This Day in History: October 8

Lieut Col Abijah Brown tried at a late General Court martial, whereof Col Hitchcock was presdt. -- for "endeavouring to defraud the Continent, in mustering two Soldiers, whom he at the same time employed in working upon his farm" -- The Court having duly considered the evidence, are of opinion that Lieut Col Brown is not guilty of any fraud, in endeavouring to have Harrington and Clarke muster'd, in the manner he did. But the Court are of opinion, that Col Brown is guilty of employing Harrington for fourteen days, and Clarke for eighteen days, out of Camp, upon his own business, yet are inclined to think it was done rather thro' Ignorance, than a fraudulent intent, and therefore adjudge that he be fin'd Four Pounds, lawful money, for the said offence.