Amenia, July 12 1780.

His Excellency Gov’r Clinton.

thes may sartify that I am knoing to the truth of what is in the above, as I then Commanded the Ridgment, & am knoing to theas 2 men mench’ed dus now due duty in the Ridgment.

David Sutherland.

Poukeepsie 13th July 1780.

Sir, I am this Moment favoured with your two Letters of equal Date. His Excellency Genl. Washington in Consideration of the Busy Season of the year & other Reasons has prolonged the Day for the Levies to rendevous at Fishkill till 25th Instant. This I notified Brig’r Genl. Swartwoudt of by after Orders which I concluded he had issued to his Brigade. I will send an Officer to receive & take Charge of your men in Season to march them to the Place of Rendevous. This Delay I flatter myself will be agreable as they may be employed in gathering in the Harvests & it will afford them Time fully to prepare & provide themselves for the Campaign which is the more necessary as they are not to be relieved.

I wish it was in my Power to relieve Mr. Brush & Hildridge as I believe they meant to act honestly & uprightly; but it is not as they have not proceeded agreeable to Law and none but such are exempted—neither am I vested with any Discretionary Power of determining in such Cases. I have explained myself more fully to Mr. Brush & am, Sir, your &c.

(G. C.)