed, & continued to snow during the night.

21^st. Breakfasted at daybreak w'th Col. Meade, & rode thro' bad roads to Mr. Whiting's. slept there.

22d. At daybreak left Mr. Whitings, & rode to the Spotted Tavern, 22 miles, breakfasted there, & had the happiness of seeing my Dear Wife & sweet children in perfect health, for which I am truly grateful to a Good God.