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The Haldimand Collection is a valuable resource for the study of events in North America from the beginning of the Seven Years War to the end of the American Revolution and the early period of Loyalist settlement. The Papers contain the correspondence and records of Frederick Haldimand’s various commands at Trois-Rivières, Florida, New York, and Quebec. Included is correspondence with such military commanders as General Jeffery Amherst, Thomas Gage, Sir John Burgoyne, Henry Bouquet, and Sir Henry Clinton; various civil and military officials such as the Earl of Sandwich, First Lord of the Admiralty; Lord Barrington, Secretary at War; Lord Dartmouth and Lord George Germain, Secretaries of State; the Governors of Quebec, James Murray and Sir Guy Carleton; British ministers, including the Earl of Shelburne and Lord North; officers of Loyalist Corps such as Robert Rogers, James Rogers, Sir John Johnson, John Butler, and many others; Indian Department officials, Sir William Johnson, Guy Johnson and Daniel Claus; several governors and lieutenant governors; and many letters by Robert Matthews, Haldimand’s military secretary.
1769/01/06 – New York – General Gage
By letter from Lord Hillsborough, six Companies instead of three to be left for the defence of West Florida. Find that the 21st Regiment has been ordered to Charleston, South Carolina ; had hoped they could be put under cover at St. Augustine. Too late now to say anything about it. (Page 1) – SN: 004001
1769/01/10 – Pensacola – General Haldimand apparently to M. D’Aubry (in French)
Acknowledges letter on the subject of the revolution in New Orleans. All his (Aubry’s) cares for four years to prepare the minds .of the people for the change of sovereignty saved Ulloa and the Spaniards, and his prudence will save-matters being pushed to extremity. Is surprised at Don Ulloa’s course. The French not to be conciliated ,by being treat like Mexicans ; the difference between them and French Canadians who are contented, .and will soon all speak the English language. Trusts this outbreak of the Louisanians may not have .disagreeable consequences. Trust that reflection will restore quiet. Regrets he has not been able to meet him personnaly to thank him, and offers his services. (Page 2). – SN: 004002
1769/01/14 – New York – General Gage
Regrets troops not all embarked for St. Augustine Fortunately their services not wanted. though he does not know how soon he may have to embark with troops to another part of the continent, for which he may be prepared. If all but the three Companies are at St. Augustine, is only to reinforce these to a sufficient number for protection of West Florida. Tho revolt at New Orleans may be attended with bad consequences. Blameable conduct of the officer sent with deserters, in giving them to regiments at Jamaica instead of at Grenada. (Page 6) – SN: 004003
1769/02/07 – Pensacola – General Haldimand, probably to Taylor at St. Augustine (in French)
Is still in this villainous country (Pensacola). The two Companies of Artillery at last arrived; will start as soon as possible for St. Augustine ; if they cannot land there will go to Charleston. Will go by Fort St. Mark, where he wishes to see Mr. Gordon; if not arrived, will leave a few soldiers till he does. Will come thence by land to St. Augustine, if the road is practicable. (Page 
– SN: 004004
1769/03/14 – New York – General Gage
Encloses report concerning biscuits for troops from Commissary Leake (page 9). His remarks as to contractors’ duties. Haldimand should scarcely need boat builders at St. Augustine. To transmit accounts of expenditure ; Major Chisholm likes his quarters at Charleston, but doubts if the Assembly when it meet will be very ready to provide for the troops. They are to go back to St. Augustine to be ready against a sudden call. Col. McKay, a Major General in America ; Col. Prevost has sold to Col. Christie. Desires his opinion as to best means of defending West Florida from attack from Indians, French or Spaniards, The ruinous state of the defences. Number of troops needed and what assistance the troops could expect from the Militia. Desires also opinion as to best method of attacking Louisiana. What impediments to the march of troops by river from sea or by Lake Pontchartrain to get to New Orleans by the Bayou of St. John, and how to be removed. The delay of attacking from the side of Philadelphia Province. Court martial to be assembled in South Carolina to try deserters from 21st Regiment, Hospital and barrack arrangements, (Page 10) – SN: 004005
1769/04/24 – Charleston – John Stuart, Indian Superintendent.
Regarding Charles Stuart’s illness. The conduct of Lt. Governor rowne in keeping Government arrangements of Indian affairs a secret, inexplicable. The Assemblies, owing to state of affairs on the Continent, have made no regulation with respect to Indian trade ; Indians complain of the country being filled with vagabonds, and of traders imposing on them. Happy that his sentiments regarding mediation in disputes between Indians are approved. (Page 96) – SN: 004006
1769/04/26 – New York – General Gage.
Respecting returns of rations, and regulations respecting the issue, &c. (Page15) – SN: 004007
1769/05/09 – New York – General Gage.
The 9th Regiment to be sent home ; to be reduced to the strength of the irish establishment and all who will volunteer to remain in America to be turned over to other regiments. (Page 16) – SN: 004008
1769/06/28 – St-Augustine – General Haldimand to his nephew (in French)
Regarding the desire of his nephew’s brother to go to England. Cannot purchase him no Ensigncy as he may get it for nothing, but something better may offer in business; asks assistance to borrow in London £500 stg. on the security of a house and other private matters. (Page 18) – SN: 004009
1769/06/29 – St-Augustine – General Haldimand, no address (in French)
Introducing his nephew. (Page 21) – SN: 004010
1769/06/30 – New York – General Gage
Respecting barracks at St. Augustine. Finally determined that six companies are to be kept in West Florida. (Page 23) – SN: 004011
1769/07/01 – New York – General Gage.
Last letter received. was dated 15th of December. Hopes he has received letter of 9th May directing- the reduction of 9th Regiment. &c., that regiment to go to Ireland; the 81st from Charleston to St. Augustine. Instructions to be given to officers commanding 9th Regt. General orders concerning the transfer of troops. Extract from Lord Barrington’s letter about the 9th Regiment enclosed. (Page 27) – SN: 004012
1769/07/01 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
The difficulties in providing the St. Augusine material for barracks at St. Augustine, persuade him that the best way is to build them in New York or Jersey and send them to be raised on the spot. No good bricks to be got. The selection of the site. The wells dug for the use of the convent furnish the best water in the place. The stones for building are very bad and porous. Housing of the troops ; its scarcity. Was detained at Pensacola partly from being solicited to wait Govr. Elliot’s arrival. (Page 24) – SN: 004013
1769/07/06 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French.)
Respecting the troops to be left for the defence of West Florida. The result of Lt. Boucher’s taking the deserters to the West Indies. Governor Ellison’s quarrels with the military led to indecision as to receiving them and consequent expense. Is convinced it was a good thing to get rid of them from the frontiers of Florida. Respecting refusal of contractors to furnish biscuits to the troops embarking. Will send accounts of expenditure at Pensacola. Has only kept one artificer of those sent, he is the only one to be depended on. The delays in building barracks, and progress of the work. Hospital arrangement ; claims of Governor Grant to make staff appointments. (Page 31) – SN: 004014
1769/07/09 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
At present Louisiana could be easily conquered, the inhabitants detest Spanish rule and would willingly throw themselves into the arms of Great Britain. If attached to Spain and that she had 5 or 600 regular troops there, it would take 2.000 men to make a successful attack. There are 1,000 men fit to bear arms besides about 100 French troops ; the inhabitants all accustomed to the use of arms and knowing the country would be more dangerous than regular troops. Discusses the best points and method of attack. (Page 36) – SN: 004015
1769/08/04 – Charleston – John Stuart, Indian superintendent.
Negotiations of Spaniards with the Indians. Talk proposed by them with Upper and Lower Nations in September at the Appalachicola River. Pumpkin .King enemy of the Spaniards, proposes that a ship of war prevent them landing. Has taken precautions to obtain information.Virginians object to the Cherokee boundary ; is to make new treaty if the House of Burgesses of Virginia grant the sum required for expenses. If not, line to remain as by treaty of 14 October 1768. War between Choctaws and Creeks continues. (Page 94) – SN: 004016
1769/08 (apparently) – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
The 9th Regiment ready for embarkation. Few Volunteers coming forward; Urging on the completion of the barracks. Money scarce; has had to lose 4 Per cent, on bills. Has taken no steps to send the additional three companies to Pensacola till he hears further. Respecting stores and pay to workmen and soldiers. Western Florida thrown into confusion by the death of Governor Elliott. Lieut. Governor detested, is led by a young man with whom no one has ever been able to live . (Page 38) – SN: 004017
1769/09/23 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand.
Agreement respecting a house rented from Capt. Jenkins, 9th Regiment. (Page 40) – SN: 004018
1769/09/27 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Memoranda of subjects for letters to different persons. (Page 41) – SN: 004019
1769/09/30 – New York – General Gage.
Respecting repairs to old barracks ; disappointed at delay and cost ; instructions for building new barracks, &c., and providing for them in New-York or Jersey. All discharges of artificicers to be noted at once. Wooldridge been appointed Fort adjutant and Barrack Master. Otber appointments. Engineers under control of Governor not to be employed, nor money advanced them, as there would be no check on outlay. To examine Moncreiff’s instructions. If Lorimer is a member of the Assembly, it will be difficult to prevent him going to Pensacola. Half yearly return of provisions to be sent regularly. Prosecution carrying on between late Governor Johnstone and Col. Walsh. Sergeant Orchardson, a witness, to have leave to go to England if required. (Page 42) – SN: 004020
1769/10/02 – New York – General Gage.
Acknowledges letters. Thanks for suggestions as to attack on New Orleans. Will do what he can for nephew ; but it is difficult just now to get a commission. (Page 48) – SN: 004021
1769/10/03 – New York – General Gage.
Returns vouchers, as they must be used in passing accounts with Treasury. The orders to keep six companies in West Florida to be observed. Respecting provision accounts ; everything respecting district to be put in a proper way that Lt. Col. Maxwell may carry on the service during:Haldimand’s absence in the North on his own affairs. (Page 50) – SN: 004022
1769/10/13 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Delays of transport, first from want of biscuits, and then from heavy storm. Col. Maxwell arrived off the bar, but, owing to the gale, ship had again to stand out to sea. A detachment of the 9th Regiment to sail for New York next day. Distribution Return of 136 Volunteers; most of them good recruits. Arms delivered up by 9th Regiment sent to New York for want of proper store room. Lt. Smith will furnish personally details of the works from the beginning. Encloses a plan which he can explain. Money very scarce ; if barracks are built some must be sent, as workmen paid in bills lose by exchange ; asks that Lt. Smith may have an allowance as clerk of works and overseer, to be continued to his successor. Lt. Boucher will obtain leave to go to New York, where he will explain the difficulties connected with the transport of deserters to Grenada. Arrival of detachment from St. Marks, taken possession of by Governor Grant. Will soon abandon the posts of Matanas and Picolette, leaving only Mokeko occupied. Learns from Mr. Charles Stuart that Spanish troops have pacified New Orleans, and that the French have no longer the desire to resist. Spanish vessels fishing on our coasts ; does not share Stuart’s alarm, but thinks that it should increase the trade which daily diminishes from the difficulty of our merchant vessels obtaining access to their ports. (Page 51) – SN: 004023
1769/10/16 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Transports returned to Charleston damaged ; take three weeks or a month to repair. To save expenses proposes to hire small vessels to carry troops to Charleston and embark them there ; the small vessels to bring the 21st . Beetment to St. Augustine. (Page 55) – SN: 004024
1769/10/17 – New York – General Gage
From his secretary (Capt. Maturin) with copies of late letters. (Page 57) – SN: 004025
1769/11/10 – New York – General Gage.
Disagreeable news from Charleston about the sufferings of the 21st Regiment by the storm of September. Fears to have trouble from draughts of 9th Regiment arriving so late. Arrival of 3,500 Spanish troops at New Orleans under Count O’Reilly. His pacific declarations ; his new internal regulations. Alarm of people of West Florida at such a force in their neighbourhood ; hopes the three companies have been sent which would quiet them. Reminds him to send opinion concerning tho defence of West Florida. (Page 58) – SN: 004026
1769/11/11 – New York – General Gage.
The proposal to transfer the troops between St. Augustine and Charleston appears to be the most suitable. Complains of the conduct of contractors causing the delay by which the transports were caught in the gale. Respecting the extravagant accounts of the Commissary for West Florida. (Page 60) – SN: 004027
1769/11/15 – New York – General Gage.
General order as to provision returns, signed by Richard Maitland, D.A.G. (Page 62) – SN: 004028
1769/11/22 – New York – General Gage.
Urging regularity in checking and returning accounts, &c. (Page 63) – SN: 004029
1769/11/23 – New York – General Gage.
Arrangements made for the subsistance of the 9th regiment consequent on long detention. Extract from letter of Lord Barrington on the subject enclosed. (Page 66) – SN: 004030
1769/11/25 – New York – General Gage.
Arrival of draughts from 9th regiment. The barracks bills will be paid ; Col. Taylor’s failure to abide by orders respecting barracks to be thrown on himself. The arrangements as to pay of clerk of works, &c. Should himself have settled charges connected with deserters. Remarks on Commissary accounts and other returns. Cap. Innis to watch O’Reilly’s motions and communicate. His force (3,000 men) not more than sufficient to keep the French in subjection and punish those concerned in the revolt. Desires information respecting Lieut. Fraser’s passage by the Iberville to the Mississippi in a schooner, and whether the route by the Lakes to the Mississippi instead of by New Orleans is practicable. Lieut. Gamble’s complaint, that contractors caused the delay by which the troops were caught in the storm, to be examined. (Page 69) – SN: 004031
1769/11/26 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Thanks for champagne. Has only received one letter, answered it by way of New Orleans, but is afraid the revolution has prevented its reaching. Hopes to return to Europe, but will put off till he gets a regiment. Refers to his friend’s acquisition of land, but believes the New World woul. afford better prospects of success. Advises him not to loose the opportunity of coming out, and will furnish him means of seeing the whole country as far as Quebec. (The letter is addressed in familiar terms to a cousin – no name given.) (Page 73) – SN: 004032
1769/11/28 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand. (In French.)
Arrival of three small vessels with 21st regiment ; one wrecked, but without loss of life, althoug arms and baggage lost. Inhabitants had picked up effects, arms and part of the clothing. The wreck will not delay tho departure of the 9th, of which he sends return, as well as that of the Chelsea Invalids. Duel between Ensign Gordon and Goodacre, both wounded, death ot the latter. Staff appointments ; Governor Grant’s recommendation passed over by the Secretary at War. Engineer appointments ; the Board of Ordnance’s equivocal instructions. Claim by the Governor of all the artillery stores and amunition as a gift to the Province. Will send off the detachments to complete the six companies in West Florida. Thanks for his intentions towards his nephew. Dreads the northern winter after three southern summers, but will be glad to leave to come north in the spring. (Page 76) – SN: 004033
1769/11/29 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Does not consider the kitchens and officers’ quarters new work, but as the completion of the old barracks. Touching arrangements for the framework and materials for finishing the new barracks being prepared in the north. Arrangements as to workmen, &c. Advocates the purchase of sufficient land, so as to afford comfort to the troops. (Page 81) – SN: 004034
1769/11/30 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand to Col. Robertson (in French).
Thanks for civilities to his nephew ; would have preferred his remaining in Quebec rather than going to Maryland. Still believes that St. Augustine is the most unsuitable place for troops, but since they are to be there, is glad that barracks have been ordered. Wants Robertson to come to put matters right in his department, as the men justly complain. Even his brother officers blame him for the position of affairs – which Haldimand thinks he ought to know. (Page 86) – SN: 004035
1769/12/23 – New York – General Gage.
The arrangements for building-the new Barracks. Cannot approve of buying more ground than necessary, as it would only be so much of the King’s ground for future Governors to grant away. Finds fault with disregard of the regulations respecting supply of wood to regiments. Urges regularity in sending Returns; the delays that have taken place. (Page 89) – SN: 004036
1770/01/20 – Charleston – John Stuart, Indian Superintendent.
Has met the Chiefs of the Upper Creeks at Augusta. Can be firmly attached to our interest by well regulated trade and security against encroachments on their lands. Desirous of peace with the Choctaws ; will mediate. Indians throughout Southern District well disposed, but he dreads the encroachments of the Virginians on the Cherokee lands. Northern Indians also apprehensive. (Page 93) – SN: 004037
1770/01/31 – New York – General Gage.
Arrangements about building barracks. Brigade Major Small has been detained from the district awaiting the settlement of his accounts. (Page 98) – SN: 004038
1770/02/10 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
The detachment sailed for West Florida. The disposition of troops ; has kept them together as much as possible, in the prospect of being relieved next year. Sends returns of number embarked and copy of charter party. Enseign Gordon (tried for Goodacre’s death in a duel) has been tried and acquitted by a Civil Jury. The control of Engineers. Respecting the new barracks and finishing that at St. Francis. Arms, &c., recovered from wrecked transport, but others concealed by inhabitants. Learns that Indians in Southern District are quiet, but is informed of the encroachments of the Virginians. The accounts of the 9th Regiment, (Page 100) – SN: 004039
1770/02/11 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Transmitting draught of letter respecting the best means of attacking Louisiana. Respecting the route to the Mississippi by the Iberville ; no practicable route yet discovered ; hopes that one may be found. Hopes to leave in April and present his accounts in person. (Page 104) – SN: 004040
Draught referred to above, suggests the mode of dealing with the Indians first. The probable tactics of the French and Spaniards ; the defenceless state of Mobile and Pensacola. The desire for troops in West Florida proceeds only from the greed of the inhabitants, and not from real danger. The only way to defend is by a Fleet. (Page 106) – SN: 004041
1770/02/13 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Respecting provision accounts, supplies of bread, &c. The bad state of the stores, spoils the bread, &c., quickly. State of affairs under O’Reilly at New Orleans. The inhabitants generally detest the Spaniards and will willingly shake off the yoke. (Page 108) – SN: 004042
1770/02/26 – New York – General Gage.
King’s orders received to send troops to West Florida, and put forts there in state of defence against attempts to break up infant settlements. The 16th Regiment sent to Pensacola, and every arrangement ordered for its reception, including six months’ provisions. Haldimand to proceed to Pensacola to meet the troops and distribute them as best for defence between Pensacola and Mobile. Plans for barracks at St. Augustine changed; they are to be at Pensacola. To have two Field officers with him at Pensacola. Hopes the alarm is of no consequence. Hospital arrangements; church of St. Francis to be completed for troops. The barracks are to be under his control. (Page 112) – SN: 004043
1770/03/07 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Respecting barracks at St. St. Augustine Augustine. (Page 116) – SN: 004044
1770/03/12 – New York – General Gage.
Stores sent to complete additions to the church of St. Francis. Quarter Masters and Artificers of the 16th leave this day; hopes the regiment will follow in about fourteen days. (Page 118) – SN: 004045
1770/03/21 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Will probably leave for Pensacola next week by sea, the land route being impracticable. Will take some artillery men and artificers, and frames for huts which are ready. Hopes the materials for barracks will be sent to Pensacola. Is persuaded that it is only O’Reilly’s expedition that hag given alarm. At all events the troops better at Pensacola than St. Augustine. The progress of the barracks at Pensacola ; work now stopped. The safety of Pensacola depends on the Fleet. What is called a fort is only a stockade against Indian attacks ; useless against European troops. Will repair the stockade and perhaps raise a battery on Isle de St. Rose, and redoubts to protect the entrance to the harbour. Mobile also requires extensive repairs. The Province will probably require a post constructed on the Lakes to protect the inhabitants, and provide an asylum for the Frenchmen who wish to come in. (Page 119) – SN: 004046
1770/03/23 – New York – General Gage.
Wishes that a Lieut. Col. take command under Haldimand. Approves of sending the reinforcements of artillery. Relating to Engineer Moncrieff, and to the behaviour of Cap. Thompson and his mate, Atwin; is pleased that Haldimand’s views agree with his about the defence of West Florida. Had told the King’s Ministers that the only way to defend the Province was by a fleet. Will not undertake to establish Fort Bute till there is a sure communication. Respecting provisions and other returns. After the arrival of the 16th Regiment the three companies to be returned to St. Augustine. (Page 122) – SN: 004047
1770/04/11 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Stoppage of works. Governor Grant, backed by persons of credit, has applied to the Ministry to keep two regiments here. Should not be surprised he might succeed in spite of the resulting inconveniences. O’Reilly disposed to be friendly ; complaints about trader Bradly disposing of rum along the Mississippi, leading to disorder. The duty of the Civil Government to stop it. The Province turned in the direction of trade, desires a fort built at Manshack. Asks for another engineer to replace Cammel. Suicide of Capt. Wooldridge (in Gage’s letter of 10 May, in reply, the name is given as Varlo) of the 31st :Reg’ Ensign Gordon (acquitted for murder of Ensign Goodacre) has bee: arrested for debt. (Page 126) – SN: 004048
1770/04/12 – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Sends draught of his accounts for which be has all the vouchers. The extraordinary expenses necessitated by the condition of his district makes him desire to come to New York to have his accounts settled. He, therefore, starts in two days. (Page 129) – SN: 004049
1770/04/20- New York – General Gage.
General orders. Respecting Deserters. Respecting change of establishment of regiments serving in North America. 10 May explanatory orders. 27 April, Respecting the Royal Artillery. 5 May. Form of Review return. (Page 131) – SN: 004050
No date
Deputy Adjutant General. Remarks on Monthly and Review. Returns sent by General Haldimand. (Page 137) – SN: 004051
1770/05/14 – New York – General Gage.
Summary of contents of Haldimand’s letters of 7th. and 21st March. Proposals he has made respecting the stations of troops in Florida. Deviation from original plan; does not know if O’Reilly’s movement has caused it. but still believes the route of Spaniards to West Florida is not by Louisiana. St. Francis Barrack to be completed. Has been obliged to employ deputy Engineer at Niagara, to whom Engineers in West Florida are amenable. It would be throwing away money to go to expense on the forts at Pensacola and .Mobile. Batteries to defend the harbour sufficient. Respecting disputes among officers of artillery. (Page 138) – SN: 004052
1770/05/16 – New York – General Gage.
Hopes the settlement of barrack business will be advantageous. Disapproves of Cap. Innis’ accounts for reception or troops. Has not changed his opinion against building fort at Manchack formerly Fort Bute. Will only sanction it under positive orders. The strange project of settling the land. Has no hopes of respectable French coming in from Louisiana ; looks only for the worst class. The only French to be expected are from the Illinois and they are half Indians. Will apply for Engineer if the one in West Florida has left ; Governor Durnford will help in the meantime. Regrets to hear of Capt. Varlo’s unfortunate end. Remarks on accounts of the 21st Regiment. The allowance to nurses. (Page 142) – SN: 004053
1770/05/16 – New York – General Gage.
Has received Haldimand’s accounts. Leave of absence to Major Pulleine. (Page 146) – SN: 004054
1770/05/16 – New York – General Gage, To Don A. O’Reilly, Governor of the Spanish Province of Louisiana.
Regrets altercation between Lt-Col. Wilkins and M. Rocheblave. His (O’Reilly’s) desire to stop disputes ; thanks for the kind way in which this is communicated ; has given orders. to promote mutual good understanding; similar orders by Don O’Reilly being a proof of his good wishes. (Page 147) – SN: 004055
1770/05/23 – Pensacola – General Haldimand to Governor Grant (in French).
Thanks for all his civilities. The Spaniards and Indians are quiet and desire to remain so. The wish for troops in West Florida arises from the wish of the people to make money out of them. Expected arrival of the new Governor disappoints Durnford. Major McKenzie will inform him of the progress of agriculture. Does not hope much from Indigo. Will probably visit the Lakes before returning to St. Augustine. (Page 149) – SN: 004056
1770/05/31 – Pensacola – General Haldimand (in French).
Detained ten days off the bar. With Governor Durnford, captains of ships of war and surveyors, has selected sites for harbour batteries. The forts placed there sufficient against a small force, but not against a regular attack unless assisted by the fleet, Difficulties of building the forts in absence of proper materials. Proposes blockhouses. The fort is a stockade and the posts cut only three years ago are rotten, The forts at Mobile ruinous. Proposal to make them defensible against Indians. Will leave a small detachment at Fort Charlotte. Asks that the state of the Engineers and Civil Ordnance in the two Provinces should be represented as contrary to the good of the service. Hopes for the arrival of barrack materials and artificers. Discusses the project of settlement on the Mississippi, the favourite idea of the Province. The obstacles from the possession of one bank by the Spaniards. The French groan under the yoke. Merchants are trying to realize and go off to St. Domingo ; great desertion among the Spanish troops. (Page 151) – SN: 004057
1770/06/22 – Pensacola – General Haldimand -no address- (in French).
Hoped to have been able to visit Saco but the great heat and want of proper connveyance prevents. Expects to spend the time of vintage at Pascagoulas ; the vine flourishes, but doubts the grapes ripening properly. Hopes his Indigo has not been spoiled by the bad weather. Writes ironically of the passion for law making in West Florida, considered more honourable than soiling the fingers with Indigo. Sends samples of Indigo grown last year in West Florida to compare with that of his correspondent. Wishes they would undertake the cultivation of it in earnest M London would be a ready market. Peace concluded between the Creeks and Choctaws. Suspicions of Johnson that the Northern Indians are trying to get up a Confederation over the continent. Supposed to be the family and friends of Pontiac who are moving as they believe him to have been killed by the English. The conduct of O’Reilly at New Orleans disapproved of by both Courts ; d’Aubry struck off the list of Knights of St. Louis. All the prisoners sent to Havana liberated; the merchants of New Orleans are many of them going to France or St. Domingo and the inhabitants generally would do the same could they sell out. (Page 158) – SN: 004058
1770/06/25 – New York – General Gage.
Wilhdrawing the Warrant for holding General Courts Martial. (Page 161) – SN: 004059
1770/06/29 – New York – General Gage.
Estimate of the expense and draughts of the works of defence for West Florida to be transmitted. (Page 162) – SN: 004060
1770/07/06 – New York – General Gage.
Respecting the re-establishment of Fort Bute, and securing communication with the Mississippi by the Lakes and Iberville, Is to enter into none of these til he receives orders but to obtain all the information possible. Governor Durnford has offered to assist in forming plans for the defence of West Florida. Instructions as to the steps to be taken. (Page 163) – SN: 004061
1770/07/07 – New York – General Gage.
Concerning Lt, Boncher’s expenses, &c., whilst in charge of deserters sent to the West Indies. Hopes the orders about biscuit will prevent future inconvenience. Hospital arrangements ; Pemberton, Surgeon’s mate, will be employed either at Penacola or St. Augustine. (Page 166) – SN: 004062
1770/07/15 – New York – To General Gage.
Intimating that receipts for money drawn by Mr. Stuart are forwarded to him. (The letter, without signature, is probably from the secretary of General Gage, to whom it is addressed) . (Page 168) – SN: 004063
1770/08/08 (April?) – St. Augustine – General Haldimand (in French).
Transmitting letter from Lord Granby relating to quarrels of two officers, which had been enquired into. (Page 125) – SN: 004064
1770/08/18 – Pensacola – General Haldimand (in French).
Will forward letter to Don O’Reilly. Leave of absence to Major Pulleine and Lt. Kenny. Distribution of troops. Arrival of Governor Chester. Hopes he will awaken a spirit of industry among the inhabitants ; has not yet been able to learn his ideas about posts on the Mississippi. Respecting the accounts of Capt. Innis. Will continue to prepare wood for the barracks ; hopes soon to visit him. (Page 169) – SN: 004065
1770/08/25 – Pensacola – General Haldimand (in French).
Concerning proposed settlement of 18 families (about 80 souls) and 18 negroes in the Natchez, and the steps asked to be taken for their protection. (Page 171) – SN: 004066
1770/08/28 – New York – General Gage.
The ruinous state of the defences at Mobile ; the works that would be required to stand regular attack, as well as such as would prevent insult from every little armed vessel. Two Regiments of the Florida Brigade to be stationed at St. Augustine and the third in West Florida. The Barrack arrangements necessary. The distribution of Artillery. The King’s Ministers are aware of all the difficulties of supporting a post on the Mississippi. The plan of an Indian Confederacy is sound policy ; Indians holding a Congress at the Sisto Plains. Hopes the Creeks and Choctaws may not be troublesome now they have made peace with each other. Spaniards made a bad beginning in Louisiana ; French doing as in Canada ; merchants moving off, but those who hold land must remain or sell for half value. Fifty have gone to the Illinois. Some few have left the Spanish side and increased the English settlements with more vagabonds. Governor Durnford’s application for stores and ordnance referred to him (Gage) ; asks Haldimand’s opinion as to quantity needed. Concerning leaves of absence, &c. (Page 173) – SN: 004067
1770/09/26 – Pensacola – Governor Chester. To the Earl of Hillsborough.
Application for troops to protect new settlements at Natchez (referred to in Haldimand’s letters, 25 August, 1770, pp.171, 172). (Page 178) – SN: 004068
1770/10/07 – Pensacola – General Haldimand (in French)
Has not yet been able to send plans and estimates. Settling Manchauck and. the Natchez the favourite plan ; proposed to transfer the customhouse to Manchauck by Governor Chester, who says he has positive orders to visit the frontier. He proposes, with a staff, to ascend the Mississippi to investigate. The garrison at Mobile sickly ; that at Pensacola well. (Page 186) – SN: 004069
1770/10/27 (November ?) Pensacola – General Haldimand (in French).
Will leave in a few days for Mobile with Capt. Sowers. If he finds the canal project on the Iberville practicable will furnish estimate. Governor Chester not to set out for the Mitisissippi till February. It will probably be spring before he leaves. Movements of troops. (Page 197) – SN: 004070
1770/10/31 – New York – General Gage.
Materials for new barracks at St. Augustine forwarded; astonished that the avidity for lands makes people scramble through the deserts to Natchez; will take no posts on the Mississippi under any pretence, without positive orders. Strong representations have been made to the Ring’s Ministers respecting utility of establishments on the .Mississippi. Is not satisfied, but if canal between Mississippi and Iberville prove practicable has no doubt it will be undertaken. Asks Haldimand to send an Engineer to make full investigation. Remarks on construction of proposed canal. Batteries for defence of the harbour of Pensacola approved of. (Page 188) – SN: 004071
1770/11/05 – New York – General Gage.
Respecting various works already referred to. (Page 191) – SN: 004072
1770/11/28 – New York – General Gage.
Is anxious to have correct reports as to the Misissippi project. Doubt as to the men going with Governor Chester. States his suspicions as to the conduct of Mr. Bradly, one of those who go with the Governor. Is concerned at the unhealthy state of Mobile, but glad to find that the measures taken at Pensacola have had a good effect on the health of the men. Can’t think what has become of Muster Master Stewart. No purchaser to be found for Ensign Barry’s Commission. (Page 192) – SN: 004073
1770/11/30 – New York – General Gage. Marked Secret and confidential.
The Spanish Governer of Buenos Ayres has dispossesed His Majesty subjects at Port Egmont, Falkland Island. Unless disavoed by Spain, war is imminent and a fleet preparing in England. In case of open rupture, Louisiana to be the first point of attack. To consider the best method of attacking New Orleans by sea and land. Spaniards weak and French subjects ill afflicted. (Page 195) – SN: 004074
1771/08/27 – Pensacola – Governor Chester. To the Earl of Hillsborough.
Referring for decision a point of etiquette between him and General Haldimand, (Page 179) – SN: 004075
1771/08/29 – Pensacola – Governor Chester. To the Earl of Hillsborough.
Referring for his decision the question of the respective powers of Military and Civil Authority in the Province, especially with respect to building forts., &c and buildings connected therewith. (Page 181) – SN: 004076