Letter from George Washington to Dr. Samuel Stringer, New York, 15 May 1776. In the hand of Washington’s aide-de-camp Robert H.

This letter highlights the multiple problems facing General Washington at this time – the condition of American forces in Canada, the perennial lack of supplies, and bickering within the ranks.

“Sir, I received your Letter of the 10 Inst [ant] last night by Mr. Bennet, and this morning transmitted to Congress a Copy of it & of the Estimate for their order & direction on the subject of it, so far as relates to the Seniors, mates &c. As to the Medicines, when Doctor Morgan arrives, I shall direct him to send you immediately such a Supply as can be spared. I am Sir, your Most H[umble] Servant. G Washington”

Dr. Samuel Stringer, appointed by Congress as Director of the Hospital in Albany, served in General Philip Shuler’s Army of the Northern Department as Chief Physician and Surgeon. Doctor Robert Morgan, Director General of the Medical Department of the Continental Army, was engaged in an ongoing dispute with Dr. Stringer over his jurisdiction within the Department. Stringer’s request, referred to a Congressional Committee on 16 May, was ultimately declined.