The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
May 20, 1776
With action by the British military now imminent, Gen. George Washington knows that the Army must be robust and at full power, and not just in size and scope. It must be well armed, without want in either supplies or clothing, and in pristine health.
Washington forbids smallpox inoculation and directs all soldiers who are showing symptoms to be removed to Montresor’s Island.
“It is at present of the utmost importance, that the spreading of that distemper, in the Army and City, should be prevented,” Washington writes in the General Order of the Day.
John Hancock requests that Washington journey to Philadelphia to consult with Congress.
“I shall, if I can settle some matters, which are in agitation, with the Provincial Congress here, follow tomorrow, or next day,” Washington writes.
ON THIS DAY: INTELLIGENCE DELIVERED TO WASHINGTON SHOWS THAT CANADA IS UNRAVELING
George Washington to John Hancock, 20 May 1776
To John Hancock
New York, 20th May 1776.
Sir,
Your favour of the 16th with several resolutions of Congress, therein Inclosed, I had not the honor to receive till last Night. before the receipt, I did not think myself at liberty to wait on Congress, altho I wish’d to do it; and therefore, the more readily consented to General Gates’s attendance; as I knew there were many matters which cd be better explaind in a personal Interview than in whole Volumes of Letters—He accordingly set out for Phila. yesterday Morning, & must have been too far advancd on his journey (as he proposed expedition) to be overtaken. I shall, if I can settle some matters, which are in agitation, with the Provincial Congress here, follow tomorrow, or next day1—and therefore with every Sentiment of regard—attachment—& gratitude to Congress for their kind attention to the means which they think may be conducive to my hea⟨lth,⟩ and with particular thanks to you for the politeness of your Invitation to your House, conclude Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & obligd Hble Servt
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