"The great complaint for want of shoes, makes it necessary for the General to recommend to the commanding officers of Corps, to use every means in their power to procure this necessary article for their men; and not depend wholly upon the Clothier General, whose resources and opportunities of providing, are not equal to the demand. Nor does it matter who provides them, as the Soldier is only entitled to a Suit from the public, or the value of it."

Writings of Washington, Vol. 8: GENERAL ORDERS Head Quarters, Morristown, July 5, 1777.