Note 459 — Chapter IV
Reading edition
Dawson, 20. Wayne's demand for sustenance and clothing, however, is amusing. "The Light Corps under my Command," writes Wayne, "... have had but two days fresh Provision ... nor more than three days allowance of Rum in twelve days, which article I borrowed from Genl McDougall with a Promise to Replace it. I owe him Seventy five Gallons—must therefore desire you to forward three Hodds [hogsheads] of Rum to this place with all possible Dispatch together with a few fat sheep & ten Head of good Cattle." (Wayne to Issuing Commissary, July 9, 1779; ib., 20-21.)
Wayne wrote to Washington concerning clothing: "I have an [word illegible] Prejudice in favor of an Elegant Uniform & Soldierly Appearance—... I would much rathar risque my life and Reputation at the Head of the same men in an Attack Clothed & Appointed as I could wish—with a Single Charge of Ammunition—than to take them as they appear in Common with Sixty Rounds of Cartridges." (Dawson, 20-21.)
Washington wrote in reply: "I agree perfectly with you." (Ib., 21.)