Swain Report Special: War Office 28, Regimental HQ Papers Part 2

War Office 28, Regimental Headquarters Papers
Swain Report Special, Installment 2


This post continues the special installment of the Swain Report series: while most of David Swain's reports have provided a general finding aid to the collections they cover, this series constitutes a full catalog of all items in the War Office 28 microfilm rolls held by DLAR. The miscellaneous nature of the documents, which seem to be leftover returns and correspondence from British and Royal Provincial regiments in Canada, make composing a standard finding aid difficult. A full catalog is necessary for fully realizing the importance of these sources, which help to fill in the gaps left by other collections and provide important insights into the daily minutiae of military life, and to make them more user-friendly for researchers. We are very thankful that David has undertaken this intensive task, which has already revealed a number of interesting documents that might otherwise have been lost in the shuffle. For Installment 1, please click here.


WPT III


British War Office 28—American Headquarters Records
Annotated List of Contents—Part 3 (Reel 2)

by David Swain

The David Library holds microfilm copies of the British War Office 28 Records, parts 2 through 10 (1775-1785), contained on 8 reels.

Note: The compiler of this annotated list has numbered the microfilmed documents consecutively within each reel. These numbers do not appear on the microfilm and are used here only to maintain a sense of order in the contents.

“Letterbooks” among these documents are not actually bound books but are folders of separate-page letters kept at the time by regiments. The microfilm copies of these letters are mostly in chronological order, with a few exceptions. Apparently at a later time, archivists added consecutive printed numbers to the letter pages within each part xxor reel??xx These printed numbers are noted in this list for each letterbook.


28.3. Letterbooks (Reel 2)


Summary contents:

-- 53rd Regiment of Foot field officer letters 1778: 16 letters; documents 1 through 16; printed page numbers 1 through 40

-- 53rd Regiment of Foot field officer letters 1781-1783: 22 letters; documents 17 through 38; printed page numbers 41 through 92

-- 84th Regiment field officer letters 1777-1778: 28 letters; documents 39 through 66; printed page numbers 93 through 157

-- 84th Regiment field officer letters 1778-1779: 22 letters; documents 67 through 88; printed page numbers 158 through 211

-- 84th Regiment field officer letters 1780: 27 letters; documents 89 through 115; printed page numbers 212 through 285

-- 84th Regiment Field Officers letters 1781: 28 letters; documents 116 through 143; printed page numbers 286 through 356

-- 84th Regiment Field Officers letters 1782: 34 letters; documents 144 through 177; printed page numbers 357 through 443

-- 84th Regiment Field Officers letters 1783: 20 letters; documents 178 through 197; printed page numbers 444 through 493





Itemized, annotated contents:

53rd Regiment of Foot field officer letters 1778: 16 letters with dates from April 2, 1778 through August 5, 1778 (printed page numbers 1 through 40)

1. April 2, 1778
From Brigade Major George Mure at Montreal to Captain Francis Le Maistre, deputy adjutant general at Quebec
Concerning a petition in regard to the truth of allegations against Brigadier General Henry Watson Powell

2. April 6, 1778
From Mure at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Concerning the deaths of Captains Scott of the 53rd and LeStrange of the 47th from drowning on their way to a general court martial; seeking advice on succession since the next-in-line officers are prisoners of the rebels

3. April 17, 1778
From Paymaster George Corrie at Chambly to Brigadier General Powell at Montreal
Concerning a regimental contingent account request dated June 1777, for which a response has never been received, with request to advance funds needed


4. April 17, 1778
William Fraser, American Volunteers
Captain McAlpin’s account of expenses, in taking and bringing a deserter from the 62nd regiment to Montreal, totaling £7.11.2

5. April 20, 1778
Mure at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Forwarding Paymaster Corrie’s letter and Frazer’s account of expenses [documents 3 and 4 above] at General Powell’s behest, seeking advice on payment, and inquiring what should be done with the deserter

6. April 26, 1778
From Samuel Graves at Point au Feu to Powell at Montreal
Concerning sending captive Edward Raymond to Powell; may have served with the rebels, won’t talk, considered dangerous; papers found in his possession enclosed [not microfilmed]

7. June 6, 1778
From Powell at Montreal to General Frederick Haldimand, governor of Quebec
Concerning a man absent without leave, a general court martial, and a soldier offering to gather intelligence in the Albany area

8. June 25, 1778
From Powell to General Guy Carleton
Concerning arrest of Ensign Williamson of the 29th for absence without leave, about which information can be had from Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Carleton (Guy’s brother) and Major Christopher Carleton (Guy’s and Thomas’ nephew); other personnel matters

9. July 6, 1778
From Powell at Montreal to Haldimand
Concerning Ensign Williamson (Powell understands Haldimand has “tenderness in regard to him”), Andrew Robinson, also absent without leave, and other personnel matters

10. July 6, 1778
From Ensign Andrew Robinson of the 20th Regiment at St. Laurent to Powell at Montreal
Explaining his leave without absence due to unintentional neglect of the proper request procedures

11. July 9, 1778
From Powell at Montreal to Carleton
Concerning a contingent account request sent to Le Maistre; requesting that a member of the Carleton family carry dispatches from Brigadier General McLean to Lord George Germain, if convenient

12. July 9, 1778
From Powell at Montreal to Haldimand
Information that “most of the Indians are come down from Deer Island”; possible intelligence from a man named Campbell “who came in here a few days ago” who had been in Philadelphia in April

13. July 12, 1778
From Powell at Montreal to Haldimand
News of various matters, including that Ensign Robinson had gotten married and that the minister was unaware Robinson was an army officer, and movements of troop detachments to Quebec

14. July 20, 1778
From Powell at Montreal to Haldimand
Concerning various matters, especially troop movements to and from Quebec; letter enclosed from Captain Mompesson

15. July 15, 1778
From Captain Mompesson, commander at Deer Island, to Powell
Concerning supplies for the Indians, on whom the post relies as scouts for security; his scouts had found enemy scouts near Fort Stanwix; difficulty of getting Indians to do scouting; paying a trader $3/gallon for rum for the Indians, who drink a lot of it; seeking other supplies, including cloth for clothes and shot for guns

16. August 5, 1778
From Captain John Shanks at Montreal to Powell at Montreal
Letter’s entire text: “This young man, Mich’l Namel has been in St. Johns for near two years, and, I do think him as far as French can be a good Subject”


53rd Regiment of Foot field officer letters 1781-1783: 22 letters with dates from February 19, 1781 through November 25, 1783, 1783 (printed page numbers 41 through 92)

17. February 19, 1781
From Major Arnold Philip Skine at Niagara to Major Richard Berringer Lernoult, adjutant general at Quebec
Concerning enclosed regimental returns with alterations [not microfilmed]

18. April 9, 1781
From Skine at Niagara to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning enclosed returns [not microfilmed]


19. July 3, 1781
From Skine at Niagara to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning a court martial and enclosed return [not microfilmed]

20. October 18, 1781
From Skine at Niagara to Lernoult
Concerning a letter from Major DePeyster concerning charges against Lieutenant Clowers

21. October 18, 1781
From Brigadier General Henry Watson Powell to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning taking care of a court martial affair without bothering His Excellency, Commanding General Frederick Haldimand with it

22. October 4, 1781
From Skine at Niagara to [?; probably Lernoult]
Sending enclosed return for the last month [not microfilmed]

23. December 28, 1780 [written date is 1780, but log-in date is 1781]
From Powell at Niagara to Lernoult
Concerning copies of orders to Lieutenant Baker from Lieutenant Bolton, now deceased, to act as commander of the Caldwell, and a memorial by Baker; the original “orders going to the bottom, his hopes are gone down with her”; copies already sent to Haldimand; Baker through Powell hoping for positive consideration

24. April 2, 1782
From Major John Nairne at Point au Tremble to Lernoult
Concerning a light infantry company of the 53rd Regiment; making detailed proposals concerning troop strength in each company; attached page with names of officers of “The two Additional Companys”

25. June 20, 1782
From Skine at Niagara to Lernoult at Quebec
Sending enclosed return with explanation of a difference of 20 rangers at Detroit [not microfilmed]

26. August 6, 1782
From Skine at Detroit to Lernoult at Quebec
Sending enclosed “State of this Garrison” at Detroit [not microfilmed]

27. August 6, 1782
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning an application for leave for Lieutenant Digby, who is dangerously ill, to return to England

28. September 3, 1782
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Concerning an enclosed memorial; also request to discharge an “incorrigible thief,” Arthur Petty, who was under sentence from a court martial to be drummed out of the service

29. October 1, 1782
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Reporting sending Arthur Petty to Quebec and enclosing his discharge document [not microfilmed]; reporting that Petty endured 250 lashes, behavior improved, remaining 250 lashes forgiven, along with the ceremony of drumming out

30. July 28, 1782
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Concerning a request from Captain Wiseman to return to England to attend to urgent business matter; another request to return to Britain from Captain Dunlop; note on back side that “No promise can be made at present”

31. April 7, 1783
From Captain Thomas Scott at Montreal to [?]
Request that he be returned to the Purchase List

32. May 21, 1783
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lenoult
Concerning a captured deserter, George Millen, whose prior behavior was good; recommending he be permitted to rejoin the regiment and be tried by a regimental court martial

33. June 6, 1783
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Concerning enclosed memorials, one concerning George Millen [not microfilmed]

34. June 30, 1783
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Cautiously making suggestions to reduce the number of officers in the regiment, since number of private men is reduced, little military work is needed, quarters space is limited, and the officers have many servants

35. July 26, 1783
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Concerning four soldiers who deserted, then turned themselves in five days later; requesting that they receive a regimental court martial


36. October 12, 1783
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Lernoult
Concerning promotion of Captain Mathews (rather than Captain Scott)

37. November 18, 1783
From Major John Baird to Lernoult at Quebec
Sending again (the first delivery having “miscarried,”) a return of officers and purchasers

38. [no date but per the order of November 25, 1783]
Return from Baird for the reduction of 1784
list [2 pages] of names of men in the regiment to be discharged December 24 (79), those taking the “Generals indulgence” (75), and those reenlisting (34)


84th Regiment field officer letters 1777-1778: 28 letters with dates from June 24, 1777 through December 31, 1778 (printed page numbers 93 through 157)

39. June 24, 1777
From Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Montreal to Captain Foy
Enclosing a warrant needing the general’s signature; “Coll. St. Leger sett out yesterday afternoon with only 42 days provisions (as he tells me) for 3000 men”: dispatches from General Carleton to General Burgoyne; he gave money to “the poor young man” Mr. May, who was carrying the dispatches, and who had been drinking “but I beg you will not mention this to the Generall”

40. September 10, 1777
Private letter from Maclean at Montreal to Foy
Concerning commissions, with enclosures of lists of officers [not microfilmed]

41. June 20, 1778
From Maclean at Quebec to General Sir Guy Carleton
Concerning £5,000 he had requested to make payments due to the officers and troops of the regiment; seeking to justify the seemingly high amount; pleading his ability to account properly for the full amount

42. June 26, 1778
From Captain John Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Captain Francis Le Maistre, deputy adjutant general
Explaining differences in returns and payments due because of 38 [or 42?] men captured by the rebels in South Carolina and since released


43. June 29, 1778
From Maclean at Quebec to Captain Lieutenant Fletcher at Quebec
“I have been told you intend setting out for Isle aux Noix, I should be glad you would Stay a few days longer to save trouble to yourself and me, As I intend to apply to the Commander in Chief for a Court of Enquiry to clean up the Very heavy Charge brought against me by you.”; a matter concerning a commission for a nephew and not to Fletcher

44. June 29, 1778
From Fletcher to Maclean
“Answer…I have received your letter and shall attend to its contents.”
[a crossed out letter follows at the bottom of the same side of paper]

45. July 3, 1778 [on the back side of the sheet of paper containing the previous
letter]
From Fletcher to Maclean
“My duty demands my speedily joining the Regiment…” so, he would appreciate immediate application to the commander in chief for the court of enquiry.

46. July 5, 1778 [on the same side of paper as the previous letter]
From Fletcher to Maclean
Plans to leave for Isle aux Noix on Tuesday next if he has not received “your orders to the contrary.”

47. July 3, 1778
From Maclean to Le Maistre
Concerning the date of Captain Robertson’s commission

48. Formal copy of the previous letter

49. July 4, 1778
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Le Maistre at Quebec
Special thanks for a special favor bestowed by His Excellency [not identified in the letter]

50. July 9, 1778
From Maclean to Fletcher
Castigating Fletcher for bringing what Maclean thinks are false charges; leaving it to Fletcher to seek a court of enquiry if he wishes; cutting off further communication with Fletcher

51. July 9, 1778
From Maclean at Quebec to Le Maistre
Requesting a list of officers of the Regiment of Royal Highland Immigrants and the succession of subalterns’ commissions so as to calculate their pay

52. July 10, 1778
From Maclean at Quebec to Le Maistre
Thanks for receipt of the requested list; asking two additional questions about the appointment dates of two specific lieutenants on the list

53. July 11, 1778
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Maclean
Supporting Maclean against Fletcher and providing recollected information to support Maclean’s side in the dispute; hoping that the regiment will “be relieved soon from this place”; concerning a leave of absence for Captain Alexander Fraser due to illness; concerning an application for discharge from Captain MacDougal

54. July 10, 1777 [the written date may be inaccurate; see document 41 above, dated June 20, 1778]
From Maclean to Carleton
Requesting assistance in clearing up the troop payment finances of the regiment, justifying the need for £5,284 “or more”, of which two warrants totaling £2,284 have been received from General Howe at New York, leaving a balance of £3,000.

55. July 14, 1778
From Maclean at Quebec to Le Maistre
Concerning Fletcher, who had memorialized the commander in chief to have Maclean court martialed, a memorial that Maclean describes as “in Every respect Erroneous” with details to justify himself

56. August 19, 1778
From Nairne to Le Maistre at Montreal
Again thankful for the commander in chief’s favor of appointing him “to have Major’s Rank in the Army in Canada”; seeking to learn “what I owe to you upon this, as well as upon other occasions”

57. August 30, 1778
From Lieutenant Donald McKinnon at Montreal to Nairne at Isle aux Noix
Requesting a general court martial “to inquire into my Character which is cruelly & falsely aspersed”

58. August 31, 1778
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to Brigadier General Henry Watson Powell at Montreal
Requesting relief after almost a year of hard work and much illness in the regiment


59. August 31, 1778
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to [the Commander in Chief]
Regretting that “your Excellency should be troubled with an application for a General Court Martial” from an officer in the regiment; “there seems to be so little Cause”, the problem is “the obstinacy and ungenerous behavior of the subaltern officers…against one of their brother officers, Lieut MacKinnon, who I can witness… is a Sober, faithful, and a brave old Soldier”, etc.

60. September 3, 1778
From Nairne at Isle aux Noix to General Frederick Haldimand
Recounting difficulties of service at Isle aux Noix, especially wood cutting, the primitive living conditions, the construction of boats and fortifications nearly complete, fifteen men who emigrants from the Mohawk valley who wish to return to their families, etc.; requesting that the regiment be relieved as soon as possible

61. September 4, 1777 [date out of chronological order but appears accurate]
From Maclean at Montreal to Captain Foy, adjutant general, Quebec
“Private” letter requesting that the commander postpone making out any commissions for the regiment “since I find that there is a gentleman in the Regiment who services and sufferings give him much better pretentions to the Commander in Chiefs protections for being promoted than either of the Capt. Lieutenants…D’ambourgesse and Fletcher”

62. September 29, 1778
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre at Sorel
Seeking an exchange for regiment men captured at Parson’s house with six rebel prisoners confined at Montreal; enclosing letter from the regiment men

63. September 8, 1778
From Sergeant Robert Lee of the “R H Emegrants” at Albany to [?]
Seeking exchange for imprisoned British soldiers Robert Lee, William Fraisor, Alexander McDonald, and Samuel Appleton “of Our Reg’t” along with William Price of the 24th and Jonathan Nicolson of the 47th

64. October 2, 1778
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre
Representing the interests of the captains of the regiment concerning “the hardship they ly under by Continuing to do Major MacDonald’s Duty, without the Smallest Chance of his ever joining the Regiment”; also concerning their request for “the ordinary allowance of twenty pounds a year to each captain”; also seeking funds for recruiting


65. November 8, 1778
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Requesting leave of absence of three or four weeks to go to Mal Bay to attend to personal business there

66. December 31, 1778
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Sending Mr. Pringle back to Quebec “as the Duty of the Regiment at present, permits to grant him that indulgence—”; acknowledgment of receipt of “Paroles and Countersigns for the next month”; will send a deserter to Colonel Pretorius


84th Regiment field officer letters 1778-1779: 22 letters with dates from February 2, 1778 through December 7, 1779, excluding enclosures dated in 1776 (printed page numbers 158 through 211)

[Note: microfilmed items are not organized chronologically in this set of letters. More or less, they are by author in reverse chronological order.]

67. December 7, 1779
Major John Nairne, regimental commander, at St. Laurence Parish, Island of Montreal, to Captain Francis Le Maistre, deputy adjutant general, at Quebec
Reporting troop movements from Carleton Island to Montreal; requesting leave of absence of two months to go to Mal Bay

68. November 7, 1779
From Nairne at Carleton Island to Le Maistre
Concerning a procuring a lieutenant’s commission for Lieutenant Smith; recommending Mr. MacNab for a commission; news from Niagara that the rebels destroyed the four block houses and fort at Tyoga and evacuated the post; news that Indians from Detroit attacked and destroyed a party of 50 rebels commanded by Colonel Rogers, who were escorting a large supply of clothing destined for the garrison at Fort Pitt; seeking permission to send some of Carleton Island’s troops “Down this winter to Canada…as we are very much crowded”

69. March 15, 1779
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Concerning Lieutenant Maclean, a young man arrived from Nova Scotia lacking a commission, seeking approval for an appropriate commission

70. November 1, 1779
From Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Montreal to Le Maistre
Concerning troop movements


71. October 26, 1779
From Maclean at Quebec to Le Maistre
Requesting a copy of the proceedings of the court of enquiry concerning Captain Grant, which “is Essential Necessary for me in my Own Justification”

72. September 5, 1779
From Maclean at Quebec to Le Maistre
Informing that “Not as Many Men may got of the 34th Reg’t as will relieve the Party of the 84th Reg’t Guarding the prisoners”, as the party of the 84th “is go off on Tewsday the 7th to carry up three Battoes to Montreal”

73. March 1, 1779
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre
Providing much detail concerning the situation of Lieutenant Maclean, arrived from Nova Scotia but without a commission, which may have been offered to Maclean in 1776 by Brigadier General Allan Maclean [a relative]; concerning a Lieutenant Price who was appointed Lieutenant by Sir Guy Carleton, but the order got lost; also concerning Lieutenant Stratten, who “is said to have a Commission from Genl Gage” but who may be a prisoner of the rebels; Price and Stratten are ahead of Maclean in line for commissions, but Maclean may be preferred over the other two; a German deserter has gone off “we Suppose somewhere down the Country”; a return of arms is enclosed and request for supplies

74. February 1, 1779
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre
Concerning several deserters: Campbell “may be trusted, and [we] shall engage him in our corps”; three deserters will hopefully be captured; Lauchlin Connors is “so notorious a Rascal” that he is imprisoned in the Provost and trial by a general court martial is requested for him; concerning other men: George Sword and Edward Juel of the 62nd applied to join the 84th after having been prisoners of the rebels; concerning several promised discharges; return on ammunition enclosed; request for arms to replace 39 given to artillery at St. Johns, 6 lost during the attack on Parson’s house, and 32 for recruits

75. January 16, 1779
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Concerning Robert Campbell, deserter, confined in the Provost, wants to serve in the regiment; awaiting news of His Excellency’s decision on what to do with him

76. July 6, 1778
From Brigadier General Henry Watson Powell to Le Maistre at Quebec
Concerning a general court martial to be convened on “Tuesday the 14th”; concerning the number of captains on duty; concerning preparations for His Excellency’s upcoming visit to Powell’s post

77. [Handwritten note by the British letterbook keeper “Undated Letter enclosed with Mure’s letter to Le Maistre of April 30, 1778”; this actually applies to items numbered 78 through 87; Mure’s letter is item 88.]

78. [no date]
From William Gillaland to Mr. Edward Raymond at Bessborough
A personal letter concerning purchase of a young woman as a slave

79. [no date]
“Names of the Canadians who were taken Pris’ers at Bennington and made their Escape from Albany the 4th of April
List with seven names

80. “the last of June 1776”
“The United States to Edw’d Raymond at Bessborough”
An invoice or other accounting of goods with a total value of £140.13.0 [see Raymond’s complaints below about valuable goods taken by American forces from his house and mill, for which he requested compensation]

81. February 2, 1778
Legal document signed by Ladok [maybe Zadok?] Everest, “complainant to Council at Bennington against John Gale for being Inimical to his Country” empowering Captain Edward Raymond to act as his attorney in this case; witnessed by John Cannon and Benajah Webster

82. [no date]
“Some brief Observations upon the Lordences” [?]
Testimony of six people about John Gale’s behavior from John Nickless, Anne Dudley, Esther Everest, Benajah Webster, Sarah Squire the second, Esther Ward
[note on document by British letterbook keeper “No. 4, Observations: Upon some Evidences on the Trial of one Gale Suspected by the Rebels to give some intelligences to the English”]

83. April 30, 1778
From Edward Raymond in confinement at Montreal to [Major Gray?]
[note on reverse by British letterbook keeper “No. 10, Raymond’s Letter Supposed to Major Gray”]
Letter explaining his actions at Ticonderoga and at his home on a lake; professing loyalty to Britain; requesting release from confinement


84. April 30, 1778
From Raymond in confinement at Montreal to General Guy Carleton
[note on reverse by British letterbook keeper “No. 9, Pettition of Raymond to Sir Guy Carleton”]
Insisting that he was not at Ticonderoga as a part of the American army, nor did he have a commission as captain in that army

85. October 15, 1776
“An Abstract for the Pay Left Robert Peaslee WM at 7d per day from ye 13 Augt 1776 until ye 8 Sept 1776 and from ye 8 Sept unto the last Sept Edwd Raymond WM and Men from ye 5 augt until the last Sept at 3d per day”
Pay list with men’s names, including Edward Raymond WM, whose wages due were £8.2.5; signed by Edward Leatherbee and others

86. September 24, 1776
From Colonel Thomas Hartley at Crown Point to Mr. Raymond, “Waggon Master Living in the Fort at Ticondaroga”
Concerning apprehension of three men (a sergeant and two corporals) who improperly acquired boards from Raymond’s mill, were imprisoned, and were awaiting a general court martial

87. August 31, 1776
From Udny [?] Hay, A.D.J.M:G of the Rebels at Ticonderoga to Raymond
Requisitioning the running gears for Raymond’s mill, having the value calculated, but assuming that he will willingly “serve the noble cause in which we are all engaged” and that he will “do every thing in your power to expedite the Bearer in getting the same removed with the utmost safety and dispatch”

88. April 30, 1778
From Major George Mure at Montreal to Le Maistre
Enclosing a letter from Captain Graves relative to Edward Raymond along with papers found in Raymond’s possession and his petition to Carleton, numbered 1 through 11 [documents 78 and 80-87]; also enclosed, a list of Canadians captured at Bennington [document 79]; reporting that the Canadians provided little useful intelligence because of the language barrier, but did report an engagement between Clinton and Gates near New York in which the rebels lost 7,000 men, and Gates retreated toward Albany


84th Regiment field officer letters 1780: 27 letters with dates from March 6, 1780 through December 28, 1780 (printed page numbers 212 through 285)

89. March 6, 1780
From Lieutenant R. McDonnel, adjutant, and Quarter Master Duncan Murray at Montreal to Brigadier General Allan Maclean
Requesting pardon for a drunken “squabble” among Murray and two Lieutenants McDonnels (one of the 84th) that has since been patched up

90. March 28, 1780 [or March 23]
From Major John Adolphus Harris at St. Laurent to Maclean
Concerning “the Adjutant and Quarter Masters Affair” “The Regiment are of the Opinion that they cannot do Duty with Them, till they have exculpated themselves before a General Court Martial.”

91. March 23, 1780
From Harris at St. Laurent to Captain Francis Le Maistre, deputy adjutant general
Concerning a discharge, troop strength issues, and suggestions for new recruitment and incentives

92. April 3, 1780
From Harris at St. Laurent to Le Maistre at Quebec
Explaining an error in the last regimental return

93. April 6, 1780
From Maclean at Montreal to General Frederick Haldimand
Recounting the steps he had taken to try to resolve the “adjutant and quarter master affair”, but that a general court martial had been requested; suggestion that before or instead, the commander order a new, more complete court of enquiry; enclosing letters from Harris and Quarter Master Murray [probably documents 89 and 90 above]

94. April 13, 1780
From Maclean to Haldimand
Reporting receipt of requested arms supplies, which are short of what is needed for immediate use; enclosing an arms return to document additional needs [not microfilmed]

95. May 1, 1780
From Harris at St. Laurent to Le Maistre at Quebec
Concerning returns; suggesting that the “adjutant and quarter master affair” has been “misrepresented,” without offering details, suggesting that he could clear things up easily


96. May 26, 1780
From Major John Nairne at Malbay to Le Maistre
Reporting that seven rebel prisoners had escaped and apparently were being helped, or at least not hindered, by the local countrymen; 13 other prisoners remain, who wish to be exchanged; problems also with deserters

97. June 5, 1780
From Nairne at Malbay to Le Maistre
One escaped prisoner and one deserter were captures; plans for and beginning work on a barracks here

98. June 7, 1780
From Harris at St. Laurent to Le Maistre at Quebec
Written partly in confidence; the adjutant and quarter master continue to request a court martial or be allowed to resign with their records clear; Harris wishes to support their interest with the commander; he believes his own reputation as an officer is at stake

99. June 26, 1780
From Major William Dunbar at Berthier to Le Maistre at Quebec
Asking how much powder is needed, “the 1st Battalion of the 84th Regt having a number of recruits, that have never yet made use of Powder”; expressing concern that important officers are being asked away to attend a court martial in Montreal

100. July 1, 1780
From Nairne at Malbay to Le Maistre
Concerning the problem of deserters; insufficiency of supplies

101. July 12, 1780
From Harris at Sault au Recollects to Le Maistre
Concerning an enclosed letter by Ensign Archibald McDonnel [not microfilmed]

102. September 21, 1780
From Harris at La Prairie to Major Richard Berringer Lernoult, adjutant general
Concerning Harris’ arrest of Captain Neil McLean, who was subsequently reprimanded by Brigadier General Maclean pursuant to a general court martial, and who subsequently approached Harris with a set of pistols, seeking satisfaction; Harris seeking assistance with the commander in chief to defuse the situation

103. September 21, 1780
From Harris at La Prairie to Le Maistre at Quebec
Concerning the situation with Captain Neil McLean; seeking general orders and clarification about to whom he properly should be reporting

104. October 3, 1780
From Harris to Lernoult
Thanking Lernoult for his response concerning Captain McLean, which he had communicated to McLean; enclosing an answer from McLean

105. October 1, 1780
From Captain Neil McLean to [?]
Expressing his willingness to “resign for the requested [?] price…”

106. October 4, 1780
From Harris at La Prairie to Lernoult at Quebec
Expressing fears he may have handled the procedures for Captain McLean incorrectly, prior to the commander in chief’s order that McLean should do no more duty for the regiment; supporting giving McLean permission “to sell his Company”

107. October 8, 1780
From Nairne at Montreal to Le Maistre
Concerning efforts by Mr. Jessup and Mr. Peters to recruit new members for their battalions; enclosing a monthly return that was not easy to make up due to confusion of personnel; promising to send a return “to Captain Mathews of the families of Royalists who drew Kings provisions in this District”

108. October 16, 1780
From Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Concerning a memorial from Mr. McLeod

109. November 13, 1780
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Enclosing letters from Captain Neil McLean and Captain Alexander Fletcher; the latter having given “uncommon Service” through “great trouble and Expense” to conduct recruiting for the regiment [enclosures not microfilmed]

110. November 19, 1780
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Concerning permission granted for Lieutenant Archibald McLaine to go to Quebec to seek a leave of absence from the commander in chief because “he has lost the Command of a Company at Home”

111. November 20, 1780
From Allan Mclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Concerning assignments of supernumerary captains and ensigns in the regiment; recommending again “a Namesake of Mine, a Volunteer in the 84 Regiment” for assignment.


112. November 20, 1780
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Informing Lernoult that Harris has permitted Captain Neil McLean to go to Quebec to settle money matters and await his signing of his resignation

113. November 30, 1780
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Acknowledging receipt of orders concerning “the Barracks at this place”; sending Captain Neil McLean’s resignation [not microfilmed]

114. December 4, 1780
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult at Quebec
Enclosing a letter from Lieutenant John McLean

115. December 28, 1780
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Conveying request from Lieutenant “Ran’d” McDonnel to sell his commission for £300 and his recommendation of Lieutenant David Smith to succeed him as adjutant


84th Regiment field officer letters 1781: 28 letters with dates from January 1, 1781 through December 18, 1781 (printed page numbers 286 through 356)

[Note: microfilmed items are not organized chronologically in this set of letters. Instead, they are organized in reverse chronological order.]

116. December 18, 1781
From Major John Adolphus Harris at Batiscan to Major Richard Berringer Lernoult, adjutant general, at Quebec
Concerning Lieutenant Smith, whose subalterns serving under him had requested not to do duty under him after an “affair”; Harris having advised Smith to absent himself from the mess and his duties; Smith having done so and having expressed his feeling that a court martial would be tough for him, but that he wanted to regain the confidence of his men and his commander

117. October 29, 1781
From Major William Dunbar at Montreal to [General Frederick Haldimand, commander in chief]
Expressing unhappiness to the commander in chief at being assigned to duty under a major with lesser seniority than himself; seeking redress



118. October 19, 1781
From Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Montreal to Haldimand
Observing that clothing of the 21st Regiment has been reassigned to the 84th; that the dress of the 84th is “different from any other Regiment in Canada,” including tartan hose, plaids, and bonnets rather than stockings, britches, and hats; requesting that the general issue a specific order requiring the change of dress for the 84th so as to make the change legitimate and acceptable

119. September 27, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Concerning Captain Neil McLean, who is detained in Montreal until bill holders are satisfied, and who has no authorized source of subsistence in Canada; seeking assistance; enclosing letter from Captain McLean

120. September 26, 1781
From Captain Neil McLean at Montreal to Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Montreal
Explaining his financial situation; requesting help in getting subsistence approved

121. September 17, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult at Quebec
Reporting on having delivered two apprentices to McLeod; received McLeod’s memorial and Mr. McKinnon’s answer from Maclean; recaptured escaped rebel prisoner Lytle

122. September 16, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Supporting the desirability of permitting Lieutenant Smith to “sell out” his commission, as he has requested in the enclosed letter; expressing his (Maclean’s) sorrow at the situation of “this poor unfortunate young man”; planning to recommend Smith for a position with the East India Company that will “get him sent out to Bengal or Madrass on a very good footing”

123. September 14, 1781
From Lieutenant David Smith at Sorel to Maclean at Montreal
Describing his “unfortunate situation” and requesting permission to sell his commission and leave Canada

124. September 13, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Captain Francis Le Maistre, deputy adjutant general, at Quebec
Concerning personnel matters: Thomas Taylor who escaped from the hospital and has not since been hard of; Captain Robertson to be relieved


125. October 27, 1780
List, by James Sawers, clerk of artillery stores, of arms (English muskets, French muskets, cartouch boxes) at Sorel

126. September 10, 1781
Return, signed by Harris, of arms of the 1st Battalion of the 84th Regiment

127. September 10, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult at Quebec
Informing Lernoult that McLeod has confined his two apprentices, Mc Donald and McIntyre, both soldiers in the 84th; extract and warrants enclosed [not microfilmed]; concerning the deficiency of arms for the division, steps taken concerning the deficiency, and request for assistance

128. September 3, 1781
Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Supporting Lieutenant Smith’s request for permission to sell his commission; stating that he never improperly tried to interfere in Major Harris’ command of the regiment, until he assumed powers beyond the rules of service

129. September 3, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Stating that he had acquainted Maclean with his application concerning Lieutenant Smith and that he had not thought it necessary to ask his consent; “I shall however be more circumspect in the future.”

130. August 27, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Haldimand
Explaining that he had sought to avoid disputes with Major Harris, but that Harris had “assumed to himself the Power of recommending Officers to sell out, of others to succeed them, without any Previous knowledge or Communication with me”; asking for clarification of “how far the authority of Major Harris extends in such cases”

131. August 20, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Requesting permission for Lieutenant David Smith, “from being much embarrassed in his Circumstances and from some disputes…to dispose of his Lieutenantcy”

132. [no date—enclosed with document 134]
Note by Harris stating that he had confined Samuel Graham (or Grimes), and William Way “on suspicion of an Intention to desert, holding a Correspondence with a rebel prisoner, and receiving from him a Route for New England and papers supposed to contain Intelligence for the enemy”

133. [no date—enclosed with document 134]
Note by Harris stating that he had arrested Ensign Pringle and Ensign Neil McLean for using improper language to Lieutenant Smith and for shirking their duties

134. July 30, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult at Quebec
Explaining the incidents leading to arrest of Ensigns Pringle and Neil McLean and of soldiers Graham and Way, enclosing notes stating their crimes

135. February 1, 1781
From Major William Dunbar at Montreal to Le Maistre at Quebec
Making a repeat request for a copy of the court of enquiry held in 1778, Brigadier General Powell presiding, to examine the ranks of officers in the regiment

136. January 29, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Suggesting “how necessary it would be to have the dispute about Rank among the Lieut’s of the 84th Ref/t determined soon”

137. January 18, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Concerning double commissions held by quarter masters, which are causing confusion in the determination of relative ranks

138. January 11, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult
Recommending that Quartermaster Duncan Murray be permitted to purchase an ensigncy and become a commissioned officer

139. January 4, 1781
From Harris at Sorel to Lernoult
Recognizing from the enclosed letter that Maclean “means to object to the Purchase” of Lieutenant Smith’s commission and pointing out that he (Harris) had acquainted Maclean with his actions, that MacLean had initially objected because “he intended it for Lieut Hector McLean”, but that McLean had declined purchasing it, about which Harris had informed Maclean.

140. January 1, 1781
From Maclean at Montreal to Harris
Accusing Harris of exceeding “the limits of your authority” by making decisions about promotions without his (Maclean’s) knowledge, which is improper, “however much you may wish to make a Cypher of me”; stating his intention of taking the matter to the commander in chief


141. Copy of Maclean’s previous letter to Harris

142. January 1, 1781
From Dunbar at Montreal to Lernoult at Quebec
Requesting that a copy be sent to Lieutenant Colonel St. Leger of the proceedings of the court of enquiry of April 1778 to determine the rank of officers in the regiment

143. January 1, 1781
From Maclean to Lernoult
Opposing the application for Adjutant McDonnel to sell out and for Lieutenant Smith to be the purchaser, because Major Harris made his recommendations without consulting Maclean; accuses Harris of having “taken up the Opinion, that he is to all intents and purposes Colonel of the 84 regiment, and can in that respect, act as he pleases, without any Communication with me”; providing evidence from British army practice elsewhere to support his position and pleading his case


84th Regiment field officer letters 1782: 34 letters with dates from March 6, 1782 through December 1, 1782 (printed page numbers 357 through 443)

[Note: microfilmed items are not organized chronologically in this set of letters. Instead, they are organized in approximately reverse chronological order.]

144. December 1, 1782
From Major John Adolphus Harris at Carleton Island to Major Richard Berringer Lernoult, adjutant general, Quebec
Informing Lernoult that Harris had given Lieutenant Smith leave to “go to Canada for the Winter”; enclosing papers about Lieutenant Prentice concerning “his first scrape”, for which Harris had pardoned him

145. October 28, 1782
From Harris at Montreal to Lernoult
Promoting himself for promotion to lieutenant colonel, hoping to purchase the lieutenant colonelsey he thinks Brigadier General Maclean might be selling; also hoping to receive major’s half pay during the upcoming reduction in force

146. October 27, 1782
From Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Carleton Island to Lernoult at Quebec
Reporting on movement of his troops toward Oswego; wishing to make some promotions at Oswego but awaiting general orders from the commander in chief


147. October 21, 1782
From Maclean at The Cedars to Lernoult at Quebec
Recommending the memorial of Captain Malcolm Fraser, partly as a means of moving on, beyond “some of the disagreeable disputes we have for some time had amongst us”

148. October 21, 1782
From MacLean at The Cedars to Lernoult at Quebec
Enclosing a letter from Brigade Major William Dunbar [apparently document 150]

149. October 20, 1782
From MacLean at La Chine to Lernoult at Quebec
Forwarding a packet to the commander in chief via Captain Mathews, including a memorial and letter from MacLean

150. October 19, 1782
From Major William Dunbar at Montreal to Maclean
Seeking to submit a memorial on his own behalf to give him a better situation after the impending peace than the captain’s half pay he could otherwise expect

151. October 19, 1782
From MacLean at Montreal to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning several pending purchases of commissions

152. October 19, 1782
From Maclean at La Chine to Lernoult at Quebec
Thanking Lernoult for a letter just received from him

153. October 15, 1782
From Maclean at Montreal to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning several pending purchases of commissions

154. [no date]
“The Successions in the 84th Regt” with a note on the back by Allan Maclean
Concerning several pending purchases of commissions

155. October 14, 1782
From Maclean to [probably Lernoult]
Concerning several pending purchases of commissions and the enclosed list of successions


156. October 4, 1782
From Maclean at Quebec to General Frederick Haldimand, commander in chief
Concerning Lieutenant David Price who has had this rank for about five years “but never joined” and was “requesting leave to quite the Service”; requesting that the matter be handled; also requesting that Captain Lawe [?] be allowed to sell his commission

157. October 4, 1782
From Maclean at Quebec to Lernoult at Quebec
Enclosing a letter to the commander in chief

158. August 3, 1782
From Lieutenant Dambourgesse to Lernoult
Enclosing his lieutenant commission, which he believes has an erasure and therefore chooses not to accept; seeking clarification about the accurate “date of my Rank as Lieut in the Service”

159. August 2, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Captain Francis Le Maistre, deputy adjutant general, at Quebec
Concerning Ensign Robertson, seeking approval for him to join the regiment

160. July 30, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult
Sending two rebels enlisted into the regiment but then not approved by Harris; also sending a deserter [this letter microfilmed twice; also document 162]

161. August 2, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Le Maistre at Quebec
Explaining that Ensign Robertson is in Montreal; hoping that he might join the regiment

162. July 30, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult
Sending two rebels enlisted into the regiment but then not approved by Harris; also sending a deserter [this letter microfilmed twice; also document 160]

163. July 24, 1782
From Maclean at Quebec to Lernoult
Concerning Captain MacLaine, who had been arrested, and an upcoming court martial, enclosing letters pertaining to the case

164. July 20, 1782
List by Maclean of twelve “witnesses that are to be cited” for the upcoming court martial

165. July 19, 1782
From Maclean at Quebec to Lernoult
Explaining the crime of Captain Archibald MacLaine, “for behaving unbecoming the Character of a Gentleman and an Officer”, with formal statement enclosed

166. July 15, 1782
Formal statement by Maclean of charges against Captain Lieutenant Archibald MacLaine

167. July 17, 1782
From Maclean to Haldimand
Requesting approval for Quarter Master Murray to be assigned to one of two ensign commissions now available and that he be allowed to dispose of his quarter master commission

168. July 17, 1782
From Maclean at Quebec to Lernoult
Concerning proper procedure for the arrest and court martial of Lieutenant MacLaine

169. June 21, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning Ensign Magrath, who had refused to sign his resignation until he heard from friends in Quebec; Harris stating that “I should wish to decline having any thing more to do with his affairs.”

170. June 10, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult
Concerning Ensign Magrath and deserter/spy John Stout

171. June 6, 1782
From Harris at Montreal to Lernoult at Quebec
Concerning Lieutenant John MacLean, who has resigned, and Ensign MacDougal

172. May 24, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult at Montreal
Concerning “principal Evidences” for a potential court martial [of Ensign Magrath]

173. May 13, 1782
Formal statements by Harris of charges against Ensign Magrath (confining the sergeant commanding the baggage guard) and Lieutenant John Maclean (misusing regimental money)


174. May 13, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult
Enclosing statements of crimes by Ensign Magrath and Lieutenant Maclean

175. [no date]
Formal statement by Harris of charges against Lieutenant David Smith for “behaving unbecoming the Character of an Officer and a Gentleman” in seven specific instances

176. May 6, 1782
From Harris at Batiscan to Lernoult
Enclosing a statement of crimes by Lieutenant Smith

177. March 16, 1782
From Dunbar at Montreal to Lernoult
Explaining delay in his returning to duty after a leave to attend to personal matters


84th Regiment field officer letters 1783: 20 letters with dates from April 10, 1783 through November 6, 1783 (printed page numbers 444 through 493)

178. April 10, 1783
From Brigadier General Allan Maclean at Niagara to Major Richard Berringer Lernoult, adjutant general
Concerning Captain Malcolm Fraser, who wishes to retire; enclosed letter from Fraser [not microfilmed]

179. April 29, 1783
From Maclean at Niagara to Lernoult
Quarter Master Duncan Murray has found a purchaser for his commission, a man named John Murray; requesting that a commission for John Murray be drawn up

180. May 6, 1783
From Maclean at Niagara to Lernoult
Requesting, if a captain lieutenant vacancy opens up in the regiment, that the commander in chief consider filling it with Lieutenant Hector Maclean

181. May 27, 1783
From Major John Adolphus Harris to Lernoult
Enclosing a return of the officers for purchase in the regiment and a letter by Maclean concerning John Murray’s succession to the quarter master position

182. June 10, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Concerning former Captain MacLaine, who owes the regiment “near Two Hundred pounds,” which needs to be paid by MacLaine or by the new Captain Lieutenant

183. June 10, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Maclean
Requesting Maclean to recommend Lieutenant Hector MacLean and Ensign Pringle, the eldest officers in succession, for promotion

184. June 10, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Maclean
Concerning the captain lieutenancy vacancy

185. June 21, 1783
From Maclean at Niagara to Lernoult
Reporting that a general court martial will be completed soon and that general orders have been received; enclosing two letters from Harris about the captain lieutenancy vacancy; supporting both MacLean and Pringle; commenting that “Except two steps by Purchase, nothing has Ever gone in the Regt but by Purchase”

186. June 22, 1783
From Harris tat Carleton Island to Lernoult
Lieutenant Smith is absent without leave after having been absent with leave

187. July 1, 1783
From Captain Malcolm Fraser at Quebec to [?]
Stating that he has decided to sell out his commission, if he gets permission, and that he is settling his money matters; enclosing a letter by Maclean on his behalf

188. July 2, 1783
From Maclean at Niagara to Lernoult
Thanking His Excellency for ordering a quarter master commission for John Murray; again promoting his recommendation for captain lieutenant, although it may already be promised to someone else

189. July 4, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Enclosing monthly and ammunition returns [not microfilmed]; Lieutenant Smith is still absent without leave


190. July 19, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Concerning his leave, payment of former Captain MacLaine’s debts, Lieutenant Smith’s absence

191. July 25, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Captains Fraser and Grant have arrived at quarters but Lieutenant Smith is still absent

192. August 15, 1783
From Maclean at Niagara to Lernoult
Enclosing the resignation of Lieutenant Ronald Macdonell and supporting it; recommending Simon Fraser (son of Captain Fraser) to be an ensign

193. September 10, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Lieutenant Prentice has called three Naval Department men as evidence, which will delay the court martial concerning the “affair of the Riot”

194. August 23, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Concerning a court of enquiry and an upcoming general court martial concerning Lieutenant Prentice; enclosing proceedings of the court of enquiry [not microfilmed]

195. November 28, 1782
Copy of letter by Lieutenant Samuel Walter Prentice at Carleton Island to [probably Harris]
Stating that the proceedings of the court of Enquiry are generally accurate; that he regrets the part he had in the affair and is willing to make atonement

196. August 23, 1783
Formal statement by Harris at Carleton Island of charge against Lieutenant Prentice for stating one thing in his letter of 1782 and something very different before a general court martial [in 1783]

197. November 6, 1783
From Harris at Carleton Island to Lernoult
Forwarding a request from Lieutenant McKinnon [not microfilmed]; requesting that the commander in chief honor it


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